'Impossible to get in and out of Droitwich' after roadworks

Those living in Droitwich claim they were not properly consulted over plans to build a toucan crossing at Westlands Roundabout in Droitwich as many are now faced with long tailbacks.

Worcestershire County Council started the work in September after Westland estate residents petitioned for a safer crossing over the route connecting the 70mph A38 road.

However, many residents claim they face over 30-minute delays caused by the work and additional unresolved traffic issues at the Copcut Junction.

A map highlighting the two areas where residents are struggling to get in and out of the town. (Image: Google Maps; Charlotte Albutt) "I think it was all done so gung-ho and no one has considered what they are actually doing to Droitwich - on how people will be affected going in and out of the town," said Matt Wright, a resident for over  25 years.

"The Copcut Junction is messed up (causing long tailbacks), and people will eventually be unable to get in and out of Droitwich.

"It is all coned off and it is causing chaos."

A photo taken in September before the work started, (Image: Newsquest) Residents are now expected to meet with councillor Richard Morris at Droitwich Rugby Club on November 21 at 6pm to discuss their concerns.

Mr Wright said he is concerned that traffic coming in and out of the town may put people off visiting Droitwich as no one would want to sit in traffic for ages to visit somewhere.

"We have lost so much over the years and we can't lose anything else," he added.

"We would love as many people as possible to come to the meeting on Thursday so Cllr Morris can see the impact all this has had on residents and representing businesses. 

Where the crossing will be placed on the Westland Roundabout. (Image: Google maps) "If you cannot come to the meeting, please send your views in writing so we can see its detrimental effect on the town."

Work on the toucan crossing is expected to last until after Christmas.

Part of the plans for the toucan crossing led the council to make the roundabout narrower, which has also caused residents to complain about lorry and car safety when navigating around it. 

Worcestershire County Council has been given £459,899 by Active Travel England to build a pedestrian crossing over the A38.

A spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council, said: “Temporary traffic lights and lane closures are required to allow the works to be undertaken safely. We understand that this causes some delays and appreciate people’s patience when travelling through the works.

“This is a very important project for improving connectivity for those walking, wheeling and cycling in the area and once the works are complete, it is anticipated that there will be minimal impact on drivers.”