New jobs, new centre, new transport: Black Country Living Museum masterplan is backed by bosses

The expansion project has been given the thumbs up by the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) which has pledged to support its £10 million funding push.

Details of the ambitious development, which could include moving the site's entrance from Tipton Road to Castle Hill, were revealed earlier this year.

The museum requires £10 million in funding from the Heritage Lottery and the LEP has indicated it is ready to back the scheme.

A proposed letter of support for the development, which is due to be formally backed by members, said: "This project supports the ongoing development of Castle Hill as a tourist destination and enhances the Black Country as a place to live, work, invest, learn and enjoy.

"The project will offer significant economic benefits in terms of employment creation in its own right as well as having the ability to draw 200,000 additional visitors per year to the existing Castle Hill attractions."

A new visitor centre, exhibition space, and retail and café facilities would be created under the plans.

The museum's tram line would also be extended to provide a circular route, looping around the attraction in a figure of eight. A new industrial quarter and a 1940s to 60s town could also be added to the museum's famous streets.

Bosses were keen to focus on the period as most of the museum focuses on the era before 1940. New offices would be created and a total of 60 workers would be taken on and 29 apprentices.

A funding bid to Heritage Lottery is now being prepared. Ninder Johal, who is an LEP board member, said the development would be a major boost for the Black Country.

He said: "We have a strong regional economy but what people forget is we also have a fantastic visitor economy, there are some great places for people to visit.

"When the project comes to fruition it will bring a number of jobs and extra visitors who will hopefully spend locally."