IMPROVED transport links between the north and south of Solihull, a boost to rural public transport and travel to jobs have been put forward by Solihull Council.
The plans come as part of the authority has released an update to its borough-wide transport strategy now known as Solihull Connected 2023.
The Council says the latest draft responds to shifts in transport policy and travel patterns and behaviours we have seen over the past six years including the impact the pandemic has had on travel habits across the borough.
It added the current transport network in Solihull is predominantly focused towards providing access to Birmingham City centre and it will continue to look at that but also different transport links to get people to jobs and enhances the economy of Solihull.
The document also outlines plans to improve transport links from the north of the borough to Solihull town centre and on joining up many of Solihull’s rural communities which are underserved by public transport.
To help turn Solihill Connected 2023 into a reality a delivery plan has also been drawn up, which sets out in more detail the steps that will be taken to deliver Solihull Connected and how they will be resourced.
The main focus of this delivery plan spans April 2022 to March 2027 to align with the first five-year tranche of approved West Midlands City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement capital funding.
Councillor Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for Economy and Infrastructure, said: “We want to develop a multi-modal transport system that provides access to all parts of the borough, supports our economy, is safe to use and makes the borough healthier and fairer for communities, businesses, and visitors.
“Solihull Connected 2023 looks at why and how we travel and sets out the policies, initiatives and interventions that can be taken to improve travel and transport across the borough.
“The ambition behind it is to plan for balanced investment in transport infrastructure that still caters for cars, while emphasising alternatives.”
Residents and commuters are being called on to have their say on the plans until February 20.
A series of information sessions will be held across the borough for residents to find out more, discuss the strategy with members of the transport team and share their thoughts.
These sessions will be held at:
Chelmsley Wood Library on January 16 from 9.30am until 1pm
Knowle Library on January 19 from 9.30am until 1pm
The Core Library on January 27 from 11am until 3pm
Balsall Common Library on January 30 from 2pm until 5pm
Olton Library on February 14 from 9,30am until 1pm.
To view the draft strategy and take part in the consultation click here.
