FAQs
What is the Blossomfield Road - Cycle Route Maintenance Scheme?
The Blossomfield Road – Cycle Route Maintenance Scheme proposes essential upgrades along the Blossomfield Road cycle route.
Proposals will replace the existing bolt down orca kerbs and wands with traditional kerbs between Dorchester Road and Widney Lane, forming a safe and fully segregated cycle route.
There will be no changes to existing accesses along the route.
It is also important to note that the maintenance scheme is not part of the wider Dickens Heath to Solihull town centre scheme under the Solihull Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).
Why are upgrades proposed to Blossomfield Road cycle route?
The Council initially introduced the current bolt down orca kerbs and wands in 2022. Since this was introduced, the number of cyclists along Blossomfield Road has improved. The planned upgrades are anticipated to encourage further usage and promote active travel, whilst improving safety for cyclists by providing a safe and fully segregated cycle route.
The scheme is expected to provide additional benefits such as better access for routine maintenance such as sweeping, and deterring parking in the cycle route.
The current bolt down provisions (orcas and wands) along the cycle route come with maintenance costs as they are easily damaged and require regular repairs and replacement. The fully segregated proposal will reduce this cost.
How is the scheme being funded?
This scheme is fully funded externally through the Active Travel Fund Tranche 5 (ATF5) and the Integrated Settlement Fund, which is administered by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). This means that there is no impact to existing council capital and revenue allocations.
The available funding can only be used to deliver the proposals as presented. If the scheme does not go ahead, the funding will be lost, and no improvement works will take place along the route.
Will private driveway accesses be impacted by the proposals?
There will be no changes to existing private driveway accesses along the route including to residential properties, educational facilities and any businesses. All driveways have been assessed for trouble-free access and egress.
Will the route still be accessible for streetcare maintenance vehicles (sweeping)?
Proposals for fully segregated kerbs will improve both the ease of access and effectiveness of the maintenance carried out by sweeping vehicles due to the introduction of an established kerbline between the carriageway and cycleway. They will be able to safely access and egress the cycle route in line with existing maintenance on the route.
How will parking in the cycle route be deterred?
The fully kerbed cycle route should deter parking as the gaps that exist between the bolt down provisions (apart from private driveway accesses) on site will be replaced with a full height kerb.
Have emergency services been made aware of the proposed changes?
All emergency services including police, ambulance and fire services have been consulted with on the proposals.
Has use of the cycling route increased since the current provision was introduced?
Since the current provision was first implemented in 2022, we have seen an increase in usage of the cycle route. It is anticipated that this will further increase with the improvement of a fully kerbed cycle route enhancing the safety and accessibility of the cycle lane.
What is the current timetable for the proposals?
The proposals would see upgrades take place for a period of 6-8 weeks during summer 2026. Please note that these timescales and dates are subject to change.