WORRIED Rubery residents have been assured extra cash will be forthcoming for work on the busy A38 after responsibility for its maintenance changed hands.

Worcestershire County Council took control of a 20 mile stretch of the road from the Highway's Agency on July 1. It has been de-trunked by the Government and maintenance is now the responsibility of the county's highways partnership units.

Around 50 residents had signed a petition calling for "more robust and secure railings" on the Callowbrook Lane/A38 bypass.

It's been revealed a special annual grant of £328,506 has been awarded to the county council so there is no extra burden on local resources, but Worcestershire Highways Partnership in Bromsgrove manager Jon Fraser could not confirm money would be spent on new railings.

He said: "I'm aware concerns have been raised and we are considering the issues."

he told the Advertiser/Messenger.

Previously the Highways Agency and the county council shared responsibility for various sections of the road because bypasses have been built in Rubery, Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa.

But now only short lengths of the M5 near Junction 4 Bromsgrove and Junction 5 Wychbold and Junction 1 Bromsgrove of the M42 will remain trunk road managed by the Highways Agency.

County highways chief Jeff Romanis said: "The state of affairs over dual responsibility has been very confusing for the public so we welcome the de-trunking."

County councillor Peter McDonald (Lab - Rubery), who has led the petition, said: "It's important the council is aware of the dangers caused by unsafe railings to both pedestrians and motorists."