Pre Metro has proposed the Stourbridge Dasher be considered to connect Dudley sooner rather than later, which could save taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds while delivering enhanced connectivity and economic revitalisation.

The Stourbridge Dasher is being proposed as a cost-effective replacement for Phase 2b of the Wednesbury and Brierley Hill Metro extension, a project fraught with budget overruns and delays. Originally allocated £449 million, the Metro extension’s costs have skyrocketed to an estimated £650 million.

Phase 2b, linking Dudley with Waterfront, is expected to cost £228 million, with additional funds required to reach the Merry Hill Embankment and Brierley Hill High Street. These escalating costs have raised concerns about the project’s affordability compared to other local initiatives.

Pre Metro’s service would utilise the existing Round Oak dual-track freight line, converting one line into a bidirectional rail service between Stourbridge Junction and Canal Street. Connecting Stourbridge to Brierley Hill could be achieved with just £30 million.

The potential benefits of the Stourbridge Dasher extend beyond cost savings. Local surveys reveal strong community support, with 87% of residents expressing interest in using the new service and 40% of businesses along the route expecting increased customer footfall. Employment opportunities are also likely to rise, with projections showing a 63% increase at Merry Hill alone.

Not only that but extending this scheme to include Dudley would total only £50 million—a staggering 78% saving when compared to the currently proposed tramway. In addition to substantial cost savings, the Stourbridge Dasher offers a faster implementation timeline, reduced disruption to local communities, and improved access between Dudley and Stourbridge.

By repurposing existing infrastructure, the project aligns with principles of efficiency and sustainability, addressing the region’s transport needs while ensuring better value for taxpayer money.

Concerns over excessive spending on recent tram extensions within the West Midlands— reportedly costing over £100 million per kilometre, far above global norms—have cast doubt on new transport initiatives in the region. With public funds finite, accountability is paramount, and VLR seems to offer a less disruptive and more cost-effective solution.

Despite these clear advantages, Transport for West Midlands has deferred consideration of the Dasher proposal until 2027, citing the need for further financing and study. This delay risks missing a critical opportunity to connect southern Dudley and Stourbridge, leaving local businesses and passengers underserved.

Pre Metro has urged the West Midlands Combined Authority to collaborate on adapting the Metro proposal sooner rather than later to save public money and improve regional connectivity. This approach would reduce costs and expedite project completion.

Steve Jasper, Director of Pre Metro, and local resident, ratepayer, and former Public Transport Manager, emphasised:

“It’s time for the Combined Authority to prioritise financial accountability and embrace transformative alternatives. By safeguarding public funds, we can deliver a brighter, more connected future for everyone.”

As an SME, Pre Metro has already pledged £25,000 to advance the Strategic Outline Business Case. They are now requesting that the Authority review current proposals and assist in evaluating an alternative that offers quicker results and better value for money.

Stourbridge’s Bigger Picture Strategy can be accessed here.