Tunnel to ease traffic

A £22 million project to cut traffic delays at a notorious level crossing in Tipton has been officially approved by the Government.

All funding is now in place for a tunnel to be built at the level crossing in Owen Street. The crossing, which is said to be one of the busiest in the country, sees traffic in Tipton town centre routinely backed up and having to wait for around 40 minutes at peak times when there are more trains operating.

Work is set to get under way in just five months after Transport Minister Gillian Merron, pictured, today backed the plans.

She said: “This is great news for the people of Tipton. The relief road will improve access to the town centre for everyone, whether they are travelling by car, bus, bicycle or foot.

“At peak times up to 20 trains travel along this section of the railway line, closing the level crossing for up to 40 minutes every hour. Building a tunnel will greatly improve traffic flow and reliability for passengers travelling on the West Coast Main Line and help to regenerate the local shopping area.”

The project will total £22.4 million and see a tunnel constructed under the West Coast Mainline.

The Government is contributing most of the money towards the project.

MP Merron added: “The £18.317 million of Government funding towards the cost of the scheme demonstrates our commitment to improving the road network, tackling congestion, improving safety and aiding regeneration.”

Sandwell Council will make up the rest of the funding.

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