Walsall rail projects to resume after contractor collapse

Once completed, Darlaston (pictured) and Walsall will have a rail network for the first time in more than 50 years

Rail bosses have confirmed the development of two stations in the West Midlands can go ahead following a fresh deal with a new contractor.

Kier Transportation bought Buckingham Group's Rail division after its collapse in August enabling work on for Willenhall and Darlaston to proceed.

An update on the project will be presented to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) board on Friday.

Work started on Willenhall in 2021 but stalled over the financial issues.

The project aims to link Walsall and Wolverhampton directly by passenger train for the first time in more than half a century.

Two trains per hour will call at the new stations, including an hourly service between Walsall and Wolverhampton, and an hourly service between Birmingham New Street and Wolverhampton.

Work on Willenahll (pictured) and Darlaston stalled after the contractor filed for administration

The new deal between Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which is leading the project, and the contractors has saved around 180 jobs.

West Midlands mayor Andy Street and WMCA Chair said those involved wanted minimum disruption to the project.

"For Buckingham Group staff who were working on Willenhall and Darlaston stations, the last few weeks have understandably been a difficult time," he said.

"That's why it's great news that we will see many of them back on site now that we have reached agreement with Kier.

Councillor Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council and WMCA portfolio holder for transport, said: "Although there have been a difficult few weeks on site we can now look ahead with renewed enthusiasm.

"This will not only offer local people easy access to the railways, it will make Willenhall and Darlaston more attractive to investors and businesses, creating regeneration opportunities and new jobs for locals."

Joe Incutti, group managing director, Kier Transportation, added he was pleased the contract had been finalised and the team can be "remobilised" to continue with the project.