Equipment left along M6 and M56

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to formally raise a concern regarding the significant number of traffic cones and road signs that appear to have been abandoned along the M6 and M56 motorways. As someone who has driven these routes daily for the past five years, I have consistently noticed the presence of this equipment even long after any roadworks have concluded.

While I acknowledge that there have been various works completed along these routes recently, the issue of abandoned cones and signage is not isolated to active work zones — it is widespread along the entirety of the route I travel. This situation presents multiple concerns:

1. Aesthetic and Environmental Impact: The presence of these items makes the roadside appear neglected and unkempt. Many of the cones have clearly been in place for an extended period, with vegetation growing through or around them — a clear sign they have been forgotten. 2. Safety Hazard: On several occasions, I have had to avoid cones that have blown into the carriageway. This is extremely dangerous, particularly at high motorway speeds, and puts all road users at risk. 3. Waste of Resources: I question whether this equipment is being tracked and reused. As a taxpayer, I find it troubling to see such waste. If these items are still functional, they should be recovered and repurposed for future works rather than left to decay by the roadside.

This is not something I would typically write about, but given the persistent nature of the issue and the frequency with which I encounter it, I felt compelled to raise it with you. On a recent count, I noted 194 cones and signs on the northbound M6 and M56, and 206 on the southbound routes. That is an astonishing amount of neglected material and, quite frankly, an unacceptable state of affairs.

I have attached a few photos taken when I’ve been in the passenger seat, showing examples of the abandoned items.

I would appreciate it if you could inform me of what action National Highways intends to take to address this issue and ensure that it does not continue. I look forward to your reply.

Kind regards, Bethany Shepherd