Lichfield Grange Lane - Eastern Avenue junction: Safety improvements urgently needed

A public meeting is taking place to highlight safety concerns at a Lichfield junction following the death of a motorcyclist.

In June 2021 a young man tragically died in a crash at the Grange Lane and Eastern Avenue junction. The incident led to a petition asking for new safety measures at the site passing 5,000 signatures.

Cllr Paul Ray, who represents the Chadsmead ward at Lichfield District Council, said a new report had put forward proposals for changes to the junction.

"It is absolutely tragic that there was the fatality of Luke Cotton at this junction in June and I just want to update and reassure residents that the campaign to get permanent improvements made by Staffordshire Highways at this junction continues and has stepped up.

"Various councillors and residents are involved, with 5,000 people signing a petition.

"A new report by Staffordshire Highways contractor Amey has been issued recommending a roundabout or traffic lights. That was what we hoped for and is very good news."

Cllr Ray said the report had also revealed that accidents on the stretch of carriageway were around four-and-a-half times higher than on similar roads.

"There are significant factors which means that the work to make this junction safe must be carried out urgently. The important thing is to keep the pressure up as there is no timing yet from Staffordshire Highways about when the works are to be done. So I urge as many residents as possible to attend so we can show the strength of feeling and how essential it is that this junction is changed and made safe as matter of urgency."

The meeting will take place close to the junction at 11am on 2nd October.