Delays alert as work to foil Staffordshire speeders begins

Some of the work is being carried out in St Thomas Street off the A518 Weston Road as part of efforts to deter speeding motorists.

Both it and Westhead Avenue will be closed at the crossroads junction from August 17 for three weeks.

Motorists will also face temporary traffic lights on Weston Road, and diversions will be set up while the work is being carried out.

It is being done in conjunction with the National Grid gas mains replacement already under way in the area.

The roadworks will take place until about September 6 to allow ageing metal gas pipes under the junction to be replaced at the same time.

Councillors Maureen Compton and Rowan Draper have been in talks with the county's highways officers over the scheme. Councillor Draper said: "I am sure that the residents will want to be sure that the roadworks are being done as quickly and effectively as possible. Councillors for the area are working on their behalf to ensure this is being done."

St Thomas Street traffic will be diverted via the A518 Weston Road, Cull Avenue and Tixall Road. Westhead Avenue traffic will be diverted via Weston Road, Corporation Street, Tithe Barn Road and vice versa. Pedestrian access to properties will be maintained.

Staffordshire County Council is warning residents that 'some minor traffic delays may occur' as a result of the closure. Families are being urged to keep children away from the site to ensure their safety. Motorists should ensure they drive appropriately through the works.

National Grid spokesperson Jane Taylor said temporary traffic lights will be in operation on Weston Road at the junction to allow a section of the 15in pipe to be replaced.

"We will be trying to get the job done as quickly as we can and before the schools reopen," she added.