Black Country Transport (BCT) has launched a consultation and the feedback will help shape active travel schemes across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
The consultation runs until 30 September and anyone can take part at Black Country Walking Wheeling Cycling | Commonplace.
Active travel schemes aim to make walking, cycling and wheeling – such as using a wheelchair, or electric mobility scooter – a more attractive option, particularly for short journeys.
This will help people get active and healthy, save people money, cut traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions as part of efforts to create a Net Zero Transport Network in the Black Country by 2041.
Projects include creating safe segregated cycle lanes, better footpaths, more cycle parking, conveniently located pedestrian crossings and more accessible routes for users of wheelchairs and specially adapted cycles.
BCT works in conjunction with the 4 Black Country local authorities in Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton adopting an innovative approach to developing roads projects ensuring they cater for all.
Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for highways and environment at Dudley Council, said: “In Dudley we are committed to improving walking, wheeling and cycling routes in our borough and we welcome the opportunity to be part of a Black Country wide consultation to look at new ways to improve or complement active travel in our borough even further.
“One of our current active travel projects which is nearing completion is a new 2 way cycle route along the A4123 in Dudley, between Castle Road and the Tipton Road Junction. This gives people a great alternative to using the car which can bring many benefits from improved traffic flow to improved air quality. We look forward to building on this in the future.”
Councillor Keith Allcock, cabinet member for highways and environment at Sandwell Council, said: “We want to hear the views of people in Sandwell on our plans to develop an active travel network to better connect the Black Country through walking, cycling and wheeling providing people with wider travel choices.
“We are looking to develop the local travel networks to enable easier travel across the region using different modes of transport that could help reduce air pollution and improve health and wellbeing.
“We want people to help shape the future of active travel in the Black Country and I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation.”
Councillor Adrian Andrew, associate leader of Walsall Council, said: “Making it easier and safer for residents to travel in different ways has many benefits and not just around our environment.
“For example, the mental and physical health and wellbeing of residents who need to use a wheelchair or motorised scooter may well help in retaining their independence in getting to local shops, being part of their community and accessing other services without relying on others.
“Please do have your say to ensure we get feedback from a wide range of people about walking, wheeling and cycling.”
Councillor Qaiser Azeem, cabinet member for transport and green city at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “It is vital we hear the views from all corners of the community as we develop an active travel network that benefits everyone.
“How people travel around the region affects everything from traffic queues to air pollution, the local economy and our health. Engaging people on this important issue is key to getting these schemes right, so I urge people to have their say.”
Take part in the consultation by 30 September at Black Country Walking Wheeling Cycling | Commonplace.
If you have any questions about completing the consultation or require further help contact BCTteam@blackcountrytransport.org.uk.
To find out more about Black Country Transport and its projects visit Home | Black Country Transport.
