Preparatory work has started on a congestion-busting £6.3 million road improvement scheme in Pensnett.

Investigation works are currently being carried out on A4101 High Street and High Oak prior to the demolition of the empty properties affected by the roadworks.

Key points of the scheme, which is expected to take 12 months to complete, will see two new sets of traffic lights put up on High Street at the junctions of High Oak and Tansey Green Road. This will ease congestion and make it safer for turning traffic and pedestrians.

The road will be widened along the High Street for two lanes to be introduced in both directions at the new traffic lights, while there will also be additional pedestrian crossings.

Bradley Street will be closed to through traffic to improve visibility and safety for motorists and pedestrians. Birds Meadow and Tansey Green Road are to be made left turn out only, to improve visibility and safety for motorists and pedestrians.  

Temporary traffic lights will be in place at several locations along the High Street during May and early June. There will also be lane closures and restrictions at various times and locations during the works, with motorists warned to expect delays.

The council will be installing traffic calming measures and a 20mph speed limit along Birds Meadow and Corbyns Hall Lane at an early stage in the project.

There are no scheduled diversions to bus services. But bus stop locations within the works may change to allow some construction to take place. Garry Dean, head of street and green care, said:

“Our contractors are now on site. While there will inevitably be disruption, which we apologise for, every effort will be made to keep this to a minimum.

“In the long-term, the works will reduce delays and congestion and make the road safer. We would like to thank motorists in advance for their patience and support.”