Apology after roadworks gridlock Nuneaton town centre

[dutchman]

Fuming motorists say some routine journeys took longer than an hour

An apology has been made for the gridlock that caused a 'nightmare' for motorists' journeys across Nuneaton.

The town was brought to a standstill last night prompting anger from those caught in the jams.

Fuming drivers reported rush-hour journeys on the north side of town last night taking more than an hour.

Journeys from the new-look Coton Arches towards the town centre also took 35 minutes.

But the gridlock began earlier in the day with motorists travelling from the Tuttle Hill direction towards the town centre reporting journey times of 60 minutes.

The morning rush was also hit by huge delays and it has led to fury spilling out onto social media.

CoventryLive contacted councillor Jeff Clarke, the cabinet member responsible for highways at Warwickshire County Council.

In a frank statement, he apologised for what he recognised to be a 'nightmare' on the roads across the town centre.

He blamed a lack of communication in relation to roadworks on Weddington Road and how temporary traffic lights were not turned off at peak hours.

The single lane closure on the Leicester Road bridge further exacerbated the problem, causing traffic tailbacks across the entire town centre.

"I would like to apologise to residents and drivers for their inconvenience they are experiencing," he said.

"The works are essential to the ongoing programme of works that will transform Nuneaton town centre and the experience of driving into and out of the town.

“While there will be a very positive outcome to the works, I appreciate that is scant consolation for residents and motorists at this moment and I fully understand that they are not happy.

"So many roadworks need to take place at the moment but it needs to be done in an orderly fashion."

He went on: "I am sorry to say that on some occasions the communication in relation to the removal of works at peak times is not there.

"It is something that I have asked officers to look at as a matter of urgency."

"I have also been in contact with the head of transport at the county council about what can be done to improve the situation."