There has been significant progress on the West Midlands Regional Transport Priorities Action Plan, according to Regional Minister Ian Austin MP.
Introducing the first full annual progress review since the Action Plan was launched in December 2008, Mr Austin said: “We need a reliable and efficient transport network to help boost economic growth and attract new investment and jobs to the West Midlands, as well as helping tackle climate change and helping to make our roads, railways and other transport networks safer and more secure.”
The report shows progress made in taking forward delivery of the nine transport priorities identified in the Action Plan in 2009. In particular, work has started on the transformation of Birmingham New Street Station into a gateway for the whole region, planning permission was granted for the runway extension at Birmingham Airport, additional capacity on sections of the M42 and M40 were completed ahead of schedule and work is well underway on improving the rail links to ports for freight movements.
Mark Pearce, Corporate Director, Economic Regeneration, Advantage West Midlands (AWM) said: “This is an exciting time for transport in the region - we are starting to see the aims of the Action plan translated into practical results, which will have a hugely beneficial effect.
“I’m glad to say that the Action Plan has gained a great deal of support and endorsement from our partners across the region, who all recognise transport as a priority.
“This report increases the transparency of what is happening with important transport projects for businesses and people across the region, showing which projects are on target and also highlighting challenges which we must tackle together to achieve maximum value.”
The report also identifies key milestones for projects over the coming year, including:
• Completion of the surface access public transport (ANITA) scheme to deliver high quality public transport access to Birmingham International Airport and the National Exhibition Centre for travellers, visitors and employees in December 2010 / early 2011
• Start of construction for the A41/A4031 Expressway West Bromwich scheme to improve access to this key centre of the Black Country, supporting its economic and social regeneration
• Submission to Government in late summer for conditional approval of the Connecting Coventry scheme that will act as a catalyst for development around Coventry rail station and support the regeneration of a key Impact Investment Locations
• Complete the roll out of concessionary pass smart card schemes by December 2010, making a positive step towards ensuring that Smart Choices are a real and attractive option for people and businesses.
Olwen Dutton, Chief Executive, West Midlands Leaders Board said: “Improving transport infrastructure and mobility is crucial for the wellbeing of the people, communities and businesses in the West Midlands. This Action Plan is an essential catalyst for regeneration and transformation across the West Midlands.
“The Progress Report is very good news, demonstrating that by working together we can deliver. We have to build on this success and be even smarter, as there is still much to be done and securing the funding will be even tougher. We’ll continue to work together, both public and private sector partners to take advantage of opportunities to make sure that investment continues to support our ambitions.”
View the full report - PDF - 802kb.