A MUCH-NEEDED footbridge will be built across a busy section of the A38 as part of a multi-million pound scheme to ease traffic congestion in Bromsgrove.
Set to be replaced at the end of next year, the ‘dangerous’ crossing off Bant Mill Road, near the New Road Junction, is currently uncontrolled with no push button, meaning pedestrians and cyclists are forced to navigate busy traffic.
The crossing is also used by children from nearby Bromsgrove School and commuters using Bromsgrove Railway Station.
The new addition is the first of nine separate projects which will be implemented in the ‘Bromsgrove Town Centre Network: Unlocking Growth in Bromsgrove’ scheme using £3.43m in Government funding.
The funds will aim to provide a new integrated network of attractive and safe walking and cycling routes, linking the railway station, the town centre and residential and employment areas.
Highways Manager, Jon Fraser, confirmed there will be a consultation on the project on a scheme by scheme basis.
He said: “We have received a massive grant from the Government which is really good news for Bromsgrove.
“We are focusing on reducing traffic congestion, as well as developing footways and cycle paths in a bid to improve health and well-being by urging people to walk rather than use their cars.
“The footbridge will provide a much-needed link between the town centre and Bromsgrove School, with the railway station.
“It will be disability compliant so everyone can use it to get safely across.”
The Standard reported last week that Worcestershire will receive a total of £6.6m of funding from the Department of Transport which will be spent to make improvements in Bromsgrove town and Worcester city.
Coun Ken Pollock, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Economy and Infrastructure, said: “We are very well aware there are major problems with congestion across the county, especially in Bromsgrove.
“We have allocated funding for two areas in need, which are Worcester city and Bromsgrove town.
“We spent a lot money on the railway station and we want people to be able to make use of it.
“By building a footbridge and improving access, it will hopefully make a difference to the congestion on the A38.”
Local businessman, Jonathan Albutt, who is sales director at Phoenix Flooring and Bedrooms in Bromsgrove, welcomed the news.
He said: “During rush hour the congestion couldn’t really be any worse.
“I’m glad to hear about this funding, it’ll be money well spent and will benefit residents as well as businesses like myself.”
