Droitwich Westlands roundabout crossing work begins

Work has begun to install a new toucan crossing on the Westlands Roundabout in Droitwich after residents feared a serious accident might happen if it was left to chance.

The work carried out by Worcestershire County Council began on Monday (September 2) and will continue until the end of the year.

It is also hoped to improve connectivity for those walking, wheeling, and cycling around the Westlands estate.

The speed limit on the roundabout has been reduced. (Image: Newsquest) The busy roundabout connects the 70mph A38 road through the town and is a key route to Kidderminster, Bromsgrove, and Worcester. 

However, concerns were raised after speeding increased on the roundabout and more residents were walking across it to get into the town centre.

Councillor Richard Morris, who is responsible for the Droitwich West ward, has been appealing for action on the stretch of road for nearly eight years. 

He said: "I'm really pleased to see this come to fruition after the long campaign by residents.

"The online petition has 375 signatures. 

 “I have always feared that there was going to be a serious accident.

The A38 leading onto the roundabout has been reduced to one lane. (Image: Newsquest) “The crossing is needed primarily for the safety of the residents and secondly for connectivity between the residents and the town.”

Restrictions were put in place today, including a speed limit reduction along the A38 at night and lane closures at certain times.

There will also be a route linking Kidderminster Road to Westward Road and an improved uncontrolled crossing over Meadow Road, leading to the Westlands Estate.

The temporary speed reduction of 30mph will be in place on the A38 for the duration of the works.

There will also be additional night closures, one-way road closures and lane closures at various points throughout the works.

Councillor Marc Bayliss, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said: “This is an important scheme for improving connectivity in this area, so I’m pleased that we’re now able to start the work.

“The improvements will enable people to cross a very busy road safely and will also provide better links between the Westlands Estate to the north and the retail park and Droitwich town centre to the south.

“The works here are another example of the county council’s commitment to improving walking, wheeling and cycling provision across the county.”

The works have been funded through a successful bid to Active Travel England.