Work to start on new £295m UK tram network set to ‘transform’ UK region

Construction has officially begun on a long-awaited £295million expansion of the , promising to significantly improve transport links across the Black Country.

Transport Secretary marked the occasion by breaking ground on the project during a visit to the region yesterday.

Funded through the UK government’s £1.05 billion (CRSTS), the metro extension will connect Wednesbury to Brierley Hill for the first time, providing faster and more reliable public transport for thousands of residents.

Once complete, commuters will benefit from journey times up to 30% shorter than taking the bus, with greater reliability during peak hours.

The first phase of the project—linking Wednesbury to Dudley town centre—is already well underway and is set to open in autumn 2025. The full extension to Brierley Hill will follow, passing through key locations such as Cinder Bank, Pedmore Road, and the Waterfront business park, providing a major economic boost to local businesses.

Many Black Country communities have long been underserved by public transport, limiting access to jobs, education, and economic opportunities. Speaking at the event, Ms Alexander said the metro expansion would be “transformational” for the region.

“Residents in and around the Black Country have been chronically underserved by public transport, limiting access to jobs and opportunities and stunting economic growth,” she said. “We’re turning the tide on poor transport connections in the West Midlands and delivering a transport system that people can rely on, raising living standards across the region.”

The project is a key part of the government’s Growth Mission and aligns with , which empowers local leaders to improve transport in their areas. It also forms part of a wider £2.6 billion investment in UK public transport, including the delivery of new ferries, enhancements to ports and harbours, and upgrades to ScotRail’s Intercity fleet.

During her visit, the Transport Secretary met with West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and toured the historic Parkhead Viaduct in Dudley, a 19th-century structure originally designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The viaduct, which has stood unused for decades, will be restored as part of the new metro route.

Mayor Richard Parker emphasised the long-term benefits of the project and said: “Good transport links are essential – helping people get to school, work, local shops, and to enjoy a day out. Extending the Metro further into the Black Country opens up routes for job opportunities, skills, and growth, ensuring fast, reliable journeys for everyone across the West Midlands.”

He continued: “Now that I have secured the funding from government and we’ve got the approvals needed, the work can start to make this long-awaited project a reality. The restoration of this viaduct shows how we can protect our region’s industrial heritage while developing modern infrastructure.”

The West Midlands Metro extension is expected to provide significant economic and environmental benefits:

• Boosting Local Businesses: The new tram line will improve connectivity to key commercial areas, attracting investment and increasing foot traffic.
• Supporting Green Transport: The expansion aligns with , encouraging public transport use and reducing congestion.
• Creating Jobs: The project is already generating employment opportunities and will continue to support local construction, engineering, and transport industries.

With work now underway, residents can look forward to a modern, efficient transport system that will connect them to opportunities across the West Midlands. The next major milestone will be the opening of the Wednesbury-to-Dudley line later this year, bringing the region one step closer to a more integrated and accessible transport network.