A UK charity that wants people to walk more is bringing a new project to Dudley borough, with the views of residents being sought.

Living Streets is carrying out community street audits, and residents are invited to identify barriers to walking, cycling and using wheelchairs in three localities.

Funded by Transport for West Midlands, which is part of West Midlands Combined Authority, the project will be undertaken in partnership with Dudley Council.

Routes currently being assessed are Mason Street shops to the train station in Coseley, Church Lane to Leasowes Park in Halesowen and The Inhedge, Wolverhampton Street, Southalls Lane and Stafford Street in Dudley town.

It’s hoped the audits will help Living Streets to identify possible improvements that could make it easier for people to use active travel in the selected localities. Councillor Damian Corfield, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for highways and environment, said: 

“Using active travel to get to the shops or work helps to keep people healthy and can connect them to their local community.

“Living Streets charity is undertaking this audit to identify ways of improving short journeys by foot, bike or wheelchair in three parts of the borough.

“I would encourage people who live or work in the areas identified to take part.”

Katherine Jacob, Project Manager for Living Streets, added: “This is a great opportunity to work with the communities of Dudley and improve the neighbourhood for walking, wheeling and cycling.

"If streets are safe, well designed and well maintained, it’s easier for people to choose healthy travel options. If streets are pleasant public spaces people will linger, chat and socialise.

"Our Community Street Audits invite the community to provide detailed comment on how their streets currently serve them.”

The surveys are online for Coseley, Halesowen and Dudley.

For further information people can contact Katherine at Living Streets by calling 0771 897 0825 or by email.