Critical safety work to investigate unstable mine shafts must be completed before construction can begin on Dudley's highly anticipated £50 million Metro extension, transport authorities have confirmed.
The ambitious project, which will extend the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill line through Dudley town centre, faces a significant geological challenge from historical mining activity beneath the proposed route.
Underground Investigations Take Priority
Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has revealed that comprehensive surveys and stabilisation work are required along Tipton Road, where several mine shafts from the region's industrial past pose potential risks to the new tram line.
This essential ground investigation represents a crucial first phase before the main construction of the Metro extension can commence. The work involves detailed surveying of known mine entries and assessment of ground stability to ensure the safety and longevity of the new transport infrastructure.
Timeline and Next Steps
While no exact start date has been confirmed for the mine shaft work, authorities indicate that preparatory activities could begin within the coming months. The completion of these safety measures will determine the overall timeline for the entire Metro extension project.
Once the ground stabilisation is successfully completed, the main construction phase will proceed, bringing Dudley one step closer to being reconnected to the region's rapid transit network after years of planning and anticipation.
Transforming Regional Connectivity
The Dudley Metro extension forms a key part of the West Midlands' wider transport strategy, aiming to provide faster, more reliable connections between towns and support economic growth across the Black Country.
Local residents and business owners are eagerly awaiting the project's completion, which promises to reduce journey times, ease road congestion, and provide a significant boost to the local economy through improved accessibility.
