Wolverhampton's new railway station unveiled as construction almost complete
Main construction of Wolverhampton’s new railway station is set to be completed this week.
It is part of the £150million Interchange scheme, which is delivering improvements to bus, tram, cycle and train connectivity across the city.
Phase 1 of the station has been open to the public since May last year, with train services running.
Handover can begin shortly to West Midlands Railway and Network Rail so equipment and facilities can tested and commissioned, before a date is announced to open Phase 2 to the public.
Phase 1 includes six ticket vending machines, new British Transport Police, toilet, accessibility and baby changing facilities, three retail units ready to be fitted out, train crew accommodation, and a spacious concourse.
Phase 2 includes three more retail units, as well as a customer lounge and dedicated customer help point.
City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Ian Brookfield, said: “This is a historic moment in Wolverhampton’s history and is symbolic of the multi-billion-pound regeneration that is taking place in our city.
“It has been a long-held ambition to build a railway station befitting of our great city and connect train, tram, cycle and bus in one place to provide a gateway to Wolverhampton that everyone can be proud of.
“I am delighted that we as a Council have delivered on this vision thanks to strong collaborative work with all our partners.
“Covid-19 restrictions mean many people will not yet have seen the new station and I cannot wait for the time to come when these impressive new facilities can be used to their maximum by everyone.
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “This fantastic new Wolverhampton Railway Station is a critical part of our public transport plans for the West Midlands.
“The station links up with both the new Midland Metro extension along Pipers Row, the bus station and the new West Midlands Cycle Hire network, meaning residents in Wolverhampton will be able to travel seamlessly across the West Midlands."
Brenda Lawrence, Head of Stations for West Midlands Railway, added: “Wolverhampton is one of the biggest and most important stations on our network and the completion of the new building marks a major milestone for the city and the wider railway.
“With passenger numbers expected to increase over coming months our station team are looking forward to welcoming our customers back to the railway and showcasing these fantastic new facilities.”