West Midlands Metro Trams Complete First Test on Eastside Extension to Birmingham Stadium

Trams have successfully completed overnight tests on the first phase of the Eastside extension of the West Midlands Metro, reaching Birmingham's Millennium Point and progressing toward Birmingham City FC’s upcoming 60,000-seat stadium. This initial phase includes two new stops providing access to key locations such as Moor Street Station, Millennium Point, and Birmingham City University, while work continues to extend the line to Digbeth Coach Station. The extension will also integrate nearly 400,000 weekly bus passengers at Moor Street interchange into a unified transport hub linking buses, trams, rail, and cycle hire. West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker has committed £400 million to complete the tram extension to the new stadium and the broader Sports Quarter regeneration, with plans also underway for further expansion toward Birmingham Airport and the HS2 Interchange. The successful tests mark the first time trams have operated along Lower Bull Street, Albert Street, and Moor Street Queensway, with passenger services expected to start in autumn after further testing, driver training, and timetable trials. Mayor Parker emphasized that the Metro expansion is vital for unlocking £3 billion in private investment and creating new opportunities for communities, enhancing connectivity across East Birmingham and Solihull.