Metro on track for Merry Hill, but Brierley Hill link still in balance as it tram route gets a new name

Members of the West Midlands Combined Authority board will next week be asked to approve plans to commit an extra £261 million of funding to ensure that the tram extension will reach Merry Hill shopping centre.

But the final section of the line, which would connect with Brierley Hill town centre, remains on ice, despite a hint in this month's Budget that the scheme would be completed in full.

In July it was announced that the opening of the first phase of the Wednesbury-Dudley-Brierley Hill line, would be put back a year to the end of 2025, and that the final section from the Merry Hill centre to Brierley Hill was being shelved. 

The intermediate phase, between Dudley and Merry Hill was on a knife edge due to spiralling costs, but the Budget announcement means it can now proceed.

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.

The project, now renamed the Black Country Metro Line, is led by Transport for West Midlands, the transport division of the West Midlands Combined Authority.

West Midlands Mayor reacts to Black Country Metro plans

Richard Parker, elected mayor for the West Midlands, 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.

“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.”

'Great news'

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said it was 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."

Councillor Harley said he would continue to work with the combined authority to make a case for further funding to connect the line to Brierley Hill High Street.

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

The combined authority said it would continue to work with Dudley Council to build a case for extending the line to Brierley Hill, based on the council’s growth plans for the area, including new housing.