Part of the Midland Metro is shut for upgrade

The Midland Metro was partially closed today as part of a five-day maintenance project.

The line between Wednesbury and Wolverhampton shut yesterday to allow the £500,000 project — to improve overhead power lines — to be carried out.

The route will not reopen until Thursday and passengers can use Metro tickets on National Express West Midland bus services but not on the rail network.

Trams are operating as normal between Wednesbury Parkway and Birmingham Snow Hill.

Metro spokeswoman Sophie Allison said the work should improve the Metro's reliability. "We apologise for any disruption but this is the best way for us to get the work done," she said.

The Metro is undergoing a raft of improvements.

Transport authority Centro and Travel Midland Metro are carrying out the work to ensure reliability of the tram line.

The upgrade will replace the supports to the overhead power lines with new materials that enjoy a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.