Policy TRAN2 Safeguarding the Development of the Key Route Network

Support

Representation ID: 11375

Received: 30/09/2021

Respondent: Mr. Dennis R Whittaker

Common sense.

Comment

Representation ID: 16439

Received: 01/10/2021

Respondent: Donald Payne

At first sight sections 9.11-9.13 and 9.43-9.44 appear to be contradictory in that the great need for improved rail freight capacity is being stymied by the current construction of the Metro extension between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill. However, Section 9.12 mentions Tram-train technology. This effectively can provide the “get-out clause” that will allow the Metro construction to go ahead, subject to certain provisos.

It has been established the bridge reconstructions currently taking place in Tipton and Great Bridge will be to “heavy rail” standards, as will the reconstruction of the bridge over the A4123. These first steps will enable the track to be re-laid to a standard suitable for carrying freight, with the appropriate axle-loading. Points and crossings, unlike those on Metro Line One will need to be constructed with suitable radii. The acknowledgement that tram-trains will be used ensures that there will be no stupid conflict as happened in Sheffield because someone tried to re-invent the wheel.

It is probably too late but perhaps consideration should be given to constructing the Metro route south-west of Dudley on a new road alignment. The route could follow the A4101 as far as Russells Hall and then follow the Stourbridge Road to Brierley Hill and Merry Hill. By this route it would pass closer to the communities that the line is intended to setrve. This would then free up the existing rail alignment for rehabilitation for freight use. Track is already in place for part of the route although some re-alignment would be necessary north of Brierley Hill.

The other issue is to secure Walsall to Lichfield as soon as possible. I understand that the local rail-users group in Lichfield will welcome this plan, as will the M.P. ,Michael Fabricant. Re-opening this line is part of the jigsaw but it also provides a convenient route between Wolverhampton, Lichfield and further north when the line between lichfield and Burton on Trent is re-opened.

Comment

Representation ID: 23254

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Historic England

Policy TRAN2 what assessment has been undertaken with regards to safeguarded land needed for future transport development and the impact on the historic environment? Same comment for TRAN4 where specific sites are referenced.

Object

Representation ID: 43870

Received: 05/10/2021

Respondent: Taylor Wimpey

Agent: Pegasus

10.4 The supporting text to Policy TRAN2 (Safeguarding the Development of the Key Route Network) sets out how the Key Route Network (KRN) caters for the main strategic demand flows of people and freight across the metropolitan area. Policy TRAN2 goes on to state that the Black Country Authorities will safeguard land in order to implement improvements to the KRN.
10.5 It is not clear how this will be achieved; there is no indication as to what these improvements to the KRN might be, nor is there any indication of safeguarded land on the draft Proposals Map. It is considered likely that land ownership constraints will be a significant barrier to the implementation of this Policy.
10.6 If housing and employment allocations located on the KRN are required to include safeguarded land and/or deliver improvements to the KRN then this should be made clear through the Plan, as such improvements will ultimately impact upon the viability of the allocations.

Comment

Representation ID: 45896

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Transport for West Midlands

Concerning the KRN, TfWM welcomes the inclusion of this policy but we would like to see further reference of the KRN Enhancement package which is part of CRSTS together with the Highway Investment Strategy and its Highway Investment Package Phase 2. This will be vital in supporting and monitoring the development of the KRN, in conjunction with the KRN Action Plans (produced in July 2021), which should also be included in the evidence base of the plan and referenced.

The new WM LTP reflects current Government strategies with a strong emphasis on the importance of the re-allocation of road space, with increased cycling and walking infrastructure and bus priority measures along the KRN. Recognition of this would be welcomed in Policy TRAN2 alongside the ‘Connecting Communities’ programme.

Finally, under paragraph 9.30 TfWM request that this be expanded upon to state: “Capital scheme improvements will be identified where appropriate, but it also is vital that this network is managed efficiently through the collaboration of all four authorities in their role as LHA together with neighbouring authorities where routes cross responsibility”.