Truckstop threatened
Page 16
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ONE OF the longest-established lorry drivers' halts says it is under threat because of the Department of Transport's refusal to erect signs.
The Checkley Rest and Station, established in 1936, is on a nine-mile stretch of the A50 in Staffordshire which will be by-passed when the UttoxeterBlythe Bridge section of the Stoke-Derby link road opens next week.
Checkley proprietor Barry Brash has requested signs to be erected at the junctions at either end of the new by-pass to indicate the existence of Checkley.
He points out that his hgv services include eating, parking, accommodation, showers, toilets and phones, and are therefore more comprehensive than a motorists-only restaurant that has been allowed a "services" sign at the Uttoxeter end of the by-pass.
Mr Brash said: "All I want is two signs to let drivers know we are here. We can virtually see the new road but if new drivers do not know about us they won't come down the old road."
He has attracted the support of the local MP. MEP, parish council, Transport and General Workers Union, and motoring associations, who agree that the provision and use of hgv services should be encouraged.
After receiving a 2,000 signature petition from Mr Brash and his MP, the Department of Transport told CM last week that the case is still being considered.