Next phase of £19m street works set to start

Work would begin on Darlington Street in January, the council said

Plans are being put in place for the next phase of a £19m revamp of Wolverhampton city centre, due to begin in January.

Work at three locations remained on track to be completed in mid-2027, the city council said, under a project set to deliver wider, brighter streets; vibrant public events spaces; more trees and seating; and easy access for buses, cycles and taxis.

First stage works are currently taking place on lower Darlington Street which - following a delay linked to an old water main - will re-open to traffic by 21 November, according to the authority.

The next phase on upper Darlington Street is to start in January, along with work on sections of Queen Square and Lichfield Street.

"These works will ultimately enable people to better enjoy our city centre from the moment they arrive and are the next step in our transformation plans that have already seen improvements in North Street and Victoria Street, delivering positive outcomes for businesses, residents and visitors," councillor Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills, said.

"Creating enhanced walking, cycling and dwell space, as well as infrastructure for events and attractions, and a better environment for city centre living is helping to boost the local economy."

Several other regeneration and new building projects are under way or due in the city, including a £150m transport interchange and commercial district and thousands of new homes coming at Smithgate and Canalside.

Burden thanked residents and shoppers for their patience while the work was carried out.