Transport strategy
The Walsall Transport Strategy sets out how Walsall Council wants to improve and develop the transport network across Walsall, to reduce the effects of congestion, encourage economic growth, stimulate regeneration, improve the Borough’s environment, and provide benefits to all sectors of the town’s diverse community. View the Walsall Transport Strategy (PDF 2.3MB)
Walsall sits at the heart of the UK’s road and rail network, and as such is influenced by travel trends on a local, regional, and national scale. A significant number of local jobs are directly dependent on transport and travel, but due to our proximity to the hub of the national road and rail networks they have a significant influence on the Borough’s economy as a whole. As a town therefore we have to aim to have a transport network of the highest standard that operates reliably and efficiently, allowing both organisations and individuals to move around the town as easily as possible.
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) estimates that congestion costs the West Midlands’ economy £2.3 billion each year. That is equivalent to £1,000 for every person living in the region, and with traffic levels predicted to rise by 33 – 50% by 2030, congestion and its associated impacts will become worse, unless we begin to act now.
Walsall’s Transport Strategy outlines the council’s proposals for the Borough’s transport network over the 7-year period 2004-2011. The strategy includes schemes and initiatives for all modes of transport such as buses, heavy rail, cars and freight vehicles, light rail, cycling and walking. Wide ranging consultation took place on the strategy in early 2003, involving business leaders, health and education representatives, community groups and residents from across the Borough. This is the final post-consultation document, constructively responding to many of the issues raised during the consultation.
Proposals within the strategy include the Town Centre Transport Package (TCTP) to improve the section of Walsall’s ringroad between the Arboretum Island and the Pleck Rd / Wolverhampton Rd junction (see the new ringroad project); road improvements to help regenerate the area surrounding Darlaston; Bus Showcase schemes providing high quality facilities for bus users along well used bus routes; a cycle network linking all the town and district centres across the Borough; and improved pedestrian and disabled facilities in town centres through the council’s Quality Street Programme. The strategy places great importance on ‘Hearts and Minds’ initiatives, encouraging people to travel by sustainable transport modes (public transport, car sharing, walking and cycling) more often as part of their daily travel habits.
The improvements to the town’s transport network will revitalise Walsall, encouraging investment across the town creating jobs, improving leisure and recreation facilities, and enhancing the quality of life for the Borough’s residents.
Contact us
Stuart Freeman
Team Leader
Engineering and Transport Services
2nd Floor
Civic Centre
Darwall Street
Walsall
WS1 1DG
Telephone 01922 652560
Email freemans@walsall.gov.uk
This page was last updated on 12 May 2008