Boost for Metro plan

From the archive, first published Thursday 27th Jul 2000.

The vision of bringing the Midland Metro to the borough is moving closer to reality with the announcement of government support for light rail systems.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott gave the ambitious project the thumbs-up when he released details of a £180bn ten-year plan to invest in the UK's public transport system.

A share of the cash has been earmarked for the extension of the innovative tramline from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, which could be up and running by 2005.

Cllr Fred Hunt said: "I'm delighted; it's something I've been working on for years.

"It's great news for us as Mr Prescott actually mentioned this line in particular.

"Once we've got it up and running who knows where we might go."

Rob Donald, Centro director general, said: "We very much welcome the government's support for light rail, including expansion of Midland Metro.

"We look forward to confirmation of Government support for the recently submitted Midland Metro extensions in Birmingham City Centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill.

"The extensions represent a crucial step to expand the Midland Metro network across the West Midlands over the next ten years, as part of our vision to establish a truly integrated transport system."

Dudley South MP Ian Pearson said: "Let's get cracking immediately and speed up plans for the current two extensions."

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