A new state-of-the-art Operational Control Centre has opened at Wednesbury Depot on the West Midlands Metro network. This is the latest milestone in the expansion of the network and comes ahead of the next extension due to open as far as Dudley later this year.
The upgraded control centre has been fitted with the latest technology and can make the most of recent upgrades to CCTV cameras at Metro stops and on board the trams. This should help take safety and security to the next level.
Sophie Allison, West Midlands Metro Managing Director, said: “As well as boosting our already highly effective security measures, the new control centre is essential to the safe and efficient running of a larger, more complex tram system.
“Operationally, it will help future-proof the network as it continues to grow with more routes and junctions, increased services and a greater number of passengers.
“The upgraded facility will also be welcomed by the OCC team thanks to its ergonomic design, dimmable lighting, air-conditioning and enhanced security and access control.”
This is just one part of the expansion and redevelopment of the depot – which will remain the sole depot on the network even after extensions open – with a new track having been installed to give direct access to the Black Country Line and provide greater resilience for tram services.
Stabling sidings have been expanded to accommodate additional trams needed to run services and there are also upgraded facilities for drivers and staff.
Mark Babbington, Operations Control Centre and Security Manager, said: “The new control centre gives us far greater real-time visibility across the network, allowing us to respond more quickly and keep services running reliably. It also strengthens the support we provide to colleagues out on the system. As the network expands, having this level of operational control is essential.”
The new OCC includes an upgraded data wall offering three times the coverage of the previous system, providing real-time visibility across the network and nearby roads, public spaces and connecting transport services. It also has heat mapping technology and video analytics which will help to detect the build-up of customers, or any suspicious behaviour, enabling resources to be deployed quickly and more effectively.
The depot expansion has been funded by Transport for West Midlands and work was carried out by the Midland Metro Alliance.
Richard Parker, Mayor of West Midlands, said: “As we prepare to open the extension to Dudley town centre, this new world-class control room ensures we deliver a safer, more reliable and more efficient Metro network for the thousands of people who rely on our trams every day. Modernising the depot also means we are fully equipped to expand services when the next extensions to Digbeth, Merry Hill and the new Birmingham Sports Quarter site open in the coming years.”