New Metro link to be announced

• Mar. 18 by Karl Stevens (0)

It is expected today that a government minister will be in Birmingham to announce the extension of the Midland Metro.

The plans will see the line extend from Snow Hill Station near the Jewellery Quarter area of the City to the newly rebuilt New Street Station by 2015.

The new line and improvements to the service, including new trams, will cost over £125 million and is expected to forge a path through the busy Bull Street and Corporation Street to connect the two main city centre stations of the City. It will also have four new stops at Snow Hill, Bull Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street.

With the 1.4km of extra track it is hoped that congestion in the City Centre will subside. It is, according to the Telegraph, Birmingham is one of the worst places for commuters with the average commute taking over 52 minutes.

With Hs2 only recently announced, the Government are eager to see through the plans which could lead to the creation of over 1500 jobs as a benefit of better travel in the region.

Fewer cars on the city streets and more people choosing public transport should not only mean less stress and road rage and more opportunities for the city but fewer carbon emissions and a better environment.

Click here to find detailed plans of proposed metro routes for the West Midlands.