Work on the next expansion of the West Midlands Metro in the Black Country is set to start in the New Year. The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Board is expected to give the green light for the £261 million Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Phase 2b extension, which will stretch from Dudley Town Centre to Merry Hill Shopping Centre.
Last month's announcement from Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed the availability of funds for this vital infrastructure project. An upcoming report for the proceeding WMCA Board meeting on November 15 indicates that government ministers are likely to endorse the business case later this month or in December, paving the way for construction to commence in January.
Adding stops at Cinder Bank, Pedmore Road, and the Waterfront business park, transport authorities believe this project will significantly improve connectivity and spur economic growth in the Black Country. While the first segment of this Metro line is slated for completion later in 2025—a delay caused by cost pressures—Richard Parker, the Mayor of West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, has emphasised the transformative impact the expansion will have, saying: "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."
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council and WMCA Board member, said: "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.", reports .
"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."
Meanwhile the new Dudley Interchange - connecting Metro and bus services - is set to open next year. TfWM is also working with Dudley Council on a business case and securing funding for the next Metro leg to connect to Brierley Hill High Street.
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