A PETITION calling for 20mph zone trial and traffic calming measures in Stourbridge's Old Quarter has been handed in this week.

Around 600 residents have signed the petition on paper and online which calls for a 20mph zone to trialled and other traffic calming measures to be explored in the area where many of the streets are narrow and congested with parked cars.

Old Quarter resident Rosanne Adams said: "I don't think drivers realise how very unpleasant it is for the people who live on a street much used by cars going too fast. Parents are frightened for their young children on bikes or running home from school. Everyone I approached felt strongly about the situation."

Newly-elected Wollaston and Stourbridge Town councillor Andrew Tromans said: "When I was gathering signatures, a number of Old Quarter residents told me beloved family pets have been tragically killed and cars written off because of speeding vehicles.

“The fact that the petition gained 600 signatures for an issue that impacts on such a confined geographical area demonstrates the strong desire to see road safety improved in Stourbridge's Old Quarter.

“I look forward to seeing Dudley Council's response and working with the local community to deliver on a shared aim-safer roads for all.”

Wollaston and Stourbridge Town councillor Cat Eccles said "I'm amazed by the community support for this campaign. People really care about streets being safer where they live, especially close to Greenfield Primary school.”

The petition calls for safety measures in the following streets: Albert Street, Bright Street, Brook Street, Borough Crescent, Bowling Green Road, Baylie Street, Beale Street, Cathcart Road, Cecil Street, Charles Road, Cobden Street, Clark Street, Cleveland Street, Clifton Street, Cross Street, Duncombe Street, Green Street, Greenfield Avenue, Heath Street, Hill Street, Lawn Avenue, Lawn Street, Lion Street, Mamble Road, Pargeter Street, Swan Street, South Avenue, Western Road, West Street, Wheeler Street, Unwin Crescent.

Councillor Damian Corfield, Dudley Council's cabinet member for highways and environment, said the request would be considered as part of the 2023/2024 annual road safety programme.

He said: “We are committed to reducing traffic incidents while promoting active travel as part of our transport agenda.

“All requests are assessed using a data-led approach to ensure resources are targeted where they will have the most benefit to the community.”