Traffic signals aim to cut congestion (From Gazette Series)

Traffic signals aim to cut congestion

TRAFFIC signals will be installed at junction 14 at Falfield on the M5 to improve safety and reduce congestion. Work will start on Sunday.

Left-turn lanes are to be provided for traffic turning from the B4509 on to the M5 entry slip road and some widening work will be required. A high-friction surfacing will be laid on all approaches to the traffic signals to improve skid resistance. Associated works include resurfacing and improved road markings, road signs, safety fencing and drainage.

The northbound and southbound exit slip roads will be closed overnight while the new lights are installed. Only one slip road will be closed at any one time.

Work will last for seven weeks. During the slip road closure:

* Northbound traffic wishing to leave the M5 at junction 14 will remain on the M5 until junction 13 and then take the M5 southbound back to junction 14.

* Southbound traffic wishing to leave the M5 at junction 14 will remain on the M5 until junction 16 and rejoin the M5 northbound back to junction 14.

Highways Agency project manager Dave Frampton said: "The new lights will tackle peak-hour congestion problems at junction 14 when vehicles leaving the M5 are unable to clear the slip road due to the amount of traffic on the B4509.

"The new signals will allow vehicles leaving the motorway to join to B4509 safely and reduce tail-backs on the slip road, which at times stretch back onto the M5".