COUNCIL bosses have given the go ahead to a major £6.3m road scheme to cut congestion and delays on Pensnett High Street.

The A4101, which serves local and business traffic heading to and from the Pensnett Trading Estate - the largest secured trading estate in Europe,

New traffic lights and pedestrian crossing facilities are set to be installed at the High Street junctions with Tansey Green Road and High Oak to allow a better flow of traffic, to ease congestion and improve safety for turning traffic.

The scheme also includes road widening along the High Street to allow for the introduction of two lanes between the two new sets of lights.

John Millar, Dudley's acting strategic director for economy, environment and housing, said: “It is estimated that 30,000 vehicles use this road every day and this scheme aims to bring significant benefits to Pensnett High Street, which will have a positive impact on all those who live, work or shop in the area, as well as those who use the High Street and connecting roads to go about their day to day business."

Following a four-week public consultation with residents, businesses and stakeholders in September and October, the scheme has been amended to take on people's views and comments.

Mr Millar added: "I would like to thank everyone who took part in this really important consultation for Pensnett.”

The 6.3m project includes a £3.8m contribution from the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The remaining £2.5m will come from transport funds, allocated to the council by the Department for Transport

Work is expected to start early in 2017 and will take around 12 months to complete.