Work is taking place on the A5192 Eastern Avenue in Lichfield to improve facilities for people walking and cycling near The Friary School.

The scheme is partly funded by the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail project and forms part of the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP). These improvements will make it easier and safer for people to walk and cycle in the area.

What work is being carried out?

The scheme includes:

• Widening the northern footway on Eastern Avenue between the existing puffin crossing near Irving Close and the existing toucan crossing near Grange Lane. This will create a shared-use path that can be safely used by both pedestrians and cyclists.
• Constructing a new section of shared footway and cycleway alongside The Friary School. This will replace an existing path that runs through a cutting and is prone to surface water flooding, making the route safer and more accessible.
• Upgrading the existing puffin crossing on Eastern Avenue, near Irving Close, to a toucan crossing for use by both pedestrians and cyclists.
• Providing a new shared-use footway and cycleway link between Grange Lane and the existing toucan crossing on Eastern Avenue.

A General Arrangement drawing showing an overview of the proposed highway works can be viewed below.

When will the works take place?

The main construction works are scheduled to begin on 20 July 2026, at the start of the school summer holidays. Carrying out the works during this period will help reduce traffic levels and minimise disruption to residents, businesses and road users.

How long will the works last?

The works are expected to take approximately six weeks to complete, with most activities taking place during the school holiday period.

What traffic management will be in place?

The works will be carried out using temporary multi-way traffic signals.

Will I still be able to access my home or business?

Yes. The contractor will ensure that access to all homes and businesses is maintained throughout the duration of the works.

How might the works affect me?

Some delays are likely while the works are taking place. Please allow extra time for your journey and plan ahead where possible.

How you can help

To help the works progress safely and efficiently, please:

• Do not move any temporary traffic management equipment, including signs, cones and safety barriers.
• Keep children away from the work area.
• Ensure footwear is clean after walking through or near the works.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the scheme or the construction works that are not covered in the FAQ, please contact:

Email: intraprojects@staffordshire.gov.uk 

Or write to:

Staffordshire County Council
Staffordshire Place 1
Tipping Street
Stafford
ST16 2LP

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a shared-use footway and cycleway?

This is a path that both pedestrians and cyclists can use.

There is usually no divider. You can recognise it by a blue sign showing a person and a bicycle.

What is a toucan crossing?

A toucan crossing is a signal-controlled crossing that both cyclists and pedestrians can use at the same time.

Where can I find more information?

You can find details about:

• The Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan on the Staffordshire County Council website.
• The National Cycle Network on the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust website.

Who is paying for the works?

The project is funded through the County Council’s capital programme, with funding from HS2 Rail.

How much will it cost?

The works are expected to cost around £400,000.

Will council tax fund this project?

No. The scheme is funded through HS2-related funding, not council tax.

What are the benefits?

The project will:

• Make routes to school safer.
• Encourage walking and cycling.
• Support physical and mental health.
• Reduce traffic and emissions.
• Improve air quality.
• Support local businesses.
• Help reduce pressure on the NHS.

Will this increase cycling?

Yes. The scheme creates a safer, continuous route for cyclists.

It also improves links to the city centre and National Cycle Route 54, making cycling a more practical option.

How does this support health and wellbeing?

Walking and cycling can:

• Improve mental health.
• Increase physical activity.
• Help tackle obesity.
• Reduce health inequalities.

The scheme links to wider health campaigns such as "Do It to Feel Better".

How does this support climate goals?

Walking and cycling help reduce emissions and improve air quality.

• Transport produces about 34% of carbon emissions.
• Many car journeys are short enough to walk or cycle.

This scheme supports the County Council’s climate change plans.

Construction Phase

Who will carry out the work?

• Amey Highways (for Staffordshire County Council).
• SWARCO (traffic signal upgrades).

Working hours

• Monday to Friday: 07:30 to 16:30.
• Some Saturday working may be needed.
• No Sunday working is planned.

How will the work be carried out?

The project has two main phases:

1. Build the shared path between The Friary School and the crossing near Grange Lane.
2. Widen the existing path between the crossing and Grange Lane.

Will roads stay open?

Yes, Eastern Avenue will stay open.

However, expect delays during busy times due to temporary traffic lights.

Will there be other works at the same time?

Yes. A new bus stop will be installed outside The Friary School.

The council will also coordinate with utility companies to reduce disruption.

Will the works be noisy?

Some noise is expected during working hours.

What about bus services?

Bus operators have been informed. Any timetable changes will be shared by them.