West Midlands Metro sees post-Covid surge in passenger numbers

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

The West Midlands Metro is thriving, with tram passenger numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels, according to new data from the Department for Transport (DfT). In the past year, a staggering 8.3 million journeys were made on the Metro, marking a significant 53.7% increase from 2023 and exceeding the 8 million journeys recorded in 2019.

This surge in passenger numbers can be attributed to substantial investments in the Metro system, including the Westside Extension in Birmingham, which introduced three new stops in 2022, and the Wolverhampton city centre extension, now seamlessly connecting with the railway and bus stations.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), a division of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), is spearheading the expansion of the tram network in collaboration with the Midlands Metro Alliance (MMA). Together, they are constructing the Black Country extension and a new link to Digbeth in Birmingham, funded by the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) from the DfT.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, commended the growth in passenger numbers, emphasizing the crucial role of continued investment in transport infrastructure to support the region’s future development. He highlighted the significance of the Metro in providing reliable and accessible transport options for residents, facilitating journeys to work, school, and beyond.

Mayor Parker expressed his commitment to enhancing transport services for all, announcing the upcoming opening of the first phase of the Black Country Metro Extension between Wednesbury and Dudley, with construction on the next phase to Merry Hill already underway. These infrastructure investments align with his vision of creating a transport network that is accessible and reliable for everyone.

Furthermore, enhancements on the Metro, such as the introduction of new ticket machines, are streamlining the travel experience for passengers by offering convenient payment options. Sophie Allison, Managing Director of Midland Metro Limited (MML), praised the hard work of the Metro team in achieving record passenger numbers post-pandemic and emphasized their dedication to continually improving the passenger experience.

The success and popularity of the West Midlands Metro underscore the region’s commitment to enhancing transport accessibility and reliability for all residents. As the Metro network continues to expand and evolve, the focus remains on elevating the passenger experience for the thousands who rely on the system daily.

Image credit: iStock