Cyclists and pedestrians in Halesowen have welcomed Dudley Council’s installation of a new toucan crossing and road markings on Manor Way.

The improvements have been funded by Transport for West Midlands with support from local groups to encourage more cycling and walking in the area.

The crossing helps people to get across Manor Way, providing a safe and dedicated route to cross the busy road. Pedestrians and cyclists looking for a safe way to cross previously had a long and hilly detour.

The new measures are the start of an approach to make cycling and walking a natural first option for short journeys in the Dudley borough and they complement over £1 million of cycling provision in Dudley borough over the last three years.

Now completed, the works will help people riding from Halesowen Athletics and Cycling Club to access residential and canal towpaths more safely. It also gives people easier access to green spaces located on the other side of Manor Way, including areas such as Halesowen Abbey Ruins.

A Community Active Travel event, with food and family fun on offer, will be held at Halesowen Athletics & Cycling Club on 21 May from 12 to 3pm to celebrate the improvements.

Families will be invited to take part in sports and games and a virtual cycle hire dock will allow people to take bikes out for free and have a ride around the track at the club. People will also be able to learn about the new cycling provision, as well as local cycling events and activities. Councillor Shaz Saleem, cabinet member elect for highways and public realm, said:

"Working with Transport for West Midlands, as well as local and national cycling organisations, our improvements continue to make cycling more accessible in Dudley borough.

"I’m very pleased to see the work completed in Halesowen, which is part of Dudley Council’s vision for a brighter future. We want to encourage people to walk and cycle as much as possible as we know it’s better for the environment and it delivers great benefits for mental health too."