To help manage the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), a rising bollard system controls vehicle access to and from the pedestrian zone.

Controlled Entry Points

There are two controlled entry points:

  • Princess Street, near the junction with Queen Street
  • King Street, near the junction with Princess Street
  • Skinner Street, near Victoria Street 

Each entry point is equipped with:

  • CCTV monitoring
  • Signal indicators showing when the bollards are rising or lowering
  • An intercom system for access enquiries

Under normal operation, the bollards operate automatically according to a programmed timetable. However, remote control facilities are available to allow emergency access during restricted periods.

Controlled Exit Points

There are three controlled exit points:

  • Dudley Street, near the junction with Lichfield Street (Queen Square)
  • Queen Street, near the junction with Princess Street/Market Street
  • Dudley Street, near the junction with Bilston Street
  • Victoria Street near Cleveland Street 
  • Victoria Street near Darlington Street

At these locations, bollards operate automatically to allow vehicles to exit the pedestrian zone.

Safety Features

All equipment has been designed and manufactured in accordance with the TOPAS 2510A specification and includes the following safety features:

  • Green and red traffic signals providing clear visual warnings
  • Audible warnings when bollards are changing position
  • Vehicle detection systems that prevent bollards from rising while a vehicle is within the safety zone

Access to the City Centre Pedestrian Zone is controlled by rising bollards and will be restricted during the following times:

  • 8:30am to 5:00pm
  • 10:00pm to 6:00am

Access Arrangements

During the restricted periods:

  • Waiting is not permitted at any time.
  • Loading and deliveries are only permitted during the following times: 
    • 6:00am to 8:30am
    • 5:00pm to 10:00pm

Outside these delivery periods, access will be by authorisation only.

To request access, please email: citycentre.access@wolverhampton.gov.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I access the Pedestrian Zone during restricted hours?

Access requests during restricted hours will generally be refused.

However, the Council recognises that some businesses and services may require access in exceptional circumstances, including emergency situations.

Any authorised access during restricted periods will be managed remotely by staff at the Council's Urban Traffic Control Centre, who can lower the bollards and grant entry when appropriate.

Who has authorised access?

Permitted Access

Access may be authorised for the following purposes:

  • Bullion and security collections
  • Royal Mail vehicles (for collections from post boxes only)
  • Emergency maintenance work in the interests of public safety
  • Emergency service vehicles responding to incidents
  • Utility works
  • Highway maintenance and associated works
  • Planned works where activities cannot reasonably be undertaken outside restricted hours and the appropriate permit has been issued

Access Not Permitted

Access will not normally be granted for:

  • Routine or scheduled maintenance that can be undertaken outside restricted hours
  • Deliveries and loading activities during restricted periods
  • Taxis and private hire vehicles
  • Members of the general public
  • Access to disabled parking spaces (except designated bays on Bilston Street)
  • Cyclists (except on Princess Street)
  • E-scooters
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