The Midland Metro Alliance, working on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority, will continue its work on the extension from the existing tram route just before the current terminus at Wolverhampton St. George's, to the Railway Station.
The work forms part of the wider £150 million Wolverhampton Interchange to regenerate the city's transport hub and provide an attractive gateway to those entering the city by national rail, bus or tram services.
When operational, after the construction of the new Railway Station is complete, trams will serve 2 additional tram stops; one at the city's bus station on Pipers Row and one at Wolverhampton Railway Station, allowing easy interchange with other modes of public transport.
Pipers Row will be closed to vehicular traffic during the construction and it is anticipated that this second phase of the works will be completed in summer 2018 when the road will reopen. As Pipers Row will be closed, some services using the Bus Station will be affected and alternative arrangements are currently being finalised.
Alejandro Moreno, Director of Midland Metro Alliance, said: "Although we appreciate that there will be some disruption to those living, working and travelling through Pipers Row during the works, we are working closely with the City of Wolverhampton Council, Wolverhampton Business Improvement District and Transport for West Midlands to minimise our impact. As with our other projects, we aim to ensure the local economy benefits and source goods and labour, wherever possible, from the local supply chain. Our Engagement Team will also continue to work closely with local businesses and residents to inform them of the plans for construction during these important works."
Councillor John Reynolds, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: "This tram extension is part of a total investment package of £3.7 billion across the City of Wolverhampton. Easy access to different types of transportation is vital to regeneration on this scale. This extension will help deliver that by linking train, bus and tram more effectively and it is great to see the next phase of this fundamental element of the £150 million Wolverhampton Interchange project will be on site in March."
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- released: Thursday 18 January, 2018