Dudley’s busiest commuter route is set to be re-named in honour of the town’s football hero Duncan Edwards, it was revealed today.

The football legend may be honoured 50 years after his tragic death in the Munich air disaster by having the Dudley Southern bypass re-named after him.

The proposals have been announced just months after the town marked the anniversary of the Dudley-born Manchester United and England star’s death.

The scheme is the brainchild of Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Ray Burston, and expected to be formally backed by Dudley Council within days.

“Fifty years on from his death I can think of no better tribute to Dudley’s most famous footballing hero than naming one of the town’s most famous roads after him,” he said.

“He had an amazing and lasting impact on the world of football and the town where he came from.”

If the proposals are backed, the name will be officially changed later this year and new signs installed along the road.

Councillor Angus Adams, cabinet member for transport, said: “Dudley is immensely proud of its most famous footballing son and his achievements on the pitch. As a local authority we thought it was great idea to honour Duncan by naming this road after him.”

The plans have been backed by Duncan’s family and ward councillors.

Duncan Edwards Close, in Dudley, was named after the footballer in the early 1990s, and is close to Dudley Cemetery where he is buried.

In June, thousands of well-wishers flocked to Dudley for a day of events celebrating his life.

Sir Bobby Charlton was the guest of honour and shared memories of his friend in front of a crowd in Market Square.

An official thanksgiving service was also held on the anniversary of his death in February.