Smart Network, Smarter Choices project launched in Sandwell

Date: 31/1/2013

A £50 million transport project has been launched in Sandwell in the West Midlands with the view to cutting congestion and improving the economy.

The Smart Network, Smarter Choices project was officially set in motion by Local Transport Minister Norman Baker this week.

A number of initiatives will be implemented as part of the scheme, which are aimed at changing the travel behaviour of local people, encouraging them to use public transport, bikes and their own two feet as opposed to their cars all the time.

Over the next three years a package of measures will be rolled out on ten key routes across Sandwell and the West Midlands, with better walking and cycling tracks to be put in place and improvements to road infrastructure.

Further to this, expert journey planning will be available for families, schools and businesses while jobseekers will be given free travel.

Each route will have its specific needs identified, with many of the changes being made at junctions and on public transport systems.

For example, better facilities will be put in place for those waiting for a bus, more real time information is to be provided for mobile devices and online and cashless travel is to be introduced through smartcard technology.

Mr Baker said: "Traffic congestion is costing the West Midlands £2.3 billion a year. This project will play an important role in tackling that and supporting local economic growth, whilst also cutting carbon as more people switch to more sustainable ways to travel."

The scheme is to be funded by a £33 million grant from the government's Local Sustainable Transport Fund and £15 million from public and private contributions.

Councillor Judith Rowley, Lead Member for Green and Accessible Transport, said: "I am delighted that we have launched our Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which will help people make smarter, greener travel choices across the region.

"Getting more people to use public transport, walk or cycle can help cut traffic congestion and free up our roads for essential users like hauliers and bus operators.

"This project will not only help support our regional economy but can also bring substantial benefits for the environment as well as people's health."

Posted by Nick Anderson

International Transport News and Sustainable Transport News