Shropshire Council resurface the A495 Oswestry Road and establish a 20mph zone around two Ellesmere schools between 26 October and 6 November. Each weekday features a single daytime road closure, running consecutively rather than simultaneously.
Two-week programme, one road closed at a time
The resurfacing covers Oswestry Road from the Canal Way traffic lights to the business park roundabout, plus Elson Road. The council schedules work on weekdays only. It starts on the A495 and then moves to Elson Road. Closure hours run from 9.30am to 4pm in the first week, reducing to 9.30am to 2.45pm in the second. Only one road is closed at any time.
Speed cushions define the 20mph zone
The new 20mph zone covers eleven roads near Ellesmere Primary School and Lakelands Academy, including parts of the Cambria Avenue estate between them. Roads included are Elson Road, Trimpley Street, Cambria Avenue, Beech Grove, Oak Drive, Beech Drive, David Philips Close, Brownlow Road, Stanham Drive, Oswestry Road, and Scotland Street.
Speed cushions are the primary physical measure used. These raised pads sit within the lane, allowing wider-tracked vehicles such as buses to straddle them, while cars must slow down. This design moderates speed more effectively than signs alone.
Supporting changes ensure clarity and safety
Work includes installing and adjusting waiting restrictions on Cambria Avenue, Stanham Drive and Brownlow Road. The council formalises ‘School Keep Clear’ markings outside both schools and upgrades street lighting lanterns. Signage and road markings comply with the new 20mph limit.
Outside Lakelands Academy on Oswestry Road, crews also add speed cushions and appropriate markings. The council organises this together with the resurfacing programme to minimise disruption.
Managing access and traffic during closures
During closures, residents and businesses within the affected sections maintain access when safe. Pedestrians, cyclists dismounted from their bicycles, equestrians, and emergency blue-light vehicles can pass through at all times.
Other traffic follows signed diversions. Depending on vehicle type, some drivers may find alternative routes. The council requests no parking on the closed roads to help the work proceed efficiently.
Details will appear on the One.Network website during the works. The council has not disclosed costs or contractors involved.
Context: ongoing maintenance on busy network
This scheme joins other Shropshire maintenance efforts. In August, the county’s fast pothole crew addressed approximately 2,300 defects monthly, demonstrating continued investment in network condition and safety.
