An update has been issued regarding a huge £61million UK that will reconnect three areas to the network with new stations. Officials have said Kings Heath, Moseley Village and Pineapple Road on the Camp Hill Line through the are "on track" and expected to commence operations later this year for the first time in more than 80 years. It comes after their openings were pushed back several times, as officials said services would begin at the stops at the end of 2023, then the end of 2024, and finally, the end of 2025.
The West Midlands Combined Authority said construction work is ongoing on the line closed to passenger trains during the . Trains ran for over a century as the line became one of the oldest in the West Midlands. It opened as part of the Birmingham and Gloucester railway in 1840. However, the stations closed in 1941, and since then, the line has been used only by freight and non-stop through services.
At Kings Heath, two platforms and lift shafts are in place, ready for a passenger footbridge's arrival later in the spring. A pedestrian crossing is also being installed on the road outside.
In addition, construction work is underway on platforms and infrastructure at Moseley Village and Pineapple Road, with completion expected by the end of this year.
The Labour Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, who ousted Tory Andy Street last year, said: "I know how much the community want to see these stations reopened and I am reassured by our partners and contractors that we are making good progress towards completing construction.
"This will make a huge difference to the people living here, giving them access to fast and reliable journeys that avoid traffic congestion on the Alcester Road - making it easier to get to work, college or enjoy a day out.
"They will also bring people into the area and that will support local businesses, creating jobs and helping local high streets to thrive and grow. Investment in public transport is a key part of my plan to make the West Midlands the best place to live, work and do business."
