Dudley Very Light Rail Innovation Centre Enters Administration

The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO), operator of the Very Light Rail (VLR) National Innovation Centre in Dudley, has entered administration due to funding shortfalls and rising costs. Joint administrators Deviesh Raikundalia and Tyrone Courtman of RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP have been appointed to manage the process, with the centre remaining open and trading during this period, though some redundancies have occurred. BCIMO was instrumental in developing the VLR project, including a successful trial in Coventry involving battery-powered trams designed for tight urban routes, and has been a key partner alongside Coventry City Council and the University of Warwick. Despite BCIMO's administration, Coventry City Council has stated that the VLR project will continue as planned, with the next phase of development ongoing. Administrators are exploring options to sell BCIMO’s business and assets to preserve the innovation centre and brand. The £32 million VLR centre, featuring rail research facilities and a test track, has been recognized for advancing rail innovation and community engagement initiatives.