People who live, shop or work in Sutton Coldfield town centre are being invited to have their say on a package of plans to transform public transport.
The proposed Sutton Coldfield HS2 Gateway scheme has been drawn up to enhance public transport links and improve the welcome for visitors as they arrive in the town.
The key proposal will create a new bus interchange next to the railway station making an impressive transport gateway with safe pedestrian and cycle links to Sutton Coldfield Town Centre and Sutton Park.
This will take 80 per cent of buses away from the Lower Parade which could be turned into a one-way street, improving safety in the busy shopping area and freeing space for public realm improvements.
The cost would be covered by the HS2 Connectivity Programme which supports bus, rail, cycling and tram projects which put more people within 45 minutes reach of the high speed rail stations at Curzon Street in Birmingham, or Birmingham Airport/NEC Interchange.
But before detailed designs are developed Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is asking the public for their views on the broad scheme. Those wishing to take part can either attend a drop-in session or fill in the online survey.
Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street said: “This is a major investment in Sutton Coldfield, which will not only make the town more welcoming for visitors but will allow local people to get off the bus and hop straight on a train to London.
“These proposed improved transport links will help bring much-needed investment and regeneration into the town centre, and so I would encourage everyone in the town to attend at least one of the four drop-in sessions.”
Cllr Ian Ward, Birmingham City Council leader and WMCA portfolio holder for transport said: “This is a clear example of how with HS2 we can improve and transform parts of the West Midlands – bringing more people closer to the opportunities high speed rail provides.
“Moving the majority of buses from the Lower Parade will create a much better environment for shoppers and pave the way for future regeneration.”
The drop in sessions are at:
