Next stage of Black Country Metro tram extension confirmed

Work on the next phase of the West Midlands Metro extension in the Black Country is set to start in January following Government approval.

This £261m section will extend the line from Flood Street in Dudley town centre to Merry Hill Shopping Centre calling at Cinder Bank, Pedmore Road and the Waterfront business park on the way.

Construction can start following the confirmation of Government funding announced in the October budget, through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), and business case approval from the Department for Transport.

The project is being led by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to offer more people and businesses in the Black Country access to rapid and convenient transport services and to support economic growth along the route.

The WMCA Board is set to give the green light to the project when it meets on Friday, 15 November.

West Midlands mayor 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.”

The first section of the Black Country route, from Wednesbury to Dudley town centre, is under construction and due to open later in 2025. Also opening next year is the new Dudley Interchange which will provide a modern gateway for the town – bringing the new Metro and bus services together.

Pictured: A tram crossing Parkhead viaduct in Dudley