A junction in Staffordshire branded one of the most dangerous in Britain is set for a major safety overhaul after shocking CCTV footage captured 13 separate collisions in just six weeks.
A Black Spot for Accidents
The Draycott Cross Road junction in Cheadle became the focus of intense local concern after residents' cameras recorded a series of serious incidents. The footage showed vehicles flipping over and colliding with lorries, largely because drivers were ignoring give way signs. The total cost of the damage from these crashes reached an estimated £200,000.
Local residents grew increasingly fearful, convinced it was only a matter of time before a fatal accident occurred. Pub landlord Conor Bernard, 56, was so concerned he started keeping a public tally of the crashes on a board outside his establishment. He recounted the all-too-familiar sound of a 'big bang' and the sight of yet another car on its roof.
Council Takes Action After Public Appeal
Following a sustained public campaign urging action, Staffordshire County Council agreed to invest £25,000 in vital road safety improvements for the problematic junction. The planned work includes replacing the old give way sign with a permanent stop sign and repainting the road markings, which had become badly faded over time.
According to local Reform councillor Gary Bentley, who represents Cheadle West, the eroded road markings were a primary cause of the danger. He stated that drivers often couldn't see the markings until it was too late to stop safely.
Proof That the Solution Works
The effectiveness of the planned changes is already evident. Councillor Bentley confirmed that since a temporary stop sign was installed six months ago, there have been no major collisions at the junction. 'A lot of work has been done to improve the junction,' Bentley said. 'Since the temporary stop sign was installed six months ago we've seen no crashes so it's clearly working.'
The most recent serious crash occurred on Christmas Day, but residents report there have been many near-misses since. The new permanent measures are hoped to eliminate this risk entirely.
Further safety work will include filling in potholes to prevent motorists from swerving unexpectedly as they approach the junction. Additionally, the speed limit on the A521 leading up to the crossroads will be reduced to 40mph before it enters the existing 30mph zone.
