Two years of Wolverhampton roadworks for extension to Midlands Metro

Transport bosses have been wanting to extend the tram system for years and have plans to eventually loop it around Wolverhampton city centre at a cost of £30m.

The first phase would see the route extended less than half a mile and would connect the existing St George's Metro terminus in Bilston Street with the bus station in Piper's Row and the city's rail station – a journey that can take around seven minutes to walk.

And it will result in two years of disruption as work takes place to build it from early 2015 – subject to the Government providing the money. The public and businesses are now being invited to give their views on the plans in a consultation.

Centro, the region's transport authority, believes the scheme will support the planned redevelopment of land next to the rail station which is expected to see £100 million of investment and 1,400 new jobs if new offices, a hotel and bars are created along with a revamp of the station itself.

Councillor Roger Horton, who oversees rail for Centro, said "These are significant plans that can play a key role in supporting the regeneration of the city centre. It will also provide a more effective interchange for passengers moving between tram, bus and train, helping to connect people to job, education, health and leisure opportunities. That's why we want to hear the views of passengers and businesses. "

It would open up areas for regeneration and serve as a platform for future tram routes to New Cross Hospital and the Wednesfield area. It would also provide improved Metro links to the wider West Midlands including a route through to the proposed high speed rail station and the Broad Street area in Birmingham.

Councillor Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's deputy leader, said: "We are working hard to transform and revitalise our city centre. But in order for us to realise these ambitious but achievable plans, it is vital we get the transport infrastructure right.

People can comment about the plans at www.centro.org.uk/metro or by sending an email to metro@centro.org.uk or phoning the Centro Customer Contact Centro on 0121 214 7214.

They can also write to Metro Consultation, Centro, 16, Summer Lane, Birmingham B19 3SD. Exhibitions will be on Saturday and May 4 in Queens Square from 9am to 3pm, on April 30 at the bus station from 7.30am to 11.30am, on May 9 at the Civic Centre from 10am to 2pm then at the bus station from 5pm to 7pm and on May 14 at the rail station from 11am to 8pm.

There will also be an unstaffed exhibition from next Monday to Friday, May 10, except May 2, from 9am in the Civic Centre.