Transport for West Midlands – Midland Metro Expansion West Midlands

Transforming urban transport

THE CHALLENGE: Expanding connectivity, overcoming complexity

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) embarked on an ambitious expansion of the Midland Metro to improve regional connectivity. The multi-phase programme, of over £1 billion in investment, included new tram routes, depot upgrades and fleet procurement. Given the scale and complexity of the projects, TfWM needed specialist expertise to manage programme delivery, scheduling and risk while ensuring seamless stakeholder coordination.

OUR RESPONSE: Embedded Project Management expertise

We have worked closely with TfWM for over 15 years, providing embedded Project Management professionals across a range of key leadership and specialist roles. Our team integrated seamlessly within TfWM, offering proactive, dedicated support tailored to the client’s systems, processes and objectives. We played a crucial role in the development and delivery of major projects, including the Birmingham City Centre Extension, Wolverhampton City Centre Extension, Birmingham Eastside Extension and the Wednesbury Brierley Hill Extension.

Our contributions have spanned programme management, project sponsorship, scheduling, risk management, interface coordination and quality assurance. We navigated complex programme requirements, managed procurement and implementation of enhancements and repairs to the tram fleet, oversaw infrastructure upgrades and provided strategic leadership in alliance and utilities management to ensure smooth project progression.

THE RESULT: Delivering milestones, driving progress 

We played a key role in the successful execution of multiple high-value projects, ensuring the successful expansion and modernisation of the Midland Metro. Our expertise helped to deliver complex projects and programmes, supporting the network’s long-term growth and efficiency. 

THE IMPACT: Transforming transport, empowering communities 

Our work has helped transform public transport in the West Midlands, improving connectivity and accessibility. Our expertise has supported economic growth and sustainable transport solutions, ensuring TfWM can effectively deliver major infrastructure projects with lasting benefits for communities, businesses and commuters. 

 Find out more about our Project Management services at Ridge.  

  • £1 billion

    Programme Capital Value

  • Over 14 roles

    Filled via Ridge secondment 

The Ridge corporate element remains in the background with a focus firmly on delivery of service to the client. This totally aligns with our requirements. The Ridge team consistently works above and beyond client expectations. Ridge add value.

Phil Hewitt

Metro Programme Director, Transport for West Midlands

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