SAFETY campaigners opposed to plans to close off dangerous junctions along the A491 have stepped up their crusade as a public inquiry into the scheme looms.

A final decision on the £100,000 project to close off crossover points along the dual carriageway which runs between Fair-field and Hagley now rests with an independent government officer.

A two-day public inquiry, which will look at all the arguments and objections, kicks off next Wed-nesday at The Council House, in Bu-rcot Lane.

Worcestershire Highways Partn-ership in Bromsgrove caused fury when it put forward the scheme two years ago and the A491 -- What Price Lives? committee was formed to push for an alternative -- roundabouts at the Clent and Belbroughton junctions.

Members have now launched a publicity blitz in a bid to put the brakes on the scheme once and for all.

The committee has its own page on the www.belbroughton.com website, supported by many local businesses and organisations, has distributed posters around the villages and is in the process of producing a newspaper featuring a comprehensive rep-ort on the proposals and objectives.

Group spokeswoman Tricia Bradbury said: "The main causes of concern over the Highways Partnership scheme is the cost and inconvenience to road users of the proposed gap closures, incre-ased congestion and environmental pollution at the Hagley roundabout and the development of more 'rat runs' through the villages as drivers seek to find ways of avoiding additional mileage and queues at the roundabouts at each end of the carriageway."

For more information about the committee, call Tricia Bradbury on (01562) 730381 or e-mail her on tricia@barnford.fsnet.co.uk