A34 red route scheme extended

Traffic restrictions were coming into place on a major route in the Black Country today as a £1 million red route scheme was extended.

No-stopping rules were enforced on the A34 along All Saints Way in West Bromwich and Newton Road in Great Barr on October 4. Now the scheme will be rolled out along the major commuter route from the Scott Arms junction all the way to the motorway.

The red route has been introduced to allow traffic to flow more freely on what is one of the busiest routes in and out of Great Barr and West Bromwich, connecting the town with the motorway network.

Cabinet member for safer neighbourhoods Councillor Derek Rowley said: "The proposed improvements will offer reduced travel times for all road transport using the route, improved pedestrian facilities and new pedestrian routes.

"It will also improve safety for road users, provide new cycle facilities and links and new parking bays at key locations to accommodate parking and loading."

A street will be closed on Sunday as part of ongoing works for a second red route scheme in Sandwell, worth £8.5m.

Piddock Road will be closed from 8am to 6pm for minor utilities work as part of a 10 months programme of roadworks. Access to properties will only be available via Crocketts Lane.

Work began on the multi-million pound jam-busting scheme in Smethwick in May this year.