Bypass boost plan for town

A bypass could be built to divert traffic from a neglected part of Kidderminster as part of schemes to tackle traffic pollution and boost trade in the town.

The new route is neing considered for the Blackwell Street area. Suggestions include linking the Ring Road and Stourbridge Roads via the Churchfields area.

Now an in-depth study of the Horsefair, Broadwaters and Greenhill area is planned to consider ways of improving traffic-choked hotspots around the town.

The move follows complaints by shopkeepers in Blackwell Street that there has been a "shift" in the town centre since the multi-million pound Weavers Wharf shopping centre was built.

Shopkeepers say they would welcome a bypass and would like to see traffic banned from Blackwell Street.

Sandra Wolfenden of the Natural Break cafe said: "Such a move would be great. People aren't coming around here and this could attract shoppers.

"At one time councillors were discussing a one-way street but that idea was scrapped.

"If a bypass was built and the area became traffic-free we could have chairs and tables outside."

The bypass scheme would tie in with plans to develop the former magistrates court on Worcester Street, the old British Sugar site on Stourport Road and other underused or derelict sites.

In a report, officials have said there are big questions to be answered to solve the town's problems such as traffic circulation and access to public transport.

Public consultations about these are expected to take place next month.

The report, set to be considered by members of Wyre Forest District Council's community and regeneration scrutiny committee tomorrow, claims there is a need for a "joined-up" approach" to revitalise the Horsefair, Broadwaters and Greenhill areas.