First phase of tram extension on track

The first half of an extension of the Midland Metro line, leading to Moor Street Queensway, has been completed

The first phase of work on an extension to a key Midland Metro line in Birmingham has been completed.

New tram tracks have been laid from Lower Bull Street to Moor Street Queensway paving the way for the partial opening of the city's Eastside extension.

The tracks now run from Lower Bull Street through Dale End, Albert Street and into Moor Street Queensway, where a total 315m (1,033 ft) of double rail is now in place.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said the news would be welcomed by city centre businesses and commuters. "We all want to see this Metro extension up and running as soon as possible," he added.

The West Midland's mayor Richard Parker said the tram line extension would help tackle traffic congestion

It will eventually lead to a temporary tram stop outside the Clayton Hotel, with passengers able to use this section of the route as early as next year.

Midland Metro Alliance, working on behalf of Transport for West Midlands, has started preliminary activities for phase two, including removal of the road surface and diverting utilities.

This phase of construction along Moor Street Queensway is expected to be completed in the autumn.

The Birmingham Eastside Metro extension will run from Bull Street, in the city centre, to Digbeth, which will see additional tram stops and a new bus interchange in the Moor Street area.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.