Average speed cameras for hazardous A550 Welsh Road planned

National Highways managers have told Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Justin Madders that average speed cameras are to be introduced along the busy A550 Welsh Road linking North Wales with Ellesmere Port and Wirral.

On behalf of a number of residents, Mr Madders had raised a variety of traffic issues along the main road, including at the junction with the access to Brooklea.

In reply to the MP, Duncan Smith – National Highways executive director of operations – said: “We take safety very seriously and I’d like to thank your constituents for their comments and suggestions to improve safety at this junction.

“I am pleased to confirm that we are introducing average speed cameras along the length of the A550 between the A494 in the south and the A41 in the north. We are aiming to commence the installation of these cameras in March 2023.”

Mr Smith added: “We will review whether signs should be installed on the A550 to alert drivers to the Brooklea access road. However our options might be limited as this appears to be a private access rather than a public highway.”

In response to the decision on introducing average speed cameras, one constituent told Mr Madders: “Anything that slows the traffic speed down is to be welcomed, especially the bikers on Sundays during the summer months.”

In a letter both to National Highways and Cheshire West and Chester Council, Mr Madders had written: “Concerns are the lack of footpath at the entrance and the lack of visibility of the entrance to traffic from Queensferry which is leaving many motorists with little option but to turn left.

“I have also been advised that the 50mph speed limit is rarely adhered to which is worsening the safety concerns.

“I understand that residents would like to see a warning sign installed to notify traffic from the Queensferry direction of the estate, a pedestrian crossing at the entrance and consideration of the speed limit.”

National Highways has rejected a request for a pedestrian crossing on the A550 by Brooklea on the grounds that too few people would use it. Meanwhile, requests for improved signage in the area will be assessed.