A new virtual exhibition has been created to showcase proposed improvements to Birchley Island in Oldbury which links Sandwell to the M5 motorway.
The major highway scheme plans to widen each arm of Birchley Island, widen both roundabouts and the link road between them. Coordinated traffic signals linked to queue monitoring on all approaches will efficiently manage traffic through the increased road space and improve capacity. In addition to this, the signal controls will link improved routes for cyclists and pedestrians.
The major scheme at Birchley Island will improve road safety for all who use the route and will reduce congestion around the roundabout and along connecting routes.
The new design will cut waiting times at the junction, reducing emissions from queuing traffic. This will result in improvements in local air quality and Sandwell’s reductions in NO2 emissions will contribute towards meeting the Government’s national targets for air quality and climate change.
Councillor Jackie Taylor, cabinet member for sustainable transport, said: “Birchley Island is a major gateway for the area – not just for Sandwell but the entire region with millions of vehicles passing through each year.
“Not only does this project aim to resolve our immediate issues of local congestion, this is a key project that will contribute towards the growth and development of Sandwell by improving its connectivity to the Black Country.
“The new design will improve air quality and make the junction much easier for those who cycle or walk.”
The project is estimated to cost a total of £30.2million with the council pledging £3.18million Sandwell Council has been asked to submit a business case to the Department for Transport and if approved, work could start in 2022. It is estimated the improvements will take two to three years to construct.
Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader for Sandwell Council also backs the plans. She said: “These improvements are very much needed not only for our residents but for our local and regional businesses who use this junction on a daily basis.
“For too long this junction has been a bottle-neck and I fully welcome these plans to make the necessary improvements and the virtual exhibition gives us the opportunity to see the proposals brought to life.
“The council has pledged £3.18million and we are hopeful our business case to the Department of transport will provide us with the necessary funding to get this scheme started.
“There are big plans for the future in both the Black Country and the wider West Midlands area and we want Sandwell to be a key player in the strengthening of the local economy.”
