Highways Improvement Works Begin for Sandwell Aquatics Centre

Sandwell Council will shortly be starting highways improvement work surrounding the Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Smethwick. These much-needed works are the start of a phased approach to the improvement of the highways infrastructure in the area and will have a focus on sustainable forms of travel.

The initial works, which will be completed by March 2021, are detailed are below:
• Holly Lane / Manor Road Junction Improvements: The mini roundabout at the junction of Holly Lane and Manor Road will be upgraded to a signalised junction that will improve road safety, create safe pedestrian crossing points and provide cycle advanced stop lines for improved cycle safety.

• Londonderry Lane / Manor Road Junction Improvements: The mini roundabout at the junction of Manor Road and Londonderry Lane will be upgraded to a signalised junction that will improve road safety, create safe pedestrian crossing points and provide cycle advanced stop lines for improved cycle safety.

• Pedestrian crossing facilities at Holly Lane and St Pauls Road: A new signalised junction at Holly Lane and St Pauls Road to incorporate full pedestrian crossing facilities. This will also help with concerns raised previously by Councillors and residents around speed and pedestrian facilities on St Pauls Road. In addition to this, the crossing would have additional benefits of improving pedestrian routes and encourage a modal shift for Holly Lodge High School pupils.

• Bristnall Hall Road Crossing: Install double Zebra crossing with central refuge, widen footway and resurface carriageway as necessary.
• Dog Kennal Lane Crossing: Install double Zebra crossing and resurface carriageway as necessary.

The completion of these highways works will not only improve safe, sustainable travel in the area but will also support access to the new world-class Sandwell Aquatics Centre that is being delivered in the area.