Dudley Council’s highways boss has thanked people for their patience as the multi-million traffic-busting scheme to improve Pensnett High Street nears full completion.

The new traffic lights at the junction of High Street and High Oak will open to traffic on Sunday 3 June following a 12-month programme of work to improve road and pedestrian safety, reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in the area.

Improvements also include and an additional pedestrian crossing on the High Street.  Bradley Street has been closed to through traffic and Birds Meadow and Tansey Green Road have been made left-turn only to improve visibility and safety for motorists and pedestrians.

The road along the High Street has also been widened to allow for the introduction of two lanes in both directions. Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental services, said:

“A big thank you to all the residents, businesses and motorists for bearing with us over the last 12 months throughout the disruption in Pensnett. High Street is one of the busiest roads in our borough but it wasn’t built to cope with the 30,000 vehicles passing through it every day.

“It’s been a big job, but now, 12 months on, our new improved road layout is set to open and people will hopefully notice a major difference in their travel times through the area.

“As the workers move out and the area gets back to normal, please remember to shop local and support the variety of shops and businesses in the area.”

Finishing touches to Tansey Green Road and Corbyns Hall Lane will take place in early June and temporary lights may still be in use during this time.