Final LTP March 2006

Outer Circle / Radial Routes

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Showcase Scheme is an orbital bus route serving a number of local centres and facilities such as Birmingham and Central England Universities, and the Queen Elizabeth and City Hospitals.  Most of the route lies within Birmingham, with one section running through Sandwell at Bearwood.  The Scheme will enhance bus travel and will include bus priority measures, new vehicles, upgraded infrastructure and better information provision.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Bus priority measures, higher quality vehicles, improved information and interchange will promote the bus as an alternative to the car, thus reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Every journey made by bus instead of car will mean fewer vehicular emissions, contributing to better air quality and less noise.  Operators have also invested in new less polluting vehicles.

Improving Accessibility:  Improved bus reliability will improve accessibility to key facilities not  on ‘radial’ routes.  These include local centres, and education and health facilities such as City Hospital.  The route serves a number of  disadvantaged communities including the Birmingham Pathfinder Area.

Improving Road Safety:  Limiting growth in the number of car journeys will have positive implications for road safety.  We are taking opportunities to upgrade pedestrian and cyclist facilities as part of the scheme.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Relieving congestion and improving accessibility will have positive economic benefits to both employers and employees.  The Outer Circle serves parts of the EBNS and SBCWB Regeneration Zones.

Hagley Road Bus Showcase

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Showcase route is a busy radial route between Birmingham City Centre and key locations within Sandwell and Dudley. Showcase schemes combine modern, easy access buses, upgraded infrastructure including 'Kassel' kerbs for easy boarding and greater highway priority for buses.   Their purpose is to improve the reliability and attractiveness of bus services thus making them a viable alternative to the private car.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Bus priority measures, higher quality vehicles, improved information and interchange will promote the bus as an alternative to the car, thus reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Every journey made by bus instead of car will mean fewer vehicular emissions, contributing to better air quality and less noise.  Operators have also invested in new less polluting vehicles.

Improving Accessibility:  Improved bus reliability will improve accessibility to key facilities not  on ‘radial’ routes.  These include local centres, and education and health facilities such as City Hospital.  The route serves a number of  disadvantaged communities including the Birmingham Pathfinder Area.

Improving Road Safety:  Limiting growth in the number of car journeys will have positive implications for road safety.  We are taking opportunities to upgrade pedestrian and cyclist facilities as part of the scheme.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Relieving congestion and improving accessibility will have positive economic benefits to both employers and employees.  The Outer Circle serves parts of the EBNS and SBCWB Regeneration Zones.

Primelines (Coventry Quality Bus Network)

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Scheme will create a network of Bus Showcase routes serving six key travel corridors, including an east-west route serving the new hospital, Warwick University and a number of regeneration areas.  Improvements include upgraded infrastructure, highly specified and branded buses with low floors and internal CCTV, satellite tracking, real time Information and bus priority measures.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Bus priority measures, higher quality vehicles, improved information and interchange will promote the bus as an alternative to the car, thus reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Every journey made by bus instead of car will mean fewer vehicular emissions, contributing to better air quality and less noise.  Past experience suggests that operators may invest in new less polluting vehicles.

Improving Accessibility:  Improved bus reliability along six key complementary routes will considerably improve accessibility to key facilities including Warwick University and the new regional hospital.

Improving Road Safety:  Limiting growth in the number of car journeys will have positive implications for road safety.  Opportunities will be taken to upgrade pedestrian and cyclist facilities as part of the scheme.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Relieving congestion and improving accessibility will have positive economic benefits to both employers and employees.  The network links a number of employment opportunities with relatively disadvantaged neighbourhoods within the Coventry and Nuneaton RZ.

Cradley Heath Town Centre Strategy

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Scheme consists of a single carriageway bypass of Cradley Heath High Street, running from Lower High Street to Upper High Street along the line of Foxoak Street.  New traffic signal junctions will be provided at St. Anne’s Road and Newtown Lane.  The scheme will minimise through traffic and open up land in the town centre for development.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  New relief road will reduce through traffic and congestion in the town centre.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  By removing through traffic, air quality in the town centre will improve and noise levels reduce.  There will also be opportunities to improve the public realm/streetscape.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus access will improve, as will provision for pedestrians, cyclists and short stay motorists.  The accessible town centre will become more attractive to shops, enhancing social inclusion.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing through traffic will have positive implications for road safety in the town centre and reduce conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The town centre is within the SBCWB Regeneration Zone.  The Scheme will open up substantial land for development, assisting regeneration.

Red Routes Network Package 1

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Scheme provides 130 kilometres of Red Routes, part of a network of 419 kilometres.  Red Routes introduce strict controls on stopping, parking and loading, and are designed  to improve the flow of traffic, together with local environmental improvement works.

It is intended that Phase 1 will be developed as part of an overlapping programme and comprises 24 route sections of different types.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Fewer obstructions caused by what is often illegal parking and loading will lead to improved traffic flows and help to contribute to the statutory duties under the Traffic Management Act 2004.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic has positive implications for air quality and fuel efficiency.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus reliability will be improved benefiting those without access to a car.  Accessibility between centres and disadvantaged areas will be improved.

Improving Road Safety:  Controlled kerbside parking improves visibility, reducing potential conflicts between vehicles and between traffic and pedestrians.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Reduced congestion will improve journey time reliability for public transport, private and commercial vehicles.

Northfield Regeneration

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This is a dual two-lane carriageway to the west of Northfield local centre.  The new road will be designated the A38, and the existing A38 through Northfield will be reclassified.  The Scheme is linked to a wider package of measures designed to regenerate this important local centre by removing through traffic including HGVs, and releasing land for new development.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Congestion will be reduced as relief road diverts through traffic from the busy local centre.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Removal of through traffic from Northfield centre and smoother flows along the new A38 will improve air quality.  The Scheme also opens up opportunities for improvements to the public realm /street-scape.

Improving Accessibility: Removal of through traffic from the centre will improve access for buses, cyclists, pedestrians and cars using the centre.  Provision of new facilities in an accessible local centre will also promote social inclusion.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing through traffic will improve road safety in the centre and reduce conflicts between vehicles and between traffic and pedestrians.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Northfield lies within the Birmingham - Worcestershire HTC.  Removal of through traffic will open up land for  new investment in the town centre, including a large food-store which will create jobs.  Access for local companies will also improve.

Wolverhampton Centre Access, Interchange and Integration

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Scheme will  improve interchanges between bus, rail and Metro; improve the city centre environment and accessibility; and support urban regeneration in the Canalside Quarter.  Measures include:

• a new access road to the railway station.  This would also serve as the principal access to much of the Canalside Quarter Development Area
• improved car and cycle parking facilities and expanded Park & Ride facilities for rail and Metro users
• high quality pedestrian, cycle and public transport links with the city centre flexibility to accommodate a future Metro line between Wolverhampton and Walsall via Wednesfield

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Selective increases in capacity and parking provision will reduce congestion near the railway station.  Improved interchange facilities will promote greater use of buses, trains and Metro, thereby helping to reduce congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  The scheme will reduce the number of buses in the city centre, improving air quality. The Scheme also opens up opportunities for improvements to the public realm/streetscape.

Improving Accessibility:  The scheme will improve links between rail, bus and Metro. It will provide high quality pedestrian and cycle links between the city centre, bus station, railway station and  Canalside Quarter Development Area.  It will improve Park & Ride and taxi facilities at the railway station.

Improving Road Safety:  The scheme will reduce the number of buses in the city centre, improving road safety in an area where there are high volume of pedestrians.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The scheme is in the NBCSS Regeneration Zone and will provide a key ‘Gateway’ to Wolverhampton.  It is also within the Canalside Quarter which is a focus for regeneration.

Walsall Town Centre Transport Package - Provisional Approval

(Regional Priority: Committed Scheme)

This Scheme consists of a series of interlinked junction improvements along a 2.1 km section of the A4148 Walsall Ring Road.  An extra carriageway will be built to the west and north of the current road between Moat Road and the Arboretum junction.  To accommodate this road widening, a new railway bridge will be built on Littleton Street West, next to the existing bridge. Compulsory Purchase and Side Road Orders were confirmed in late 2004,  following a public local inquiry.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Improved alignment and increases in junction capacity will improve traffic flows and reduce congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic will have a positive impact on air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus priority measures at appropriate junctions will improve bus accessibility.  A segregated cycle/footway will also run to the north and west of the road.

Improving Road Safety:  New traffic signals will be provided at all junctions, with pedestrian crossing phases as appropriate.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Improved access to Walsall town centre will improve its attractiveness to investors and visitors.  The Scheme is also within the NBC & SSRZ

Selly Oak Access Road - Provisional Approval

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority and Provisionally accepted by DfT)

This Scheme involves building a ten metre wide, single carriageway to the north-west of the Selly Oak centre.  The new road will be designated A38 and the existing A38 Bristol Road through Selly Oak Centre will be reclassified.  The road will:

• provide capacity for through traffic, including HGVs, to transfer from Bristol Road creating the opportunity to improve Selly Oak centre
• enable access to the new £521 million Queen Elizabeth Hospital development and technology and retail developments on Battery Park

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Congestion will be reduced as relief road takes through traffic from the busy local centre.  This should  improve journey reliability along one of the busiest sections of the Birmingham - Worcestershire HTC.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Removal of through traffic  from Selly Oak centre, together with smoother flows along the new A38, will improve air quality, reduce noise and allow improvements to the public realm /streetscape in Selly Oak centre.

Improving Accessibility:  Removal of through traffic will improve access for buses, cyclists, pedestrians and cars using the centre.  Provision of new facilities (particularly the expanded QE hospital) and a large number of job opportunities in an accessible location will promote social inclusion.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing through traffic will improve road safety through Selly Oak.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The relief road will enable significant investment, particularly the proposed science and technology park which is consistent with the ‘clusters’ and HTC corridor strategies in the RSS and RES.

Brierley Hill Sustainable Access Network - Provisional Approval

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority and Provisionally accepted by DfT)

This Scheme seeks to reduce congestion and deliver environmental benefits on the A461 and in Brierley Hill as a whole.  It  will improve key junctions and reduce demand along High Street and Level Street.  New roads parallel to High Street and linking to the A4036 Pedmore Road will be built.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Selected highway capacity improvements will provide alternative routes for through traffic and for access to Brierley Hill.   Selective junction improvements, will also improve journey reliability.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic in the High Street will reduce local air pollution.  Junction improvements which reduce stop-start traffic will also improve air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Public transport will have better penetration in the area, with improved access and interchanges along High Street and Mill Street.

Improving Road Safety:  Better pedestrian and cycling links are also proposed. Road safety will be enhanced through new and improved crossings, better links and some pedestrianisation.  Improved capacity and reduced congestion will reduce accidents.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  By improving access to key development opportunities there will be an opportunity to regenerate Brierley Hill, which lies within the SBCWB Regeneration Zone.

Darlaston Strategic Development Area - Provisional Approval

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority and Provisionally accepted by DfT)

This Scheme includes highway improvements that will support reclamation of derelict and under-used land.  The area is a key development site within the BCSS Regeneration Zone.  A high quality access loop will accommodate 44 tonne lorries and link to the Black Country Route and Junction 9 of the M6.  The Scheme is being developed in partnership with Advantage West Midlands and the Walsall Regeneration Company.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  New access roads will help remove traffic, especially HGVs, from unsuitable local roads, reducing local congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Positive impact on kerbside air quality and noise reduction, particularly along some residential roads. Opening up an area of derelict land for redevelopment will enhance the built environment.

Improving Accessibility:  Strategic access to a regionally important development site, and new job opportunities.  Will also provide improved bus, cycle and pedestrian access.

Improving Road Safety:  Improved roads and removal of access traffic from existing substandard roads will help local road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Supports reclamation of derelict and under-used land through improved access to the PRN.  Highway improvements will provide access for 44 tonne lorries using the Black Country Route and M6, junction 9.

Owen Street Level Crossing Relief Road - Provisional Approval

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority and Provisionally accepted by DfT)

This Scheme involves construction of a relief road beneath the West Coast Main Line railway.  This will allow closure of the level crossing, which causes severe delays and impairs accessibility of the Owen Street shopping area.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Relief Road beneath the West Coast Main Line will remove the existing level crossing, the frequent closure of which causes significant congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Removal of traffic queues  will improve air quality and have positive benefits on the built environment within the local centre.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus services which are  currently diverted will be reinstated and integration with rail services will be improved. Access for pedestrians and cyclists to Owen Street local centre will be improved.

Improving Road Safety:  Removal of traffic onto the Relief Road will improve road safety, particularly in the local centre. Closure of the level crossing will also remove the risk of a vehicle /train accident.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Opportunity to revitalise Owen Street local centre, which is in the SBCWB Regeneration Zone.

Midland Metro: Phase 1 Extensions

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

The scheme involves two extensions to the existing route that links Birmingham and Wolverhampton.  One extension links Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Great Bridge, Dudley Port, Dudley Town Centre, Cinder Bank and Merry Hill.  The second extension goes through the heart of Birmingham City Centre for the current Snow Hill terminus to Hagley Road via Corporation Street, New Street Station, Victoria Square, Broad Street and Five Ways.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Light rail is attractive to motorists and will lead to a substantial modal shift. 

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Air pollution along the routes will reduce due to the transfer of journeys from car to light rail and, through connecting services to other public transport modes.

Improving Accessibility:  A high frequency, high quality public transport system linking key facilities and comprising part of a wider network will have considerable accessibility benefits.

Improving Road Safety:  Fewer car journeys will have positive implications for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  In general, an expanded Metro system will raise the profile of the Metropolitan Area.  More specifically, the Birmingham extension will support the continued focus on the city centre as a hub of economic activity.  The Wednesbury - Brierley Hill extension links a number of key development and regeneration opportunities within the SBCWBRZ.

West Midlands UTC

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

This Scheme seeks to make more efficient use of existing infrastructure and reduce congestion on the network. It will make traffic signals more efficient, provide a common platform for bus priority measures, deliver more variable message signs, and create a technical platform which enables intelligent transport services to be deployed. The project has been developed in partnership with the police, Highways Agency and public transport operators.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Improving efficiency of the highway network will reducing congestion and increase journey reliability.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reducing stationary and stop-start traffic will have a positive impact on air quality, noise levels and fuel efficiency.

Improving Accessibility:  Improving the traffic flow will also improve bus reliability. Safer crossings for disabled people, cyclists and pedestrians will reduce severance.

Improving Road Safety:  Junction improvements will provide better facilities for people with disabilities, cyclists and pedestrians.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  More reliable journey times will benefit the movement of people and goods across the entire West Midlands network.

Birmingham International Airport / NEC Public Transport Links

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

This Scheme, in partnership with BIA and NEC, will improve public transport access particularly within the EBNS Regeneration Zone. It includes new bus lanes, a public transport hub / interchange, real time information, SMS messaging and infrastructure upgrades on routes serving the area, including the link with the Coleshill Multi-Modal Interchange Major Scheme (in Warwickshire) that was provisionally approved in 2003.

The Airport Surface Access Strategy aims to increase public transport's share of travel to BIA, currently 15.6%. This is important in the light of job growth forecasts.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Providing better public transport alternatives for employees, passengers and visitors will reduce the need for car access and reduce congestion on motorway and local road networks.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reducing congestion will help to improve air quality. Motorists will be offered a realistic, environmentally friendly alternative.

Improving Accessibility:  Improving bus links to nearby residential areas, including some disadvantaged communities within the EBNS Regeneration Zone, will improve access to jobs. Low floor buses will help people with mobility difficulties.

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging a modal shift will improve road safety because there will be fewer car journeys.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Enabling people to access jobs s at BIA / NEC will increase the labour pool available to employers. Reduced congestion will boost job growth. This proposal is consistent with the EBNS Regeneration Zone strategy.

New Street Station Redevelopment

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

This Scheme will increase the Station's passenger capacity and provide a better gateway to Birmingham and the region.  The Scheme commands considerable support from key regional stakeholders and the rail industry.  It is designed to minimise disruption to rail services during construction and relies substantially on the existing foundations and superstructure.  Funding is being sought from the rail industry and private sector developers, in addition to a LTP contribution.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Will limit congestion by offering a high quality alternative to driving into the city.  Will provide extra passenger capacity to accommodate growing demand for rail travel.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced and freer flowing traffic, resulting from modal shift, will have positive implications for air quality. The Scheme will have considerable benefits for the built environment with a landmark building complementing the new Bullring development.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme will improve rail access to the city centre and the Station's links with the central area.  People with disabilities will be fully taken into account in the detailed plans.  The upgraded Station will increase opportunities for modal shift and improve links between the Station, city and region.

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging a modal shift should enhance road safety, as fewer car journeys are made.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Lack of passenger capacity and the poor appearance of New Street Station are widely cited as having adverse impact on the region's image.  Increasing rail capacity will widen the catchment areas for potential workers and visitors, thus enhancing the economic viability of the city centre.

Red Routes Network Package 2

(Regional Priority: Provisional Priority)

This Scheme provides 110 kilometres of Red Routes, the second phase of a network of 419 kilometres.  Red Routes introduce strict controls on stopping, parking and loading, and are designed  to improve the flow of traffic, together with local environmental improvement works.

It is intended that Phase 2 will be developed as part of an overlapping programme and comprises 22 route sections of different types.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Fewer obstructions caused by what is often illegal parking and loading will lead to improved traffic flows and help to contribute to the statutory duties under the Traffic Management Act 2004.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic has positive implications for air quality and fuel efficiency.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus reliability will be improved benefiting those without access to a car.  Accessibility between centres and disadvantaged areas will be improved.

Improving Road Safety:  Controlled kerbside parking improves visibility, reducing potential conflicts between vehicles and between traffic and pedestrians.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Reduced congestion will improve journey time reliability for public transport, private and commercial vehicles.

A41 Expressway / A4031 All Saints Way Junction Improvement

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

This Scheme provides a vehicle underpass along the line of the A41 Expressway, beneath the existing roundabout at its junction with the A4031 All Saints Way. The project will infill pedestrian subways and replace them with surface crossings. The junction lies on the 404 Bus Showcase route and will have bus priority measures.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  New underpass and bus priority measures will reduce congestion at a key bottleneck.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Will improve access to West Bromwich Town Centre and new developments, and to the Black Country as a whole Bus priority measures and cycle facilities are incorporated.  Infilling subways and building new pedestrian crossing facilities will reduce the severance of nearby residential areas.

Improving Road Safety:  Improved pedestrian crossing facilities and segregation for cyclists will improve road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Key gateway between the Black Country and the motorway network. Will improve access to and from the motorway and is within the SBCWB Regeneration Zone.  Improved access to West Bromwich Town Centre will enhance its economic viability.

Brownhills Transport Package

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

The Brownhills Transport Package comprises three elements which are inextricably linked and all elements must be completed if the objectives of the Scheme are to be achieved.  The package is designed to tackle the problems of accessibility, community severance, pollution and congestion in Brownhills town centre.  The package will reduce congestion in the surrounding areas, improve bus reliability, reduce rat running through residential streets and the rural lanes around and through the village of Stonnall.  The centre of Brownhills will be pedestrianised and a new bus interchange facility will be constructed linked to the main shopping area.  The improved links with Clayhanger area will facilitate a review of bus services to improve public transport penetration of this and other areas.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Separation of through and local traffic will reduce congestion in Brownhills town centre and Stonall village.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic will improve air quality in Brownhills town centre and Stonall village.  Freer flowing through traffic will also generally improve air quality. It will also benefit the built environment by bringing forward opportunities for new development.

Improving Accessibility:  New infrastructure will improve bus access in Brownhills.  Removal of through traffic will reduce severance between the town centre and residential areas.

Improving Road Safety:  Separation of through and local traffic will reduce road accidents.  Reduced severance and partial pedestrianisation of the High Street will reduce conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Access to the M6 Toll will be improved for areas to the north-east of Walsall.  The Scheme will act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the Brownhills town centre and encourage further commercial and residential development.

Chester Road (A452) Access Improvements

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

The section of Chester Road (A452) between its junction with the M6 Junction 5 and Tyburn Road suffers regularly from all day traffic congestion. This section forms part of the PRN and provides access to major industrial and commercial sites and development opportunities, such as Jaguar, LDV and Fort Dunlop. It also links the A38, A47 and M6, and forms part of the formal motorway diversionary route for the M6.

The Scheme includes bus priorities and pedestrian improvements, as well as widening of Chester Road to a three-lane dual carriageway between Kingsbury Road and Fort Parkway. At-grade improvements will also be carried out at a number of junctions, as well as crossing facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Selective increases in highway capacity to smooth traffic flow and limit congestion. Improved access to employers and development sites in the Heartlands Corridor.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic has positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus priority measures on Showcase route and enhancement of pedestrian and cycling facilities to improve accessibility for non-car users; upgraded crossing facilities will also reduce severance.

Improving Road Safety:  Signalised roundabouts improve safety for all road users. Improved facilities (for example, Toucan crossings) will improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists and people with disabilities.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Reduced congestion and improved access to key sites along this route will have economic benefits. Access to employment opportunities will be improved for those residing in the EBNS RZ.

Coventry Rapid Transit

(Regional Priority: Provisional Priority)

This Scheme is a joint bid between Centro and Coventry City Council, and possibly Warwickshire County Council. It will provide a high quality, high frequency, limited stop bus service that operates like a tram. The route will improve public transport through the regeneration areas of north Coventry. It will link a number of large developments including the Arena stadium and exhibition hall, a new Park & Ride North, Longford, Foleshill District Centre, Prologis Business Park, and new housing in Radford and Swanswell Development Area. Potential extensions into Warwickshire would also serve Nuneaton and Warwick University.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Limited stop, high specification vehicles will maximise modal shift, thus reducing congestion. Part of the alignment will be new and fully segregated.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced congestion will have a positive impact on air quality. Links with Park & Ride sites (1500+ spaces) will provide motorists with a realistic, environmentally friendly alternative.

Improving Accessibility:  Will Improve accessibility for those without access to a car as the route serves a number of disadvantaged communities.  The route links a number of growth areas and trip generators such as the proposed Coventry Arena and Prologis Business Park.

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging a modal shift will enhance road safety, as fewer car journeys are made.  Part of the route will be segregated, reducing the potential for conflicts with other vehicles.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The Scheme will give people access to job opportunities, particularly at the proposed Arena Stadium and Prologis Business Park, and increase the pool of labour available to employers.  The proposal is consistent with the C&N Regeneration Zone Strategy.

Burnt Tree Island Sandwell & Dudley

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

The existing five arm junction is a major bottleneck for two key Black Country strategic access routes: Wolverhampton - Birmingham, and Walsall - Dudley - Stourbridge.  The latter links with the Black Country New Road and Black Country Route to the north-east, and Dudley southern bypass and Brierley Hill centre to the south-west.  The junction is at the cross-roads of links to many Black Country employment sites and has to cope with large volumes of HGVs.  The geometry of the roundabout has insufficient capacity for heavy traffic flows, a poor accident record and lacks pedestrian / cycle facilities.

The Scheme will alter the roundabout to a four-arm traffic signal arrangement.  This will improve capacity, allow for bus priority and improve journey reliability and provide controlled crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Capacity improvements will alleviate a bottleneck at the junction of two key Black Country strategic access routes (A4123 / A461).

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Bus priority measures will improve the reliability of Bus Showcase Route 87.

Improving Road Safety:  The Scheme will address safety problems at this accident hotspot and introduce controlled crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Access to and from the M5 will be improved.  This will assist in sustaining regeneration of the Castle Hill area within the SBCWB Regeneration Zone.

Wolverhampton Railway Station

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

This Scheme proposes to redevelop the city centre Station.  This will complement the Wolverhampton City Interchange (which has full LTP funding approval), facilitating improved bus access and future access to the Midland Metro (5Ws), and the extra mainline platform and new footbridge which has recently been provided by Network Rail.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Improving public transport facilities will provide a viable alternative to travel by car, encouraging modal shift and reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Encouraging modal shift will lead to fewer car journeys and better air quality.  A landmark building will improve the public realm and streetscape in this part of the city.

Improving Accessibility:  If combined with capacity increases, accessibility by public transport will be improved.  Integration with other modes will improve in conjunction with the Wolverhampton Centre Access, Interchange and Integration Major Scheme.

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging travel by rail instead of car will have positive impacts for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The Station is a key gateway to Wolverhampton and this Scheme, in conjunction with the new platform, will raise the city's profile.

M54 Junction 2: Wobaston Road Access (I 54), Wolverhampton

(Regional Priority: Provisional Priority)

This Scheme involves improvements to the Stafford Road and Wobaston Road to enable multi-modal access to the Wobaston Road Major and Regional investment sites.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Developing the Wobaston Road sites will create a large number of new trips. Increased capacity is needed to provide access without creating congestion for existing and new traffic in this key location, close to M54 junction 2.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme will provide access by bus and links with existing cycling and walking networks.

Improving Road Safety:  The Scheme will improve road safety by providing pedestrian and cyclist crossing facilities where appropriate.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The Wobaston Road Major and Regional Investment Sites are specifically referred to in RPG11 and the RES. Both sites are in the NBCSS Regeneration Zone. They also constitute a key node on the Wolverhampton - Telford HTC.

Longbridge Link, Birmingham

(Regional Priority: Firm Priority)

This Scheme is for a 2 kilometre, single carriageway link between the A441 and B4096, providing a direct connection to the M42. The Scheme lies partly outside the Birmingham boundary and negotiations are underway with adjoining local authorities.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  The link road will provide a purpose-built alternative to the existing residential routes between Longbridge and M42, junction 2. It will reduce congestion on these local roads.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  The link road will provide a purpose-built alternative to the existing residential routes between Longbridge and M42, junction 2. It will reduce congestion on these local roads.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme improves access between the M42 and proposed strategic Park & Ride next to Longbridge station. Removing traffic, from residential roads will improve local accessibility, especially for buses, cyclists and pedestrians.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing the number of HGVs in residential areas (Longbridge Lane) will improve road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The Scheme will link a key development area in the Birmingham - Worcestershire HTC with the M42 and wider national road network.

Coventry Station

(Regional Priority: Provisional Priority)

The area around the railway station is being brought into single ownership by a company which wants to develop a 1 million sq ft, mixed use scheme, adopting Transport Development Area principles. The proposals address key transport issues such as pedestrian access to the city centre, provision for Prime Lines and Coventry Rapid Transit, and improved bus/rail interchange.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  This mixed use proposal in a central location will minimise demands on the transport system.  It will be accessible by public transport, cycling and walking.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  The Scheme is accompanied by substantial redevelopment proposals which will improve built environment. providing employment and other opportunities within close proximity of a railway station will encourage less car travel with resultant air quality benefits.

Improving Accessibility:  This accessible, edge-of-city-centre location will benefit social inclusion. Modifications to the ring road will improve pedestrian access. Improved interchange between rail, bus and taxi will increase access to all parts of the city and sub-region (particularly in conjunction with the approved Primelines and proposed CRT Major Schemes).

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging economic activity in a highly accessible location is likely to cut car journeys and benefit road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The site is within the C&N Regeneration Zone and within a 'Strategic' centre as identified by RPG11. The public transport hub is part of a wider regeneration scheme with potentially substantial economic benefits, particularly as the station is a key gateway to the city and sub-region.

Midland Metro: Phase 2

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

Further enlargement of the Metro network is being considered beyond the proposed Birmingham City Centre and Wednesbury - Brierley Hill Extension. Subject to further evaluation, the proposed Phase 2 routes are:

• 2A:  Birmingham City Centre - Great Barr, via the A34  (Varsity North).
• 2A:  Birmingham City Centre - Quinton, via the A456  (Birmingham West).
• 2A:  Wolverhampton - Walsall, via Wednesfield and Willenhall  (initial phase of 5Ws).
• 2B  Birmingham City Centre - Birmingham Airport / NEC, via A45 Coventry Road.
• 2B:  Walsall - Wednesbury   remainder of 5Ws).

The Business Cases are being reviewed using a 60-year appraisal period.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Light rail is very attractive to motorists and likely to encourage substantial modal shift. This, coupled with the length of these extensions, will have a significant impact on congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Air pollution along the routes will reduce due to the likely transfer of car journeys to tram and, through connecting services, to other public transport services. Proposals also seek to minimise land take.

Improving Accessibility:  A high frequency, high quality public transport system linking key facilities and comprising part of a wider network will have considerable accessibility benefits.

Improving Road Safety:  Fewer car journeys will have positive implications for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The extensions serve all three Birmingham and Black Country Regeneration Zones. They will raise the Metropolitan Area's profile, encouraging investment. RTS states that a high quality, sustainable public transport system is required if Urban Renaissance is to be achieved.

Longbridge Strategic Park & Ride

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme is for an 860 space multi-storey car park next to Longbridge station, enabling motorists from shire areas and the urban fringe to switch to rail for journeys into central Birmingham.  The Scheme will also improve the station entrance area.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Scheme will reduce congestion both in and on approach to Birmingham city centre and along the busiest section of the Birmingham - Worcestershire HTC.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic on the A38 and reduced vehicles flows into the city centre will improve air quality and reduce noise. The Scheme uses a brownfield urban site.

Improving Accessibility:  Accessibility by rail into central, Birmingham city will be improved, with an attractive alternative to the car. Reduced traffic closer to the city centre improve accessibility for buses, cyclists and pedestrians. The Scheme will also provide for disabled people, cyclists and motorcyclists.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing traffic on the A38 will improve road safety along its entire length.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The Scheme will improve access to Birmingham city centre and reduce congestion both in the centre and along the busiest section of the Birmingham - Worcestershire HTC.

Cannock Line Rail Showcase

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme aims to upgrade a local rail line in a similar way to a Bus Showcase total route upgrade. Improvements will include CCTV in key areas; upgraded lighting, signs and shelters; renewed passenger help points; disabled facilities; expanded Park & Ride and longer platforms for six-car trains.  The Scheme will compliment Network Rail's provision of extra signals to allow two passenger trains per hour each way.  This will improve links to services such as buses, cycling and walking.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Improving the attractiveness of rail services and providing additional train, passenger and Park & Ride capacity will help encourage modal shift and reduce congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic along alternative highway routes will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Any measures that increase capacity, reliability and safety will impact positively on accessibility. Access for people with mobility difficulties will also be improved.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing the number of vehicles using the corresponding highway network will have positive implications for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Upgraded facilities will raise the profile of this corridor. Any increases in passenger capacity and service frequency and reliability will have positive economic benefits.

Birmingham Eastside Regeneration

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme contributes to the wider project for continued regeneration and expansion of the city centre beyond Masshouse and into Eastside. Key transport works include:

• bus facilities to serve the south east of the city centre and Metro post-2011
• major junction, pedestrian / cycle crossing improvements and bus passenger facilities along Jennens Road
• replacement of the existing gyratory on the Ring Road (Ashtead Circus) with a multi-phase traffic signal junction

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Reducing through traffic and complementary land use proposals will accommodate some an additional 3,000 - 3,500 dwellings close to city centre bus and rail services. Good access to public transport will reduce congestion, and many trips in the city centre will be within walking distance.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Removing through traffic will have positive impacts on air quality. The access improvements are consistent with the wider Eastside Action Plan giving an opportunity to redevelop underused land and enhance the streetscape/ public realm.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme will improve walking, cycling and bus access between the Eastside development area and the city centre.

Improving Road Safety:  Removing through traffic (and giving greater priority to pedestrians) will improve air quality. Many local trips will become possible by non-car modes.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The Eastside project is crucial to the continued regeneration of the city centre. Improved access will support this 6 million sq ft development, with 12,000 new jobs and 40,000 residents and students. Eastside is in the EB&NS RZ and next to the northern end of the Central Technology Belt HTC.

Cross-City Line South, Frankley Extension

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme extends the Birmingham Cross City Line from Longbridge to Frankley.  Rail services will use the MG Rover freight spur, sidings and disused alignment between Longbridge and Frankley centre.  Progression is subject to reinstatement of RPP fund or an appropriate alternative funding source.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  The Scheme proposes an efficient rail link to Birmingham city centre, offering a realistic alternative to the congested A38.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic volumes and improved flows in the A38 will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  People living in the peripheral Frankley area will have access to a direct rail link to Birmingham city centre and other key facilities (for example, education and health).

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging fewer car journeys on the A38, particularly in peak periods, will have positive implications for road safety

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Improving access and reducing congestion will complement the wider regeneration in the Birmingham - Worcestershire HTC.

Wolverhampton Bus Station

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme is for a new bus station in the city centre on the site of the existing one.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Will improve the environment for passengers. Together with other schemes and initiatives, the Scheme will make bus travel an attractive alternative to the car, helping reduce congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Encouraging greater use of bus services instead of the car will enhance air quality. A landmark building will improve the public real/streetscape in this part of the city centre.

Improving Accessibility:  Better bus services will improve accessibility. Integration with other modes will improve in conjunction with the fully approved Wolverhampton Centre Access, Interchange and Integration and the proposed Railway Station Major Schemes.

Improving Road Safety:  Encouraging travel by bus rather than by car will have positive impacts for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  A high quality bus station will complement the wider regeneration of the city centre and the Canalside Quarter.

Dudley Road (A457) Strategic Route Improvement Phase 2

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

The A457 carries 37,000 vehicles per day. Traffic is both radial and orbital, due to staggered junctions.  The road is regularly congested during peak periods.  This Scheme comprises improvements to junctions and single carriageway links between the dual carriageway section of Ladywood Middleway (Ring Road) and the section of Dudley Road at City Road.

This route currently lacks bus priority measures, despite being served by five radial and orbital Outer Circle services.  The poor layout and standard of junctions creates problems for pedestrians and cyclists, resulting in unacceptable numbers of accidents.  The Scheme seeks to improve bus services and road safety. It also seeks to improve access to industrial developments and to regenerate local centres by transferring through traffic from Soho Road to Dudley Road.  The Scheme is consistent with the SBCWB Regeneration Zone Strategy as expressed in RES and RSS.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Selective capacity increases will improve traffic flows. Local centres will benefit as through traffic is transferred from Soho Road.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic has positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Improved pedestrian facilities will reduce severance. Bus and cyclist priority measures and new bus infrastructure will improve access to, and interchange at City Hospital.

Improving Road Safety:  Improved crossing facilities will improve safety for pedestrians; improved junctions will improve visibility for cyclists.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Selective capacity increases will smooth traffic flows. Local centres will benefit as through traffic is transferred from Soho Road. Access to industrial areas will be improved.

Bus Rapid Transit II

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme would include links between a key centre or trip generator along a high volume corridor.  Services would be largely segregated, run at high frequency and have limited stops (at half mile intervals) in order to reduce journey times and attract motorists.  Centro and district councils are carrying out a study work to identify potential corridors.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Limited stop, high specification vehicles will maximise modal shift, thus reducing congestion.  Benefits will be maximised where services are segregated.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced congestion will have positive implications for air quality and motorists will be offered a high quality environmentally friendly alternative.  New vehicles will have a high environmental specification.

Improving Accessibility:  More reliable services will reduce journey time thus improving accessibility.  Low floor vehicles will also help people with mobility difficulties.

Improving Road Safety:  By encouraging modal shift, road safety will be enhanced as fewer car trips are made.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The non-standard design of vehicles will help raise the Area's profile.  A high speed, limited stop link will have economic benefits in terms of enabling people to access jobs and increasing the potential pool of labour available.

East Birmingham / North Solihull Mobility & Access Project

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This project is a Quality Bus Network (QBN) that will improve accessibility within the EBNSRZ. QBNs build on the successful Showcase concept which provides improvements such as new vehicles, bus priority, infrastructure upgrades and better passenger information. The QBN concept goes further and looks to upgrade a local network of routes, partiularly as some 40% of bus journeys involve changes between services.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Bus priority measures, higher quality vehicles and improved information and interchange will promote the bus as an alternative to the car, thus reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Every journey made by bus instead of car will mean fewer vehicular emissions, contributing to better air quality. Past evidence has suggested that bus companies have upgraded their fleets with newer less polluting vehicles.

Improving Accessibility:  An comprehensively improved more reliable bus network will improve accessibility to jobs and other key facilities in the EBNSRZ. Low floor vehicles will be of benefit to people with mobility difficulties.

Improving Road Safety:  By providing a viable public transport alternative, fewer car journeys will have positive benefits on road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  A comprehensive network enhancement will enable people to access jobs and increase the potential pool of labour available to employers.

Quality Bus Networks

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

Quality Bus Networks (QBNs) build on the successful Showcase concept, which provides improvements such as new vehicles, bus priority, infrastructure upgrades and better passenger information. The QBN concept goes further and considers upgrading of a local network of routes; particularly as 40% of bus journeys involve changes between services. QBNs will improve efficiency and accessibility.

The first QBN, Coventry Primelines, has now been fully approved. Further proposals include east Birmingham / North Solihull; Walsall; north and west Wolverhampton; and south-west Birmingham.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Bus priority measures, higher quality vehicles and improved information and interchange will promote the bus as an alternative to the car, thus reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Every journey made by bus instead of car will mean fewer vehicular emissions, contributing to better air quality. Past evidence has suggested that bus companies have upgraded their fleets with newer less polluting vehicles.

Improving Accessibility:  Improved and more reliable comprehensive bus networks, particularly in relatively disadvantaged communities, will improve accessibility to jobs and other key facilities. Low floor vehicles will also help people with mobility difficulties.

Improving Road Safety:  By encouraging a modal shift, road safety will be enhanced as fewer car journeys are made.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Comprehensive network enhancements will enable people to access jobs and increase the potential pool of labour available to employers.

Major Rail Park & Ride and corridor enhancements

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

The concept is to upgrade a local railway line in the same way as a Bus Showcase route upgrade. Improvements would include CCTV, upgraded lighting, signs and shelters, renewed passenger help points, disabled facilities, expanded Park & Ride facilities and longer platforms - all as and where appropriate.  The Cannock Line Showcase is the first proposal.  Others will be drawn up during the LTP2 period

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Improving the attractiveness of rail services and providing additional passenger Park & Ride capacity will help encourage modal shift and reduce congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic along alternative highway routes will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Any measures that increase capacity, reliability and safety will impact positively on accessibility. Access for people with reduced mobility will also be improved.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing the number of vehicles using the corresponding highway network will have positive implications for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Upgraded facilities will raise the profile of the corridors. Any increases in passenger capacity will have positive economic benefits.

Strategic Park & Ride

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

Additional strategic Park & Ride provision is proposed to encourage motorists whose journeys commence in the shires or urban fringe to transfer to a more sustainable mode for the more congested, latter part of their journeys.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Will help reduce congestion in and around key trip generators and along the strategic routes identified.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reduced traffic along strategic routes will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Accessibility to key trip generators will be improved, with attractive alternatives to using a car for the entire journey being provided.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing the number of vehicles along routes identified will have positive implications for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Improved access and reduced congestion along selected routes will have positive economic implications.

Swanswell Area Regeneration Scheme, Coventry

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme comprises either demolition of part of the inner ring road or major changes to it, to complement wider regeneration and expansion of the city centre to the north-east, with new health and education facilities. The Scheme includes transport infrastructure to serve city centre bus facilities either via rejuvenated bus hubs or a refurbished Pool Meadow bus station.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Rerouting of through traffic and improved public transport will have positive benefits on congestion locally.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Removal of through traffic and an improved environment for journeys by public transport, cycling and walking will have positive impacts on air quality and noise reduction. The Scheme will open up opportunities for redevelopment which will benefit the built environment.

Improving Accessibility:  Downgrading of part of the Ringway will reduce severance, improve bus services and create a better environment for cycling and walking. Opening up land for development will give local people access to key facilities and services.

Improving Road Safety:  Downgrading of part of the Ringway and rerouting of through traffic will improve road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Downgrading of part of the Ringway will improve access to brownfield development sites in the Swanswell area, which is in the C&N Regeneration Zone.

Sutton Coldfield Public Transport Improvements, Birmingham

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

Options are being considered which would reduce bus congestion in Sutton Coldfield town centre, reduce the risk of accidents and improve air quality, whilst maintaining high levels of penetration and good interchange.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  The Scheme seeks to make public transport more attractive, thus encouraging modal shift and reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Improving air quality, which is poor within the town centre, is one of the Scheme's key objectives. It will also lead to opportunities to improve the streetscape/public realm.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme will seek to improve the interchange between bus and rail. Bus priority measures at key junctions and on the ring road will also be considered.

Improving Road Safety:  Pedestrian safety in the town centre is a cause for concern and improving it is a key objective driving the Scheme.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Improving access to the town centre and relieving bus congestion will have positive implications for investment in the centre.

Minworth Link Road, Birmingham

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This Scheme is for a 1 km link road providing access between Chelmsley Wood and the development opportunity on the site of the former Severn Trent Works.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Increased capacity on the link road will reduce congestion on existing roads particularly on the heavily used section of Chester Road.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Reducing the number of HGVs and through traffic in residential areas, particularly Water Orton, will improve air quality and reduce noise.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme will provide a dedicated link (including direct public transport access) from Chelmsley Wood, an area of relative disadvantage within the EBNS Regeneration Zone, to an area with large job opportunities.

Improving Road Safety:  Reducing the number of HGVs and through traffic in residential areas, particularly Water Orton, will improve road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Will open up a key employment area within the EBNS Regeneration Zone and provide good access to a ready pool of labour.

Junction 10 (M6) Improvements, Walsall

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

This junction is a major bottleneck which hinders access between the M6 and the northern Black Country and also affects traffic on the A454 between Walsall and Wolverhampton.

The Scheme is being drawn up by Walsall MBC and the Highways Agency. It involves replacing the sub-standard two lane overbridges with new, four-lane structures. A third overbridge will facilitate replacement of the existing bridges and permit a new traffic arrangement. The Scheme will improve motorway access, accommodate A454 traffic and improve reliability of the 529 Showcase bus route.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Provision of a new bridge over the M6 will reduce congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Freer flowing traffic will have positive implications for air quality.

Improving Accessibility:  Extra capacity will give the opportunity to introduce bus priority measures on the 529 Showcase route, improving reliability.

Improving Road Safety:  Possible separation of east-west and turning traffic will have positive implications for road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  This junction gives access to existing and future employment and housing sites in the NBCSS RZ and nearby Wolverhampton - Telford HTC.

Bradford Place Public Transport Interchange, Walsall

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

The existing Bradford Place bus interchange is totally inadequate for the number of buses using it, both in terms of design and capacity, and is regularly congested. this severely impacts on bus journey reliability and passenger safety. There have been many road accidents within and around the facility. The proposal will increase the number of stands to 12 (a 70% increase), provide a much safer and more convenient environment for passengers and be much more efficient in operational terms. This will be achieved by the realignment of Bridgeman Street to create space for the new facility at the south of Bradford Place, which will then be laid out to form a new public square as an extension of the pedestrianised area within the town centre.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Provision of improved public transport facilities will create a more attractive alternative to the car, thus encouraging modal shift and reducing congestion.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  Encouraging more use of public transport and less car use will improve air quality. The incorporation of a new public square will improve streetscape sgnificantly.

Improving Accessibility:  The Scheme is will improve access to the town centre by bus and will have assist social inclusion. Links for pedestrians and cyclists will also be improved as part of the wider regeneration Scheme.

Improving Road Safety:  Rationalising bus movements will have improve road safety in the town centre.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  The interchange is part of a wider scheme to regenerate Walsall town centre, which is within the NBCSS Regeneration Zone.

Walsall - Brownhills Corridor

(Metropolitan Area Priority)

Centro and Walsall MBC are jointly undertaking a multi modal review of this corridor. Options being considered are heavy rail, light rail, ultra light rail, bus rapid transit (BRT) and upgraded bus priority. If BRT is chosen, this would lead to an Annex E submission in 2007 and would be the third BRT bid in this LTP2. A choice of upgraded bus priority could lead to a Major Scheme bid, especially if this was combined with a Quality Bus Network bid. If LRT were chosen, it would need to be incorporated in a larger light rail bid, sometime in the future. Funding is unclear for heavy rail.

Contribution to Objectives:

Reducing Congestion:  Reducing congestion by examining alternatives to the private car and maximising the use of existing highway infrastructure are key objectives of the study.

Environmental Impacts including Improving Air Quality:  By encouraging a modal shift and ensuring freer flowing traffic, air quality will be improved.

Improving Accessibility:  A thorough examination of public transport options comprises part of the study.

Improving Road Safety:  By providing a viable public transport alternative, fewer car journeys will have positive benefits on road safety.

Underpinning Economic Regeneration:  Measures to improve accessibility and reduce congestion will be of benefit to both businesses and employees within the Area.