Zebra crossings are to be installed or improved at key locations in Solihull after funding was made available for the schemes.

Solihull councillors have been welcoming the news saying campaigns and petitions had been successful.

At the latest decision session for the cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, councillors heard £1.475m funding from the Department of Transport was budgeted for this financial year.

But due to delayed road safety data it was agreed in February to set aside £405,000.

Council officers reported this data has now been further delayed meaning delivery of any schemes resulting from this information "would likely not be achievable within the funding window".

Officers explained that "it was agreed at the February session if no schemes are identified through this process, the remaining unallocated £405,000 can be released to fund other priority schemes on the Local Network Improvement Plan (LNIP) programme."

At the meeting, held virtually on September 7, Cllr Ken Hawkins approved the allocation of the LNIP cash for the schemes.

The five projects are:

• Damson Lane near to Coppice Road – new raised zebra crossing
• Kineton Green Lane near to Gunns Way – new raised zebra crossing
• Moordown Avenue near to Brackleys Way – new zebra Crossing
• Widney Lane near to Clifton Road – raised hump at existing zebra crossing
• Old Lode Lane near to Mayswood Road – new raised zebra crossing

It was noted the crossings are subject to final design and costing, but officers added it would "improve safety for pedestrians using the public highway and ensure Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) utilise their full allocation of this funding".

On social media Cllr Hawkins, who represents St Alphege with Monkspath and Hillfield, wrote the Widney Lane scheme would "enable safer walking to and from local schools and local parks".

Elmdon councillor Laura McCarthy welcomed the news of the Old Lode Lane scheme writing on Facebook: "A huge thank you to everyone who signed Michael Ward and I's petition for a crossing.

"Almost 300 people signed – recognising the need for pedestrian safety crossing the road here.

"We are absolutely overjoyed to announce the council has approved the installation of a zebra crossing in this spot."

Olton councillor Michael Carthew wrote: "Big campaign win.

"We have been campaigning to get a new zebra crossing near Gunns Way for a long time now as pedestrians find it very difficult to cross the road here and it's especially important as three schools are in the vicinity with a new Sixth Form planned at Langley School.

"I'm glad that they (SMBC) saw sense and changed their minds – we will keep you updated on this as the plans play out."

And Cllr Ade Adeyemo wrote on social media: "Thanks to everyone who signed our petition for a safe crossing by St Andrews RC School on Moordown Avenue – something Cllr Kathyrn Thomas, Cllr Paul McCabe and I have been campaigning about for several years."