The Smethwick Connected project will improve walking and cycling links to boost active travel, reduce congestion, and improve health and air quality.
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Part of the Smethwick Towns Fund Programme, the Smethwick Connected project will create new cycle and pedestrian links from two railway stations to the town centre and local hospital, aiming to boost active travel in Smethwick, the wider borough, and the region. This shift is intended to help reduce congestion, improve air quality, and address health inequalities.
The location of interventions includes Smethwick High Street, A457 Transport Corridor including Oldbury Road, Tollhouse Way, Soho Way, Grove Lane and Cranford Street situated within the St Pauls, Smethwick and Soho and Victoria Wards. The project will also deliver improvements in and around Black Patch Park, linking the Birmingham Canal to the park and creating access from the park to Windsor Olympus Academy.
The project Full Business Case was approved by Government in March 2022 and delivery started onsite in June 2022.
Key deliverables:
- 5 Temporary Full Time jobs supported during project implementation to date
- 2.7km resurfaced/ improved roads
- 2.7km new cycle ways
- 3.6km new pedestrian path
Sustrans Dr Bike Event - 27 Septeber 2024
On 27 September 2024, 33 people took part in the Sustrans Dr Bike event, of which 14 participated in a 3-5 mile bike led ride by British Cycling. Councillor Hughes, Cabinet Member of Regeneration and Infrastructure gave an inspiring speech on the need to provide cycling facilities. The group also heard from Sandwell’s Strategic Planning and Transportation Manager who shared future plans.
