MP demands meeting over continued disruption on the A49 at Onibury
South Shropshire MP Stuart Anderson has voiced his deep frustration over the continued disruption on the A49 at Onibury, calling for an urgent meeting with National Highways after the project missed its latest completion date.
The long-running saga began following an incident where a tractor struck the bridge carrying the A49 over the River Onny on Tuesday 2 September 2025.
The collision caused substantial structural damage, necessitating temporary traffic measures to manage vehicle flow over the weakened crossing. While the road was initially closed entirely to allow West Mercia Police and engineers to assess the scene, it was later reopened under a traffic light system that has plagued local motorists for months.
Despite the bridge being a critical artery for the region, the promised resolution has failed to materialise. Mr Anderson first raised the matter in November 2025, at which point he was informed that the repairs were being treated as a matter of priority.
Further assurances were provided by National Highways in March 2026, stating that all works would be finalised by the end of April. However, that deadline has now passed with no end in sight and the temporary lights remain firmly in place.
The impact on the local community has been significant, with residents reporting increasingly difficult commutes and rising concerns regarding both road safety and air pollution. The persistent delays are also beginning to take a toll on the local economy.
Reports suggest that many motorists are actively avoiding the area and Craven Arms altogether to bypass the queues, leading to a noticeable drop in footfall for shops and independent services that rely on passing trade.
In a strongly worded statement, Stuart Anderson MP expressed his disappointment at having to write yet again to National Highways to demand a clear explanation.
Stuart Anderson MP said: “I am extremely disappointed to have written to National Highways requesting a meeting about the ongoing A49 roadworks at Onibury. Despite being told in November that these repairs were a priority and assured in March that they would be completed by the end of April, the deadline has passed and the roadworks remain.
"Residents have expressed concerns about road safety and pollution, with some even avoiding Craven Arms altogether, which is impacting local businesses. I first raised this issue nearly six months ago and have yet to receive answers to my simple questions: what is causing the delays, and when will the work be finished? I will continue to push for answers on behalf of our community.”
