Work will start next week (w/c 11 January 2021) to create a new permanent cycle lane alongside a major route in Smethwick.
The work will create a two-way lane for cyclists connecting Tollhouse Way with Galton Bridge and Rolfe Street railway stations, as well as linking Holly Lane and St Pauls Road.
The £750,000 project, which is being funded by the Government’s Accelerated Towns Fund, will create new off-road cycling lanes separating cyclists from general traffic.
The new cycle route will be created mainly on the grass verge running alongside Tollhouse Way and Smethwick High Street.
It will then cross over Fenton Street along the Oldbury Road and head up Holly Lane.
There will also be changes to the existing crossing near to Galton Bridge railway station.
This work will include removing the existing staggered crossing and replacing it with an in-line crossing, which will benefit both pedestrians and cyclists.
New cycle parking will also be installed close to the railway stations and the High Street.
Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for sustainable transport Councillor Jackie Taylor said: This is an exciting project to create a stand-alone cycle lane alongside a busy route through Smethwick.
Cyclists using the route will be separated from the traffic making it safe and easy to travel by bike between Oldbury and Smethwick and beyond.
The work is going to include the removal of some trees. I’d like to reassure residents that all tree work will be done outside the February to August nesting season and all trees removed for the cycle lane will be replaced.
Deputy Leader of Sandwell Council Councillor Maria Crompton said: As a council we are extremely keen to promote cycling and walking.
Cycling and walking are great for not only our health but also the environment, as well as helping to reduce congestion on our roads.
We apologise for any disruption while this work is carried out.â€
Work on the route will begin week beginning 11 January 2021 and is expected to be completed around April 2021, weather permitting. Lane closures will be in place along the Oldbury-bound side of Tollhouse Way while work is under way.
