It is a major gateway into Sandwell because of its link with Junction 2 of the M5 and has been the centre of drivers’ complaints for years.

Motorists are caught up in congestion at all times of the day.

It clogs up the roads back into Oldbury town centre as well as along he A4123 into Dudley and Birmingham.

One of the ideas which is being considered is a fly-over to filter traffic through the area.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for highways, Councillor Mahboob Hussain, said: “We are looking at some sort of fly-over.

“The problem is the sub station, which limits our options. We are looking at all the options at the moment.

“It is chaotic and clogs up all the time. We need to do something.”

The island is currently controlled by traffic lights, which leaves groups of cars blocking the roads.

Cars and lorries also block up the roads entering and leaving the busy junction two of the M5 at Oldbury.

The A4123 is currently owned by the Highways Agency, which also controls the traffic island.

But the council is in the process of taking the trunk road over from the agency, which would pave the way for the work at the Birchley Island.

Cabinet member for regeneration and transport Councillor Bob Badham added: “I believe if we are not careful we will have a gridlock situation there.

“I have instructed officers to look at the future of this island. There’s got to be something done about it.”

Councillor Badham also said the site could be considered for inclusion in a congestion charge scheme.

Motorists have complained bitterly for years about delays on getting on to the M5 motorway at Junction 2 and on to the main road to Birmingham.

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