Mayor Richard Parker has advanced £50 million in funding to accelerate major transport projects across the West Midlands. The cash will kickstart early work—including surveys, detailed designs, and business cases—on several schemes, notably the Metro extension to Birmingham’s Sports Quarter and upgrades to stations serving Aston Villa at Villa Park.
The funding will also support the development of the pioneering Very Light Rail (VLR) system in Coventry, which promises urban tramways built in half the time and at half the cost of conventional systems.
Upgrades to Witton and Aston train stations aim to enhance the matchday experience, complementing Aston Villa’s £150 million stadium expansion and preparing the area for Euro 2028.
Mayor Parker said: “Fans deserve modern, reliable, and affordable transport to get to stadiums, so these projects are a priority.
This funding lets us advance critical planning work now and be ready to start construction next year. Together, we’re building a new transport network to boost the economy, attract investment, and create new homes and jobs for local people.”
The £50 million advance is part of the wider £2.4 billion Transport for City Regions funding earmarked for the West Midlands from 2027–2032, supporting investment in roads, rail, trams, buses, and active travel.
The Metro extension from Digbeth to the £3 billion Sports Quarter regeneration site will ensure transport is ready for the new 62,000‑seat stadium.
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