A huge UK city could be the first in the UK to ban cars in a massive overhaul of its roads.
Birmingham is considering a “bold” new road safety strategy to reduce deaths and injuries by road collisions.
Drivers could be banned from using roads in the city centre, according to a draft document aiming to make the city “more hospitable to people”.
It is also aiming to discourage the use of private vehicles and get more people using public transport.
The council is considering introducing a 20mph speed limit in residential areas, rerouting the A38 and making the city’s tunnels public transport only.
Under the plans, streets would be redesigned to reduce the speed and volume of vehicles.
The consultation document read: “Many of our local streets are congested, dirty, unhealthy, and uninviting environments. For too long, we have tolerated ever-growing numbers of motorised vehicles and road traffic collisions right across the city.
“This strategy marks the end of that approach, and I dedicate it to the memory of all of those who have lost their lives on Birmingham’s roads. We will remember you.”
The idea has been welcomed by road safety campaigners in Birmingham who hope it will create a “safer, healthier, happier city”.
Mat MacDonald and Martin Price, chairs of Better Streets for Birmingham, said: “At the heart of this bold new road safety strategy is the crucial target of Vision Zero, meaning no one should be killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions.
“Having engaged with communities across Birmingham, we know this focus will be welcomed, as too many lives have been lost and futures ruined in avoidable tragedies on our roads.
“The strategy prioritises people, with fewer vehicles, more welcoming streets and greater opportunities to travel amongst them by foot, bike or bus.
“This will create a safer, healthier and happier city, and we will do everything we can to help the council match their vision with delivery to make it happen.”
Cllr Liz Clements, the city’s transport boss, said: “We need to reclaim Birmingham’s streets and public spaces for people, not cars.
“The majority of travel time in the city is spent in these spaces, yet many of our local streets are congested, unhealthy and uninviting environments.
“For too long the needs of motorised vehicles have been prioritised over the needs of people and this must change. Our streets should be well-designed, attractive and sustainable places to live.
“We have been doing a lot of work to change priorities and make roads and public spaces safer for communities and this strategy continues that work.
“I invite all road users to respond to our consultation on this important document.”
Public consultation on the new strategy is open now, running until April 5.
