Dudley Light Rail proposal could save taxpayers millions of pounds.

04 Sep 2024

Published in: Member News

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Pre Metro has published their Bigger Picture Strategy, which envisions a cost-effective solution to the Dudley light rail cost problem.

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Amid growing concerns over the escalating costs and delays of the West Midland Metro extension between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill, a groundbreaking and financially savvy alternative is ready to revolutionise the region.

The Stourbridge Dasher, a proposal by local train operator Pre Metro, could save UK taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds while delivering improved connectivity and economic revitalisation to Dudley and surrounding areas.

The West Midlands Metro extension between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill has been plagued by budget overruns and delays, with costs ballooning from the original £449 million allocation to a projected £650 million.

The second phase alone, linking Dudley to the Waterfront, is now expected to cost £228 million, with additional funds required to extend the line to Merry Hill. The increased financial burden has sparked concern regarding its impact on other local projects.

Pre Metro, the pioneers behind the successful Stourbridge Shuttle, have proposed the Stourbridge Dasher as a more cost-effective alternative.

This service would utilise the existing Round Oak dual-track freight line, repurposing it for a bidirectional railcar service between Stourbridge Junction and Canal Street. The initial phase of the project, connecting Stourbridge to Brierley Hill, could be implemented for just £30 million.

Moreover, the Stourbridge Dasher could be extended to Merry Hill and Dudley for an additional £50 million, bringing the total cost to £80 million—representing a staggering 78% savings compared to the £228 million required for the equivalent Metro extension. This alternative not only promises substantial cost savings but also offers a faster implementation timeline and minimising the disruption to local communities.

The potential benefits of the Stourbridge Dasher extend beyond cost savings. Local surveys revealed overwhelming support from the community, with 87% of locals eager to use the new service and 40% of businesses along the proposed route expecting increased customer footfall. The service is also expected to enhance employment opportunities, with projections of a 63% increase at Merry Hill alone.

By repurposing existing infrastructure, the 'Stourbridge Dasher' aligns with principles of efficiency and sustainability. It offers a pragmatic solution to the region's transportation challenges, ensuring better value for taxpayers' money while enhancing connectivity between Dudley, Stourbridge, and Brierley Hill.

The Metro’s overspending on its tram extension projects, reportedly exceeding £100 million per kilometre—far above global norms—has cast a long shadow over any new transport proposals in the region, however.

Public funds are finite, and when such a significant portion is consumed without clear accountability or justification, it creates a hostile environment for new, potentially more cost-effective initiatives.

For Pre Metro, as a small business, this represents a significant obstacle. The inflated costs associated with Metro projects raise fears among potential investors and stakeholders that any transport project in the region will be similarly plagued.

Despite the clear advantages, Transport for West Midlands has deferred consideration of the proposal until more financing and study work are reported back in 2027. The current opportunity could be lost by then, leaving southern Dudley and Stourbridge, its businesses and passengers disconnected.

The West Midland Combined Authority could collaborate now with an existing local transport operator to adapt the Metro proposal, saving public money and enhancing regional connectivity. Adopting this approach can reduce the extension's cost and produce results over a much shorter time frame.

Pre Metro Director, Steve Jasper, a local resident, ratepayer and former Public Transport Manager, stated:

“It's time for the Combined Authority to prioritise financial accountability and embrace transformative alternatives, safeguarding public funds for the greater good and delivering a brighter, more connected future for all.”

Despite being an SME, Pre Metro have already pledged £25,000 to progress the Strategic Outline Business Case and they are requesting the Authority to review current proposals and assist with evaluating an alternative which offers a quicker solution and better value for money.

You can click here to download their Stourbridge Dasher Strategy.