Parents in Kings Heath have called on Birmingham's future leaders to take urgent action amid what they describe as a 'road rage nightmare' in their neighbourhood. The city council, which currently has no political leadership following recent local elections, previously introduced divisive Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) measures to cut traffic and make streets safer. However, the project has been engulfed in controversy, with modal filters that prevent through-traffic on certain streets proving particularly contentious.
Supporters and Opponents Speak Out
Those in favour of the scheme have raised fears over dangerous driving and air pollution. But opponents are concerned about accessibility, operational needs for local businesses, and increased journey distances. Birmingham Council revealed earlier this year that proposals for the scheme's second phase needed to be 'revised'. Last month's local elections saw Labour lose control of the council, with no party having an overall majority.
Green Party Commitment
The Greens, who gained two seats in the Brandwood and Kings Heath ward, said they were 'committed' to delivering phase two of the LTN. Green Party candidates Jordan Phillip and Hamzah Sheikh stated: 'We remain committed to delivering phase two, as promised to residents for many years.'
Mum Katie Day argued: 'It's time to move on from the manufactured idea that this scheme is controversial, and start delivering the safer streets that the majority of residents are crying out for.' Fellow resident Mike Jerome claimed residents 'suffer a constant fear of random and unexpected harms'.
Conservative Pledge
Conservative group leader Coun Robert Alden pledged the LTN would be scrapped if the Tories took control following the elections. The future of the scheme remains uncertain as the council navigates its new political landscape.
