Extensive maintenance begins across key Stone routes
A programme of works to improve several of Stone’s busiest town centre roads has started this week, with Staffordshire County Council setting out a timetable that runs through to 23 October. The package covers kerb and footway repairs, drainage improvements and the installation of tactile crossing points, with full resurfacing to follow in the autumn.
Streets included in the scheme are Stafford Street, Crown Street, Newcastle Street, Station Road, Granville Square, Christchurch Way and Radford Street. To manage safety during the day, temporary traffic signals will operate and be staffed between 7am and 5pm on weekdays. The council has also confirmed that overnight closures will be required during the resurfacing phase.
Daytime signals now, night-time closures to follow
Resurfacing is scheduled from 7 September to 16 October. During this period, some roads will be closed overnight between 7pm and 6am. Specific locations and dates for these night-time closures will be publicised nearer the time, allowing residents, businesses and visitors to plan ahead.
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Daytime works (signals in place) | Weekdays, 7am–5pm (under way) |
| Resurfacing window | 7 September–16 October |
| Night-time closures | 7pm–6am during resurfacing (locations TBC) |
| Scheduled completion | By 23 October |
Focus on safety and accessibility
The project includes installing tactile paving at crossing points, designed to assist people with visual impairments by providing a detectable surface underfoot at the kerb edge. Alongside this, kerb lines, pavements and drainage infrastructure will be repaired to improve resilience and reduce localised flooding and trip hazards.
“These are busy roads around Stone so this scheme is important as it will bring huge improvements for motorists in a thriving town centre.
“Our project team carried out thorough design and preparation works earlier this year. This ensures that we have a high-quality scheme that it can be carried out as quickly as possible.
“Some of this scheme has been scheduled over the schools summer holiday to minimise disruption. We understand that with any traffic management however, particularly on such a busy route, there will inevitably be some delays for which we would like to apologise for in advance. We’re always grateful for people’s understanding wherever we’re carrying out improvements.”
The authority says planning earlier in the year has allowed crews to move straight into delivery. Staging activity over the summer holiday period is intended to reduce congestion at peak times while schools are off.
What drivers and businesses should expect
With town centre traffic management in place on weekdays, journey times through Stone are likely to be slower, especially at morning and late-afternoon peaks. The council’s approach aims to keep routes open during the day where possible, reserving full closures for night-time during the resurfacing phase.
- Allow extra time for journeys through the town centre while signals are operating.
- Watch for updates on exact dates and locations of night closures during September and October.
- Plan deliveries and servicing to avoid peak periods where feasible.
While no diversion routes have yet been published for the overnight works, the council has committed to share details in advance. Local businesses and residents are advised to monitor official channels for confirmed timings so they can adjust travel and operations accordingly.
Why this matters for Stone
Stone’s central streets carry significant local traffic, providing access to shops, services and the rail station. The council expects the combination of structural repairs and new surfacing to extend the life of the carriageway and footways, reduce maintenance call-outs and support safer, more accessible crossings for pedestrians. The works are designed to be completed as swiftly as possible while keeping the town functioning through the day.
Temporary signals are in operation 7am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, while crews work on the initial phase. Details of night-time closures between 7 September and 16 October will follow. The overall scheme is slated to finish by 23 October, subject to weather and on-site conditions.
