Cyclists and pedestrians will be given more space in Sandwell
Cycling lanes will increase and space will be made available next to some roads for walking in a borough as people were warned to prepare for the "new normal" of travelling.
Sandwell Council said it would be encouraging people to cycle and walk where possible rather than making short car journeys in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Cutting car journeys is also particularly crucial in Sandwell, where emission levels are among the highest in the country.
Councillor Jackie Taylor, cabinet member for sustainable transport, said the authority would look at making space available next to roads to allow walkers to maintain social distancing "where it can".
More cycling lanes will also be made available, she said.
Councils have been forced to confront challenges over cycling and walking due to the pandemic which has seen usage public transport plummet.
And bosses in Sandwell will be keen to ensure that doesn't result in even more cars clogging up the borough's roads.
Councillor Taylor said: “Covid-19 means that we cannot go back to business as usual, the face of transport is changing.
“While we have some public transport, our private vehicles, and the use of taxis, we need to take the opportunity to use other modes of transport such as cycling and walking, not only for our health but also for the good of the environment improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions and providing benefits for climate change.
“Sandwell Council is committed to providing its residents with choice and flexibility, ready for the challenge of promoting social distancing. More walking space alongside some of our pavements will have to be provided where it can be, in addition there will be an increase in bike lanes.
“We are waiting for guidance from the Department of Transport, particularly with regard to funding for transforming transport in Sandwell in response to Covid-19.
"However, it is the council's ambition for its residents to be provided with the infrastructure needed to enable people to choose cycling and walking instead of the car for short trips, making the most of our canal network for cycling and walking, and take advantage of the health and climate benefits this could bring.
“Finally, I would be asking Sandwell residents to reflect on how they use their cars and why, as I want every citizen who is able to ride a bike, manual or electric, to seize the opportunity of what will soon become the ‘new normal’ of transport.”
