Highways

Introduction

Highways and transport was the most frequently raised topic during the first phase of our consultation. Northern Trust has worked extensively with Telford & Wrekin Borough Council and the Highways Agency to ensure that we have thoroughly assessed the potential traffic impacts of the proposals and offer a solution that mitigates the effects of traffic accessing the site. The proposals include a range of measures which will see approximately £1 million invested in the local highways infrastructure.

Whilst the development of the site will increase the level of traffic in and around Allscott during peak hours, the scheme will not generate the same volume of traffic as that seen during the Sugar Beet Plant's operation, when there was up to 800 HGV movements a day during peak production periods.

The development is likely to generate a very small proportion of the former HGV movements at the site and these will generally consist of refuse vehicle collections, bus services and deliveries.

As part of the plans for the site Northern Trust is proposing a range of measures to significantly improve highway safety on the roads surrounding the site and increase public transport options in the area.

Improvements to Station Road

Our plans include a traffic management scheme which will reduce vehicle speeds along Station Road, create a suitable environment for a residential area and encourage walking and cycling. The traffic management scheme includes:

Options to make drivers aware that they are entering a reduced speed area such as signs, surface treatments and width restrictions.
Raised tables at junctions and site access points to reduce vehicle speeds.
Surface treatments to clearly indicate private driveways.
New pedestrian crossings to link the residential element of the site to the sports & social club.
A new footway along te southern boundary of the site.
Appropriate road signs.

Accessing the Site

The site will be accessed from Station Road at five locations. Two of these will serve the main housing element of the site, with one access for the primary school and adjacent housing, one for the allotments car park and one for the sports & social club.

Public Transport Improvements and Travel Plan

Northern Trust wants to ensure that the development is well served by public transport to reduce the number of vehicle trips taken by residents and workers at the site and minimise the environment impact of traffic associated with the scheme.

Our discussions with Public Transport Officers at Telford & Wrekin Borough Council have confirmed that a dedicated bus service could be provided if agreed following submission of the planning application. Precise details are yet to be confirmed but could include an improved half-hourly bus service linking the development to Wellington.

Public Transport Improvements and Travel Plan

Much of the feedback received during our consultation process indicated that local residents had existing concerns about traffic in the villages of Admaston and Wrockwardine and how additional traffic may affect local roads.

In response, additional traffic management measures are proposed for both villages that incorporate suggestions from Wrockwardine Parish Council. These include:

Additional pedestrian crossings for Admaston
Improved markings for 30 MPH zones for Admaston and Wrockwardine.
New traffic calming measures for Wrockwardine.