SEE new multi-million pound rail project
This new image shows how cutting edge technology will help bring rail services back to the heart of Dudley.
Plans for a light rail innovative hub creating 50 jobs have been given a boost thanks to a pledge of £4.5million of funding.
The modern centre, to develop and test the next generation of light rail systems, will also link Dudley to the national rail network for the first time in more than 50 years.
An artist's impression released today showcases where the centre will be based in the shadow of the 11th century Dudley Castle.
The cash investment has come through The Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership's Growth Deal.
The rest of the £20m needed will be generated through European funding, private sector investment and Dudley Council.
Dudley councillor Khurshid Ahmed, who is in charge of transport, said: "We are delighted to receive this first wave of funding for the project which is one step towards us revolutionising rail travel in Dudley as well as creating 50 jobs.
"This money will help create the centre which will be a landmark for innovations in light rail travel and help kick start our vision for the first links in Dudley to the passenger rail network in half a century."
Dudley North MP Ian Austin added: "Connecting the town to the wider transport network will help bring new businesses and new jobs to our town, help visitors get to the Castle, the Zoo and the Black Country Museum and make it easier for local people to get to work elsewhere."
A Very Light Rail line is set to be introduced to link Castle Hill to Dudley Port train station over the border in Sandwell, which is on the rail network linked to Birmingham city centre.
The scheme is part of a partnership Dudley Council formed has formed with Warwick Manufacturing Group, which is keen to use Dudley's disused rail lines to test new light rail technology.
The plans include an innovation centre on council-owned land off Station Drive and Tipton Road at the bottom of Castle Hill.
It is the site of the old Dudley Train Station and work will involve re-opening the mothballed track from the site through to Dudley Port.
