£72m transport boost for West Midlands

The Government cash was announced by Chancellor Philip Hammond in his Budget and comes on top £250m already secured through the Transforming Cities Fund.

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street said the cash was a vote of confidence in the region’s on-going economic revival under the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

The Chancellor has also pledged £20m to the region to fund the UK Mobility Data Institute, which analyses data to aid the development of autonomous vehicle (CAV) and electric vehicle (EV) technology.

Tory Mayor Mr Street said: “The money announced for the West Midlands once again demonstrates the Government’s confidence in our region and our ability to build a strong and resilient economy that can meet the needs of local people and the challenges and opportunities of Brexit.

“The extra funding for transport infrastructure is especially important and will help us manage the increased congestion and disruption that comes with a growing economy and the construction of major projects like HS2. It will also help us tackle poor air quality.

“The Chancellor has also recognised our role as a global player in the development of future transport technologies. The £20 million he has awarded for a new data research centre will help keep us at the cutting edge of this future industry.

“So there is some positive news in this Budget for our region and we now look forward to working with Government to secure further funding in the forthcoming Comprehensive Spending Review.”

Councillor Roger Lawrence, the leader of Wolverhampton Council and the WMCA's lead for transport, also welcomed the cash.

He said: "We are clearly getting recognition regarding the needs of the wider West Midlands.

"We look forward to bringing in transport solutions that will improve connectivity around the region."

Meanwhile, Mr Street has praised the Chancellor's decision to offer £900m in business rates relief for Britain’s small high street retailers. He said £675m to rejuvenate high streets was also 'much needed'.

The support for retailers comes just days after the Mayor launched a West Midlands’ project to transform five town centres, including Bilston, West Bromwich, Dudley and Walsall.