In this first of two parts we head out onto the West Midlands Metro Birmingham Eastside extension to see some recent progress in the construction of the second phase of the line. As we know phase one opened the short distance to Millennium Point earlier this year with the remainder of the line set to open in 2028 with work now being able to start around Curzon Street HS2 station. Ken Jones is our guide for this look at the works on the extension.
We start off this tour at Birmingham Coach Station. The terminus of the line will be located in this area with the stop set to called Digbeth High Street. We see the Coach Station here from Meriden Street. Note the concrete blocks over the track to prevent cars racing along there. Also bus gates in place to prevent other traffic.
The bottom end of Meriden Street has been tidied up with new pedestrian crossing. Track has been down here for some time.
Opposite the pedestrian crossing in the previous photo is Midland Metro Alliance’s store area.
Meriden Street where track is down in the road, but its going to be a couple of years before trams will get to use it.
Another shot on Meriden Street.
Track is down across Coventry Street under Bordesley Viaduct , across Bordesley Street and into New Canal Street, with pedestrian access both sides.
A permanent way trolley seen under Bordesley Viaduct. (All Photographs by Ken Jones, 5th November 2026)