West Midlands Metro has unveiled a new state-of-the-art Operational Control Centre (OCC) at its Wednesbury depot, marking a significant milestone in the continued expansion of the region’s tram network.
The high-tech facility will serve as the operational heart of the Metro system, providing real-time oversight of tram services while strengthening integration with the wider West Midlands transport network.
Equipped with the latest monitoring and communications technology, the new control centre enhances the network’s ability to manage day-to-day operations while raising safety and security standards across the system. The facility also benefits from recent upgrades to CCTV infrastructure at tram stops and onboard vehicles, giving operators a more comprehensive view of the network.
The OCC comes as preparations continue for the opening of the much-anticipated Metro extension linking Wednesbury and Dudley town centre. Passenger services on the new route are expected to begin once final safety testing and driver training programmes have been completed.
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “As we prepare to open the extension to Dudley town centre, this new world-class control room ensures we deliver a safer, more reliable and more efficient Metro network for the thousands of people who rely on our trams every day.
“Modernising the depot also means we are fully equipped to expand services when the next extensions to Digbeth, Merry Hill and the new Birmingham Sports Quarter site open in the coming years.”
A key feature of the upgraded OCC is a new data wall that delivers three times the coverage of the previous system. The enhanced visibility allows controllers to monitor tram operations alongside nearby roads, public spaces and connecting transport services in real time.
Advanced heat-mapping and video analytics capabilities have also been incorporated into the facility. These systems can identify crowd build-ups and detect unusual or suspicious activity, enabling teams to respond rapidly and deploy resources more effectively when required.
Sophie Allison, Metro’s managing director, said: “As well as boosting our already highly effective security measures, the new control centre is essential to the safe and efficient running of a larger, more complex tram system.
“Operationally, it will help future-proof the network as it continues to grow with more routes and junctions, increased services and a greater number of passengers.
“The upgraded facility will also be welcomed by the OCC team thanks to its ergonomic design, dimmable lighting, air-conditioning and enhanced security and access control.”
The OCC forms part of a wider redevelopment programme at the Wednesbury depot, which has also seen the installation of a new track connection providing direct access to the Wednesbury-Dudley line. The additional infrastructure is designed to improve operational resilience and service flexibility as the network expands.
Further improvements include a significantly enlarged stabling area capable of accommodating the additional trams required for future routes, along with enhanced welfare and operational facilities for drivers and depot staff.
The depot expansion project has been funded by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), with delivery undertaken by Midland Metro Alliance.
Image credit: WMCA
