Traffic chaos warning over Perry Barr flyover removal

Nicola Richards, MP for West Bromwich East, also fears getting rid of the Perry Barr flyover on the A34 will only add to air quality problems in Sandwell.

The flyover is being removed so all traffic can be put onto a dual carriageway at ground level but critics of the scheme say this will only add to congestion in surrounding areas.

Conservative MP Ms Richards says the removal of the bridge could cause chaos around the Scott Arms junction at Great Barr.

She said: "I am deeply concerned about Birmingham City Council's planned demolition of the Perry Barr flyover.

"Not only will it cause severe traffic problems around the Scott Arms junction, the consequences also mean increases in the already alarming pollution levels in West Bromwich East."

Thousands campaigned against the removal of the bridge but the city council says there has to be a "move toward sustainable public transport in the future, and the reliance on private cars is simply not sustainable".

The newly-elected Conservative MP raised the issue with the Environment Minister in the House of Commons, where she criticised the city council.

She said: "Birmingham City Council's planned demolition of the Perry Barr flyover which moves traffic from Birmingham into West Bromwich East will do nothing to help the already poor air quality in the area, cause huge traffic problems for my constituents.

"Does she agree with me that local authorities have an obligation to ensure major roadworks projects, especially on busy highways, actually improve air quality and ease congestion?"

Ms Richards said she had also been concerned analysis showing Sandwell was the worst place in the West Midlands for air quality and exceeding World Health Organisation guidelines on pollution and planned to write to the borough council.