Birmingham MP’s frustration after tram services are suspended

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Published 21st Mar 2022, 16:38 GMT

Updated 21st Mar 2022, 16:40 GMT

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Midlands Metro services have been suspended for a third time in a matter of months

Edgbaston MP Preet Gill has said “taxpayers deserve better” after all tram services in the West Midlands were been suspended for a third time in nine months.

All Metro services have been halted since Sunday (March 20) until further notice.

TfWM said the inspections highlighted new bodywork cracks on some of the older trams which require additional checks from the manufacturer.

As a result, they have decided to suspend all services as a precautionary measure.

All tram services in the region were suspended last June, and then again in November after cracks were discovered for a second time.

Regular services returned at the end of January, but have now been suspended once again.

Further extension of the Midland Metro tram network is a key part of the Transport for West Midlands bid for up to £2bn from government to improve services across the region — Further extension of the Midland Metro tram network is a key part of the Transport for West Midlands bid for up to £2bn from government to improve services across the region | Still image from Local TV

Further extension of the Midland Metro tram network is a key part of the Transport for West Midlands bid for up to £2bn from government to improve services across the region — Further extension of the Midland Metro tram network is a key part of the Transport for West Midlands bid for up to £2bn from government to improve services across the region | Still image from Local TV

“Completely unacceptable”

Following the news, Edgbaston (Labour) MP Ms Gill took to Twitter to express her frustration over the situation.

She wrote: This is the third suspension of Metro services between Birmingham and Wolverhampton which is completely unacceptable. Has the company who supplied these trains been held to account by West Midlands Combined Authority and the Mayor? - taxpayers deserve better!”

What’s been said following the announcement?

Regarding the latest suspension a spokesperson said: “We understand the frustration many people will feel at this latest interruption to services, and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

During inspections, new bodywork cracks have been identified on some of our older trams which require additional checks to be carried out by the manufacturer.

“As a precautionary measure, tram services have been suspended until further notice.

“We are working alongside the manufacturer, to restore services as quickly as possible.

“While this situation is ongoing, we are committed to keeping our customers moving.”

TfWM has also supplied walking directions for alternative travel. For more information click: Transport for West Midlands.

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