The announcement last week that Government is investing £140 million in a Managed Motorway Scheme on the M5, between Junction 4a and Junction 6, has prompted Mid Worcestershire MP Peter Luff to seek urgent reassurances from the Highways Agency.
Peter said,
“This is good news, but the priorities for the M5 in Worcestershire are reducing the noise menace for residents living alongside the stretch between Junction 7 and 5 and increasing the capacity of junction 6.”
In a letter to Graham Dalton, Chief Executive of the Highways Agency, the MP writes that he hopes “these two vital projects have been funded within the Managed Motorway Scheme. Frankly, they are a lot more urgent than the Managed Motorway Scheme itself –which, of course, I welcome too.”
In his letter, Peter describes the two priorities, which he empathises are equally important, but for very different reasons,
“First, is the remodelling of Junction 6. Work to redesign how the traffic flows around Junction 6 needs serious consideration. At present the Junction becomes heavily congested on a regular basis and significantly impacts on journey times when travelling. I believe this is agreed by the Agency who confirm that the junction is operating at and beyond its design capacity.
“Second, is the resurfacing of the road. The noise pollution from the M5 directly impacts on a number of communities in my constituency, especially Droitwich but also, for example Wychbold, Whittington and Oddingley. Resurfacing the road would therefore make a great difference to these communities who have suffered for too long from the intrusive sounds of vehicles travelling on the M5. I have written to the agency about this on many occasions. The road is now showing signs of wear and I hope it will be replaced imminently.
“Can you reassure me that the Highways Agency will include these two vital projects have been funded within the Managed Motorway Scheme? Frankly, they are a lot more urgent than the Managed Motorway Scheme itself-which I welcome too. I know it will make a real difference to those who regularly travel along the M5. Having experienced for myself the congestion that can occur on this road, I know that the investment will bring real improvements in traffic flow and safety.”