Multimillion-pound city centre revamp expanded

An artist's impression of what the finished scheme could look on Lichfield Street

A multi-million pound scheme to transform Wolverhampton city centre has been expanded.

A two-year project to give Lichfield Street, Queen Square and Darlington Street wider footpaths, improved bus stops, cycle and taxi routes will start later this year.

The scheme, originally estimated to cost £12.5 million, will now cost £19 million, the City of Wolverhampton Council said.

The plans are all part of a move to make the city centre "a place where people can enjoy living and working," an authority spokesperson added.

The works will include repositioned and improved bus stops provision and coach stops to serve the Grand Theatre.

There will also be a two-way continuous cycle route, one-way bus and taxi access, improved and protected event spaces as well as new street furniture and tree planting, the council said.

The council began consultation in 2022 for the project which was originally intended for Darlington Street's junction with Waterloo Road, to the Interchange.

A spokesperson confirmed the entire scheme was expected to take two years - but works will be paused for key city centre events and over Christmas.

“The £19 million transformation scheme follows extensive consultation with businesses, the public and key stakeholders," the authority said.

“It will be fully funded by central government thanks to successful bids for regeneration and transport infrastructure projects such as this.

“The completed scheme will deliver high-quality improvements to the city centre, with the aim to stimulate more visitors and encourage healthy city living lifestyles."