With work continuing on extension construction work on three different systems – Blackpool, Manchester and West Midlands Metro – we take a look at recent progress at the Birmingham end of West Midlands Metro where there has been a concentration of effort on Pinfold Street. Pinfold Street is the first section of the Birmingham Westside line which is an extension of the line which currently runs as far as Grand Central – this new line will open in phases with the first section due to carry its first passengers next year.
The current end of the line on Stephenson Street – closed to trams until the summer with this construction taking place which has led to all trams arriving and departing from the same platform at Grand Central – is seen here looking towards the main construction site on Pinfold Street.
Looking up Pinfold Street towards Centenary Square as preparations continue to be made to the surface to try and reduce vibrations to a minimum. (Both Photographs by Martin Miller)