?2.4m sustainable transport hub to pave the way for Dudley Port …

Plans to upgrade one of the West Midlands’ most outdated railway stations are being worked up as part of a £2.4m scheme to improve passenger experience, access and transport links.

Dudley Port is already a major focus for transport investment with a new tram stop on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill West Midlands Metro extension, currently under construction, alongside plans for walking, cycling, and public transport measures in the area.

Plans are now under development to create a Dudley Port Interchange Hub to make the railway station more welcoming, connect to the new Metro and further enhance road, bus, cycling and walking links, supporting the wider regeneration of the area.

The funding will also be used to kick off development of the business case for the full redevelopment of Dudley Port Railway Station – currently one of the region’s busiest without step-free access. This would then be used to lever in the substantial funding required to deliver a full redevelopment.

The interchange is set to include:New lift and stair access from the Metro stop to the station entrance – being delivered as part of the Metro extensionImproved walking routes between bus, tram and railAn improved walkway from Park Lane East to the station, including removal of steps on the existing footbridgeEnhanced lighting and CCTV coverageImproved walking and cycling links from nearby residential areasImproved landscaping, public spaces and passenger information signs transforming the environment of Station DriveEnhanced live travel information boards for bus, rail and MetroElectric vehicle charging points

These works are due to be completed by the end of 2024, ready for the launch of phase one of the Metro extension from Wednesbury to Dudley town centre.

A second phase of works, due for delivery by March 2027, will see additional walking and cycling links to the station.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) and West Midlands Rail Executive are leading the scheme in partnership with Sandwell Council, Dudley Council, Black Country Transport Group, Network Rail, the Midland Metro Alliance and West Midlands Railway.

The £2.4m funding is drawn from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement awarded by the Department for Transport to TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), last year.

Dudley Port station is on the Stour Valley line and will be the only rail and tram interchange on the new Metro extension. The frequent number 74 bus service offers direct links to Dudley, West Bromwich and Birmingham.