Public transport in Brandhall, Sandwell, is set for a major improvement with the opening of a major new bus interchange from public transport promoter Centro jointly with Sandwell MBC.

PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and Sandwell Council cabinet member Bob Badham will officially open the interchange in a ribbon cutting ceremony. Brandhall interchange brings a number of bus services together at one location and contributes to the regeneration of the area, with a health centre and pharmacy already open and a new retail development to follow. Until now, the nine bus routes serving this area have used stops in a variety of nearby locations.

A new access road, Foley Drive (near Tame Road and Kingsway) is the location for the interchange, with all local services re-routed to use the two new shelters provided. These have the latest shelters and kerbs to make boarding the bus easier. The shelters and the access road will have new lighting, up to date timetables and other information for passengers.

The scheme includes a £47,000 contribution from Centro, towards the shelters and highways works for the new road.

Cllr Clarke said: “I am delighted to be opening this new bus interchange, which brings together important local bus services to one place in Brandhall. I am sure people will be impressed by the interchange and it will be popular.”

Cllr Bob Badham added: “The regeneration of Sandwell is moving forward quickly and Brandhall is a key part of the many changes going on in the borough. The bus interchange, with the new health centre and supermarket, will be a good package for this part of Sandwell.”