Passengers using the West Midlands Metro tram network will see their travel costs increase from the start of the new year, following proposed fare changes set for approval later this month.
What You'll Pay: The New Fare Structure
Midland Metro Limited (MML) has put forward what it describes as 'modest price rises' to address growing operational expenses and secure the long-term sustainability of the service. The West Midlands Combined Authority Board will vote on these increases during their meeting on Friday, November 14.
Under the proposed changes, single ticket prices will increase by between 20p and 50p, while day tickets will rise by 30p for shorter journeys and between 50p and 70p for longer distances. Season tickets will see the most significant percentage increase at 10 per cent.
Specific examples include a Zone 1 single ticket increasing from £2.30 to £2.50, and a Zone 1 weekly pass rising from £12.20 to £13.40. For passengers travelling across more zones, a Zone 1-2 single ticket will cost £3.50 instead of £3.20, while the Peak Day Ticket for the same zones will increase from £4.70 to £5.20.
Investing in the Network's Future
MML management has emphasised that revenue generated from these fare adjustments will be directly reinvested into service improvements. They also highlighted that concessionary pass holders will not be affected by the increases, protecting nearly one in five regular tram users from higher costs.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Metro stated: "A decision to increase fares is never taken lightly, but these modest price rises will help us to meet increased running costs while ensuring the future sustainability of the Metro."
The company pointed out that fare increases have been kept below the rate of inflation since 2023, and the tram continues to represent good value compared to other transport options in the region.
Major Developments Ahead
These fare changes come during a significant period of expansion for the West Midlands Metro network. Several major projects are expected to be completed within the next year, including the opening of the first phase of the Birmingham Eastside extension and the initial phase of the Black Country line to Dudley Town Centre.
Additionally, a substantial £76 million upgrade of the Wednesbury depot is currently underway, which will enable the network to support increased Metro services as these new extensions become operational.
The investment programme represents one of the most substantial periods of growth for the region's tram network, aiming to connect more communities across Birmingham and the Black Country in the coming years.
