Trams could be running to Wolverhampton Railway Station later this spring if the latest press release from the Midland Metro Alliance can be believed. Detailing a forthcoming road closure to allow for resurfacing works on Piper’s Row (which will take approximately five days) it states that trams will be running later this spring – but we have been here before and its unlikely many will believe it until a tram actually runs under its own power onto the extension.
It is hoped that the final construction works on Piper’s Row will be completed in April. Part of this work will involved resurfacing and will see new asphalt laid in areas of Piper’s Row where drainage activities have recently taken place. The exact date of this work is currently being finalised but it will take around five days with pedestrian access maintained although buses will be diverted out the bus station.
Director of the Midland Metro Alliance, Peter Cushing, said: “I’m delighted that this scheme will shortly be entering this vital testing phase ahead of opening to passengers later in the spring. With Metro added to an enhanced railway station and an excellent bus network, the city of Wolverhampton is getting the improved transport gateway it deserves. At this time we would like to thank those who have been impacted by our works for their patience and understanding.”
When it eventually opens (already over two years late) the extension will see two new stops added to the Metro network, one on Piper’s Row outside the bus station and one at the Railway Station. It will see a new service pattern introduced as trams will no be able to service both the original terminus at St George’s and the Railway Station. The details of which service will run have not been announced (the details on the Midland Metro Alliance still have the much higher frequency service planned to run before the pandemic).