Changes to city centre traffic set to be approved

Plans for a new red route and bus gate in Coventry could be approved this week.

Only buses and taxis would be able to use the route to and from the centre via Greyfriars and Warwick roads, if the go-ahead is given.

Drivers would not be allowed to stop on some busy roads as part of plans that city council officers have recommended for approval on Friday.

The authority claimed its proposals would help cut congestion and improve the flow of traffic in the centre.

Most people surveyed last year by the council supported a red route, the authority added.

But its report showed business owners raised critical comments and concerns after plans were formally published in August.

In one case, the owner of the McDonald's at Cross Cheaping by the Burges objected to the planned red route and removal of bus stops on the road.

A new bus gate, affecting when cars can use the roads at Trinity Street and the Burges, was installed by the council last year.

"With red routes making it impossible to access for deliveries and then no bus transport, I fear the street will become a ghost town and could impact the 100 employees I currently employ at this store," the proprietor said.

The council clarified there were no plans to restrict buses on the road and said the same number of buses would pass by the shops.

It claimed relocating bus stops would still be "accommodated within" the Burges and Cross Cheaping.

Some people were opposed to the planned new bus gate at Greyfriars Road, which would only allow buses, taxis and pedal cycles to use the street past its junction with Warwick Road.

A council report explained it was part of wider plans to move traffic from the city's inner roads and on to the outer ring road.

Officers recommended approval but added they would need to ensure they work closely with businesses.

Work would start to introduce the changes in early January if approval was given, according to the report.

The council's cabinet member for city services, Patricia Hetherton, will have the final say on Friday.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.