20mph limits proposed for several roads amid major vision for town centre

Speed limits of 20mph could be introduced across several roads amid major plans for Sutton Coldfield.

A “transformative” scheme being proposed by the city council aims to enhance access to, from and around the heart of the town.

The vision is to deliver improvements to public transport, walking, wheeling, and cycling routes while also bridging the barriers posed by the ring road.

One measure being considered is to introduce 20mph limits in and around the town centre, including on the ring road.

Such limits are being proposed for Brassington Avenue, Queen Street, Lower Queen Street, South Parade, Lower Parade, Station Street and more.

As a map included within a public consultation on the scheme shows there are already existing 20mph limits on certain residential roads across the town.

The council says also reducing the speed limit on the ring road will make it “safer for all road users” in the area.

The scheme aims to improve links between the railway station, bus interchange, town centre and Sutton Park; make the streets more welcoming and make the town centre more attractive for businesses.

Some of the other changes being proposed include a new public square, two-way segregated cycleways and upgrading bus stops.

Cllr Rob Grant, cabinet member for transport at Birmingham City Council, said: “It’s really important that we hear from those that live and work in the town.

“This is a major project that will deliver much-needed improvements to the town centre and the way people move around the area, and I would encourage people to have their say.

“It is so important that you have your say so that we can make sure this project is a success so I would urge everyone to take part.”

A consultation of the scheme has now been launched and all the proposed changes, along with details of drop in events, can be found on the Birmingham Be Heard website here.

Residents have until December 3 to provide their views on the project.