Midland Metro line extension delays spark debate on project's future among Express & Star readers
A waste of money or vital for Wolverhampton's prosperity? Express & Star readers had their say on the future of the Midland Metro in the city after an extension project was hit by delays.
The extension of the Midland Metro line to Wolverhampton’s railway station has been delayed until at least 2019 - with passengers having to wait until 2020 to use new services.
It was revealed that work would not begin until the revamp of the railway station was completed.
This will add a further £800,000 to the costs of the scheme, according to a report to the West Midlands Combined Authority’s transport delivery committee.
Early works at the station have begun with demolition set for May.
Readers have aired their views on the scheme as some questioned whether the money would be better spent elsewhere.
Reader Dave Fullwood tweeted: "You would be hard pressed to find a single Wulfrunian who didn't want to see the city flourish with lots of investment especially in transport.
"But an expensive tram extension to Wolverhampton station is going to look pretty silly if trams are terminated or delayed at Priestfield.
"[The] Midland Metro needs to be reliable first, it isn't so passengers use train for Birmingham at Wolverhampton hub."
On Facebook, reader Neil Hartland said: "Is it really worth all the money/disruption to build an extension to the railway station when it's only a five-minute walk?"
Another reader, Richard Simcox, added: "Talk about wrong priorities, where’s the roads investment?"
Meanwhile others say that the extension will play a crucial role in revitalising Wolverhampton city centre.
Councillor Phil Bateman, who serves Wednesfield North, said: "Of course we should extend the line, to truncate the city future transport network will be to affect its future economy."
He added: "Short sighted, no vision decision makers give this city and the region a difficult path to future prosperity. Lack of action is the downfall of transportation."
Jim Cunningham tweeted: "Funding is allocated to various sectors. You can't switch the transport funding to different sectors. So let's maximise the benefits for Wolves [Wolverhampton city centre] and surrounding areas."
A West Midlands Combined Authority spokesman called the delay a 'short-term obstacle' on a project that will benefit the city by connecting rail and tram services better with cycling and walking routes.
A spokesman for Wolverhampton council said: "Better connectivity will make our City much more competitive in attracting investment and jobs."
