Midland Metro - Birmingham and West Midlands

In 1999 the £145 million Midland Metro was opened, promoted by both Centro and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority. Government and European grants, an approved loan and various Councils funded the scheme, as well as contributions from Centro, the West Midland Passenger Transport Authority and ALTRAM. Behind the fleet of 16 trams, John Laing plc were responsible for the construction of the track, stops and buildings, whilst ALTRAM designed, constructed and operated Midland Metro Line One. Line One is 12½ miles long, serves 23 stops and runs on mainly reserved track, using both a rail alignment and some on-street running. There are future extensions planned.