A major cycling route connecting Birmingham city centre to Longbridge is one step closer to reality.

The scheme would create a continuous corridor from the city centre, aiming to cut car use and improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

The proposed extension along the A38 aims to make travel safer for cyclists and pedestrians, while also cutting car use.

Birmingham City Council says it supports its carbon goals - but critics say the real issue is street safety.

We sent Richard Gullick to see what difference this could actually make for people in the city.

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If you live or work in Birmingham, there's a good chance you've had to dodge bikes on pavements or buses stuck in crawling traffic.

This new proposal is meant to change that.

The city council wants to complete a cycling corridor from here in the city centre all the way down to Longbridge - linking homes, schools and shops along the A38 into one long stretch of dedicated bike infrastructure.

Right now, the route runs as far as Selly Oak. But this next section would close the gap - aiming to reduce car use, cut emissions, and make travel safer for those on foot or on wheels.

Supporters say it's a step in the right direction.

Not just for cyclists--but for anyone tired of crumbling crossings, shared pavements and unreliable bus journeys.

The council claims it'll help meet Birmingham's net zero goal by 2030.

But let's be honest--most people don't cycle for the planet.

They do it to save money, avoid traffic, or because the bus didn't show up again. So the real question is whether this actually makes life easier.

Or whether it's just another plan that looks good in a slideshow. Because the truth is, road design in Birmingham hasn't kept pace with the way people live now.

Active travel is growing, but infrastructure hasn't followed. Safety concerns are common.

And many cyclists still feel like second-class citizens - wedged between fast cars and narrow kerbs.

It's not just about making space for bikes - it's about unclogging a network that's increasingly failing everyone.

Consultation is now open.

Drop-in sessions are planned. But this won't just be about feedback forms or carbon targets. It's about whether the council is finally serious about making the streets work for people--not just for vehicles.