Progress Update on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro Extension

Posted on 1st June 2026

MPB is pleased to provide a comprehensive update on our ongoing civil engineering works for the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro Extension (WBHE). Operating in partnership with the Midland Metro Alliance (MMA), this project represents our second major collaboration with the organisation, following the successful delivery of Phase 1 at Delta Junction.

The current phase involves extending the tram route from Flood Street in Dudley town centre to the Merry Hill Shopping Centre, incorporating four new tram stops along the route. As the lead contractor, MPB is managing all aspects of the civil engineering works prior to the installation of track and overhead lines.

Engineering Scope and Key Deliverables

Our team is delivering over 600m of high-quality infrastructure, necessitating a precise and resource-intensive programme. To date, our scope of works has included:

Earthworks: Movement of more than 30,000 m3 of stone and excavated materials.
Piling: Installation of 1,260 tonnes of sheet piles and 8,700m of bored piles.
Structural Concrete: Placement of 7,000 m3 of structural concrete.
Steelwork: Erection of 622 tonnes of structural steelwork.

Project Milestones and Progress

The works are strategically divided into two key sections: the Merry Hill tram stop and footbridge, and the viaduct and transition structures.

At Merry Hill, we are nearing the completion of the earthworks platform, which is situated within a narrow corridor between the Dudley Canal and the shopping centre’s main access road. This milestone allows us to progress with bored and sheet piling ahead of the concrete works phase.

At Waterfront Way, piling for the viaduct is now complete. Our teams are currently constructing pile caps and piers in preparation for structural steel installation, scheduled for May 2026. This section includes the construction of a 45m span bridge over the Dudley Canal.

Delivering Best Value

Throughout this complex scheme, MPB has utilised early contractor engagement to ensure best value for our client. We remain committed to minimising disruption to canal users and local shoppers as we work towards delivering waterproofed structures ready for final track installation.

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