Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council have put forward plans to develop a facility in the region which will develop light rail technology. They’ve put forward a planning application which would see a £25m transport hub which would offer an alternative to heavier rail travel or traditional metro transport systems.

The council was allocated £18m of funding towards the project last year by the Black Country LEP – and they’ll be in attendance at the Black Country Development Plans Conference on the 5th February where this, alongside many other projects around the area, are likely to be discussed.

If given the go-ahead the scheme will include a twin test track stretching 2km with test platforms, as well as a laboratory, engineering workshop, teaching rooms and conference space. The test track is likely to be developed along the former rail line which is now disused.

Councillor Ian Kettle, Cabinet Member for Planning & Economic Development at Dudley Council, said the project would bring global benefits to the borough: ”This is one of the most exciting regeneration projects to take place in Dudley. If given the go ahead the innovation hub will put Dudley at the forefront of the world’s development of very light rail technology. We will be able to market this as a product worldwide and significantly boost our opportunities to strengthen and grow our local economy.”

We’re excited to hear from various speakers at the Black Country Development Plans Conference including Stewart Towe CBE, Chairman of the Black Country LEP which will give a fantastic overview of regional plans. Click here to see the full set of speakers.