Call for rethink on Stafford road network

An overhaul of Stafford's transport network is needed to attract business back to the town and solve congestion issues, according to campaigners.

The news comes a day after a decision on the town's £36 million Western Access Route was put on hold by the Government.

The Staffordshire County Council scheme aimed to link Newport Road with the A34 at Foregate Street via Doxey to reduce traffic and cater for up to 4,000 new homes.

Campaigners from Stafford STAR - an umbrella group of individuals and organisations who opposed the access route plans - say the access route was never the solution to the town's congestion issues.

A bus terminal is required to improve the public transport system, campaigners added.

STAR co-ordinator Tom Harris was one of those who campaigned against the Western Access Route as a solution to traffic problems.

He said a decision being put on hold was "a victory for common sense in a time when resources were scarce".

"The bottom line is, though, that until the traffic problems were solved Stafford will not be in a better position to deal with the cuts," he said. "There are just too many vehicles on the roads and they can't cope.

"It's bound to get a lot worse when the Tipping Street development brings more council workers into the town centre.

"What we really need in Stafford is a proper bus station with effective and affordable services. Park and ride services also need to be explored.

"We need businesses to be wanting to move into Stafford."

Staffordshire County Councillor Robert Marshall, member for infrastructure and regeneration, said: "It is good news that despite major national financial pressures, this scheme is still getting the consideration it deserves.

"It's not been cancelled or shelved - it's still on the table.

"The council are serious about investing in the nation's transport infrastructure which underpins the vitality of the economy.

"Stafford has already been identified as a growth point for the West Midlands. This drive for prosperity is even more important in the current climate."

By Richard Woodall