The Staffordshire County Council is undertaking a 24-week refurbishment of the Wolseley Bridge, which includes installing a new ground beam, repairing walls, and resurfacing to ensure its longevity. The works are scheduled to minimise disruption, with temporary traffic lights in place to keep the road open. A small section of Bishton Lane near the bridge is closed, but access to Bishton Hall is maintained via the main junction onto Bellamour Lane.
Hollie Stansfield, Commercial Manager at Bishton Hall for four years, emphasised the importance of informing the public that the venue, featuring a tearoom, antique valuer, gift shop, dog groomer, and gin distillery, is operating as normal. "We’re just reminding people that we’re here and open for business, with a busy autumn schedule and our Christmas programme," she stated. "We have so many fantastic independent businesses, and the courtyard is now fully occupied. We offer a relaxed and enjoyable morning or afternoon out in beautiful surroundings, with our grounds and gardens open free of charge."
“"Our fantastic Sparrow’s Tearoom in the courtyard has built up a loyal customer base, and as a visitor destination that’s still growing, we want everyone to know that we’re here, we’re open, and we’re ready to welcome you. Everything remains fully accessible, and signage is in place near the works to help visitors find us with ease."
Stansfield also highlighted that weekly valuation days with Hansons Auctioneers and Valuers continue as normal. Patrick Allen, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet support member for highways, confirmed the essential nature of the bridge refurbishment and assured that signage is in place to guide motorists. "We’re pleased that the scheme is running on schedule and look forward to its completion in December," Allen said. "Our priority is to maintain our roads to the highest standard for businesses and communities."
“"It was great to visit Bishton Hall which is one of Staffordshire’s hidden gems and see so many thriving small businesses here at an attractive visitor location. We don’t want any business, especially those off our main routes, to be impacted by works and so we’d encourage people to visit what is a hidden gem of a Staffordshire visitor attraction."
Allen added that efforts have been made to minimise disruption through scheduling and traffic management. The new 151 Stone to Rugeley bus service also calls at Wolseley Bridge, offering an alternative transport option.
