A45 Cycle Route Works

Fitzgerald was appointed by Birmingham City Council under the Black Country Framework Contract for Minor Works to deliver the A45 Cycle Route scheme. Delivered between February and May 2024, the scheme saw the transformation of temporary pop-up cycle measures, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, into a permanent, segregated cycle route connecting Birmingham City Centre with Yardley.

The project involved the following substantial civil engineering and traffic infrastructure improvements:

· Widening sections of the footway to create a safe, permanent segregated cycle lane.

· Installation of new drainage infrastructure.

· Upgrading existing pedestrian crossings to toucan crossings.

· Delivery of a new signalised junction at Bolton Road, Small Heath Bridge and Jenkins Street.

Working in a densely populated urban area, alongside one of Birmingham’s busiest arterial roads, we implemented a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement and Management Plan that included:

· Early engagement meetings with directly impacted stakeholders.

· Regular communication via letter-drops for each construction phase and traffic management change.

· The manning of a dedicated project phone line and email for real-time updates and enquiries.

· Tailored collaboration with local stakeholders ensuring clear, accessible information was shared throughout the scheme.

Our engagement was a vital tool in developing construction proposals that reflected the needs of local residents and users of the transport network.

Our long-term relationships with specialist suppliers enabled us to minimise risk, avoid delays, and ensure seamless delivery of key programme elements. Our specialist traffic signals subcontractor, Swarco conducted early surveys at the complex Bordesley Circus signalised junction, identifying critical issues with the existing ducting and cabling. Timely redesigns were agreed with BCC, reducing risk and ensuring the smooth relocation of signals.

Working within the tight 14-week programme, we operated in both day and night shifts to meet the ambitious timeline. Despite facing challenges, including unchartered utilities and a confined working footprint with minimal storage space, our team managed phased construction with meticulous efficiency. They coordinated resources and programme phasing with precision, resulting in delivery of the scheme on time, on budget, and with zero incidents.

“I want to thank your team for the splendid work they have done over the past 14 weeks in what has been a challenging scheme.” Muhammed Arif, Birmingham City Council.