A41 Warwick Road Smart Routes

12th November 2009

Despite the atrocious weather and even worse traffic there was a good turnout at last weeks evening paper by George Bailes of Birmingham City Council. George gave a very comprehensive presentation on how the authority, in partnership with Solihull MBC and Centro, with advice and technical input provided by Atkins, is adopting a Smarter Routes principle to the A41. It is an extension to previous work undertaken on Route Management Strategies. The A41 Warwick Road was identified as a Pilot Corridor as it is a key arterial route and the main route between Birmingham and Solihull. It has a mix of residential, business, retail, industry, educational and leisure. The Smart Route initiative is a whole route approach that considers the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, urban realm, road safety, freight, buses, general traffic and environmental aspects. The concept is to identify a series of improvements that looks at the needs of all these users and looks to address points of conflict.
 
According to George this is the first time a Smarter Routes approach has been adopted in the UK. If successful the principles will be applied to other corridors within the West Midlands.
 
There has been extensive consultation along the A41 corridor with engagement workshops to brief stakeholders. Due to the diverse nature of the route, the corridor is being considered as a number of segments. These segments were determined by land use, major traffic junctions and types of frontages. Issues and opportunities have been identified for each segment. Each segment has then undergone a prioritisation hierarchy in terms of improving safety, supporting sustainable transport, congestion, improving the environment and supporting regeneration. Projects have then been ranked on policy objectives, timescales, cost and deliverability.
 
The overall scheme is at a stage where a route strategy is being formalised and potential projects and interventions are being development. It is envisage that possible 'quick-win' projects will be delivered over the next 18 to 24 months.
 
If you want to know more then please contact George at george.bailes@birmingham.gov.uk