Government gives pounds 80m to Midlands rail line
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Government last night announced the go-ahead for the Midland Metro light railway scheme, a 12-mile route linking Birmingham and Wolverhampton.
The Under-Secretary of State for Transport, Steven Norris, said in a written reply to the Commons: "I am pleased to announce that we are now satisfied with the level of local funding being provided for this project. I can therefore confirm that the Government will provide pounds 80m of funding, as requested by the local authorities."
With a local contribution of pounds 32m, plus money expected from the European Regional Development Fund, this would provide enough money for the scheme to proceed, Mr Norris added.
"Midland Metro Line One is excellent news for travellers in the West Midlands," he said.
"It will be good for the environment and provide motorists with an atlernative form of transport in a congested corridor," he said.
The line will run from Birmingham to Wolverhampton through West Bromwich and Wednesbury.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments