Regional transport leaders have approved £50 million of early funding to accelerate design, planning and business case development for major transport projects linked to Birmingham’s emerging Sports Quarter and the expansion of Villa Park.
The decision was confirmed by the West Midlands Combined Authority Board, supporting a package of early works including detailed design, surveys and preparatory activity for a new Metro tram extension serving the future Birmingham City Powerhouse Stadium.
The Metro extension is regarded as a cornerstone of the regeneration plans for the Sports Quarter in east Birmingham, helping unlock investment, new housing, and thousands of jobs. Getting the tram line operational in time for the development is described as key to ensuring the wider regeneration can proceed at pace.
The £50 million allocation is an advance on the region’s £2.4 billion Transport for City Regions funding confirmed by government for the period 2027–2032. This future investment will support a range of new road, rail, tram, bus, and active travel schemes across the West Midlands.
The approved funding will also enable detailed planning and design work for improvements at Witton and Aston railway stations, which provide key access to Villa Park. The upgrades will support the club’s £150 million redevelopment, as well as preparations for the Euro 2028 football tournament, where Villa Park is expected to be a host venue.
Enhancements will focus on improving passenger experience and capacity, ensuring stations can meet expected increases in matchday and event attendance.
Part of the funding package will support further development of Very Light Rail technology in Coventry. This includes upgrades to vehicles and the innovative slab-and-track system that allows tramways to be delivered at half the cost and in half the time of traditional systems. VLR is intended to provide a lower-cost, low‑carbon alternative to conventional tram networks, making urban rail schemes more affordable for cities across the UK.
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said:
“Fans deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport to get them to and from their stadium on matchdays – so we have made these projects a priority and provided the funding to get them started straight away.
“This funding means we can complete essential design and survey work at an earlier stage and be ready to get spades in the ground next year.
“Together we are building a new transport network to fuel the economy, secure investment and bring the new homes and jobs local people need.”
Bringing forward the £50 million forms part of a wider review to ensure the West Midlands secures maximum benefit from its long-term £2.4 billion transport settlement. The WMCA Board has already agreed:
- £400 million for Sports Quarter transport links, including the Metro extension
- £25 million for upgrades at Witton and Aston stations
The early funding will enable momentum on key projects, ensuring the region progresses vital infrastructure that supports growth, regeneration, and future major events.
Image credit: iStock
