With government approval now secured, the next phase of the West Midlands Metro extension is scheduled to commence in January. This £261 million project will extend the line from Dudley town centre, funded through the West Midlands Combined Authority’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement. Led by Transport for West Midlands, the extension will provide additional rapid transport services to more communities and businesses across the Black Country.
Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, said: “Extending the Black Country Metro line further will make a huge difference to more people in Dudley giving them access to reliable and affordable transport while also delivering a major boost to businesses at Merry Hill.
“That’s why the Government has given its support, showing confidence in our region, and means we will have spades in the ground within weeks, allowing people to experience the benefits of Metro sooner. And we will work closely with Dudley Council on their growth plans to help build the funding package and business case for the next phase of this exciting project.”
The first section of the route is currently under construction and is expected to open later next year. This includes the Dudley Interchange, which will integrate Metro and bus services into a new ‘modern gateway’ for the town. Looking ahead, Transport for West Midlands is collaborating with Dudley Council to develop a business case and funding strategy for the next segment of the route, aligning with the council’s growth plans, including new housing developments.
Councillor Patrick Harley, Leader of Dudley Council, also commented: “This is great news for Brierley Hill, Dudley and the West Midlands region. We’ve continued to push for the funding to deliver this project and I’m glad to see that we have Government approval for this next stage which will bring the Metro to Merry Hill. “We will continue to work with TfWM to develop a business case to secure funding to further connect the line to Brierley Hill High Street.”
The final approval for the project is expected to be granted by the West Midlands Combined Authority Board when it meets this week.
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