PEOPLE living near the motorway in Droitwich Spa are finding it impossible to cope with the constant traffic noise - according to town MP Peter Luff.

The MP for Mid Worcestershire is now urging the Highways Agency to reconsider its decision not to create a quieter M5.

The agency had previously promised that junctions five and six of the M5 would be resurfaced with a new 'low noise' surface in 2005/06. This followed complaints from local residents that the levels of noise pollution from the road were intolerably high.

However, the Highways Agency has so far failed to undertake any resurfacing work in the area.

According to Mr Luff the plans for the 'low noise' surface have now been shelved and there are no plans for the work to go ahead for the foreseeable future because of government cuts.

"The ever increasing noise pollution from the M5 is impossible to live with. As the Highways Agency should be aware, living in close proximity to an area of high noise pollution means lower house prices, stress and sleep deprivation and can contribute to mental illness.

"The Highways Agency has not only dismissed the original timescale for this essential resurfacing, but has provided no assurances that this work will be done at all.

"They say this work should be undertaken only when the current surface deteriorates. This road is causing serious problems for residents right now, and as such is an issue that needs to be addressed urgently," he added.

A spokesman from the Highways Agency said: "We are only able to resurface sections of carriageway as a result of maintenance requirements, where it is required on safety grounds or as a result of general wear and tear.

"The Highways Agency has to make optimum use of finite funds across the whole of England's motorway and trunk roads network. We confirm receipt of a letter from Mr Luff and we will be replying to it shortly."