Have your say on plans to transform getting around Sutton Coldfield town centre

People who live, work and shop in Sutton Coldfield are being asked for their views on the latest designs for a major project to improve getting into, out of and around the town centre.

Birmingham City Council, working with Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council and the regional transport authority, has opened a public consultation on the Royal Sutton Coldfield Gateway proposals. It runs until Thursday 3 December.

What the Gateway is

The Royal Sutton Coldfield Gateway project aims to improve access to, from and around the heart of the town. The council says it will deliver significant improvements to public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling routes.

The proposals focus on better connections and facilities, and on supporting the wider regeneration of Sutton Coldfield town centre. The scheme delivers the first phases of the vision set out in the Sutton Coldfield town centre masterplan.

"Have your say"

Councillor Rob Grant, cabinet member for transport at Birmingham City Council, said: "It's really important that we hear from those that live and work in the town. This is a major project that will deliver much-needed improvements to the town centre and the way people move around the area, and I would encourage people to have their say.

"It is so important that you have your say so that we can make sure this project is a success so I would urge everyone to take part."

How to take part

Residents, businesses and visitors can look at the latest plans and images of the proposed scheme and share their views through the project website.

There are also three drop-in events at Sutton Coldfield United Reformed Church, on Brassington Avenue, where members of the project team will be on hand to answer questions and talk through the proposals in more detail:

• Thursday 12 November, 2pm to 7pm
• Wednesday 18 November, 8am to 1pm
• Saturday 21 November, 11am to 3pm

The council says feedback will play an important role in shaping the future of Sutton Coldfield town centre and in informing the next phase of the project.

Why it matters

Sutton Coldfield is one of Birmingham's busiest town centres, and how people reach it, whether by bus, on foot, by bike or by car, makes a real difference to its shops, cafés and businesses. A town centre that is easier and more pleasant to get around tends to attract more visitors and more investment.

Consultations like this are the chance for people who know the town best to say what works, what does not and what they would like to see. Anyone who uses Sutton Coldfield town centre has until 3 December to give their view.