New analysis shows road link could cut local traffic by thousands daily

A new link road between the M54 and M6 northbound could reduce traffic on local roads, according to analysis from Midlands Connect.

Currently, the A460 carries around 23,000 vehicles daily, with 28% being freight trucks and if the proposed link road is built, traffic on the A460 could drop to 4,000 vehicles per day.

The government approved the link road plans in 2022, which would connect Junction 1 of the M54 to Junction 11 of the M6, bypassing villages that currently experience heavy traffic.

Businesses have voiced their concerns, with many needing to start journeys an hour earlier to avoid delays and are now urging the government to prioritise the project as part of its transport spending review.

Analysis has shown delays are common, especially northbound, with congestion affecting areas like Featherstone and Shareshill.

Average speeds on the A460 are significantly slower than the national road network, making journeys between the M54 and M6 up to four minutes longer during peak times.

Sir Gavin Williamson, MP for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge said: “I have repeatedly urged Government to speed up plans for a M54/M6 link road, which is desperately needed to ease congestion on the A460. Residents in Featherstone and Shareshill continue to be shortchanged and access is becoming increasingly difficult on local roads.

“I welcome Midland’s Connect’s evidence-based analysis which demonstrates that 23,000 vehicles, 28% of which are freight, use the A460 each day. This means residents have longer journey times to work, impacting productivity and creating further damage to the environment.

“The Government must stop dithering and listen to local people, the County Council, and all other stakeholders who clearly demonstrate the urgent need for this link road. I will continue to put as much pressure on Ministers as possible.

Swati Mittal, integrated transport lead at Midlands Connect said: “Our new data shows by delivering the M54/M6 link we can get over a million cars and lorries off other roads in Staffordshire. This can only be good for air quality and residents if we can move those cars, snarled up in traffic away from homes and housing estates onto a new, improved linked road that is free flowing.”