We’ve recently submitted three proposals to improve transport and accessibility in Harborne, and we wanted to share our thinking with the community. These proposals respond to concerns many of you have raised about traffic, safety, and accessibility in our neighborhood. They are designed to match the council’s Environment, Neighbourhood & Transport Fund criteria.

We would like our councillors to submit the ones they are prepared to support for costing up, from these and other parties, so that they can be voted on in the ward forum on 17th March

A balanced approach to better streets

We understand that some safe street proposals trigger concerns in members of the community. To this end, we have offered three proposals which offer varying degrees of transformation. In all cases, courage is needed by councillors to make changes that benefit the majority of the population, regardless of the expected loud minority.

1. Harborne East Traffic Management Scheme

This proposal explores a 12-18 month experimental trial of strategic filters to reduce cut-through traffic on residential streets. We’ve carefully designed this to:

Maintain full access for residents – you’ll still be able to drive to your home
Reduce non-local traffic using our streets as shortcuts
Create safer routes to schools for children and families
Improve air quality in residential areas

Important reassurances:

This is an experimental scheme that can be modified or removed based on results
Similar schemes in other areas have shown reduced overall traffic (not just displacement)
Evidence from other neighborhoods indicates improved parking availability for residents when through-traffic is removed
Emergency services will be fully consulted and accommodated

2. Ravenhurst Road Improvements

For those concerned about the LTN approach, we’re also proposing a more targeted intervention on Ravenhurst Road, where 90% of vehicles exceed the speed limit:

Narrowing a section of this excessively wide road
Creating the first safe crossing point along its 1,000m length
Adding green space and sustainable drainage
Maintaining two-way traffic flow

3. Accessible Path Network

We’ve also identified barriers across Harborne that prevent users of cargo bikes, accessible cycles, and mobility devices from using our path network:

Removing obstacles between Wentworth Way and Minton Road
Modifying barriers at the Gillhurst Road entrance to Harborne Walkway
Improving narrow access points to Bournbrook Walkway

Community input matters

We’ve gathered feedback from over 450 households, with 80% of respondents supporting traffic reduction measures. We’ve also consulted with schools, cycling groups, and resident associations.

Ultimately, we are a volunteer group of residents, so these proposals are shaped by our own experiences too.

Each proposal has been shaped by your input, and we’re committed to continuing this dialogue. The experimental nature of the traffic management scheme particularly allows for adjustments based on real-world results and ongoing feedback.