I visited one of Shropshire’s most dangerous junctions. Here’s how I got on

I learned that patience is key at the Llynclys crossroads.

On Thursday I went to the A483 junction between Oswestry and Llanymynech to meet North Shropshire MP Helen Morgan after her call to action and questions to the Prime Minister in Parliament.

National Highways had previously branded the junction as the worst in the region as it looked at locations where a cluster of incidents had occurred. However, the government agency has now stated that the junction ranks 54th out of 110 on their current list of ‘problem junctions’ in the Midlands.

But it certainly ranks high on the list of tough roads for me – after my experience – and I understand why residents are keen to avoid it where possible, and rally for change at the site.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared of what was to come after the alarming calls for road changes. As I went into my first meeting and interview with the MP since joining the Shropshire Star newsdesk I was getting nervous enough, but having no experience of driving at Llynclys junction I was worried about what lay ahead as I drove through the beautiful villages and surrounding countryside.

I approached the junction after passing Knockin and via the B396. When I stopped at the junction I saw the beautiful and highly regarded country pub – The White Lion – but also a busy stream of traffic.

For starters, my wait felt endless, I was constantly looking left and right, looking for an opportunity to cross safely. My view was obscured by a left turn, and the fact that the intersection is at the foot of a pothole only compounds the problems.

I waited and waited for probably more than a minute, if not longer. Another car opposite me wanted to cross from the A495 to the B396 and was also waiting for an opening.

I immediately became aware that this is a busy road, and a fast one at that, as vehicles from both sides drove down the hill to the bottom where the intersection is located.

Patience and the priority of safety are the key words. I waited for an opportunity and a quiet moment to cross.

Yes, the wait time can be frustrating for drivers. The same thing happened after my meeting ended, and patience and utmost attention to my surroundings and the road were required.

Speaking to the North Shropshire MP, she expressed her desire for the junction to be redesigned, and assured that she will push for funding to be allocated so that work can take place. Ms Morgan also revealed she avoids the Llynclys junction where possible, saying: “It’s not worth it.”

In my opinion, a roundabout would be ideal in that location. However, I understand that this may not be appropriate or feasible.

Although I have crossed safely twice and have not experienced a single close call, I fully understand and support the need for change and implementation of measures to increase safety at the site, having heard and heard reports and concerns from Shropshire residents had experienced the intersection itself.

Ms Morgan revealed it could take at least 12 months before funding becomes available for action, but National Highways has said they are “undertaking a study” that will help them “plan and deliver a number of improvements to this junction”.