18.01.18
Next phase of £150m Wolverhampton tram extension to move forward in March
The next phase of Wolverhampton’s £150m tram extension will kick off in March, it was revealed today.
In a statement, the Midland Metro Alliance, a consortium of companies responsible for the expansion of the network on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority, announced that it will get on with work on the extension of the existing tram route just before the current terminus at Wolverhampton St. George to Wolverhampton station in two months’ time.
It is part of the multi-million-pound Wolverhampton interchange project, which aims to regenerate the city’s transport hub and create a ‘gateway’ for visitors entering the city by national rail, tram or bus.
After all the works have been delivered, and after the construction of the new station, trams will pass through two additional stops, at Piper’s Row and at Wolverhampton station.
Whilst works are ongoing, Pipers Row will be closed to vehicular traffic until the second phase is completed in summer 2018.
“Although we appreciate that there will be some disruption to those living, working and travelling through Pipers Row during the works, we are working closely with the City of Wolverhampton Council, Wolverhampton Business Improvement District and Transport for West Midlands to minimise our impact,” said Alejandro Moreno, director of Midland Metro Alliance.
“As with our other projects, we aim to ensure the local economy benefits and source goods and labour, wherever possible, from the local supply chain.
“Our engagement team will also continue to work closely with local businesses and residents to inform them of the plans for construction during these important works.”
And Cllr John Reynolds, City of Wolverhampton Council cabinet member for city economy, added: “This tram extension is part of a total investment package of £3.7bn across the city of Wolverhampton.
“Easy access to different types of transportation is vital to regeneration on this scale. This extension will help deliver that by linking train, bus and tram more effectively and it is great to see that the next phase of this fundamental element of the £150m Wolverhampton Interchange project will be on site in March.”