Actions for A500/Alsager Road junction

The Parish Council is in regular direct contact with officers at National Highways, who are responsible for the A500 and the slip road, to campaign for action following the previous and ongoing accidents.

We are aware that there have been two further accidents reported since the temporary signs were installed, plus regular near misses due to drivers seeking to avoid congestion. This information is passed onto National Highways, please continue to report any near misses.

We have received the following update from National Highways, and want to keep you informed given the ongoing concerns:

Upgraded signing on slip road
The works are committed, and National Highways are aiming to complete the upgrade by 31 March 2026.

Collision Data
National Highways will continue to analyse the collision data to establish the primary causation factors as and when Staffordshire Police release their reports to Staffordshire County Council.

M6 J16
The anecdotal evidence of increased usage of the slip roads at the A500/Alsager Road junction (westbound) is to queue jump congestion on the A500. Traffic signal engineers have reviewed the timings of the signals at M6 J16 and have concluded the signals are working as intended (no faults identified). The problem is down to traffic growth and an ageing asset. The M6 J16 junction layout simply cannot accommodate 2026 and beyond vehicle capacity as it exceeds the current design geometry. Unfortunately, the junction is not a priority for future road investment in the short term.

Alsager Road
The local road is managed by Staffordshire County Council (SCC) who have agreed to review road safety. SCC will forward their conclusions including any actions they are able to deliver in due course.

In vehicle SAT NAV Technology
Examples of google desktop sat nav tool prioritising the slip road rather than staying on the A500 have been raised at partnership meetings with the leading suppliers of sat nav technology. The response is they will investigate but have made it clear motorists have a duty to drive within the law and follow guidance contained within the Highway Code. In car technology is provided to improve the driver experience but the driver is ultimately responsible for ensuring they continue to drive with due care and attention.

The Police have also advised they will carry out sat nav tests using their vehicles. Report will be provided in due course.

Continued monitoring
National Highways Inspectors will continue to check the junction as part of their weekly route safety checks. Any safety critical issues identified such as fading road markings or vegetation compromising visibility will be defected and fixed in line with the contractual timelines.

Camera survey
A survey has been completed. Results are awaited of any findings of interest.

Temporary signing
Temporary signing to remain in place until the works to upgrade the permanent signing has been completed.

Contact details for National Highways:

https:/www.nationalhighways.co.uk
Customer Service No.: 0300 123 5000 or email info@nationalhighways.co.uk