Speed limits of 20mph are being proposed for several Birmingham roads in a bid to deter "rat runners." The city council this week launched a consultation on plans to introduce traffic management measures in the Holyhead area, near Handsworth, after concerns were raised by residents.
According to the council, locals have claimed there have been "accidents but mostly damage only to cars," which they allege is due to parking on both sides of the roads and two-way traffic. The proposals include the introduction of a one-way system and 20mph speed limits on certain roads.
The council hopes the measures will mean that the roads become less likely to attract "rat runners" short-cutting through the estate between Rookery Road and Sandwell Road. "Parking for passing traffic will become less attractive, resulting in more road space for local residents," the local authority added. "Reduced speed limits will result in safer streets for people walking, wheeling (wheelchairs, pushchairs etc) and cycling, in line with Birmingham City Council's Transport Plan objectives."
The Transport Plan says "fundamental changes" are needed to the city's transport network to tackle the climate emergency. "Private cars will never be able to match the capacity of mass public transport for getting people to where they want to go," the plan reads. "We need to work with our partners to secure investment and make Birmingham a place where walking, cycling and using public transport are the best and preferred modes of travel for most people. Even then, we must all fundamentally change our travel habits, and reduce the overall amount we travel by car."
Which roads are affected?
The council is proposing to introduce one-way roads on:
- Carlton Avenue
- Farcroft Avenue
- Hamilton Road
- Regent Road
- Westbourne Road
- Aylesford Road
- Mervyn Road
- Newcombe Road
- Uplands Road
The council also wants to introduce 20mph limits on:
- Carlton Avenue
- Farcroft Avenue
- Hamilton Road
- Regent Road
- Westbourne Road
- Onibury Road
- Aylesford Road
- Mervyn Road
- Newcombe Road
- Uplands Road
The consultation concerns the proposed Traffic Regulation Order, which is the legal documentation required to make changes to the status of the highway. "This consultation is to make residents and businesses aware of the proposals to introduce and make permanent," the council said. The consultation closes later this month on June 28.
