Midland Metro plan to create 1,500 new jobs

Giving evidence for transport authority Centro, Mr Neil Cameron QC said the £18 million scheme will improve connectivity for rail and bus passengers, bring new investment into the city, and create a direct link to HS2's proposed station in Birmingham.

The inquiry at Novotel heard that all but three of 11 objectors to the scheme had now withdrawn.

Of those remaining opposed to the scheme, two, Mr Jas Singh of the Wulfrun Hotel, and Gladedale Esates, owner of the Old Steam Mill, also indicated they would withdraw, Mr Cameron said.

Previously, they had concerns over the impact it would have on their premises.

The only remaining objector, CP Co3 Limited, who own the NCP car park site in Pipers Row, is in negotiations with Centro.

None of the objectors gave evidence at the inquiry yesterday.

Mr Neil Cameron QC, representing Centro, told the public inquiry into the extension of the Metro to then rail station, that the redevelopment would transform public transport in the city and create new investment in the city.

He said: "Passenger use of Wolverhampton Railway station has more than doubled since 2005, but does not provide the type of facilities expected in the 21st century.

"A scheme to address the deficiencies of the railway station and to improve integration and connectivity between heavy rail and the tram system has been developed, the is the Wolverhampton Interchange Project.

"It is proposed that the railway station be improved to make it fit for the 21st century. The concourse area will be developed, delivering a much improved passenger experience allowing use of ticket gates."

He also said car access to the station and car park would move via Corn Hill with only trams, service and emergency vehicles allowed to use the existing access from Railway Drive.

He also said that Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin had given the green light to allow Centro to borrow nearly £22m to complete the interchange project, including a revamp of the station.

The project will link up the Metro with Wolverhampton rail station, although it will mean fewer trams going to the current St George's terminus in Bilston Street.

New tracks will be laid at the junction of Bilston Street and Pipers Row, close to Wolverhampton Crown Court. Two new stops will be provided by the bus and rail stations. The 23-stop route is also being extended in Birmingham from the Snow Hill terminus to New Street station.

Planning inspector Stephen Roscoe will reserve his judgement with a decision on whether the scheme can go ahead expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.