During the course of the Inquiry which concluded in April this year, Centro reached agreement with both Network Rail and the Strategic Rail Authority to protect the route of a parallel railway track should it ever be needed for freight trains.

Objections by rail enthusiasts wanting to see passenger train services were dismissed as expensive and unrealistic.  Centro’s evidence claimed that the extra work required would cost more than £36m and that, according to the Government’s Strategic Rail Authority “… there is no demand that would justify a passenger service on the Walsall to Stourbridge axis, either now or in the foreseeable future”.

In contrast, the Government inspector was shown considerable support for the Metro expansion proposals.  Development agency Advantage West Midlands said the line is one of the region’s top transport investment priorities.  “Its delivery is of crucial importance, forming an essential piece of the jigsaw improving sustainable accessibility within the West Midlands,” it told the Inquiry.

Other bodies adding their support included English Heritage, which welcomed the improvements Metro would bring to the Dudley Castle area.  It told the Inquiry: “we welcome the wider regeneration benefits the Metro extension could bring to the area and the associated opportunities for safeguarding and enhancing its rich historic heritage.”

The Environment Agency withdrew its objection to the tramway after being satisfied there would be minimal impact on watercourses.  In other cases Centro and its borough council partners gave assurances that the negative impact of constructing and running the Metro would be kept to a minimum.