Major Funding Boost for Sprint Bus Scheme in West Midlands
The West Midlands Combined Authority has given the green light to a significant investment of £26 million for the long-awaited Sprint bus project. This funding will cover the acquisition of 24 tram-style electric buses and the necessary charging infrastructure, with an additional £5.5 million allocated for ticketing equipment.
Project Aims to Revolutionize Regional Travel
The Sprint scheme is designed to create a faster and more convenient bus service connecting Walsall, Birmingham, and Solihull. It will operate along a continuous bus priority route following the A34 and A45 corridors. Originally unveiled in 2018 with a target completion date aligned with the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the project has faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and rising costs.
Despite these setbacks, initial phases have progressed, including the construction of new bus stops and the extension of bus priority lanes and signaling systems. Councillors on the Investment Board have expressed strong support for moving the project forward.
Local Leaders Voice Support and Optimism
Walsall Council leader Mike Bird emphasized the strategic importance of the route, stating, "It is the link to Solihull and of course that also links into the airport which is one of our major assets in the West Midlands – I think we don't promote that enough."
Wolverhampton councillor Chris Burden, who relied on public transport during his teacher training, commented, "This is probably the best solution we're going to see this decade so ultimately I'm supportive of it and think we've picked the right option aligned with tram as much as possible. I think we might just get the modal shift in people using it so I'd like to get this one ahead now."
Enhanced Passenger Experience and Integration
Upon completion, Transport for West Midlands has confirmed that the new vehicles will feature:
- Quicker and simpler boarding processes similar to trams
- Full accessibility with ample space for wheelchairs and pushchairs
- An overall enhanced passenger experience
The scheme will also enable seamless transfers between bus, metro, and rail services along the route.
Mayor Highlights Transformative Potential
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker stated, "These modern, tram-style buses will make the most of our dedicated Sprint lanes and priority junctions. It won't be just a new service, it will be the region's first continuous cross-city route in decades, cutting journey times between Walsall, Birmingham, and Solihull."
The approval marks a crucial step toward realizing a project that promises to reshape public transport in the region, encouraging a shift from private car use to more sustainable travel options.
