New traffic scheme for Birmingham Road

A new set of traffic signals are to be installed in Stratford at the Birmingham Road and Western Road junction as part the redevelopment the former Cattle Market site.

Following an independent study carried out by a consultancy team, the county council has approved a recommendation to install traffic signals – which include a crossing for pedestrians and cyclists - to ensure the junction is safe for all road users.

The Birmingham Road Traffic Management Study considered a range of alternative options for the Western Road junction including the current layout, a roundabout and a left-turn only arrangement.

The consultants concluded that traffic signals provided the best level of junction performance overall. Other options are not deemed acceptable on either highway safety grounds or for the operational requirements of the proposed bus interchange outside Stratford railway station.

Cllr Peter Butlin, Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Transport and Highways, said: “The decision to approve the traffic signals has been a difficult one because we are aware that local residents and businesses are concerned that traffic congestion on Birmingham Road is getting worse.

“However, we also know that the additional traffic from the Cattle Market development and buses serving the new bus interchange will require safe access onto Birmingham Road.  We need to make sure there is suitable access for HGVs serving Western Road and that safe crossing facilities are provided for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

“The independent study has confirmed that traffic signals are necessary to strike a balance between the need to manage traffic effectively on Birmingham Road, while at the same time ensuring that the Western Road junction continues to operate safely for all road users."

Cllr Peter Balaam, local member for Stratford Avenue and Newtown and Chair of the Birmingham Road Traffic Management Study Steering Group said: “I am disappointed that an alternative solution to the traffic signals could not be found because many residents feel, quite rightly, that these delay main road traffic unnecessarily and make congestion worse. I am hopeful however that the consultants will identify other opportunities to better manage traffic on Birmingham Road."

The proposed traffic signals at the Western Road junction will be paid for by the developer of the former Cattle Market site which is now under construction. It is expected this will be carried out in the summer.

New traffic signals will also be provided on Alcester Road which will provide the other main access to the development.