West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has given the green light to plans for a new £24m Dudley Interchange
The approval of the full business case means work can now get underway on a new tram and bus interchange which will form a vital part of the wider regeneration of Dudley town centre.
Built on the site of the existing bus station, it will link to the new Metro tram extension currently under construction by the Midland Metro Alliance between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill.
Both projects are due to be completed in 2023.
Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which is part of the WMCA, is leading on the Dudley Interchange project in partnership with Dudley Council.
‘Provide a fitting gateway to a reborn town centre’
Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, said: “Like other town centres Dudley has been hit hard in recent years, which is why the WMCA is putting its cash to good use to help revitalise the borough.
“Through helping to knock down the tombstone of Cavendish House to make way for the Portersfield development, to extending the Midland Metro through the town to Brierley Hill, we are committed to doing what we can to support the council in bringing their ambitious £1bn masterplan to life.
“That’s why I am delighted we have approved even more funding for Dudley, with the new interchange set to provide a fitting gateway to what will be a revitalised and reborn town centre.”
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, commented: “We are delivering a £1bn regeneration masterplan for Dudley borough and despite the restrictions caused by the pandemic Dudley town centre is currently a hive of exciting construction work.
“I welcome the confirmation of funding for the town’s Interchange, we have continued to drive forward plans to improve access to travel for the town and this impressive facility will help people to connect their bus, Metro and rail journeys.
“Our plans for Dudley town centre will revolutionise the education offer in our borough and create exciting new jobs and opportunities for local people, and transport will be a key component in making our vision a reality.”
