Birmingham City Council has unveiled a new traffic calming scheme for a residential road in Sheldon, following persistent concerns from residents about speeding vehicles.
Details of the Proposed Scheme
The plans focus on Cranes Park Road and its surrounding area, located near Birmingham Airport. The proposed measures are designed to slow traffic and improve safety for all road users, with a particular emphasis on pedestrians.
The key features of the scheme include:
- A 'refuge island' on Shaftsbury Road at its junction with Cranes Park Road, providing a safe waiting point for people crossing.
- A domed mini-roundabout to manage traffic flow at an intersection.
- A series of 'pinch points', where the carriageway is narrowed to reduce speed and give priority to traffic from a specific direction.
Part of a Broader Transport Vision
In a letter to local residents, the council confirmed that this initiative is a component of Birmingham's wider Transport Plan. This overarching strategy aims to fundamentally reshape how people move around the city.
The plan explicitly states an ambition to "prioritise people over cars" and create neighbourhoods where walking, cycling, and public transport become the most attractive options for most journeys.
The council argues that an over-reliance on private cars is detrimental to public health, community cohesion, and local business. The Cranes Park Road project is being funded through the Local Improvement Budget – Transportation and Highways Fund, which addresses minor transport issues identified at a ward level.
Have Your Say: Public Consultation Open
The council has launched a formal public consultation on the proposals, and is seeking feedback from the community. Residents have until January 9 to submit their views.
All details of the scheme and the consultation process can be found on the official Birmingham Be Heard website. This is a key opportunity for locals to influence the final design of the measures intended to make their streets safer and more pleasant.
