1995-05-30 Steven Norris launches competition for Croydon Tramlink (Department of Transport)

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date 13 July 1995
source Department of Transport
type Press release

note 217

Steven Norris, Minister for Local Transport, today confirmed the
Government's acceptance of West Midlands local authorities' proposals
to fund the balance of the Midland Metro light rail scheme.

The scheme is being promoted by the West Midlands Passenger Transport
Executive (Centro), in their joint bid for funding under the package
approach to local transport investment.

Speaking in Birmingham, Mr Norris said:

"We have agreed an arrangement in line with Brian Mawhinney's
original announcement. I am delighted that this shows the
Government's commitment to supporting new, imaginative public
transport schemes within the package approach, where they really are
the best thing for the area. It is a further example of funding for
schemes which encourage greater use of public transport.

"The Midland Metro is excellent news for travellers in the
West Midlands; it will be good for the environment and provide
motorists with an alternative form of transport in a congested
corridor.

"The West Midlands were asked to make a significant contribution to
the scheme and they have done just that.

"It's a real achievement to raise #32m from the local private and
public sectors and it shows the confidence of the local community in
Midland Metro.

"I am delighted for everyone concerned that the project can now go
ahead."

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. Midland Metro Line 1 is a proposed 12 mile light rail line
intended to provide an improved public transport alternative to car
use, and to contribute to the regeneration of the Black Country, in a
corridor not currently well served by rail. It would run from
Birmingham to Wolverhampton through West Bromwich and Wednesbury,
serving a number of areas identified as priority areas for
regeneration. It is the top priority of the West Midlands Passenger
Transport Executive (Centro) and the seven West Midlands districts in
their joint "package" bid.

2. The scheme has been promoted by the West Midlands Passenger
Transport Executive (Centro), in their joint bid for funding under
the new "package" approach to local transport investment.

3. The package approach to local transport investment encourages
local authorities to submit bids for packages of measures covering
all forms of transport as part of a coherent transport strategy. It
also encourages joint bids by groups of local authorities.

Public Enquiries: 0171 276 0800

# = pounds sterling

Railhub Archive ::: 1995-07-13 DoT-001