A MULTI-million-pound scheme to tackle congestion on the A46 near University Hospital Coventry has received widespread backing after a series of consultation events.
Data from the events showed that 66 per cent of respondents felt the upgrade was needed on the Walsgrave junction.
The proposed new junction, known as a grade separated junction, will allow for a free flowing carriageway while enabling drivers to enter and exit local roads.
The National Highways’ upgrade will remove the bottleneck that causes congestion on the outskirts of Coventry.
The events – part of the consultation – engaged with 560 people and in total there were 229 responses.
Some people expressed concern around the safety of the existing junction, particularly if trying to join the A46 from the B4082.
Under the proposals, traffic will be brought onto the road via safer slip roads rather than waiting for a gap in sometimes fast moving traffic.
There were also requests for a hospital link road to be included in the upgrade – part Coventry City Council’s local plan which has allocated land for housing and a blue light access from the A46.
National Highways project manager Emma Winter said: “We are grateful to each and every person who took time to see us or respond to the consultation.
“It is important that we take on board the views of local communities and drivers which will further help us shape this significant upgrade.
“The A46 is a key link between the East and West Midlands and connects Coventry and Warwickshire to the motorway network.
“But the congestion at Walsgrave is impacting on journey times, communities and businesses.
“Our planned improvements will alleviate that congestion and provide an economic boost for communities across the region.”
Visit www.nationalhighways.co.uk/A46Coventry for more information.
