Transport chiefs in the Midlands have proposed a review of tram, light rail and bus rapid transit options to connect key towns and cities stating this is a priority for the region.
The West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority (WMITA) is due to meet on 28 January to discuss the issue following a request from the Association of Black Country Authorities - Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
Any review would be carried out by Centro in partnership with the four councils and would determine what options could be built within the next five to ten years and the preferred lines of routes.
WMITA chair, Cllr Roger Lawrence, said: ‘The principle of a high quality rapid transit system for the Black Country remains a priority. Such a network would provide the transport infrastructure needed to support ambitions for future economic growth and the creation of much needed jobs.
‘However, it’s been a number of years since this was first looked at and during that time we have seen the emergence of key developments such as HS2, i54 and the planned super hospital at Smethwick.
‘It’s therefore important we ensure this network has the right routes and connections for the future and delivers the maximum economic benefits possible for the cost.’
