THE operators of the Stourbridge Shuttle are surveying businesses about plans to create a Dasher service from Stourbridge to Brierley Hill.

Pre Metro is working with Oakham Research to conduct further public consultation about the proposed service.

Previous surveys took place between November 2019 and May 2020, where 88 per cent of the 1,438 responses showcased how locals in Stourbridge and Brierley Hill were in favour of a proposed light rail link between the two locations.

Since the research was conducted, construction on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension.

The aim of the latest questionnaires and field research is to encourage local businesses to further share their views on the Dasher, which would connect Stourbridge with the Metro extension.

The Shuttle operators hope to gain a greater understanding of the impact the proposed service could have on the ability of local businesses to recruit and retain suitable staff – and how it would impact on sales and prosperity.

Pre Metro bosses also hope to understand the potential ticketing packages that could be offered to local businesses to encourage regular commuter patronage.

Steve Jasper, operations director of Pre Metro, said: “We are confident the passenger service from Stourbridge to Brierley Hill will benefit everyone along the route and beyond - businesses, commuters, shoppers and leisure travellers. The survey will provide further data to support our proposals.”

John Poole, research director at Oakham, added: “This is a great opportunity for local businesses, large and small, to shape improvements to the local transport network and tell us about their thoughts on this initiative.”

The research findings will be made public in early 2024.

Businesses in Stourbridge town centre, Stourbridge Junction, Vicarage Lane, Brettell Lane, Moor Street, Canal Street, Brierley Hill High Street, the Merry Hill centre and The Waterfront have been asked for their views.

Any businesses based within 1km of the locations that have not been contacted can email info@premetro.org for further information.