Golden road to Molineux

A yellow brick road complete with an iconic golden bridge and illuminated art displays could be created to link Molineux to the city's train station, it has emerged.

Bosses behind the half-mile route, which will feature pavements which light up when people step on them, hope it will form the backdrop for a number of events, including parades and open-air exhibitions.

The design for the old gold route is inspired by the famous yellow brick road in the Wizard of Oz.

Its centrepiece will be an iconic gold bridge, expected to cost around £2million, spanning the ring road to provide a crossing for football fans and Wolverhampton University students.

Architect Vic Johnson, from Bridgnorth-based Johnson design partnership, who is behind the striking designs, said the walkway and bridge would give the city something to be proud of.

He is trying to get funding for the project, which may come through bodies like the National Lottery.

The route of the road crosses the Ring Road at Molineux before surrounding St Peter's Gardens, cutting across the city centre and Queen Square and crossing the Ring Road again to enter Wolverhampton Station.

He said: "For too long Wolverhampton has been the butt of other people's jokes, yet we have plenty to be proud of.

"Businesses here have made their mark on Britain's history, whether it was making parts for the Spitfire in World War II or breaking the land-speed record with the Sunbeam.

Today is no different, with parts being made for the Eurofighter and the city's football team back in the big time.

Feasibility studies are now under way into the plans and it is hoped the findings can be submitted to the council in spring next year.

Video courtesy of Johnson Design Partnership LLP.