New railway stations 'remain a priority' in Walsall despite contractor collapse
Council bosses remain focused on delivering new railway stations in Walsall in the wake of one of the project contractors filing for administration.
Earlier this week, construction firm Buckingham Group announced huge losses on major contracts had resulted in it not being able to trade currently.
It has filed an intention to appoint administrators with the aim of saving as much of the business and jobs as possible.
But the worrying development has thrown uncertainty on schemes including the creation of two new railway stations in Willenhall and Darlaston.
Both Walsall Council and Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) chiefs are keeping an eye on the situation and assessing the potential impact the firm’s position could have on the project.
Work has been ongoing on the £55 million project to bring rail services back to both Willenhall and Darlaston for the first time in more than 50 years.
If the scheme remains on track, it’s anticipated Willenhall would open in the first part of next year while Darlaston would be completed a short time after.
A Walsall Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the situation with Buckingham Group.
“We will be following developments closely with partners to assess any potential impact this may have on the project and our priority is to ensure delivery of the Willenhall and Darlaston railway situations.”
Buckingham is currently involved with major schemes including HS2 and rebuilding stands at both Liverpool and Fulham Football Club grounds – both of which have been hit with delays.
It was also appointed contractor to complete structural work to enable the lower tiers of the Tilton and Kop stands to reopen this season.
The club issued a statement yesterday which said: “The goal was set for the lower tier Tilton to open by the end of September and for the Kop to be fully open by the end of November.
“The Club has and continues to hold emergency meetings with a range of experts to understand and assess the potential impact of Buckingham Group’s disappointing news.
“We want to give you your home back and to give our teams the level of noise and support that only a full St. Andrew’s can deliver.”
Buckingham has also previously worked on the redevelopment of the North Stand at Molineux – home of Wolves FC – which was completed in 2012.
A TfWM spokesperson said: “We are aware of the developing situation with Buckingham Group. We will be working with the Group and our project partners to establish the position and potential implications.
“Our priority will be to secure and continue the delivery of the new railway stations for the people of Willenhall and Darlaston.”
