Jobs boom driven by new roads

More than £22 million could be invested in revamping key Black Country roads to unlock land around the M6 for development and create thousands of jobs.

A Government-funded scheme to start in 2012 focuses on routes in Darlaston and Pleck, Walsall. The aim is to open up land close to the motorway and the Black Country Route, and council leaders believe the project has the potential to create 4,500 jobs in the long term and protect existing workers.

Walsall Council's deputy leader, Councillor Adrian Andrew, said: "We're at an early stage, but there's the strong possibility this will become a pioneering and groundbreaking scheme which could change the face of Walsall and give future opportunities for citizens of the borough.

"Better infrastructure is critical to attract investment. Through investment our experts say we could unlock the potential term 4,500 new jobs.

"In the current economic climate this would deliver a massive shot in the arm."Roads would be upgraded and resurfaced, and junctions and bridges would be improved or replaced.

The proposals affect Bentley Road South, Bentley Mill Way, Darlaston Road Bescot Road and Wallows Lane.

It is thought the scheme would secure the future of Holland Industrial Park, off Bentley Road South, Darlaston.

Businesses and other groups are being invited have their say. Consultation events are planned for October 6 between 12 and 8pm at Bentley Leisure Pavilion, Bentley Road North, and for October 10 between 11am and 4pm at St John's Church Hall, Scarborough Road, Pleck.

Townsfolk can also log on to www.walsall.gov.uk and follow the link to the transport pages, where they can complete an on-line questionnaire.

For more information log on at http://bit.ly/darlas tonsda. People can also e-mail their views to dsda@walsall.gov.uk.