M69 services at junction 1 edge closer to approval despite traffic worries. Includes parking, food, and other amenities.
The services would be near junction 1 of the M69, east of Stretton Cross. The location is on Wolvey Road in Burbage. The site spans two council areas, and another council should approve their part soon. The M69 opened in 1977. It’s a sixteen-mile stretch without services actually on it.
Welcome Break plans include a lot of options, like Starbucks, KFC, Burger King, or Pret, and a shop. They’ll have fuel for cars and trucks, plus parking for many vehicles. A drive-thru coffee shop is planned, too, along with a gaming zone, picnic, and dog areas.
Some council members worry about traffic because the A5 already has bad congestion issues. Trucks often hit the Watling Street Bridge, which is Leicestershire’s “most bashed” bridge. One leader hopes lorry parking helps stop overnight parking on the A5.
A previous project planned to lower the road to prevent bridge strikes from trucks. One council member wants that done first. She thinks the service area could cause problems otherwise, as the A5 is always packed with parked vehicles.
Seven people objected to Welcome Break’s plan, fearing more traffic near the roundabout and worries about noise and pollution. Litter and crime are also concerns. The council vote was almost entirely in favor, with one member abstaining.