Action promised on Cannock accident blackspot

Speed restrictions at a notorious Staffordshire accident blackspot could finally be enforced after a campaign by residents and local councils.

Long-running calls for speed cameras at Eastern Way, Cannock known as The Orbital ring road, gathered pace following the death of 22-year-old Ashley Burton in February.

Hundreds of residents joined an internet campaign to demand action at the site and more than 500 people signed a petition to highways chiefs.

Staffordshire County Council has confirmed that a report into the safety of the road is to be completed by the middle of next week. It is expected to make recommendations on how the accident rate can be cut.

Bridgtown, Great Wyrley and Cheslyn Hay parish councils recently joined Staffordshire Police at a special campaign meeting organised by Great Wyrley resident Helen Snape.

She said: "We're pleased to be working together on this. Something really has to be done."

Staffordshire Police have stepped up their patrols along the road, but campaigners insist the road's accident rate means more must be done.

Bridgtown parish council chairman Eddie Smith said: "I think it's fantastic that so many young people are involved in this campaign. People young and old are guilty of speeding along the road.

"But to have our young residents recognising there is a problem themselves is encouraging. We have taken advice from the police and they believe cameras would cut accidents."

Last December David Roberts, of Rugeley, was killed when his van collided with a HGV on Lodge Lane - next to The Orbital island. On Tuesday this week a lorry turned over on the road.

Staffordshire County Council spokesman Tom Hobbins said: "A report is being put together.

"It is possible that it will recommend speed cameras, but they may also decide that other measures will work better."

By Alex Campbell