Police crack down on Stafford roadworks 'rat run'
Date: 10 July 2007
Police are cracking down on heavy goods vehicle drivers dodging the A518 roadworks closure in Stafford.
The West Way residential road in Highfields is being used as a "rat run" for logistics drivers and others looking to avoid the 27-mile diversion through Eccleshall and Great Bridgeford, which is there because of the closure of part of the Newport Road, the Express and Star reports.
Taking the detour adds the best part of an hour on to the journey time, so many drivers have been tempted to take the short-cut.
However, residents have raised safety fears and police have begun patrolling the area on the lookout for drivers taking this route.
Two drivers were issued with £30 penalty tickets on Friday, which they must pay or face a court appearance.
However one reader provided an interesting comment on this story: "Ehem … £30 fine to prevent a 27 mile detour and save an hour's time … It's about even in costs. I would take a chance in my lorry. If you want to prevent something happening at least make the punishment a punishment and not a viable alternative."
According to the BBC website, the Newport Road closure will be opened again on August 31st.
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