PLANS for the £200m Midlands Metro extension to Brierley Hill have moved a step closer after a funding bid was handed to the Transport Secretary Chris Grayling.

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street met with Mr Grayling at the Houses of Parliament on Monday (June 19) to hand over the business case for the project.

The seven-mile extension from Wednesbury to the new DY5 Enterprise Zone at Brierley Hill would see the Metro run through Great Bridge, Horseley Heath, Dudley Port, Dudley town centre, the Waterfront and Merry Hill, before terminating at Brierley Hill town centre.

The route will be a key part of the tram network across the region and will play a significant role in the regeneration and economic growth for the West Midlands, as well as creating job opportunities in the area.

Mr Street said: “I said in my manifesto that starting work on this project during my first three years in office was a priority and securing the funding is the first step, which is why I wanted to see the Secretary of State so quickly.

“The business case shows that for every pound invested in this project, it will return £2.50 for the local economy."

The move has been welcomed by Dudley Council leader, Councillor Patrick Harley, who added: "The Metro is vital to the Dudley economy. It will bring improved transport connectivity and crucially help to deliver major regeneration, housing and employment opportunities across the area including our DY5 Enterprise Zone.

“I am delighted the business case has now been submitted to Government. We will continue to support our colleagues at the Combined Authority and Transport for West Midlands to ensure that the economic argument is as compelling and persuasive as possible."