A controversial red route looks set to be created along one of Sandwell’s busiest roads this year after a public consultation found overwhelming support for the plans.

Despite fears the congestion-busting plan would cripple trade for businesses along the A457 Birmingham Road in Oldbury, residents have voted in favour.

The long-awaited proposals, which will mean no stopping along a seven-mile stretch, were first mooted in 1999.

Double red lines will begin at Soho Way between Baldwin Street and Cape Hill roundabout in Smethwick, up through Cape Hill High Street, Tollhouse Way between Fenton Street roundabout and Crocketts Lane, down Oldbury Road, Oldbury Ringway and Birmingham Road, before heading on to Dudley.

Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and housing, Councillor Mahboob Hussain, said: “Eighty-five per cent of the people who responded back were in favour of the route. There were a number of people who objected on various grounds and we are looking into it at this present time, it could be as simple as moving a bus stop from one place to another place.

“Hopefully in the next few months it will all be finalised and we are on course for a spring start.”

But Ghalum Rasul from King Fish Kebab House in Birmingham Road, Oldbury, is among those who opposed the scheme.

He said: “We are on a dual carriageway and rely on people driving past and stopping. It could kill off business.”