Metro rolls into Dudley for the first time
The Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension has reached a major milestone, with testing now underway on the first section between Wednesbury and Dudley town centre.
The 11km extension, which will eventually connect Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley and Merry Hill, is being delivered in phases and will be a key part of the tram network across the region. It represents a multi‑million pound investment and one of the largest and significant transport infrastructure projects in the West Midlands, set to play a major role in regeneration and economic growth.
The route also represents the longest new stretch of tramway added to the network in a single scheme, reflecting both the scale and complexity of its delivery - including new track, bridges, structures and integration with the existing Metro system
It is set to play a significant role in the regeneration and economic growth of the West Midlands, improving connectivity and reducing journey times between key centres.
Phase one of the scheme – covering approximately 6.5km from Wednesbury to Dudley – is now entering a period of extensive testing, ahead of the line opening to passengers. Testing will include trial tram movements, driver training and detailed safety checks to ensure the system is safe, reliable and ready for public use.
Councillor Patrick Harley, Leader of Dudley Council, said:
“Actually, seeing the Metro tram come into Dudley as part of its testing phase is a welcome relief after so many unfortunate delays.
“While residents and visitors may simply see the test tram out today, what we see is the future opportunities it brings to our borough, improving connectivity and making it easier for people to experience everything Dudley will have to offer with the new Ice Rink and even more investment.
“It is strategically important for our whole borough and an integral part of our wider regeneration plans, benefitting residents, businesses and visitors. Today marks a real milestone and a day to recognize the metro is almost ready to open.”
Once complete, the full extension will provide an 11km metro line with up to 15 stops, delivering fast and frequent connections between key destinations including Dudley Port Station, Dudley Interchange, the Waterfront and Merry Hill. It will also provide step-free access to popular attractions such as Dudley Zoo and Castle, the new Ice Rink, the Black Country Living Museum and the Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust.
The new line is expected to significantly improve journey times, connecting Dudley with Birmingham in around 40 minutes and Wolverhampton in around 30 minutes, while enabling journeys between Birmingham and Brierley Hill in under an hour.
Beyond transport benefits, the extension is also expected to act as a catalyst for future regeneration and economic growth, supporting new investment, job creation and improved access to opportunities across Dudley and the wider Black Country.
The second phase of the project will extend the route from Dudley to Merry Hill and Brierley Hill in the coming years, completing a major transport link that will support jobs, investment and sustainable travel across the borough and wider region.