Motorists jump lights and abandon cars in road 'chaos'

RUSH hour in Deeside descended into chaos yesterday morning when vehicles became mired in long-running roadworks.

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE Countryside and Tourism Editor

Shops opened late and cars were abandoned as tempers flared in Shotton.Motorists began jumping traffic lights and blocking junctions. Commuters arrived late for work and school buses became snared in the gridlock.

Retailers apologised for opening late and residents reported side roads being used as rat runs.

“It was utter chaos!” said one online. Another added: “It’s an absolute joke and people are taking unnecessary risks just to get one spot ahead. I watched a bunch block the exit for the fire station of all places.”

Four-way temporary traffic lights were installed on the B5129 Chester Road East on February 9. A Flintshire Council scheme expected to last up to 26 weeks has begun upgrading key roads and public spaces in Shotton.

Travel times immediately increased - but yesterday morning drivers said the delays were off the scale. Complicating matters was the resumption of the spring school term after the half-term break. Another was a rush-hour crash on the B5129. Motorists have angrily pointed to concurrent roadworks which may be adding to traffic in Shotton and Connah's Quay.

“Six months of this ahead!” shrieked one resident online. “It's a nightmare living and working along this road.”

A woman said she'd been forced to “ditch my car midway” and walk the rest of the way.

Another said her partner “abandoned his car” in Shotton, adding: “He said nothing is moving as the lights are only allowing about five cars thru at a time. Utter madness!”