LICHFIELD’S MP says he is seeking clarity from HS2 over plans for a controversial diversion route when the A38 shuts for 11 days.
Work to realign the carriageway at Streethay on its original route will see both sides shut from Swinfen Interchange to Hilliard’s Cross from 27th March to 8th April.
But diversion plans will see traffic from the busy A38 rerouted via Wood End Lane, the A515, A51 and A5026.
The proposal has already drawn criticism from a local councillor – and now Labour MP Dave Robertson says he is also seeking answers from HS2 about the suitability of their proposals.
He said:
“Many people have been in touch about the upcoming 11‑day closure of the A38 for HS2‑related works.
“I know this is yet another inconvenience in a long line of disruption residents have already had to endure, both for those who rely on the A38 daily and for the residents along the diversion routes who face the knock‑on impact.
“I’ve raised concerns with HS2 about the reasoning behind the proposed diversion via Wood End Lane, as well as the need for clarity on whether the speed limit will return to 70mph once the works are complete.”
Despite criticism of the proposals, HS2 say alternative routes have been “carefully planned” to “help keep traffic moving safely” during the closures.
A spokesperson said:
“All diversion routes will be clearly signposted. While some disruption is expected, routes have been developed to help manage journey times as effectively as possible.
“To reduce the impact on local communities, diversions have been designed to keep long-distance and logistics traffic on strategic routes wherever possible, avoiding local roads.”
Meanwhile, Whittington and Fisherwick Parish Council members are also meeting with HS2 representatives next week to seek reassurances about how the risk of vehicles using the village as an alternative to the official diversion.
Previous closures have seen lorries seeking a shorter route only to find issues with railway bridge height restrictions.
