Birmingham City Council has proposed a series of road safety measures around Lift Lea Forest Primary School in the Kitts Green area, continuing its efforts to reduce road harm across the city.
The proposed changes include implementing a one-way system along part of Hurstcroft Road, installing bollards or planters to prevent parking on pavements, and narrowing junctions to encourage slower vehicle speeds at key locations. These measures are part of the Safer School Journeys programme, a city-wide initiative aimed at creating safer, healthier, and more welcoming streets around schools.
Earlier this year, several other schools across Birmingham were also invited to adopt new road safety measures under the programme. Funded through the Clean Air Zone, the initiative supports schools in addressing road safety concerns, improving air quality, and promoting increased walking, wheeling, and cycling among pupils.
READ MORE: ‘Usable’ plea over new cycle route on Birmingham road safety blackspot
READ MORE: New Passport Requirements for UK-Ireland Ferry Passengers from 28 September
This programme aligns with Birmingham’s Road Harm Reduction Strategy, adopted last year, which reaffirmed the city’s commitment to Vision Zero - the goal of eliminating fatalities and serious injuries on Birmingham’s roads. The council emphasises that it is neither inevitable nor acceptable for anyone to suffer serious harm while travelling through the city, affirming the right of all residents to travel safely and confidently.
The Safer School Journeys programme also complements the West Midlands' Kids Streets initiative, supported by regional mayor Richard Parker. Road safety commissioner Mat MacDonald and active travel commissioner Beccy Marston have highlighted the importance of designing streets with children’s perspectives in mind, noting that environments that work well for children tend to benefit all users.
For Lift Lea Forest, the council is considering two options to enhance safety further:
- Option A: Introducing speed cushions along Eddish Road to reduce vehicle speeds.
- Option B: Extending the footpath at the junction of Eddish Road with Hurstcroft Road and Loeless Road, with the removal of through traffic to improve safety for pedestrians and wheelchair users.
Residents are invited to provide feedback on these proposals via the Birmingham Be Heard website. The consultation period will close on 23 October.