Third phase of city highway plan due before committee

The next steps in a major infrastructure upgrade on Wolverhampton's A454 Willenhall Road Corridor are set to be considered

The next steps in a major infrastructure upgrade in Wolverhampton will be considered by the city council's planning committee next week.

The council has submitted a planning application, forming the third phase of a wider series of highway improvements to the A454 Willenhall Road corridor, which will be considered at a meeting on 11 November.

Improvements to the Neachells Lane junction form part of the wider City East Gateway project.

The aim is to improve traffic flow on the corridor linking Wolverhampton with Walsall, the Black Country Route, the M6 and key housing, employment and regeneration areas, including Canalside and East Park.

Following a public consultation, the preferred scheme for Neachells Lane features a gyratory system to help relieve traffic congestion.

While some associated work is required, the main construction is expected to start in 2031 following the first and second phases of the City East Gateway project.

Key elements of the Phase 3 Neachells Lane junction improvements include:

• Realignment of the eastbound carriageway along Willenhall Road

• A new northbound slip road onto Neachells Lane

• A new link road between the petrol station and Travis Perkins depot

• Dedicated access and parking for some residential properties on Willenhall Road

• Enhanced cycleways and footways

• Tree planting and improved surfacing

Councillor Qaiser Azeem said: "This is a transformative project along one of Wolverhampton's most important transport corridors.

"It will help unlock growth, improve journey reliability, and support safer, greener travel for residents, businesses and visitors."

The first and second phases of the A454 City East Gateway have already been approved in principle and extend from Bilston Street Island through Middle Cross and Lower Horseley Fields, up to the Chillington Fields junction.

The scheme also incorporates Walsall Street and Lower Walsall Street.

Work could start on that by late 2027.