Council Plans Meeting with Severn Trent After Traffic Chaos

Stoke-on-Trent City Council officials are set to meet with representatives from Severn Trent following significant traffic disruptions caused by new road calming measures on Kelvin Avenue. The issues arose after barriers were installed to create a chicane, leading to chaotic traffic conditions that prompted one councillor to direct vehicles manually.

The situation escalated on Friday, October 10, 2023, when barriers were put in place on Kelvin Avenue, situated between Birches Head and Sneyd Green. Local councillor Laura Carter intervened, spending approximately an hour and a half managing traffic flow. She described the scenario as a “total shambles” after witnessing the disruption firsthand.

In response to the mounting complaints, the council acted swiftly by contacting Severn Trent to request the removal of the barriers. A spokesperson for Stoke-on-Trent City Council stated, “We were made aware last night of traffic disruption on Kelvin Avenue, which runs from Birches Head to Sneyd Green. This was caused by Severn Trent’s works to upgrade local water pipes.” The council emphasized that traffic control measures would be dismantled to restore normal traffic flow.

A meeting between the council and Severn Trent is scheduled for Monday to discuss the ongoing situation and ensure that future works are managed more effectively to minimize disruptions. The local authority aims to collaborate with Severn Trent to establish a more efficient plan moving forward.

Severn Trent is currently engaged in an extensive project that involves laying nearly 25 miles of new water pipes across various areas, including Sneyd Green, Northwood, Birches Head, Burslem, and Smallthorne. This ambitious £25 million initiative is expected to last until April 2027, as the company works to improve the local water supply infrastructure.

As the council prepares for its meeting, residents are hopeful for a resolution that will alleviate traffic concerns and enhance the management of ongoing roadworks in the area.