New Cross double line scheme to stop jams

Double yellow lines will be painted on the main road by Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital to stop visitors clogging it up with their cars.

Many visitors object to parking on the 1,800-space hospital grounds because of the costs, choosing instead to leave their cars on surrounding streets.

In a letter to Heath Town councillor Milkinder Jaspal, Wolverhampton City Council revealed that highways officers were preparing a formal proposal to put double yellow lines down.

The lines would go opposite the main entrance to the hospital on Wolverhampton Road and stretch for around a quarter of a mile towards Wednesfield and the junction with Graiseley Lane.

Councillor Jaspal has been calling for the measure for more than six years.

Plans were first put forward in November but nothing happened while highways officers drew them up and consulted with residents.

A public notice announcing the date for the work to start is expected imminently.

There are already lines there but this move would fill in the gaps.

Councillor Jaspal said today: "Double yellow lines were put down but never on that stretch of road, which is actually the most important bit. A letter has come through to me saying that arrangements are being made with the chief legal officer for proposals to consult with the public on double yellow lines.

"I am really pleased that action is finally being taken on what is a dangerous and congested stretch of road."

He also renewed calls for New Cross Hospital to scrap charging for car parking, a measure that has led to more drivers parking along the road.