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2012 Press Releases
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Public consultation begins on new Bromsgrove Railway Station
2012-12-21T00:00:00
2013-01-17T00:00:00
How the new Bromsgrove Railway Interchange will look.
<p>"</p>
<p>Residents, businesses and key stakeholders are being asked to
have their say on plans for Bromsgrove Rail Station.</p>
<p>Centro and Worcestershire County Council are jointly funding a
new railway interchange in Bromsgrove to replace the existing
station, in partnership with the Department for Transport and
Network Rail.</p>
<p>The current proposal would see the station moved further south
to allow Network Rail to electrify the line from Barnt Green to
Bromsgrove.</p>
<p>This strategic project will also allow the train companies to
increase the frequency of the rail service between Bromsgrove and
Birmingham.</p>
<p>Improved facilities and better integration with local bus
services will make it more attractive for people to use the train
to travel between Bromsgrove and Birmingham and Worcester, reducing
congestion, carbon emissions and making it easier to access the
town.</p>
<p>Local people are being encouraged to have their say on the plans
from January 7 up until March 17, 2013.</p>
<p>People will be able to feed back on the proposals either by
attending one of the exhibitions in January, filling in a freepost
questionnaire or going online to complete the survey and find out
more: <a
href="/">www.worcestershire.gov.uk/bromsgrovestation</a>.</p>
<p>Leaflets will be hand delivered to nearby properties by
mid-January and will also be available in the Hub and Bromsgrove
Library and on the exhibition bus.�Leaflets will also be handed to
rail users on the existing platform to get their views.</p>
<p>Exhibitions will be taking place on a bus at the following times
and locations with display boards about the proposals and
representatives from Centro and Worcestershire County Council.</p>
<p><strong>Bromsgrove Rail Station</strong>:</p>
<p>7am � 9.45am, Tuesday 15, Wednesday 16, Tuesday 29and Wednesday
30 January, 2013.</p>
<p>4-6pm Tuesday 15, Tuesday 29 and Wednesday 30 January, 2013.</p>
<p><strong>Bromsgrove Town Centre</strong></p>
<p>10.30am � 3:30pm, Tuesday 15, Wednesday 16, Tuesday 29 and
Wednesday 30 January, 2013.</p>
<p><strong>Bromsgrove District Council Car Park</strong></p>
<p>4pm � 6pm, Wednesday 16 January, 2013.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Residents, businesses and key stakeholders are being asked to have their say on plans for Bromsgrove Rail Station."
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Public transport just the ticket for party-goers
2012-12-18T00:00:00
2012-12-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Party-goers can enjoy a festive tipple without the risk of drink
driving by taking advantage of extensive public transport services
this Christmas and New Year.</p>
<p>With police launching a Christmas crack-down on drink driving
earlier this month, a full timetable of public transport during the
holidays has been unveiled by transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>Boxing Day in particular will see a comprehensive network of bus
and tram services arriving in city centres as early as 8am so shop
staff can get to work and shoppers can bag an early bargain in the
sales.�</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "It's great that
there are such a large number of bus services for people to use
across the West Midlands during the Christmas period.</p>
<p>"Over the holidays people are often out shopping, visiting
friends and family or going to office parties and enjoying a
festive drink. But it's often too easy to find yourself over the
limit, so the extensive range of services on offer gives people the
ideal alternative to driving. �</p>
<p>"With the winter sales proving extremely popular among shoppers,
it is particularly pleasing that so many services will be operating
on Boxing Day, one of the busiest shopping days of the year."</p>
<p>National Express will run Boxing Day buses on more than 80 key
routes across the region. This will be boosted by Centro using
public money to provide 49 further services, in those places where
no buses are being run on a commercial basis.</p>
<p>On December 27, 28 and New Year's Eve most buses will run a
Saturday service.</p>
<p>Meanwhile the Midland Metro will operate a 15 minute service
between 8.30am and 6.00pm on Boxing Day. A normal service will run
between December 27 and New Year's Eve.</p>
<p>New Year's Day will see most buses, trains and trams operate a
Sunday service.</p>
<p>Trains will have a two day scheduled break on Christmas Day and
Boxing Day. A reduced service will operate on local routes via
Birmingham New Street on December 27 and 28.</p>
<p>Centro started paying for Boxing Day bus services on key routes
nine years ago. Before that there had been no services for more
than two decades.</p>
<p>The move has proved extremely popular and passenger numbers are
now so high that National Express West Midlands operates many of
the routes on a commercial basis without the need for a subsidy
from the public purse.</p>
<p>Full details of public transport services over the entire
festive period including Boxing Day timetables are available at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/xmas</a> under Xmas
services.</p>
<p>For more information about train services over the Christmas
period visit <a href="/">www.nationalrail.co.uk/christmas</a></p>
<p>Leaflets containing the details are also available at local
travel shops in the Network West Midlands area.</p>
<p>"</p>
Party-goers can enjoy a festive tipple without the risk of drink driving by taking advantage of extensive public transport services this Christmas and New Year.
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First glimpse of New Street's bright future
2012-12-12T00:00:00
2012-12-12T00:00:00
The first sections of New Street's stunning new fa�ade are installed
<p>"</p>
<p>An early glimpse of Birmingham New Street's bright future
appeared this week as the first sections of the station and new
retail destinations stunning new fa�ade were installed.</p>
<p>Workers have started the huge task of installing 8,000
reflective stainless steel panels which will eventually envelop the
entire building.�</p>
<p>When complete in 2015, the fa�ade will transform the drab, grey
station building which has dominated the city centre for the last
40 years into a futuristic transport hub and aspirational retail
destination for Birmingham.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, Chairman of transport authority Centro,
said: "It's fantastic to see the outside of what will be an iconic
building start to take shape.</p>
<p>"This new station, with a Midland Metro tram link stopping right
outside, will give West Midlands passengers the high quality public
transport they need and deserve.""</p>
<p>The north side of the building and newnorth westcorner entrance,
aboveStephenson Streetwill be the first area of the building to be
clad in the reflective steel facade, this area is expected to be
complete when the switchover of the station happens in April
2013.�</p>
<p>The installation of the fa�ade will then progress in a broadly
anti clockwise direction around the station with the west, south
and finally in 2015 the east elevations of the building being
clad.</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, Project Director, Network Rail said:� "The
redevelopment of New Street will transform the station for the
thousands of passengers who use it every day and allow it to handle
the ever increasing numbers of people who want to use the
railways.�</p>
<p>""The start of work on the fa�ade is significant as it's the
first step towards delivering a stunning new building which through
new retail, public space and better access will stimulate
regeneration and create hundreds of new jobs in the heart of
Birmingham."</p>
<p>Transport Minister Simon Burns said:� "Birmingham New
Streetrailway station has long had a reputation for being dingy and
unwelcoming and in recent years it has become clear it is
struggling to cope with the unprecedented growth in passenger
numbers.</p>
<p>"That is why the Government has contributed £160m towards
transforming the station into a modern, bright
21<sup>st</sup>�century gateway forBirmingham. The unveiling of
these new panels offers passengers an exciting glimpse at the
redevelopment of the station, a major construction project in its
own right and a key enabler of economic growth."</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council said: ""The
start of work on New Street's stunning new facade marks an
important step forward into transforming the building into a
landmark Birmingham can be proud of.</p>
<p>""This is a vital project for the city, providing for future
passenger growth, stimulating economic growth and regeneration and,
in the newly named Grand Central, it will provide one of the
best-connected retail spaces in the country.""</p>
<p>"</p>
The first sections of Birmingham New Street’s new retail destinations and stunning new fa�ade have been installed.
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Transport chiefs call for more investment in cycle safety
2012-12-11T00:00:00
2012-12-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Making cycling safer is crucial in getting more people to switch
to pedal power, West Midlands transport chiefs have told the
Government.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has called for more
investment in dedicated cycle routes and other safety measures as
part of its evidence to Parliament's All Party Cycling Group
Inquiry, "Get Britain Cycling".</p>
<p>Centro has told the inquiry, which aims to find ways to boost
the number of people cycling nationwide, that just one per cent of
journeys in the West Midlands are currently made by bike �- almost
20 times fewer than in European cities like �The Hague and
Antwerp.</p>
<p>The authority has also highlighted how legislative changes such
as making all residential areas 20 mph zones and creating more
shared cycling and walking pavements can make the roads far safer
for those on two wheels.</p>
<p>The evidence comes just weeks after a report from health
watchdog NICE said cycling was key to cutting the inactivity which
is causing UK residents as much harm as smoking.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "We are pleased that the Government is
looking for ways to improve cycling across the country and are
working with local authorities to find the best options.</p>
<p>"Investment into better infrastructure will make a real
difference in improving the popularity and safety of cycling and
help make it a realistic alternative way to travel for some people
in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"We already have plans to improve a number of cycle routes as
part of our Smart Network, Smarter Choices project and we are glad
that Government share the same view of cycling's potential impact
on cutting carbon, staying healthy and boosting the economy."</p>
<p>Centro also pointed to the need for better cycling links to
public transport as well as more safe routes and secure bicycle
storage.</p>
<p>West Midlands transport bosses aim for four per cent of all West
Midlands journeys to be cycled by 2016.</p>
<p>Centro has already started work with Coventry Council on the £7
million Cycle Coventry scheme which will see seven key cycle routes
created over the next three years to link residents to jobs and
education.</p>
<p>The scheme is part of Centro's £50 million Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which will also see cycle routes created or
improved across the region over the next three years.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Making cycling safer is crucial in getting more people to switch to pedal power, West Midlands transport chiefs have told the Government."
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Walsall passengers to have their say on public transport
2012-12-03T00:00:00
2012-12-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers in Walsall are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands � the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12pm on December 12 at Walsall bus
station, has been organised by Centro, the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Walsall on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus�and
rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr Richard Worrall, one of the Walsall representatives on
Centro, said:� "This event is the ideal opportunity to really
understand the needs of�Walsall passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Walsall bus station, we hope to hear from as many people as
possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
<p>"</p>
People in Walsall have the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
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Centro welcomes progress on local rail control
2012-11-28T00:00:00
2012-11-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A bid by transport authority Centro to take control of West
Midland rail services has been boosted by a Government consultation
revealing widespread support for the idea.</p>
<p>Those responding to the Department for Transport consultation on
rail devolution said passengers and local communities could achieve
improved rail services and better value for taxpayers if they had
more say on how their railways were run.</p>
<p>In June, Centro submitted a formal expression of interest to the
Government to take over the commissioning and management of local
rail services once the region's current franchise, operated by
London Midland, expires in September 2015.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip, said: "The findings of
the Government's nationwide consultation shows a strong consensus
is emerging around the benefits of putting decision making for
local rail networks in local hands.</p>
<p>"We certainly welcome these findings as we also believe that
greater local control can result in better rail services focussed
on the real needs of West Midland passengers.</p>
<p>"That's why, with the backing of the wider region, we have
formally told the Government that we wish to have responsibility
for the local rail franchise from 2015 onwards."</p>
<p>Centro's expression of interest has already been endorsed by the
West Midlands Rail Members Group which is made up of
representatives from the seven metropolitan councils and
surrounding shire counties.</p>
<p>The proposal has attracted wider public interest in recent weeks
following a driver shortage at London Midland which has led to
hundreds of trains being cancelled. A decision by the train company
to reduce staffing at local rail stations has also sparked
criticism.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "If we held control locally we would be in a
far better position to make sure the local rail network dovetails
with economic developments and the wider transport network.</p>
<p>"We would also work to ensure it fully connects and feeds into
the forthcoming high speed rail line, thereby maximising the
significant economic benefits offered by HS2."</p>
<p>The nationwide Government consultation invited individuals,
regional groups and interested organisations to give their views on
how devolution might work and what the benefits would be if future
franchises were controlled locally.</p>
<p>At the moment only two areas, London and Merseyside, have
control over their local rail networks, the rest are controlled by
the Department for Transport in London.</p>
<p>Responses to the Government consultation highlighted the success
of regions where the operation of rail services has already been
devolved and also showed support for transport models specifically
designed for particular regions on the basis of local geography and
the structure of local networks.</p>
<p>In announcing the findings Rail Minister Simon Burns said:
"Ensuring decisions are taken by those best placed to make them �
those who live and work in those areas � could make certain not
only that services are planned to maximise value for money for
taxpayers but that passengers get services they need and want."</p>
<p>"</p>
A bid by transport authority Centro to take control of West Midland rail services has been boosted by �the results of a Government consultation.
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West Midlands pressing for direct link from Coventry into HS2
2012-11-27T00:00:00
2012-11-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Authorities across the West Midlands are pressing for a direct
link from Coventry into the planned HS2 Interchange station at
Birmingham Airport.</p>
<p>Coventry is around eight miles from the forthcoming HS2 station,
but a direct link would allow passengers to connect straight onto
high-speed rail services to the North West, Yorkshire, London and
Europe.</p>
<p>A meeting of Centro, the region's transport authority, next
Monday (Dec 3) will discuss a number of schemes designed to
maximise the benefits from high-speed rail for passengers in the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>The schemes have been put forward by the HS2 Local Connectivity
Group which is made up of authorities, businesses and organisations
across the region.</p>
<p>It has detailed a number of schemes it believes will be
essential to deliver the best economic benefits and ensure
high-speed rail is integrated fully with local and regional
transport.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "Our challenge is to
get the best from HS2 for people throughout the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"This means ensuring local and regional services connect
seamlessly with the high-speed rail network so that everyone
benefits."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said HS2 would bring much needed jobs and boost the
West Midlands regional economy.</p>
<p>He added: "We know that using this capacity for more passenger
and freight trains and working hard to deliver schemes such as a
direct link to Coventry from HS2 will bring 22,000 jobs and
increase economic activity by £1.5bn per year.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said an announcement on the phase 2 route north of
Birmingham (to Leeds and Manchester) was expected in December.</p>
<p>"As the Transport Secretary said recently in Birmingham the
Government is 'cracking on' with HS2. Our challenge is to get the
very best deal for our region."</p>
<p>The HS2 Local Connectivity Group is also calling for further
Metro extensions to connect the HS2 station in Birmingham city
centre and for the design of Moor Street Station to allow for
passengers to transfer from local and regional services from the
Black Country, Birmingham and Solihull onto high-speed rail.</p>
<p>The Local Connectivity Package will be published in early
2013.</p>
<p>"</p>
Authorities across the West Midlands are pressing for a direct link from Coventry into the planned HS2 Interchange station at Birmingham Airport.
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Transport group urging for design of HS2 station at Moor St to deliver full potential for Black Country passengers
2012-11-27T00:00:00
2012-11-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A leading transport group has called for the design of
Birmingham city centre's HS2 station to maximise the benefit for
passengers from the Black Country by allowing them to transfer from
their local and regional services straight on to high-speed
rail.</p>
<p>Members of the HS2 Local Connectivity Group want the design of
the station in Moor Street to allow for passengers from stations
such as Stourbridge, Smethwick Galton Bridge and Solihull to be
able to transfer onto international high-speed rail.</p>
<p>The group, made up of authorities, businesses and organisations
across the region, is also supporting further tram extensions to
the HS2 city centre station which will benefit Black Country
communities served by Midland Metro.</p>
<p>A meeting of Centro, the region's transport authority, next
Monday (Dec 3) will discuss schemes designed to release the maximum
benefits from high-speed rail in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The schemes have been put forward by the HS2 Local Connectivity
Group as essential to maximise economic benefits and ensure
high-speed rail is integrated fully with local and regional
transport.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "The Black Country
will benefit from jobs and a boost to its economy, but HS2 will
also release capacity on increasingly crowded existing lines for
more passenger and freight services.</p>
<p>"However many people in the Black Country perhaps haven't
realised they can benefit from a transfer at Moor Street station
straight onto high-speed services to London, the North and
Europe."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added that Centro would be working to ensure Black
Country passengers served by New Street would also have a fast
transfer to HS2 at nearby Moor Street station.</p>
<p>"We must ensure local and regional services connect seamlessly
with the high-speed rail network so that everyone benefits," he
added.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said HS2 would bring 10,000 jobs and boost the West
Midlands regional economy by £600m each year.</p>
<p>But he added: "We know that using this capacity for more
passenger and freight services and making sure Moor Street delivers
exactly what we need will more than double these benefits to 22,000
jobs and £1.5bn per year.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said an announcement on the phase 2 route north of
Birmingham (to Leeds and Manchester) was expected in December.</p>
<p>"As the Transport Secretary said recently in Birmingham the
Government is 'cracking on' with HS2. Our challenge is to get the
very best deal for our region," he added.</p>
<p>The HS2 Local Connectivity Group is also examining options for a
direct link from Coventry to the HS2 Interchange station at
Birmingham Airport.</p>
<p>"</p>
A leading transport group has called for the design of Birmingham city centre’s HS2 station to maximise the benefit for passengers from the Black Country.
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West Midlands calls for Metro extension to deliver full potential of HS2
2012-11-27T00:00:00
2012-11-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Authorities across the West Midlands are pressing for Metro to
be extended to deliver the maximum benefits of bringing high-speed
rail to the region.</p>
<p>Plans are already being developed to use the current Birmingham
city centre extension (Snow Hill to New Street) and build a new
spur leading from Upper Bull Street across to Moor Street station
and the forthcoming HS2 station.</p>
<p>Plans are also progressing to take the existing Snow Hill to New
Street Station extension, which is due to open in 2015, on through
Paradise Circus to Centenary Square.</p>
<p>These extensions are being backed by the HS2 Local Connectivity
Group which is made up of authorities, businesses and organisations
across the region.</p>
<p>The Local Connectivity Group is also developing plans for fast
transfer between New Street Station and the Moor Street HS2
station.</p>
<p>A meeting of Centro, the region's transport authority, next
Monday (December 3) will discuss a number of schemes designed to
release the maximum benefits from high-speed rail in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>The HS2 Local Connectivity Group has put forward a number of
schemes it believes will be essential to deliver the best economic
benefits and ensure high-speed rail is integrated fully with local
and regional transport.</p>
<p>Work is also underway on introducing SPRINT - a bus rapid
transit system using tram-style vehicles to connect Eastside, Moor
Street, New Street and the Broad Street area.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "Construction is
already underway on the Metro extension from Snow Hill to New
Street. Our challenge is to get the best from HS2 for people
throughout the West Midlands and Metro is an essential part of
that.</p>
<p>"We must ensure local and regional services connect seamlessly
with the high-speed rail network so that everyone benefits."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said HS2 would bring 10,000 jobs and boost the West
Midlands regional economy by £600m each year. But he added; "We
know that using this capacity and fighting to deliver schemes such
as extending Metro will more than double these benefits to 22,000
jobs and £1.5bn per year.</p>
<p>"HS2 will also release capacity on our crowded existing lines
for more passenger and freight services."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said an announcement on the phase 2 route north of
Birmingham (to Leeds and Manchester) was expected in December.</p>
<p>"As the Transport Secretary said recently in Birmingham the
Government is 'cracking on' with HS2. Our challenge is to get the
very best deal for our region."</p>
<p>The HS2 Local Connectivity Group is also examining options for a
direct link from Coventry to the HS2 station at Birmingham
Interchange (next to the airport and NEC) and for the design of
Moor Street station to allow passengers to transfer from local and
regional services from the Black Country, Birmingham and Solihull
onto high-speed rail.</p>
<p>The Local Connectivity Package will be published in early
2013.</p>
<p>"</p>
Councils call for the Midland Metro to be extended to maximise high-speed rail to the region.
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Transport chief welcomes report which says HS2 will benefit the regions more than London
2012-11-23T00:00:00
2012-11-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A report published today (Nov 23) confirming HS2 will bring real
economic benefits to the West Midlands has been welcomed by the
boss of the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said the report from rail
consultants Greengauge 21 made it clear the regions would benefit
from HS2 with increased connections, job creation and a boost to
their economies leading to a new pattern of development.</p>
<p>"We've seen rail demand soar in the last decade and a doubling
in passenger numbers in the West Midlands," Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"We've consistently spoken of the benefits HS2 brings in
delivering more capacity to our crowded rail network, so it's
particularly pleasing to see Greengauge 21 has noted there will be
economic benefits in cities like Coventry which will enjoy better
regional connections and reduced congestion."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said critics had stated that all the benefits of HS2
would go to London, but the report � <em>What will be the spatial
effects of High Speed Rail in the UK?</em> � made it clear this was
not the case.</p>
<p>The report argues that three factors will benefit the regional
cities:</p>
<ul>
<li>Better connectivity with London and global gateways</li>
<li>Better connectivity within the regions</li>
<li>Better commuter rail networks</li>
</ul>
<p>Mr Inskip said the Government was planning to announce phase 2
of HS2 (Birmingham to Leeds/Manchester) in December which will see
journey times from Birmingham to Manchester will be cut from 1h 31m
to 41m and Birmingham �Leeds from 2h to 57m.</p>
<p>"With new fast, direct services and the significant capacity
released on our existing lines for more passenger and freight
services this report makes it clear the regions can enjoy greater
benefits than London," he said.</p>
<p>"In fact, HS2 will help us to rebalance our economy and allow us
to be more competitive as regions."</p>
<p>Julie Mills, director of Greengauge 21, said: "What many people
miss is that HS2 will allow cities and towns not on the HS2 network
itself, such as Coventry or Lichfield, to benefit from improved
connections to other destinations. HS2 also allows an expansion of
the commuter rail network focused on Birmingham. The resulting
boost to the economy of the West Midlands will provide a welcome
balance to continued development in the congested South East."</p>
<p>"</p>
A report published today (Nov 23) confirming HS2 will bring real economic benefits to the West Midlands has been welcomed by the boss of the region’s transport authority.
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West Midlands bus drivers given 'spit kits'
2012-11-21T00:00:00
2012-11-21T00:00:00
Centro's Vice Chair Cllr Kath Hartley (left) at the launch of the new 'spit kit' scheme.
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus drivers across the West Midlands have been equipped with
mini DNA kits to help police track anyone who spits at them or
fellow passengers.<br />
<br />
'Spit kits' � which feature swabs, gloves and hermetically sealed
bags � allow staff to take saliva samples and protect them from
contamination before being sent for forensic analysis.</p>
<p>The move comes as latest figures show that 88 spitting incidents
have been reported on regional buses so far this year.<br />
<br />
National Express West Midlands' 3,500 local drivers have been
supplied with the packages following a successful trial in
Birmingham City Centre.<br />
<br />
Several offenders have now been traced through DNA hits as a result
of the initiative, including a 24-year-old man who was jailed for
12 weeks after spitting at a bus driver on the number 17 service in
Yardley.<br />
<br />
The initiative has been introduced through the Safer Travel
Partnership, which brings together West Midlands and British
Transport Police, transport authority Centro and National Express
to safeguard bus, train and tram users.<br />
<br />
Police Constable Sarah Hipkins, pictured alongside a National
Express driver, said: "Spitting is a disgusting, despicable offence
and we will push for common assault charges against
offenders.<br />
<br />
"This type of DNA processing has been used on the railway
previously and our trial has been successful. Drivers and
passengers should not be expected to tolerate it on our bus routes
and these spit kit devices allow us to obtain irrefutable DNA
evidence which helps us track offenders and secure convictions at
court."</p>
<p>Samples are stored in a fridge before being despatched for
forensics analysis with arrest plans put in place should returning
DNA results point to a suspect already known to police.</p>
<p>If not, the DNA record is kept on file with the case resurrected
if the suspect is later arrested on another matter.<br />
<br />
Cllr Kath Hartley, Vice Chair of Centro, added: "Although spitting
is rare on public transport we remain determined to tackle it and
our message to would-be offenders is simple: spit at drivers or
passengers and you will be caught, DNA doesn't lie.""</p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West
Midlands said: "Incidents of spitting on our vehicles are few and
far between�but they unacceptable to us. We've invested in these
DNA kits to help police track down the few mindless individuals who
are guilty of this disgusting behaviour.""</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership stressed that spitting would be
dealt with as a criminal offence, but also urged passengers to help
tackle non-criminal nuisance behaviour by using the See Something
Say Something Campaign.</p>
<p>Passengers who witness anti-social behaviour during their
journey can say something anonymously by texting the word 'bus',
'metro' or 'rail' followed by a space and then details of the
incident including time, date, location and route number to
83010.</p>
<p>Alternatively they can report online by logging on to the
www.safertravel.info website or by telephoning police on 101 for
bus and 0800 405040 for rail and Metro. In the case of an urgent
crime or an emergency they should dial 999 as usual.<br />
<br />
See Something Say Something has proved highly effective in recent
years in providing the Safer Travel Partnership with the
information it needs to pinpoint anti-social behaviour hot spots
and mount effective police action.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus drivers across the West Midlands have been equipped with mini DNA kits to help police track anyone who spits at them or fellow passengers.
17213
Spitkitsgrouppic.jpg
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0
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0
Wolverhampton passengers to have their say
2012-11-20T00:00:00
2012-11-20T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><span>Passengers in Wolverhampton are being offered the chance
to give transport chiefs their views about the area's
network.</span></p>
<p><span>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands � the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</span></p>
<p><span>The event, between 10am and 12pm on November 27 in
Wolverhampton Bus Station, has been organised by Centro the
region's transport authority.</span></p>
<p><span>It will feature local councillors who represent
Wolverhampton on the authority and staff from bus and rail
operators will be invited.</span></p>
<p><span>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at
closely by transport bosses and used to make improvements to the
local bus�and rail network.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's Lead Member for Green and
Accessible Transport, said: "This event is the ideal opportunity to
really understand the needs
of�Wolverhampton<span>�</span>passengers.</span></p>
<p><span>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations
like Wolverhampton bus station, we hope to hear from as many people
as possible.</span></p>
<p><span>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can
improve connections between different forms of public transport
making those connections easier, quicker and more
convenient.</span></p>
<p><span>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people
and we will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to
help make sure the network reflects their needs."</span></p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers in Wolverhampton are being offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
17213
0
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Community groups salute Transport Regeneration Fund milestone
2012-11-09T00:00:00
2012-11-09T00:00:00
"Cllr Judith Rowley: ""By Centro and the community working together we have found a number of ground-breaking transport solutions."""
<p>"</p>
<p>The work of a Centro fund which has handed out nearly £3 million
to community groups across the West Midlands in the last decade has
been celebrated with a conference and reception.</p>
<p>More than 60 delegates were at Maple House in Birmingham city
centre to mark 10 years of the Transport Regeneration Fund and its
community partnerships.</p>
<p>In that time more than 50 community based projects have
benefited from grants awarded by Centro, the region's transport
authority, with the fund.</p>
<p>The conference, chaired by Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip,
celebrated the many project successes in assisting community
organisations to gain increased understanding and awareness of
transport related issues that affect them.</p>
<p>Presentations were heard from previously funded projects
including Community Transport, National Express, Community Vibe,
Action for Blind People, Walsall Council, Murray Hall Community
Trust and Cycle Chain, who assisted a wide range of groups
including the young, elderly, the unemployed and minority
groups.</p>
<p>The clients spoke about how the funding they received had made a
real difference to themselves in accessing key services and raising
their confidence.</p>
<p>Councillor Judith Rowley of Centro, who chairs the Transport
Regeneration Fund Review Group said: "Many projects we have funded
over the last 10 years have gone a significant way to improving
peoples access onto public transport.</p>
<p>"The fund has provided a framework for groups and communities to
pilot innovative projects which break down barriers to using public
transport and made public transport much more available,
accessible, affordable and acceptable to many people.</p>
<p>"By Centro and the community working together we have found a
number of ground-breaking transport solutions which, without this
fund, many barriers would still be in place."</p>
<p>The Transport Regeneration Fund is a Centro scheme which seeks
to ensure public transport meets the environmental, social,
physical and economic needs of the region.</p>
<p>Where those demands are unmet, it awards grants to groups and
communities, particularly when accessing key services such as
employment, health and education.</p>
<p>Since the scheme was launched nearly 20,000 people have
benefited from a total of £2.8 million in grants.</p>
<p>More than 5,000 people have witnessed improved access to
leisure, 4,500 have seen improved access to training, 5,500 have
benefited from improved access to healthcare and 4,000 people have
won improved access to employment.</p>
<p>"</p>
A Centro fund has handed out nearly £3 million to community groups across the West Midlands.
17213
JudithRowley.jpg
0
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0
Bus network review launched for North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield
2012-11-05T00:00:00
2012-11-05T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users in north Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield are being
urged to make their voices heard in a major review of services.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority is working with
Birmingham City Council, Sandwell Council, Walsall Council and bus
operators to scrutinise the network and see what can be done to
improve services for existing and prospective passengers.</p>
<p>The review is being ledby Centro, the region's transport
authority and will cover all buses that go to and between Sutton
Coldfield, Erdington, Roughley, Mere Green, Castle Vale, Ladywood,
Kingstanding, Pheasey, Great Barr, Perry Barr, Handsworth and
Aston.</p>
<p>The aim is to build on the already strong transport network to
provide routes that better serve modern travel patterns while also
bringing improved buses, waiting facilities and information.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "We want to know what
people think of their bus service and whether it is providing what
they actually want.</p>
<p>"By conducting a network review we can ensure buses best serve
places such as businesses, health, leisure, education facilities
and shops."</p>
<p>�A series of public exhibitions will be held throughout November
where people can speak to Centro, bus operators and Birmingham City
Council staff to give their views.</p>
<p>A series of consultation events will take place in November
where people can give their views.</p>
<p>They are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Monday 12<sup>th</sup> November, 11am to 3pm � Exhibition at
Collingwood Centre, Collingwood Drive, Pheasey.</li>
<li>Tuesday 13<sup>th</sup>, November, 10am to 2pm � Exhibition at
St Paul's Community Centre, Walsall Road, Great Barr.</li>
<li>Wednesday 14th November, 11am to 3pm � Exhibition at
Sainsbury's main entrance, Mere Green.</li>
<li>Thursday 15<sup>th</sup> November, 1pm to 3pm � Network West
Midlands exhibition bus, Erdington High Street.</li>
<li>Saturday 17<sup>th</sup> November, 9.30am to 3pm � Network
Exhibition Bus on The Parade, Sutton Coldfield.</li>
<li>Monday 19<sup>th</sup> November, 9.30am to 12.30pm � Exhibition
at Tesco main entrance, Little Aston.</li>
<li>Monday 19<sup>th</sup> November, 2pm to 5pm � Network West
Midlands marquee outside Morrison's, Soho Road, Handsworth.</li>
<li>Tuesday 20th November, 12pm to 4pm � Network West Midlands
marquee outside Sainsbury's, Castle Vale.</li>
<li>Wednesday 21<sup>st</sup> November, 11am to 3pm � Network West
Midlands exhibition bus on Mecca Bingo car park, Kingstanding
Circle.</li>
<li>Thursday 22<sup>nd</sup> November, 1pm to 5pm � Exhibition at
One Stop Shopping Centre, Perry Barr.</li>
</ul>
<p>Views can also be expressed online at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a>
�<a
href="/"><strong>www.facebook.com/networkwestmidlands</strong></a>
and <a href="/"><strong>www.twitter.com/networkwm</strong></a></p>
<p>They can be sent by post to Customer Relations, Centro House, 16
Summer Lane, Birmingham, B16 3SD.</p>
<p>Users can also leave their contact details with Centro at this
address and updates will be provided.</p>
<p>All comments and views must be received by Centro by November
30.</p>
<p>The review is the latest in a number that have taken place
across the West Midlands including Wolverhampton and west Walsall,
Coventry, Dudley, south Solihull, south Birmingham, north Walsall
and west Birmingham.</p>
<p>They have produced a string of benefits for passengers
including:</p>
<ul>
<li>New and improved bus shelters with up-to-date information at
every stop</li>
<li>Improved links to key shopping destinations</li>
<li>New services on roads that have never had a bus before or have
had their bus withdrawn</li>
<li>More buses with turn up and go timetables on main roads</li>
<li>New and refurbished vehicles</li>
<li>Highways improvements to help buses beat the traffic</li>
<li>More electronic bus stop displays and Real Time
information</li>
<li>Customer care training for drivers</li>
<li>Enhanced safety and security measures both at stops and on the
bus</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "Key in all this is the contribution of
the public. I would urge all bus users in north Birmingham and
Sutton Coldfield to take part in the review consultation and tell
us what they think."</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users are invited to give their views in a shake-up of services in north Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield.
17213
0
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Olympic star launches Coventry’s £7million cycling revolution
2012-10-30T00:00:00
2012-10-31T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Olympic silver medallist Lizzie Armitstead yesterday set the
wheels turning on a £6.9million scheme which will transform
Coventry's cycling network and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Coventry City Council has teamed up with transport authority
Centro to fund the Cycle Coventry initiative which will provide
extensive new cycle paths, maps and training to boost cycling in
the city from 2015.</p>
<p>The scheme will see key cycle routes created from busy
residential areas such as Tile Hill, Canley, and Kenilworth and
link to key employment and education hubs including Warwick
University and the Ricoh Arena.</p>
<p>Coventry City Council has contributed £3.5million of Government
funds earmarked for green and sustainable transport projects to
kick-start the scheme.</p>
<p>The remaining £3.4million comes from Centro's Smart Network,
Smarter Choices programme which will deliver £50million of
sustainable improvements across the West Midlands over the next
three years.</p>
<p>To mark the start of the scheme a free family fun day was held
in Coventry's iconic Broadgate yesterday (Tuesday October 30)
attended by 23-year-old cyclist Armitstead, who landed silver in
this summer's women's road race.</p>
<p>The event saw Coventry residents get on their bikes to try their
hands at riding Penny Farthings, sample track cycling and learn
about cycling opportunities in the city.</p>
<p>And Armitstead, the first British medal winner of the 2012
Olympics, marked the start of the scheme with a lap of honour on
her medal winning bicycle.</p>
<p>Cabinet Member for City Services, Councillor Lindsley Harvard,
said: "Today's event has been a tremendous showcase for our Cycle
Coventry initiative and how we are going to make cycling more
accessible across the City.</p>
<p>"Cycle Coventry is not just about building new cycle routes and
we will be promoting cycling as a tremendous way to stay fit and
healthy and working with local businesses to help them promote
cycling as sustainable way to travel to work."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The project will see the creation of seven key cycle routes
connecting both the north and the south of the city to the city
centre.</p>
<p>Detailed cycle maps are being developed which will give
residents information on the extensive cycle routes that will
revitalise the north and south west of the city.�</p>
<p>Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "Cycling has seen a
major rise in popularity after the success of Lizzie Armitstead and
her Great Britain teammates this summer and it is great that she
has been able to mark the start of this fantastic project.</p>
<p>"The Government has recognised the importance of sustainable
travel by awarding both Centro and Coventry City Council the money
to create these routes in both the north and south of the city. And
we are delighted this has allowed us to work closely with Coventry
on this scheme which will really transform cycling in the city.</p>
<p>"It is important that we work hard to make cycling a realistic
and viable alternative form of travel and this comprehensive
overhaul of the cycling network will have a major impact for the
people of Coventry."</p>
<p>Over the next three years the project will see seven new routes
built in the north and southwest of the City.� The routes will make
it easier for local residents to access employment areas such as
the Ricoh Arena, business parks, the city centre, universities and
the hospital. The project will also benefit pedestrians by
improving the surfacing and lighting on many of the proposed
routes.</p>
<p>This summer's success has seen interest in cycling soar in
Britain and Halfords reported a nearly 15 per cent jump in sales in
the three months to the end of September.</p>
<p>For more information visit <a
href="/">www.coventry.gov.uk/lstf</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Olympic silver medallist Lizzie Armitstead has launcehd a £7million scheme which will transform cycling in Coventry.
17213
0
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Bus users reminded of changes to Sandwell network
2012-10-26T00:00:00
2012-10-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers across Sandwell were today reminded that major
changes to their buses come into effect this weekend.</p>
<p>Improved links to Merry Hill shopping centre and hospitals are
just some of the benefits to be introduced following a major review
of services.</p>
<p>Passengers will also see some service numbers, routes and
timetables change from start of service on Sunday October 28.</p>
<p>The review saw Centro, the region's transport authority, work
closely with partners Sandwell Council and bus operators National
Express West Midlands, Arriva Midlands, Diamond, Central Buses and
West Midlands Special Needs Transport.</p>
<p>It included a massive consultation exercise with passengers,
traders, and councillors.</p>
<p>Babs Coombes, Centro area manager for the Black Country, said:
"We will be monitoring the new network very closely.</p>
<p>"With any major new network there may be areas where things can
be improved and the public can be assured that we will listen if
they tell us where they think this should happen."</p>
<p>To usher in the new network the partners signed an agreement
pledging a range of benefits for passengers to build on the
development of the new network.</p>
<p>The agreement will span a period of three years with regular
monitoring meetings, and improvements taking place include:</p>
<ul>
<li>New National Express West Midlands buses on services 46, 47,
47A, 99 and 222 being delivered around Christmas with further new
and refurbished vehicles over the three years of the agreement</li>
<li>On-bus cleaning on key routes using West Bromwich Bus
Station</li>
<li>More than 200 new bus shelters</li>
<li>Bus-friendly highways improvements</li>
<li>Enhanced information with new all operator timetables and new
town connection guides</li>
<li>Electronic information displays that give a live count down in
minutes to when the next bus is due</li>
<li>Improvements to bus waiting facilities, information and walking
routes</li>
<li>Improvements to make interchange easier including at Blackheath
and Tipton</li>
<li>Close working with hospitals across Sandwell & west
Birmingham to help people get to work and access appointments</li>
</ul>
<p>A major public consultation was held in May this year involving
people visiting, working and living in Sandwell plus councillors,
MPs, schools and businesses to find out what they thought could be
done to improve the network, with more than 1,400 responses.</p>
<p>Passengers can find more information about the changes by
logging on to <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></strong> or
downloading our NetNav app, which is available for Android, iPhone,
and iPad from <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/apps</a></strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers are reminded that major chnages to the Sandwell network come into effect this weekend.
17213
thumbHLbusinstation.JPG
0
12
0
Anti social behaviour on public transport targeted by Operation Goliath
2012-10-25T00:00:00
2012-10-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Police will be taking to the public transport network in a
high-profile operation targeting anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p>Operation Goliath will see officers from the Safer Travel team
mount extra patrols on board buses, trains and trams across the
West Midlands on Tuesday October 30.</p>
<p>The operation is being staged to provide a visible presence and
to reassure passengers that low-level misbehaviour such as smoking
and swearing will not be tolerated.</p>
<p>They will also hand out cards to passengers advising them what
they can do if they witness such behaviour.</p>
<p>Sergeant Chris Casey of British Transport Police said: "It is
important to remember that crime is down on public transport and
that the network in the West Midlands is a very safe way of getting
about.</p>
<p>"That said, there is always a handful of people who seem to
think they can do what they like with no regard for the rest of us,
and they are the targets of Operation Goliath.</p>
<p>"Such people should be aware that their fellow passengers have a
way of letting us know about it, we are listening and we will be
looking for them."</p>
<p>Although overall crime on rail and bus in the West Midlands fell
by 65% since 2007, the time of year around Halloween and Bonfire
Night often sees a rise in complaints about anti-social
behaviour.</p>
<p>To address this, officers will speak to passengers advising them
about how crime has fallen on the network and how they can use the
See Something Say Something scheme to anonymously play their part
in tackling nuisance behaviour.</p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their journey
can say something by <strong>texting 'bus', 'metro' or
'rail'</strong> followed by a space and then details of the
incident including time, date, location and route number to
<strong>83010</strong>.</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on to the <a
href="/"><strong>www.safertravel.info</strong></a> website or by
telephoning police on 101 for bus and 0800 405040 for rail and
Metro.</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999 as usual.</p>
<p>Sgt Casey said: "Passenger surveys have found nuisance behaviour
such as playing loud music and smoking are key irritants that can
also lead to an unfounded fear of crime.</p>
<p>"With the help of the public we can quash that fear by tackling
those responsible."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership consists of Centro, West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police and transport operators.</p>
<p>�'See Something, Say Something' was originally launched on the
bus network in 2008.</p>
<p>Since then thousands of passengers have used the system to
provide crucial information that has enabled the Safer Travel
Partnership to pinpoint crime and anti-social behaviour hot spots
and take appropriate action.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership also works with schools across the
region to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and
the effects of nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
<p>"</p>
A high profile operation targeting anti social behaviour on public transport is launched.
17213
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Partnership agreement launches new Sandwell network
2012-10-23T00:00:00
2012-10-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users in and around Sandwell will see a host of improvements
thanks to a major partnership agreement heralding the launch of a
new network.</p>
<p>Better links to Merry Hill shopping centre, hospitals and West
Bromwich town centre coupled with more buses, improved on-board
cleaning, waiting facilities, and information systems are just some
of the benefits to be had following the signing of the Voluntary
Multilateral Agreement.</p>
<p>The agreement is between Centro, the region's transport
authority, Sandwell Council and bus operators National Express West
Midlands, Arriva Midlands, Diamond, Central Buses and West Midlands
Special Needs Transport.</p>
<p>It comes into effect with the new bus network that begins
operating in Sandwell from start of service this Sunday (October
28) following a major review of services.</p>
<p>The VMA was signed in a ceremony at West Bromwich bus station
today Tuesday October 23.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is a great day
for public transport users in Sandwell.</p>
<p>"A massive amount of hard work has been undertaken to ensure
that what the public wants is at the heart of the new network, with
simpler numbering and more services to the hospitals, Merry Hill
and West Bromwich town centre."</p>
<p>Councillor Derek Rowley, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Economy for
Sandwell Borough Council, said: "The people of Sandwell are
passionate about their buses.</p>
<p>"I am delighted that we are signing this agreement. Public
transport plays a massive role in the objectives of Sandwell
Council as it provides access to employment, health and
leisure."</p>
<p>The agreement will span a period of three years with regular
monitoring meetings, and improvements taking place include:</p>
<ul>
<li>New National Express West Midlands buses on services 46, 47,
47A, 99 and 222 being delivered around Christmas with further new
and refurbished vehicles over the three years of the agreement</li>
<li>On-bus cleaning on key routes using West Bromwich Bus
Station</li>
<li>More than 200 new bus shelters</li>
<li>Bus-friendly highways improvements</li>
<li>Enhanced information with new all operator timetables and new
town connection guides</li>
<li>Electronic information displays that give a live count down in
minutes to when the next bus is due</li>
<li>Improvements to bus waiting facilities, information and walking
routes</li>
<li>Improvements to make interchange easier including at Blackheath
and Tipton</li>
<li>Close working with hospitals across Sandwell & west
Birmingham to help people get to work and access appointments</li>
</ul>
<p>A major public consultation was held in May this year involving
people visiting, working and living in Sandwell plus councillors,
MPs, schools and businesses to find out what they thought could be
done to improve the network.</p>
<p>There were more than 1,400 responses and Centro chairman Cllr
John McNicholas said: "This new network gives Sandwell its own
identity in terms of new buses, bus numbers and important
links.</p>
<p>"This has been reflected in the huge numbers of people from the
general public who took part in the public consultation
exercise."</p>
<p>Passengers can find more information about the changes by
logging on to <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a>
or downloading our NetNav app, which is available for Android,
iPhone, and iPad from <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/apps</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users in and around Sandwell will see a host of improvements under a major partnership agreement.
17213
0
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0
Coventry passengers in line for improved hospital links
2012-10-19T00:00:00
2012-10-19T00:00:00
Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas (second from the right) joins the celebrations of the launch of a new service which will improve links to University Hospital
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Coventry can expect improved services to
University Hospital with local operator Travel de Courcey taking on
another main route in the city.</p>
<p>People living in parts of Eastern Green and Tile Hill will be
able to catch a direct bus to University Hospital as part of Travel
de Courcey taking over the Number 801 service.</p>
<p>The need for improved links to the hospital was highlighted by
passengers during an extensive public consultation last year.</p>
<p>Their views were sought to help draw up a new and improved bus
network for Coventry which was launched by transport authority
Centro in partnership with the city council and bus operators
earlier this year.</p>
<p>Travel de Courcey has now been awarded the contract by Centro to
operate the service which runs between the University of Warwick
and University Hospital from Sunday, October 21.</p>
<p>The award-winning operator, based in Rowley Drive, Baginton, has
recently invested in six new single-decker buses which will be used
on the route.</p>
<p>The buses will link to Travel de Courcey's existing Number 43
service which means there will be a direct hourly bus from parts of
Eastern Green and Tile Hill to University Hospital.</p>
<p>The extended route for the Number 801 service means there will
also be a link from Eastern Green to Tile Hill Station.</p>
<p>Bob Wildman, general manager of Travel de Courcey, said: "We are
delighted to have been awarded the Number 801 service by
Centro.</p>
<p>"Linking it to our existing Number 43 service will greatly
benefit people in parts of Eastern Green and Tile Hill who until
now had to catch more than one bus to get to University
Hospital.�</p>
<p>"It also represents another piece in the jigsaw for Travel de
Courcey providing a full circular bus service around the city.</p>
<p>"Next year, the Number 801 will be linked to existing services
in Coundon, Holbrooks and Bell Green to provide a complete bus
route around the edge of the city which will enable better links to
University Hospital as well as important local amenities such as
shops, schools and sports centres."</p>
<p>The new Coventry bus network, which was launched in February,
has seen the introduction of a number of additional direct routes
to the hospital.</p>
<p>Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas, said: "As promised, Centro
has continued to work in partnership with operators including
Travel de Courcey to deliver further improvements.</p>
<p>"This service is a direct result of that partnership and
feedback from passengers and councillors and I hope people across
Coventry will very much welcome the additional benefits that we
have been able to deliver."</p>
<p>Last week the Coventry Bus Network review project, which
resulted in the city's new network, was 'highly commended'� in the
Transport Team Partnership Award at the 2012 National Transport
Awards, widely regarded as the�industry's 'Oscars'.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers in Coventry can expect improved services to University Hospital with local operator Travel de Courcey taking on another main route in the city.
17213
UniversityHospitalBusService.jpg
0
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0
On-street information is the 'way to go'
2012-10-17T00:00:00
2012-10-17T00:00:00
"(l-r) Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas, Tim Manson, Operations Director for Marketing Birmingham, Jonathan Cheetham (on the bicycle), Chair of Retail Birmingham and General Manager of the Pallasades, Cllr Tahir Ali. Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet"
<p>"</p>
<p>A new visitor and transport information system was launched in
Birmingham today (Wednesday October 17) to make it easier for
people to find and make their way around the city centre.</p>
<p>Interconnect Birmingham, a joint project by transport authority
Centro, Marketing Birmingham, Birmingham City Council, Colmore
Business District and Retail Birmingham, is set to become the most
comprehensive system of its kind in the UK.</p>
<p>It features new direction signs and information points providing
maps of key destinations and attractions together with integrated
information for walking, cycling, bus, tram and train services.</p>
<p>The system has been designed for use with on-street signs,
websites, mobile apps and printed maps and guides.</p>
<p>Launching the first phase of the system, Centro Chairman, Cllr
John McNicholas, said: "Having clear directions and travel
information can make a big difference to someone's experience of
visiting the city.</p>
<p>"It's extremely important for people to have concise information
about the sustainable transport options on offer as well as the
best routes for getting around the city whether that be by foot,
bike, bus, tram or train.</p>
<p>"That's why this new system is good news not just for visitors
but also for local residents and it can serve as a template for
similar bespoke systems in other towns and cities across the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>Tim Manson, Operations Director for Marketing Birmingham, added:
"Marketing Birmingham is pleased to be a key partner in
Interconnect Birmingham.</p>
<p>"The iconic totems will inform and enhance the visitor journey,
integrating public transport information with the walking network
throughout Birmingham.</p>
<p>"We believe that Interconnect Birmingham will help both leisure
and business visitors get the most from any visit to
Birmingham."</p>
<p>The Interconnect Birmingham system is part of the city council's
Big City Plan and will serve as the 'glue' in linking together more
than £755 million of new transport infrastructure being built under
Vision for Movement, a joint private and public sector transport
blueprint aimed at underpinning economic growth and job
creation.</p>
<p>Work is progressing on the £600 million rebuild of New Street
Station as well as the £127 million Metro tram extension which will
connect the station to Snow Hill. Both projects are due for
completion in 2015.</p>
<p>A £14 million upgrade of the city centre's bus network is also
underway with the creation of six new interchanges designed to
streamline services and reduce traffic congestion.</p>
<p>Interconnect Birmingham's on-street information totems share the
same design and mapping information as the onward journey totems
installed at the city's new bus stops and together form a common
system of wayfinding around the city.</p>
<p>The totems will also complement the forthcoming infrastructure
of the Metro extension.</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council's Cabinet Member for
Development, Jobs and Skills, said: ""Having accessible, joined-up
information is key to both business and tourism and will help
people get the most out of visits to the city. This is particularly
important with the major development work taking place, including
the Metro extension and improvements to New Street Station."</p>
<p>Gary Cardin, Chair of Colmore Business District, added:
"Businesses have supported our ambition to have comprehensive, high
quality and legible wayfinding systems, to help clients and
visitors get to their destinations efficiently and clearly. We are
delighted that this significant partnership project is providing
just that.</p>
<p>"Colmore Business District has always wanted to be a lead in
this project and the new totems are now on street. This gives
business visitors, tourists and others a better understanding of
the city, so that they can explore it more easily. It will also
ensure we remain a welcoming place, encouraging businesses and
visitors to walk around our city and make the most of what we have
to offer. Judging by the number of people already using the maps it
is a successful addition to the city."</p>
<p>Jonathan Cheetham, Chair of Retail Birmingham and General
Manager of The Pallasades, said: "Having a cohesive wayfinding
system in place is essential at such a pivotal time for the city,
with massive development projects underway, including the
redevelopment of the major transport hub at New Street Station.</p>
<p>"We are proud to unveil this state-of-the-art system, which will
enable shoppers and visitors to easily navigate and make the very
most of the world-class shopping on offer within the city
centre."</p>
<p>Funding for the first phase of Interconnect Birmingham came from
all of the project partners and through the Investing in the City
Region ERDF project managed by Marketing Birmingham.</p>
<p>The system will be rolled out to surrounding districts such as
The Jewellery Quarter and Southside in a second phase starting next
year.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
New visitor and transport information system will make it easier for people to find and make their way around Birmingham
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Youngsters win transport apprenticeships
2012-10-12T00:00:00
2012-10-12T00:00:00
"Leon Carter, left, Moha Nur, Vanessa Smith and Antony Bell"
<p>"</p>
<p>Four young people from the West Midlands have been offered
apprenticeships with Centro and National Express after completing a
Prince's Trust scheme.</p>
<p>Leon Castle. Moah Nur, Vanessa Smith and Anthony Bell, all from
Birmingham, won the coveted places through 'Get Into
Transport'.</p>
<p>Run by Centro on behalf of the Prince's Trust, Get Into
Transport saw 10 candidates spend four weeks on work experience
rotating between Virgin trains, National Express and Centro.</p>
<p>At Virgin they carried out silver service in First Class on
inter-city Pendolino trains, at National Express they worked in
human resources, training and customer relations, and at Centro in
customer relations, bus stations and ticket information
centres.</p>
<p>The winning candidates were announced in a ceremony at Centro
House in Birmingham by former Labour MP and shadow transport
minister Lord Snape of Wednesbury.</p>
<p>Moha and Leon will now shortly begin work with Centro's customer
relations team while Vanessa and Anthony won similar roles with
National Express.</p>
<p>Moha, aged 23, from Edgbaston, is originally from Holland and
moved to England with family in 2009. She had been unemployed for a
year when she applied for Get Into Transport.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>She said: "To have been selected feels awesome, I really didn't
expect it.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"I've really enjoyed the scheme and to have been selected for
one of the apprenticeships is a real bonus."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Leon, aged 25, from Erdington, had been unemployed for two
months before applying for the scheme.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>He said: "I'm delighted, I've really enjoyed the experience and
working on the project.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"They're a great team running the course, I've made some real
friends with other people who have been on it with me and it's
really brought me out of my shell."</p>
<p>Lord Snape told the ceremony: "I congratulate all of the winners
and my commiserations to the losers. This is a marvellous
initiative.</p>
<p>"Unemployment in young people is so high not just in this
country but across Europe, and governments ignore it at their
peril."</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "Get Into Transport is
a superb scheme that gives young people a real chance to gain
experience working in public transport.</p>
<p>"Everyone who has taken part will have gained valuable work
experience and the opportunity to develop skills and identify their
strengths."</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands, said: "As part of our close partnership working with
Centro, National Express were offered the opportunity this year to
be involved, for the first time, with the Prince's Trust and we
have been extremely pleased at how well the scheme has gone.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"As one of the major employers in the West Midlands we are
always keen to do what we can to help provide jobs for local people
and we know just how important work experience can be for young
people in making the first step into employment."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Paul Beesley, senior head of programmes for The Prince's Trust
in the West Midlands said: "The Prince's Trust Get into Transport
course is a fantastic way for young people to increase their
chances of finding work in the transport industry.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"We provide young people with intensive training, work
experience and qualifications to help them into jobs. It is great
to be working with Centro, Virgin Trains and National Express to
help support young people in the area to move into the
workplace."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
Four young people have been offered apprenticeships with Centro and National Express after completing a Prince’s Trust scheme.
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Funding boost is just the ticket for Dudley jobseekers
2012-10-12T00:00:00
2012-10-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>An award winning Centro scheme which has helped more than 12,000
West Midland jobseekers back into work has returned to Dudley after
securing a £200,000 funding boost.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro teamed up with the Dudley MBC and
Jobcentre Plus to renew the WorkWise initiative, which provides
free journey planning advice and travel passes for unemployed
people travelling to interviews or starting new jobs.</p>
<p>Funding for the scheme ended in March 2011 but the new money
means the project will now operate out of Dudley Job centres and
Dudley Council Plus until December 2014.</p>
<p>The cash injection forms part of Centro's successful bid to the
Government's Better Bus Area Fund, which aims to encourage local
authorities to work with bus operators to improve buses in urban
areas.</p>
<p>Cllr Bryan Cotterill, who represents Dudley on Centro, said: "We
are delighted that we have been able to bring this project back to
Dudley. It is particularly pleasing that in the current economic
climate we are able to give our residents this kind of support in
their search for work.</p>
<p>"The first few months of a new job are often the most
financially challenging and this scheme helps eliminate some of the
barriers that prevent people from getting back into work.</p>
<p>"WorkWise has proved a great success across the region and we
hope that people continue to take advantage of this scheme."</p>
<p>It is predicted that the new funding will assist more than 1,000
jobseekers in their search to work by the end of the project in
2015.</p>
<p>Across the West Midlands WorkWise has provided nearly 9,000
daily travel passes for people attending interviews and over 15,000
monthly passes for people starting new jobs since the project first
launched.</p>
<p>Sean Beckett, Customer Services Manager at Dudley Council Plus,
said: ""It is great that Dudley Council��Plus is able to host this
service which adds to the long list of services that Dudley
residents and customers can already access at our convenient town
centre location.</p>
<p>""We hope those who are eligible for the scheme take full
advantage of it and of the other services on offer.""</p>
<p>The scheme is available to residents across the borough who are
registered at their local job centre, or can be accessed at Dudley
Council Plus. Residents must have a Dudley postcode to be eligible
for the service.</p>
<p>To get free travel to job interviews, applicants must apply for
support before the interview.</p>
<p>To get free travel for the first two months of their new job,
applicants must complete their WorkWise application within 5
working days of starting their new employment.</p>
<p>"</p>
"A�Centro scheme which has helped more than 12,000 West Midland jobseekers back into work has returned to Dudley."
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0
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Coventry passengers to have their say on transport services
2012-10-12T00:00:00
2012-10-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><span>People who use public transport in Coventry are being
offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the
area's network.</span></p>
<p><span>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands � the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</span></p>
<p><span>Staff from�the bus�and�rail� <span>o</span>perators�have
been invited�to meet passengers between 10am to 2pm on October 20
in the�Centro marquee being set up in Broadgate.</span></p>
<p><span>The event has been organised by Centro, the region's
transport authority.</span></p>
<p><span>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at
closely by transport bosses and used to make improvements to the
local bus�and rail network.</span></p>
<p><span>Kerry Meredith, Principal Officer�(Customer Relations) at
Centro, said: "The event provides us with a perfect opportunity to
really understand the needs of�Coventrypassengers and non-public
transport users.</span></p>
<p><span>"We are particularly interested in hearing people's views
about how we can improve connections between different forms of
public transport making those connections easier, quicker and more
convenient.</span></p>
<p><span>"We want to make sure we provide a public transport system
that is a genuine alternative to the car and secure the best deal
for passengers by urging bus and rail operators to listen very
carefully to what the public say."</span></p>
<p>"</p>
Public transport users in Coventry are being offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views.
17213
thumbCoventrygeneric.jpg
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Coventry bus improvements highly commended at transport ‘Oscars’
2012-10-12T00:00:00
2012-10-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A Centroled project which brought major improvements to the
Coventry bus network has been highly commended in a top industry
awards.<br />
<br />
Transport authority Centro worked closely with bus companies
National Express, De Courcey and Stagecoach as well as Coventry
City Council on the Coventry Bus Network Review to transform routes
across the city, includingbetter links to University
Hospital.<br />
<br />
The project has now been formally recognised after being highly
commended in the Transport Team Partnership Award at this year's
National Transport Awards, widely regarded as the�industry's
'Oscars'.<br />
<br />
The awards, held at London's River Bank Park Plaza last night
(Thursday October 11), recognised how the changes saw 60 per cent
of passengers benefit from more regular buses.<br />
<br />
A new colour coded system was also devised with all bus operators
to simplify the network by highlighting key routes.<br />
<br />
Centro Chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Winning this award in
the best transport team and partnership category reflects the hard
work Centro has put in to working with bus companies and the City
Council to bring about a vastly improved bus network for the people
of Coventry.<br />
<br />
"After we launched the new network, both Centro and bus
companiescontinued to take on board feedback from passengers and
make further improvements to the network.<br />
<br />
"The success of the new network is borne out by the increase we
have seen in the number of people using the city's buses which was
up by five per cent after just four weeks."<br />
<br />
The Network Review Partnership will seemore than 50 brand new
buses deployed on to the city's streets.<br />
<br />
Before the review more than 200,000 leaflets were produced and
delivered to every household in the city, to find out what
passengers wanted from their bus network.<br />
<br />
Feedback highlighted the need for more regular buses, more evening
services and better connections to Coventry Rail Station and
University hospital, which have all been delivered following the
review.</p>
<p>"</p>
A Centro<em> </em>led project which brought major improvements to the Coventry bus network has been highly commended in a top industry awards.
17213
0
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Centro welcomes Prime Minister’s commitment on high speed rail
2012-10-09T00:00:00
2012-10-09T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A commitment by the Prime Minister and his Transport Secretary
to press ahead with the HS2 high speed rail link was today welcomed
by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>The unstinting support for HS2 expressed by David Cameron and
Patrick McLoughlin at the Conservative Party conference in
Birmingham was today described by Centro Chief Executive Geoff
Inskip as "tremendous news for the West Midlands".</p>
<p>"Our research confirms HS2 will bring 22,000 jobs and £1.5bn per
year to the West Midlands," he said.</p>
<p>"It will also release capacity for more passenger and freight
services on our increasingly busy existing lines. This announcement
is exactly what we wanted to hear and cements the continuing
cross-party support for HS2."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip had earlier met the Prime Minister at a Centro
reception organised as part of the conference being staged at the
city's International Convention Centre.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip also outlined plans to ensure people in the region got
the best possible deal from HS2 during a Centro fringe event
entitled 'Shaping the National Transport Agenda to Benefit the West
Midlands.'</p>
<p>Mr McLoughlin later told the Conservative Party Conference: "I
will be cracking on with HS2...we cannot afford not to build
it.</p>
<p>"At the start of this year, the government committed to build a
new line not just to Birmingham but on to Manchester and
Leeds."</p>
<p>Mr McLoughlin said he would soon be publishing detailed plans
for the route north of Birmingham (phase 2) connecting the West
Midlands with the East Midlands, North West and Yorkshire. He said
he wanted even more parts of the country to benefit.</p>
<p>"So we're launching a study on the way to get fast journeys
further north still with the aim of getting the journey from
Scotland to London to under three hours, because this will be a
scheme for every person in Britain," he said.</p>
<p>Prime Minister David Cameron again reiterated his commitment to
HS2.</p>
<p>He described HS2 as 'very important infrastructure' and said it
was just the beginning of a network that would go from London to
Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester and up to Scotland as well.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro has welcomed a commitment from the Prime Minister and his Transport Secretary to press ahead with HS2.
17213
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All Change for Sandwell Buses
2012-10-08T00:00:00
2012-10-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Improved links to hospitals and the Merry Hill shopping centre
are just some of the benefits on the way for bus passengers across
Sandwell.</p>
<p>Changes to some bus routes, services and numbers aimed at
enhancing the network for new and potential passengers will come
into effect on October 28 following a major review of services by
transport authority Centro, bus operators, Sandwell Metropolitan
Borough Council and Birmingham City Council.</p>
<p>The review includes making improvements to services to key
locations in Sandwell as well as neighbouring Birmingham, Dudley,
Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>There will be more services to City Hospital in Winson Green,
Birmingham and to the showpiece Merry Hill shopping complex in
Brierley Hill.</p>
<p>There will also be more services to Sandwell General Hospital in
West Bromwich, Neptune Health Park in Tipton and Rowley Regis
Hospital as well as improved links to rail and Metro services.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Sandwell on Centro, said:
"This has been a massive public consultation exercise over three
months with exhibitions and community meetings.</p>
<p>"Centro and its partner organisations have worked hard to
establish a new, simpler to understand bus network that gets people
to where they want to get to, when they want to go.</p>
<p>"When we consulted the public we were asked for better links to
hospitals and improved services to railway stations, so I am
delighted that we have been able to do that with our bus operator
partners."</p>
<p>Other improvements to the network include:</p>
<ul>
<li>An easier to understand network with the same daytime, evening
and Sunday services</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>New numbers to give Sandwell bus network its own identity</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>More buses to West Bromwich complementing �the new college and
Cronehills development.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Improved evening and Sunday services.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>More buses to key centres including Oldbury, Birmingham and
Dudley.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>New services for Langley Green, Bristnall Fields, and Lawrence
Lane.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Better bus waiting facilities including 200 new bus
shelters.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>More electronic information displays with live bus
information.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Reworked timetables to provide more punctual and evenly spaced
services</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro's Lead Member for Putting Passengers
First, said: "This review will mean great improvements for people
travelling, visiting, living and working in Sandwell and
surrounding areas.</p>
<p>"It offers a network fit for 21<sup>st</sup> century bus users
in the borough, utilising modern technology, providing more buses
that give the best possible service and a viable alternative to the
private car."</p>
<p>The new network will be signed up to as part of a three year
partnership deal with bus operators, Sandwell Council and Centro
that will attract millions of pounds of additional investment in
the network.</p>
<p>This includes bringing Real Time Information to bus stops across
the borough, more new buses, and improved infrastructure at key
centres.</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions will be held across Sandwell to inform
passengers about the new network.</p>
<p>They will take place on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday October 18, 10am to 2pm � Network West Midlands (NWM)
marquee by Stone Cross shops, junction of Walsall Road/Jervoise
Lane.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Friday October 19, 10am to 3pm � Exhibition at ASDA, Blackhouse
Lane, Great Bridge.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Saturday October 20, 9am to 1pm � NWM marquee, Bearwood Bus
Station, Bearwood.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Saturday October 20, 2pm to 5pm � Cradley Heath
Interchange.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Monday October 22, 10am to 3pm � NWM exhibition bus at
Wednesbury Bus Station, Loxdale Street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday October 23, 12pm to 6pm � Static indoor exhibition at
West Bromwich Bus Station by the Travel Information Centre.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wednesday October 24, 10am to 4pm � NWM marquee at Oldbury by
Council House/Sainsbury's.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Thursday October 25, 2pm to 6pm � NWM marquee at Sainsbury's,
Halesowen Street, Blackheath.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Friday October 26, 10am to 2pm � 10am to 2 pm � NWM bus at
Windmill Centre in front of Peacock's and Pure Gym, Cape Hill.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Saturday October 27, 10am to 3pm � NWM marquee at Tipton
Shopping Centre, Owen Street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday October 30, 10am to 3pm � NWM marquee at West Bromwich
Markets, High Street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Thursday November 01, 11am to 3pm � NWM exhibition bus at
Oldbury by Council House/ Sainsbury's.</li>
</ul>
<p>Passengers can find more information about the changes by
logging on to <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a>
or downloading our NetNav app, which is available for Android,
iPhone, and iPad from <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/apps</a></p>
<p>"</p>
New Sandwell bus network to bring benefits for passengers
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Countdown starts to New Street switchover
2012-10-08T00:00:00
2012-10-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using Birmingham New Street will see the first major
changes in more than 40 years when the station concourse switches
over next April, marking the half way point of the
redevelopment.</p>
<p>In six months time, the existing station concourse and its
entrances which have been in use since the 1960s will close
overnight to allow the first half of the brand new concourse to
open to passengers.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for transforming rail,
said: "I'm very pleased that the Gateway project remains on course
and on time, and its completion will be a massive boost for the
thousands of passengers using the station each day.</p>
<p>"The concourse switchover will be a key milestone in the
station's transformation which in turn will help underpin our
efforts to create a world class transport system for the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>A public information campaign will kick off in January to inform
passengers about the changes they can expect to see at New Street
in April 2013. In the meantime, passengers will be able to find out
more at a public exhibition at the station next week which will be
open between 7am-7pm on Monday 8, Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10
October.</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, Network Rail project director added: "We've
committed to keeping New Street open to passengers throughout the
redevelopment and to date, we've been able to do most of our work
behind the scenes.</p>
<p>"The switchover next year will be the first time passengers see
real changes in how they use and access New Street station. By
switching off the old station and opening the first half of the new
concourse next door, we can keep passengers moving through New
Street while we continue rebuilding the existing half of the
station and shopping centre above."</p>
<p>Around 1000 construction workers are currently on site at New
Street, main areas of activity include:</p>
<p>Platforms: Platforms are refurbished one at a time, leaving the
other 11 platforms open to allow a full train service to run.
Platform 11 is currently closed and will reopen on Sunday 7 October
when work will move to Platform 8.</p>
<p>Moor Street Link: This new pedestrian route will open alongside
the new concourse in April 2013 providing a link between Moor
Street station and the new concourse via Stephenson Street.</p>
<p>Pallasades/Southside: Demolition is ongoing in several areas
including the old car park and the centre of the building to form
the new atrium which will open in 2015. The Pallasades remains open
throughout the redevelopment. On the south side of the station,
construction of the John Lewis department store is well
underway.</p>
<p>Fa�ade: The first sections of stainless steel fa�ade will be
installed later this autumn, above Stephenson Street on the north
side of the station.</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The
refurbished Birmingham New Street station will provide a much
improved transport interchange for the 140,000 passengers who use
it every day and these changes are designed to keep passengers and
trains moving while this major work goes ahead. This is a vital
project for the city, stimulating economic growth and regeneration
and, in the newly-named Grand Central, it will provide one of the
best-connected retail spaces in the country.</p>
<p>New concourse facts:</p>
<ul>
<li>When the first half of the new concourse opens it will have all
of the facilities expected in a major station with a new bigger and
improved ticket office plus improved access with new up and down
escalators and lifts to every platform.</li>
<li>Navigation Street footbridge at the west end of the station
will close to passengers temporarily as new entrances will open
onto Stephenson Street and Hill Street.</li>
<li>There will also be new escalators up to the Pallasades to
replace the existing ones which will close to allow the old
concourse to be rebuilt.</li>
</ul>
<p>All vehicle traffic will move from Smallbrook Queensway on the
east side of the station across to Hill Street with the taxi rank
temporarily moving to Navigation Street.</p>
<p>"</p>
Big changes for New Street Station passengers will come into effect next April with concourse switchover <strong><br /></strong>
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Walsall students turn film stars in new learning tool for schools
2012-10-08T00:00:00
2012-10-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>An innovative project has handed more than 20 young people the
chance to take charge on both sides of the camera to create a free
educational tool for schools.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro teamed up with Walsall MBC and
digital media company Catcher Media to challenge year 10 drama
students at Walsall Academy to come up with creative ways to
promote green transport.</p>
<p>The youngsters produced four short films titled 'Think Outside
the Metal Box' which focussed on the significant benefits of taking
public transport, walking, cycling and car-sharing.</p>
<p>Each of the films, made as part of the students' Performing Arts
BTEC, have been designed to link to the national curriculum and are
now available as free online tools for teachers throughout the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>The scheme has already earned national recognition after being
shortlisted for the Mode Shift Awards for Local Authority Initiated
Project of the Year.</p>
<p>To launch the programme the students showcased their creations
at an event at Centro's Birmingham headquarters attended by youth
and education representatives from across the region.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's Lead Member for Green and
Accessible Transport, said: "This has been a brilliant opportunity
for young people to point out the real advantages that can come
from choosing your travel options wisely. Saving money, promoting
health and helping the environment are all major factors.</p>
<p>"As the films were made by students they are the ideal way to
communicate these ideas to other young people and we hope that
schools across the region will make use of this fantastic free
resource."</p>
<p>The videos can be found on Centro's YouTube channel at <a
href="/">www.youtube.com/user/CentroNWM</a>.</p>
<p>The films are already being used as at workshops throughout the
West Midlands to help primary school children plan journeys to
their new secondary school.</p>
<p>And it is hoped that the process of making and producing the
films will also form part of drama and performing arts curriculums
across the region.</p>
<p>Tim Pratt, head of drama at Walsall Academy, said: "The students
have had a strong sense of pride in what they have achieved and
what they have created during this project.</p>
<p>"They were involved in the creative process from the very
beginning and the slogan 'Think Outside the Metal Box' came from
one of the initial workshops. It was a great success because it was
in essence, a fun project."</p>
<p>Leah Wilkes, arts development officer Walsall MBC, said: "What
was great about this is that from the very beginning young people
were at the heart of the project.</p>
<p>"It was also key that we were able to work in partnership and
meet regularly to make sure there was input right across the board
which has helped give us such a great finished product."</p>
<p>"</p>
More than 20 Walsall Academy students have created a new educational tool for schools.
17213
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Countdown on to New Street switchover
2012-10-08T00:00:00
2012-10-08T00:00:00
The new NW corner entrance will open on Stephenson St in April 2013
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using Birmingham New Street will see the first major
changes in over 40 years when the station concourse switches over
next April, marking the half way point of the redevelopment.</p>
<p>In six months time, the existing station concourse and its
entrances which have been in use since the 1960s will close
overnight to allow the first half of the brand new concourse to
open to passengers.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for transforming rail,
said: "I'm very pleased that the Gateway project remains on course
and on time, and its completion will be a massive boost for the
thousands of passengers using the station each day.</p>
<p>"The concourse switchover will be a key milestone in the
station's transformation which in turn will help underpin our
efforts to create a world class transport system for the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>A public information campaign will kick off in January to inform
passengers about the changes they can expect to see at New Street
in April 2013. In the meantime, passengers will be able to find out
more at a public exhibition at the station next week which will be
open between 7am-7pm on Monday 8, Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10
October.</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, Network Rail project director said: "We've
committed to keeping New Street open to passengers throughout the
redevelopment and to date, we've been able to do most of our work
behind the scenes.</p>
<p>"The switchover next year will be the first time passengers see
real changes in how they use and access New Street station. By
switching off the old station and opening the first half of the new
concourse next door, we can keep passengers moving through New
Street while we continue rebuilding the existing half of the
station and shopping centre above."</p>
<p>Around 1000 construction workers are currently on site at New
Street, main areas of activity include:</p>
<p>Platforms: Platforms are refurbished one at a time, leaving the
other 11 platforms open to allow a full train service to run.
Platform 11 is currently closed and will reopen on Sunday 7 October
when work will move to Platform 8.</p>
<p>Moor Street Link: This new pedestrian route will open alongside
the new concourse in April 2013 providing a link between Moor
Street station and the new concourse via Stephenson Street.</p>
<p>Pallasades/Southside: Demolition is ongoing in several areas
including the old car park and the centre of the building to form
the new atrium which will open in 2015. The Pallasades remains open
throughout the redevelopment. On the south side of the station,
construction of the John Lewis department store is well
underway.</p>
<p>Fa�ade: The first sections of stainless steel fa�ade will be
installed later this autumn, above Stephenson Street on the north
side of the station.<br />
<br />
Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The
refurbished Birmingham New Street station will provide a much
improved transport interchange for the 140,000 passengers who use
it every day and these changes are designed to keep passengers and
trains moving while this major work goes ahead. This is a vital
project for the city, stimulating economic growth and regeneration
and, in the newly-named Grand Central, it will provide one of the
best-connected retail spaces in the country.</p>
<p>New concourse facts:</p>
<ul>
<li>When the first half of the new concourse opens it will have all
of the facilities expected in a major station with a new bigger and
improved ticket office plus improved access with new up and down
escalators and lifts to every platform.</li>
<li>Navigation Street footbridge at the west end of the station
will close to passengers temporarily as new entrances will open
onto Stephenson Street and Hill Street.</li>
<li>There will also be new escalators up to the Pallasades to
replace the existing ones which will close to allow the old
concourse to be rebuilt.</li>
</ul>
<p>All vehicle traffic will move from Smallbrook Queensway on the
east side of the station across to Hill Street with the taxi rank
temporarily moving to Navigation Street.</p>
<p>"</p>
A switchover of concourses at New Street Station will take place next April
17213
ThenewNWcornerentrancewillopenonStephensonStApril2013.jpg
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No change for High Heath bus route
2012-10-08T00:00:00
2012-10-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A Walsall bus service is to continue in its present form after a
public consultation found the majority of local people were opposed
to any change in its route.</p>
<p>Some residents in the High Heath area had called for the 89 to
be re-routed away from Field Lane, claiming the road was too narrow
to serve as a safe bus route.</p>
<p>As a result, transport authority Centro and bus company National
Express West Midlands agreed in April to continue the service on a
trial basis so the situation in Field Lane could be closely
monitored and assessed.</p>
<p>An independent safety investigation by traffic management
consultancy TMS was carried out on the recommendation of the Royal
Society for the Prevention of Accidents and concluded that Field
Lane was wide enough, even at its narrowest point, for two buses to
pass each other safely.</p>
<p>The public consultation found 75 per cent of residents who wrote
in with their comments to be in favour of retaining the existing
route.</p>
<p>A public meeting at Shelfield Academy, chaired by Centro Vice
Chair, Cllr Kath Hartley and attended by more than 150 people, also
recorded 70 per cent of comments in support of the existing
route.</p>
<p>Cllr Hartley said: "Together with National Express we have
carried out a rigorous assessment of the route both in terms of
safety, passenger needs and the views of the local community.</p>
<p>"After careful consideration of the findings we are satisfied
that the existing route is the right one and best serves the
interests of the majority of local people in terms of accessing
local bus services."</p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West
Midlands, added: "We are pleased to have held this consultation in
partnership with Centro and have listened to the views of hundreds
of local residents.</p>
<p>" We believe we have come to the best result for everyone
involved and are planning some minor timetable changes to help
alleviate residents' concerns further.""</p>
<p>During the consultation, many of those opposed to a change in
the route said the service provided a lifeline for older people in
the area, especially those needing a regular link to Walsall or
Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Key points raised by those calling for a change included safety
concerns due to the width of Field Lane and the frequency and times
of the service along the road.</p>
<p>The investigation also found that the existing service, which is
run by National Express on a commercial basis, had seen a 20 per
cent increase in passengers in the High Heath area since it started
using Field Lane in April.</p>
<p>A 12 hour survey found an average of 240 people boarding the
service in High Heath and 268 people getting off. Of these 87 used
stops in the Field Lane vicinity.</p>
<p>Centro and National Express also looked at the possibility of
routing some of the 89 buses away from Field Lane at certain times
of the day.</p>
<p>But the best option was found to be the continuation of a single
route throughout the day in order to benefit the majority of the
local community and ensure an easy to understand and attractive
service.</p>
<p>Cllr Richard Worrall, Lead Member for Walsall on Centro, said:
"There's no doubt that the existing route gives the best access to
more of the local community so to me this is a good outcome."</p>
<p>"</p>
A Walsall bus service is to continue in its present form following public consultation
17213
0
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0
Birmingham passengers to have their say on transport services
2012-10-04T00:00:00
2012-10-04T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People who use public transport in Birmingham are being offered
the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area's
network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands � the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>Staff from�the bus, rail and tram operators�will be on hand to
meet passengers between 1pm and 6pm on October 11 in the�Centro
marquee being set up in Snow Hill Plaza outside Snow Hill station,
off Colmore Row, in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>The event has been organised by Centro, the West Midlands'
integrated transport authority.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus,
tram and rail network.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Principal Officer�(Customer Relations) at
Centro, said: "The event provides us with a perfect opportunity to
really understand the needs of Birmingham passengers and non-public
transport users.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing people's views about
how we can improve connections between different forms of public
transport making those connections easier, quicker and more
convenient.</p>
<p>"We want to make sure we provide a public transport system that
is a genuine alternative to the car and secure the best deal for
passengers by urging bus and rail operators to listen very
carefully to what the public say."</p>
<p>"</p>
People using public transport in Birmingham get the chance to give their views about the area’s network.
17213
0
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Command centre leads the way in double awards victory
2012-10-04T00:00:00
2012-10-05T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A pioneering £1.2m command centre dedicated to tackling crime
and anti-social behaviour on the West Midlands transport network
has landed a prestigious award just five months after its
launch.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Command Centre, a joint initiative by transport
authority Centro, West Midlands Police and British Transport
Police, won the Most Significant Safety Initiative of the Year
title at the Light Rail Awards at London's Vinopolis venue last
night (Wednesday October 3).</p>
<p>The ceremony saw Centro toasting a double success with Colin
Robey, it's operations manager for the Midland Metro tram system,
taking the award for Outstanding Achievement in the Industry.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Command Centre opened in May to provide an
operational base dedicated to tackling crime and anti-social
behaviour on the Midland Metro and region's wider transport
network.</p>
<p>It is the first in the UK to have transport authority staff,
officers from a regional police force and British Transport Police
permanently based together.</p>
<p>Working under the region's Safer Travel Partnership they have
helped cut crime on the transport system by more than 65 per cent
over the last five years..</p>
<p>Mark Babington, Centro's safer travel manager,said: "This is a
fantastic achievement which really highlights how effective this
centre has been since opening earlier this year. Having three
organisations working so closely together under one roof means we
are able to share information seamlessly.</p>
<p>"It is something we had wanted to put in place for a long time
and we're delighted that now it is up and running its success has
been recognised with this award."</p>
<p>Equipped with the latest digital technology, staff at the centre
use 50 high definition screens to monitor images, beamed live from
more than 800 CCTV cameras covering the region's bus, rail and tram
network.</p>
<p>The Command Centre also serves as a headquarters for up to 79
officers and staff from the Safer Travel Partnership, which
includes West Midlands Police, Centro, bus operator National
Express and more recently British Transport Police. Together they
stage hundreds of operations each year to deter and combat crime
and anti-social behaviour on the transport network.</p>
<p>British Transport Police Inspector Lee Gordon, from the Safer
Travel Police Team added:� "It's great that this project has been
recognised on a national level, highlighting the innovative
approach to ensuring the safety and security of West Midlands
passengers.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"Crime on the network continues to fall and with improved
communication and further investment we will keep pushing forward
with this.</p>
<p>"The award also recognises that the key to this project is not
just two police forces working together but at the same time
working closely with the transport industry."</p>
<p>Gareth Morris, West Midlands Police Safer Travel Inspector,
said: "The great thing about this is that it is such a unique
project between British Transport Police, West Midlands Police and
Centro. It is the first type of cross agency working of its
kind.</p>
<p>"It has been incredibly successful so far and we have seen
significant decreases in crime across the network.</p>
<p>"Working together in one place eliminates invisible barriers and
we have been able to speed up our response times and much more
easily monitor offenders moving from one mode of transport to
another."</p>
<p>The night's other award winner Colin Robey picked up the judges'
Outstanding Achievement award in recognition of his work over more
than 40 years in the transport industry.</p>
<p>Colin was appointed at Centro in 1999 to help with the opening
of the Midland Metro which runs between Birmingham Snow Hill and
Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>After 13-years service he has continued to play a significant
part in the development of the forthcoming Metro extension which
will see trams return to the streets of Birmingham city centre in
2015.</p>
<p>In his role as Director of UK Tram, Colin has for the past two
years been undertaking work within the European community in
bringing together pan European standards for urban railways and
Metros.</p>
<p>He is also Chairman of the Confederation for Passenger
Transport, fixed track section.</p>
<p>Colin said: "I am delighted to have won the award which
recognises the work that I have done within the light rail
industry. It is particularly pleasing to receive an award that is
given by your peers within the industry."</p>
<p>"</p>
A pioneering £1.2m command centre dedicated to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour on the West Midlands transport network has landed a prestigious award just five months after its launch.
17213
0
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Crime-busting award for rail line
2012-10-03T00:00:00
2012-10-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>One of the region's key commuter rail lines has landed a top
award for keeping passengers safe from crime.</p>
<p>Every station on the Chase Line between Tame Bridge Parkway and
Rugeley Town has now been awarded Secure Station Accreditation by
the Department for Transport after undergoing a rigorous
assessment</p>
<p>Judges from the Secure Station Scheme travelled the line
inspecting facilities at the stations and interviewing passengers,
asking questions such as how safe they felt using the train and
what they felt could be done to improve it.</p>
<p>The initiative rewards operators who reduce crime and
anti-social behaviour at rail stations. It also advises operators,
designers and architects on how to develop better and safer
environments.</p>
<p>The award follows a number of initiatives by the Safer Travel
Partnership, which involves transport authority Centro, West
Midlands Police, British Transport Police and National Express, to
deter crime and anti-social behaviour on the network.</p>
<p>The stations also underwent a £900,000 package of improvements
last year by Centro, train operator London Midland and Network Rail
including crime-busting CCTV cameras, improved lighting and fencing
and new passenger shelters.</p>
<p>The number of offences on the Chase Line fell by more than 25
per cent last year over the 12 months up to March 31 this year.</p>
<p>Centro's Lead Member for Transforming Rail Travel, Cllr Roger
Horton, said: "The Safer Travel Team has been very successful in
keeping crime low on the Chase Line and that's great news for
passengers.</p>
<p>"These Secure Station awards are a reflection of that hard work
in partnership with train operator London Midland as well as the
recent station improvements such as CCTV cameras and better
lighting which have both helped to deter crime."</p>
<p>Richard Brooks, Commercial Director at London Midland, said:
""We are delighted that we have succeeded in achieving�the Secure
Station awards at these locations.</p>
<p><br />
"There have been significant improvements made at the stations
which have resulted in a substantial reduction in crime and
anti-social behaviour, and an improvement in customer satisfaction
regarding personal safety and security.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"London Midland will continue to work in partnership to achieve
further station accreditations across the network.""<br />
<br />
British Transport Police Inspector Lee Gordon, from the Safer
Travel Police Team, added: "The Secure Stations Scheme is an
important element in helping to make the rail network secure,
reassuring passengers and staff, and ensuring the continued success
of the industry.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>""The rail network is a low crime environment and one where
increasing resources are being put into combating anti-social
behaviour and disorder.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"However, if we are going to drive down crime and anti-social
behaviour further, we need to continue to work together with all of
our partners in the industry in a smarter and more planned way.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"That is what the Secure Stations Scheme can offer - a
meaningful measure of better co-operative working between station
operators and the police to help cut crime and ensure passengers
feel safe when using the stations they travel to and from."</p>
<p>Passengers on the Chase Line are also set to receive a number of
other major improvements over the next few years.</p>
<p>A £5.4m package of improvements by 2014 will see faster journeys
thanks to work by Network Rail to increase line speed from
45mph-75mph.</p>
<p>The track between Walsall and Rugeley is also due to be
electrified as part of a £9.4 billion programme of improvements for
the national network to be carried out between 2014 and 2019.</p>
<p>Centro, which lobbied hard for the electrification, calculates
that the scheme is worth £113 million to the West Midlands economy
and will generate 1,370 jobs.</p>
<p>"</p>
One of the region’s key commuter rail lines has landed a top award for keeping passengers safe from crime.
17213
0
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Chase Line commuter rail stations land crime-busting awards
2012-10-03T00:00:00
2012-10-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>One of the region's key commuter rail lines has landed a top
award for keeping passengers safe from crime.</p>
<p>Every station on the Chase Line between Tame Bridge Parkway and
Rugeley Town has now been awarded Secure Station Accreditation by
the Department for Transport after undergoing a rigorous
assessment</p>
<p>Judges from the Secure Station Scheme travelled the line
inspecting facilities at the stations and interviewing passengers,
asking questions such as how safe they felt using the train and
what they felt could be done to improve it.</p>
<p>The initiative rewards operators who reduce crime and
anti-social behaviour at rail stations. It also advises operators,
designers and architects on how to develop better and safer
environments.</p>
<p>The award follows a number of initiatives by the Safer Travel
Partnership, which involves transport authority Centro, West
Midlands Police, British Transport Police and National Express, to
deter crime and anti-social behaviour on the network.</p>
<p>The stations also underwent a £900,000 package of improvements
last year by Centro, train operator London Midland and Network Rail
including crime-busting CCTV cameras, improved lighting and fencing
and new passenger shelters.</p>
<p>The number of offences on the Chase Line fell by more than 25
per cent last year over the 12 months up to March 31 this year.</p>
<p>Centro's Lead Member for Transforming Rail Travel, Cllr Roger
Horton, said: "The Safer Travel Team has been very successful in
keeping crime low on the Chase Line and that's great news for
passengers.</p>
<p>"These Secure Station awards are a reflection of that hard work
in partnership with train operator London Midland as well as the
recent station improvements such as CCTV cameras and better
lighting which have both helped to deter crime."</p>
<p>Richard Brooks, Commercial Director at London Midland, said:
""We are delighted that we have succeeded in achieving�the Secure
Station awards at these locations.</p>
<p><br />
"There have been significant improvements made at the stations
which have resulted in a substantial reduction in crime and
anti-social behaviour, and an improvement in customer satisfaction
regarding personal safety and security.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"London Midland will continue to work in partnership to achieve
further station accreditations across the network.""<br />
<br />
British Transport Police Inspector Lee Gordon, from the Safer
Travel Police Team, added: "The Secure Stations Scheme is an
important element in helping to make the rail network secure,
reassuring passengers and staff, and ensuring the continued success
of the industry.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>""The rail network is a low crime environment and one where
increasing resources are being put into combating anti-social
behaviour and disorder.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"However, if we are going to drive down crime and anti-social
behaviour further, we need to continue to work together with all of
our partners in the industry in a smarter and more planned way.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"That is what the Secure Stations Scheme can offer - a
meaningful measure of better co-operative working between station
operators and the police to help cut crime and ensure passengers
feel safe when using the stations they travel to and from."</p>
<p>Passengers on the Chase Line are also set to receive a number of
other major improvements over the next few years.</p>
<p>A £5.4m package of improvements by 2014 will see faster journeys
thanks to work by Network Rail to increase line speed from
45mph-75mph.</p>
<p>The track between Walsall and Rugeley is also due to be
electrified as part of a £9.4 billion programme of improvements for
the national network to be carried out between 2014 and 2019.</p>
<p>Centro, which lobbied hard for the electrification, calculates
that the scheme is worth £113 million to the West Midlands economy
and will generate 1,370 jobs.</p>
<p>"</p>
One of the region’s key commuter rail lines has landed a top crime-busting award.
17213
0
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All aboard as floating cycle shop sets sail
2012-10-02T00:00:00
2012-10-02T00:00:00
"John Shaw founder of Cycle Chain, Conrad Jones Centro’s head of sustainability, Peter Moore from British waterways, Cllr Kath Hartley Centro’s vice chair and right Cllr Judith Rowley Centro’s lead member for green and accessible transport."
<p>"</p>
<p>A new Birmingham cycle hub has been created on board a 72 foot
longboat as part of a unique project aimed at creating learning
opportunities and boosting cycling along the city's iconic canal
routes.</p>
<p>After a summer of British cycling success, social enterprise
Cycle Chain has opened the doors to its unique floating bike shop
after transport authority Centro funded the transformation of the
former cargo vessel named 'Carina'.�</p>
<p>The shop will create valuable learning opportunities for people
with learning disabilities, who will work with Cycle Chain to
develop key skills, as well as providing a one-stop-shop where
cyclists can park bikes securely, buy a bike or leave a bike for
repair.</p>
<p>The longboat now houses the store at Cambrian Wharf, next to the
NIA and alongside the landmark canals.�</p>
<p>John Shaw founder of Cycle Chain said: "Having worked with and
trained cycle mechanics who were partially sighted, I realised
there is a great potential in using bike restoration as a medium
for teaching people with various disabilities.�</p>
<p>"It is not just a method for learning about fixing bikes but
also important skills of communication, teamwork, dealing with
customers, and applying yourself to something with a positive end
product for which there is endless demand."�</p>
<p>"Now we have set up our floating shop and we will be offering
'park and service' deals for cycling commuters who need a repair,
and cycle hire. The canalsides are an interesting environment to
explore and we will progress to leading bike trails and guided
groups."�</p>
<p>As part of the project Cycle Chain will work with young people
with learning disabilities from Trinigy Specialist College who will
learn numeracy, mechanical and customer service skills as well as
building their self-confidence.�</p>
<p>Refurbished bikes at the store cost as little as £30 and
following the two-wheeled success of the summer, figures from
Market Research firm Mintel predict UK bike sales will reach a
record £700�million by the end of the year.</p>
<p>And with Birmingham boasting more miles of canal than Venice, it
is hoped the shop's location will encourage more cyclists to
explore the routes along the scenic towpath.�</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport said: "This unique project will provide people
with a great location to store bicycles or have general repairs
carried out. It is ideally placed for commuters coming into the
city centre as well as being right next to the scenic cycle routes
along the canal tow path for leisure cyclists.</p>
<p>"After the recent success of British cyclists there has been an
increase in the popularity of cycling�across the UK and it is great
that Cycle Chain is able to offer this floating cycle shop.�</p>
<p>"We hope this will encourage even more people to take up cycling
as well as giving young people the opportunity to gain valuable
skills and training as part of the on board cycle maintenance
store."</p>
<p>Cycle Chain work closely with Birmingham City Council and aim to
use cycling to provide learning�opportunities for young people and
those with additional learning needs.�</p>
<p>Among the visitors to Carina were a group of Birmingham
Councillors on a fact-finding bike ride�around Birmingham City
Centre to learn about the problems faced by cyclists commuting in
the city.</p>
<p>"</p>
A new Birmingham cycle hub has been created on board a 72 foot longboat as part of a unique project aimed at creating learning opportunities and boosting cycling along the city’s iconic canal routes.
17213
CYCLEBOAT2a.jpg
0
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European conference sees manifesto launch
2012-09-27T00:00:00
2012-09-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>More than a hundred European transport chiefs gathered in
Birmingham today (Wednesday September 26) to unveil a blueprint
aimed at tackling road congestion.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro hosted the PIMMS Capital Final
Conference at Highbury Hall, which marked the end of a three-year,
Continent-wide initiative, dedicated to cutting carbon and boosting
the economy.</p>
<p>The two day conference saw the launch of the Birmingham
Manifesto on Mobility, which calls on both the UK and European
Parliaments to fund more projects aimed at cutting congestion and
carbon emissions.</p>
<p>The manifesto points towards the need for more people to switch
from car to more sustainable forms of transport, such as bus,
train, tram, cycling and walking.</p>
<p>Road congestion is already costing West Midlands companies more
than £2.3 billion a year in late deliveries, wasted time and fuel.
Figures last year also revealed how Birmingham was more congested
than traffic hotspots such as Rome and Naples.</p>
<p>Rafael Cuesta, Centro's head of strategic development said:
"This project has been a fantastic opportunity to work closely with
our European counterparts. We've been able to pick up some really
interesting ideas from them and demonstrate some of the great
projects we are delivering in the West Midlands such as the Metro
tram extension through Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>"By giving people real sustainable travel alternatives and a
public transport network that can better connect them to jobs,
training and education we can help boost our economy and cut
carbon. The Birmingham Manifesto on Mobility shows our dedication
to achieving this."</p>
<p>The final conference saw experts on Mobility Management deliver
their verdict on the programme's success, including speakers from
the European Commission's Directorate General for Regional
Policy.</p>
<p>The project was co-financed by the European Regional Development
Fund and made possible by the INTERREG IV C Programme.�</p>
<p>"</p>
More than a hundred European transport chiefs gathered in Birmingham to unveil a blueprint aimed at tackling road congestion.
17213
0
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Centro hits road for Customer Service Roadshow
2012-09-27T00:00:00
2012-09-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users have a chance to talk to the experts face-to-face as
Centro's customer service team takes to the road.</p>
<p>A team of experts from the Midlands transport authority will
join team members at bus stations across the region to talk to the
public and find out what they think.</p>
<p>The initiative is part of National Customer Service Week, a
week-long nationwide event for organisations to demonstrate their
commitment to customer service.</p>
<p>The week also showcases the importance of customer service to
the UK economy and society as a whole.</p>
<p>Sarah Jones, Head of Customer Services for Centro, said: "Our
customers are at the heart of everything we do both internally and
externally.</p>
<p>"This is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the dedication
of Centro staff in providing excellent service as well as a chance
to talk directly to our customers about how we can make our
services even better in the future."</p>
<p>National Customer Service Week runs from October 1-7 and the
Centro roadshow events will take place at the following locations
between 11am and 3pm:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday 2<sup>nd</sup> October - Walsall Bus Station</li>
<li>Wednesday 3<sup>rd</sup> October - Dudley Bus Station</li>
<li>Thursday 4<sup>th</sup> October � Main Concourse, Wolverhampton
Bus Station</li>
<li>Friday 5<sup>th</sup> October � Main Concourse, Coventry Bus
Station</li>
<li>Saturday 6<sup>th</sup> October - West Bromwich Bus
Station</li>
</ul>
<p>More information about National Customer Services Week can be
found at the <strong><a href="/">Institute of Customer
Services</a></strong> website.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users can have their questions answered face-to-face as Centro’s customer service team takes to the road.
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Rail passengers now able to help police beat anti-social behaviour using text hotline
2012-09-24T00:00:00
2012-09-24T00:00:00
"Sgt Chris Casey, British Transport Police; Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and John Phillips, London Midland"
<p>"</p>
<p>Rail passengers in the West Midlands are being given the
opportunity to instantly and anonymously report anti-social
behaviour now that a successful campaign has been extended to the
rail network</p>
<p>The 'See Something, Say Something' scheme, which has already
proved a huge success on the West Midlands bus and tram network,
now includes the rail network across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>It means rail, bus and tram passengers can text information
directly to police and transport chiefs, helping them to crack down
on anti-social behaviour across all three modes of transport.</p>
<p>'See Something, Say Something' was originally launched on the
bus network in 2008.</p>
<p>Thousands of bus and Metro passengers have used the system to
provide crucial information that has enabled the Safer Travel
Partnership to pinpoint crime and anti-social behaviour hot spots
and take appropriate action.</p>
<p>It has helped the Partnership - which includes British Transport
Police, West Midlands Police, transport authority Centro and
transport operators - cut offences on the public transport network
by more than 65 per cent over the last five years.</p>
<p>Sergeant Chris Casey, of British Transport Police, said:
"Recorded anti-social behaviour on trains in the Centro region was
halved last year, but we know that often passengers don't report
events that disrupt their journeys.</p>
<p>"This includes things like people playing music, putting their
feet on seats and generally acting in an unacceptable manner.
Generally, people often think it's too minor to call the police
for.</p>
<p>"However, the text service has delivered great results on buses
and we now want rail passengers to let the Safer Travel Police Team
know about issues they experience so that we can use that
information to target our police patrols and keep antisocial
behaviour at a low level."</p>
<p>Centro Chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: ""Crime on the
public transport network is at a record low but when anti-social
behaviour occurs it can ruin someone's journey and also lead to an
unfounded fear of crime.</p>
<p>""Expanding See Something Say Something onto the rail network
gives passengers the chance to play a key role in helping us tackle
any nuisance behaviour and help provide a quiet and relaxing
environment for their journey.""</p>
<p>John Phillips, Business Continuity and Assurance Manager at
London Midland, said: "This scheme is an excellent example of the
positive steps being made by the Partnership towards detecting and
reducing anti-social behaviour/incidents on our services and
stations.</p>
<p>"It will create a better travel experience for our customers and
a more comfortable working environment for our colleagues. This
scheme will retrieve valuable intelligence from our customers,
which will provide a much clearer picture of where to concentrate
resources."<strong><br />
</strong><br />
Tactics used by the Safer Travel Partnership include high
visibility and covert patrols, the deployment of specially trained
drugs sniffer dogs, 'Gateway' operations to blanket-check specific
routes and the use of hi-tech 'Invariance' equipment which links in
to on-board bus CCTV cameras to beam live images to hand-held
screens in nearby police cars.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership also works with schools across the
region to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and
the effects of nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their journey
can say something by <strong>texting 'bus', 'metro' or
'rail'</strong> followed by a space and then details of the
incident including time, date, location and route number to
<strong>83010</strong>.</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on the <a
href="http://www.safertravelinfo/" target="_blank"
title="">http://www.safertravelinfo/</a> <a
href="http://www.safertravelinfo/"
target="_blank">http://www.safertravelinfo/</a>""
href=""http://www.safertravelinfo/"">www.safertravelinfo website
or by telephoning British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50
40.</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency, always dial
999.</p>
<p>"</p>
Rail passengers in the West Midlands are being given the opportunity to instantly and anonymously report anti-social behaviour now that a successful campaign has been extended to the rail network.
17213
SSSS(2).jpg
0
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Congestion is proving costly for Birmingham businesses
2012-09-20T00:00:00
2012-09-20T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Birmingham businesses are suffering unacceptable delays and
rising costs caused by congestion, according to a Chamber of
Commerce survey.</p>
<p>Delays were increasing costs for 61 per cent of respondents to
the survey with 42 per cent stating their reputation was being
harmed.</p>
<p>Almost half of the respondents in the construction and
manufacturing sector stated they were suffering unacceptable delays
in delivery with 60 per cent of these businesses reporting an
increase in costs.</p>
<p>The impact of delays was alarming for catering businesses with
all reporting unacceptable delays and three-quarters reporting
rising costs.</p>
<p>Birmingham Chamber chief executive Jerry Blackett said that,
although half of the businesses responding agreed regional
transport infrastructure was 'fairly good,' something had to be
done to reduce road congestion.</p>
<p>"It is clear from our survey that congestion is costing our
businesses money and harming their reputations.</p>
<p>"These are difficult times and we must do all we can to remove
these obstacles and ensure business in Birmingham is as competitive
as it can be.</p>
<p>Mr Blackett is a keen supporter of HS2 and said a new high speed
rail network would release capacity on existing lines for more
passenger and freight services.</p>
<p>"We want to see more freight being carried on our railways to
relieve the pressure on our road network. We are at the crossroads
of the country and, while this presents advantages with our central
location, it means we are seeing increasing levels of congestion,"
he added.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said congestion on roads in
the West Midlands was costing £2.3bn per year despite the number of
rail passengers in the West Midlands doubling in a decade.</p>
<p>"We have a growing population and people are increasingly
choosing to travel to do business and enjoy leisure time," he
said.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said it was vital that the right infrastructure was
put in place to make the most of the opportunity HS2 brings.</p>
<p>"We want to open up new rail routes and add services for
passengers and freight on our existing lines.</p>
<p>"This is good news for businesses and communities right across
our region," he added.</p>
<p>Centro wants to reopen the Stourbridge-Walsall line to freight
services and reopen the Camp Hill line for passenger services from
south Birmingham into Moor Street station.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Birmingham businesses are suffering unacceptable delays and rising costs caused by congestion, according to a Chamber of Commerce survey."
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Reduction in rail station staffing will mean poorer service for passengers
2012-09-17T00:00:00
2012-09-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Transport chiefs today branded a reduction in staffing levels
and ticket office opening hours at West Midland rail stations as
terrible news for passengers.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, said it was extremely
disappointed at a Government decision to allow local train operator
London Midland to make the controversial changes.</p>
<p>Centro's Lead Member for Transforming Rail, Cllr Roger Horton,
said: "Passengers tell us they like to see a staff presence at
stations because it makes them feel safe.</p>
<p>"Not only do staff perform a critical role in customer service
but they act as a deterrent to criminal or anti-social behaviour.
You don't get that from a ticket machine.</p>
<p>"This decision does nothing for passengers. It is a great pity
that London Midland and the Department for Transport did not adopt
our solution that would have delivered operational efficiencies
and, most importantly, have met the needs of passengers."</p>
<p>Centro, along with watchdog Passenger Focus and more than 18,000
passengers, MPs and other individuals, opposed the staffing
reductions when they were first proposed by London Midland last
year.</p>
<p>In pushing forward the staffing reductions, London Midland
pointed to the recent McNulty Report which looked at how Britain's
rail network can be made more efficient and cost effective.</p>
<p>However Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said "London
Midland recently said that reducing staff will not save them any
money.</p>
<p>"If that is the case we fail to see why they did not listen to
the 18,000 passengers and disabled groups who objected.</p>
<p>"We also fail to see what possible benefits there are to London
Midland, the Department for Transport, or, most importantly, the
passengers in driving through these changes.</p>
<p>"I can fully understand if passengers feel angry. They are
entitled to be."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro says Government approval for London Midland plans to reduce staffing levels at railway stations is terrible news for passengers.
17213
0
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New Sustainability Team appointments at Centro
2012-09-12T00:00:00
2012-09-12T00:00:00
Conrad Jones is now Head of Sustainability
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro, the transport authority for the West Midlands, has
appointed Conrad Jones as its new Head of Sustainability.</p>
<p>The appointment is part of Centro's continuing commitment to
develop Smarter Choices to help underpin economic growth, job
creation and a reduction in carbon emissions.</p>
<p>Currently Head of Marketing and Communications, Conrad is tasked
with providing strategic direction for Smarter Choices and leading
the delivery of sustainable travel initiatives and environmental
performance.</p>
<p>Centro has also announced the appointment of Richard Lawrence as
Programme Executive for the Smart Network, Smarter Choices
programme which is being part funded through the Local Sustainable
Travel Fund.</p>
<p>Richard will join Centro from Shropshire County Council in
November and will report to Conrad.</p>
<p>Conrad said; "I am delighted to take up this new role. I am
personally committed to our work on the Smarter Choices agenda and
it reflects Centro's on-going commitment to partnership working in
support of the sustainable development of the West Midlands
economy.</p>
<p>"The recent Local Sustainable Transport Fund announcement means
we are delivering a greatly expanded programme of work in this
area".</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, said 'Our aim is to
support the regional economy, benefit the environment and give
people better access to jobs and training.</p>
<p>"Conrad's appointment to this role is part of our plan to
develop and deliver schemes which make a real difference in helping
people to make smarter and greener travel choices which in turn
help reduce congestion".</p>
<p>"</p>
"Centro, the transport authority for the West Midlands, has appointed Conrad Jones as its new Head of Sustainability."
17213
ConradJones.jpg
0
12
0
Carbon footprint gets smaller as Centro puts environment top of the agenda
2012-09-11T00:00:00
2012-09-11T00:00:00
Centro reduced its energy consumption by 9% at its Birmingham offices.
<p>"</p>
<p>Thinking green has seen Centro take giant steps towards reducing
its carbon footprint.</p>
<p>Its latest <a href="/">Annual Environmental Performance Report
2011/12</a> has revealed the great initiatives being put in place
for the environmental management of its operations and for the
benefit of the West Midlands.��</p>
<p>Energy consumption fell by 9% at its Birmingham offices, three
per cent above target, which mean it is well on its way to
retaining its prized Carbon Trust Standard.</p>
<p>The Carbon Trust Standard was developed by the Carbon Trust, a
global organisation that encourages organisations to reduce their
emissions through improved energy efficiency and developing
commercial low-carbon technologies.�</p>
<p>Centro was awarded the Carbon Trust Standard in December 2011
for reducing tonnes of carbon emissions by 2.8%.�</p>
<p>New waste initiatives mean recycling rates have risen by 2.5%.�
The biggest success came in driving down business mileage by a
massive 28%.</p>
<p>These successes were as a result of a wide-ranging package of
measures put in place by Centro to show its commitment to the
environment.�</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor John McNicholas said: "I am delighted
that the actions Centro is taking are having such positive
results.</p>
<p>"By keeping pace with the rapidly evolving environmental and low
carbon agenda we can work towards the challenging yet realistic
targets we have set for further improvements."</p>
<p>As well as internally, Centro gives the low carbon agenda a high
priority in addressing wider issues such as local air quality and
reducing carbon emissions across the transport network.</p>
<p>This is shown by its work with partners and operators in the
pioneering <a href="/">'Moving Ahead: A Green Transport Charter for
the West Midlands'</a>.</p>
<p>Another major success has been the award of £33 million in June
2012 from the Government's Local Sustainable Transport Fund for
Centro's Smart Network, Smarter Choices programme.</p>
<p>This will enable the organisation to improve sustainable
transport across the West Midlands, which will support the
transformation to a low carbon transport system, catering for
economic growth, a rising population, reducing pollution emissions,
and improving the quality of life of people in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"</p>
Thinking green sees Centro take giant steps towards reducing its carbon footprint.
17213
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Extra services start running for Wolverhampton’s 61 Club
2012-09-07T00:00:00
2012-09-07T00:00:00
"Blakenhall ward councillors Bob Jones, left, Judith Rowley, John Rowley, Centro Black Country area manager Babs Coombes, and Duncan Ashlee, front, Wolverhampton district manager for West Midlands Special Needs Transport."
<p>"</p>
<p>Extra services have begun running on a community bus service
introduced for residents in Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>The 61 service was brought in by Centro for people living in the
Goldthorn Park as part of the Wolverhampton and West Walsall area
review in 2011.</p>
<p>The service is operated under subsidy from Centro by West
Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT), which also operates the
region's Ring and Ride service.</p>
<p>It provides a link to Wolverhampton city centre and has proved
so popular with users since being launched last July they have
dubbed themselves the 61 Club.</p>
<p>As a result of increased demand, the service has now been
extended from four days a week to six days a week, running Monday
to Saturday, starting from 2nd September 2012.</p>
<p>Local councillor Judith Rowley, Centro lead member for Green
& Accessible Transport, said she was delighted at the extra
services.</p>
<p>"The 61 has proved very popular with the community and is in
huge demand.</p>
<p>"As a measure of how popular it is the people who use it call
themselves the 61 Club," she said.</p>
<p>"It enables people to access Wolverhampton's markets and it is a
real lifeline for the community of Goldthorn Park."</p>
<p>The 61 is an off-peak service in Goldthorn Park introduced
following a review of bus services in the city by Centro, the
region's transport authority, local bus companies and Wolverhampton
City Council.</p>
<p>It replaced the former 641, which had previously been withdrawn
because of low passenger usage, and is now carrying an average of
106 passengers a day.</p>
<p>It now operates between 9.30am and 3.30pm each day, Monday to
Saturday.</p>
<p>It starts at Ednam Road in Goldthorn Park, running along Hornby
Road, Himley Crescent, Dudley Road, Mason Street, then into Queen
Street in Wolverhampton city centre, Victoria Street then
Wolverhampton markets.</p>
<p>WMSNT chief executive Peter Maggs said: "We are pleased to be
working in partnership with Centro on behalf of the residents of
Goldthorn Park.</p>
<p>"By employing the considerate and caring ethos of WMSNT on the
estate-based community bus service it has encouraged passengers to
use the 61 service.� We are pleased to respond to the increased
demand by adding two days to the service.</p>
<p>"We look forward to being involved in delivering many more such
services throughout the West Midlands in future".</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
Extra services begin running on a community bus service introduced for residents in Wolverhampton.
17213
0
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Pallasades to be re-named Grand Central Birmingham
2012-09-05T00:00:00
2012-09-05T00:00:00
How Grand Central Birmingham will look at the New Street Gateway.
<p>"</p>
<p>Birmingham's Pallasades Shopping Centre will be renamed Grand
Central Birmingham when it opens in 2014.</p>
<p>The renamed complex will be part of the £600m Gateway scheme
around the re-development of Birmingham's New Street station, which
is due to be completed by 2015.</p>
<p>The project is being funded by Centro, Birmingham City Council
and the Department for Transport and is being delivered by Network
Rail.</p>
<p>The new development will include a 250,000 sq ft (23,000 sq m)
John Lewis store on the site of the former Stevenson Tower, which
was demolished last year.</p>
<p>There will also be an additional 200,000 sqft of retail space
for more than 50 new premium fashion and lifestyle stores new to
the heart of Birmingham.</p>
<p>The new station concourse will be three and a half times bigger
than at present and enclosed by a giant atrium that will flood both
Grand Central and the concourse with natural light.</p>
<p>Councillor John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "Grand
Central Birmingham will be a showpiece addition to Birmingham city
centre ad I am delighted at the part Centro will play in providing
public transport for people to get there.</p>
<p>"It's opening will do much to enhance the city's reputation as a
retail destination and it will mean a boost of millions of pounds
to the city and, in turn, the regional economy."</p>
<p>Grand Central will bring a retail mix of premium fashion and
quality high street brands to the city � along with an anticipated
50m visitors per year.</p>
<p>Research shows more than 100 aspirational retailers do not
currently have stand-alone stores within the city and Grand Central
Birmingham will house many of these brands.</p>
<p>The new retail area is an integral part of the £600m project to
transform New Street railway station, which is being delivered by
Network Rail on behalf of funding partners including Birmingham
City Council, Department for Transport and Centro.</p>
<p>The new station concourse will be three and a half times bigger
than at present and enclosed by a giant atrium that will flood both
Grand Central and the concourse with natural light.</p>
<p>Keith Stone, leasing director for Grand Central, commented:
"Birmingham doesn't currently have a centrally-located shopping
destination for premium fashion brands such as can be found in
other major UK cities.</p>
<p>"Grand Central will now fulfill this demand within the city. We
have already had a great response from the retailers we have spoken
with."</p>
<p>Andy Street, managing director of John Lewis said: "We are very
pleased our new full-line department store will be anchoring Grand
Central Birmingham and look forward to playing an active role in
cementing Birmingham's status as a key retail destination."</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council's leader, Sir Albert Bore said: "We look
forward to Grand Central Birmingham becoming a key element of the
city's ever-improving retail landscape, and welcome John Lewis and
the retail offer this will bring to the city.</p>
<p>"We've seen already the economic and wider benefits that the New
Street regeneration project will deliver for Birmingham and it's
really exciting to see this project continuing to come to life,
further strengthening the city's position as a leading major retail
destination in the UK."</p>
<p>"</p>
The Pallasades Shopping Centre will be renamed Grand Central Birmingham when it opens in 2014
17213
0
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0
West Midlands passengers set to benefit from journey planner
2012-09-04T00:00:00
2012-09-04T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>An innovative online and mobile tool has been created to give
passengers tailored information on travelling around the West
Midlands using public transport at the click of a button.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has launched the first version of the
Network West Midlands journey planner, which plots the fastest
route between two locations for people travelling by bus, train or
tram.</p>
<p>The planner, hosted on Centro's passenger information website <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>, allows users to map their
trip by entering cities, postcodes or places of interest.</p>
<p>And an App version called NetNav is now available for Android
SmartPhones with an iPhone version currently under development.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "We are delighted to have launched the
new journey planner which simplifies finding your way around our
region on all modes of public transport.</p>
<p>"The App is a great way to help passengers plan their journeys
on the move by finding the nearest stops and stations, and we hope
these steps will encourage more people to use public
transport."</p>
<p>The development comes as part of a passenger information
programme from Centro worth over £1 million.</p>
<p>Further updates and improvements will be added to the site and
app over the coming months with the aim of making travel
information even more accessible and easy to understand.</p>
<p>The planner currently gives details of timetabled services but
real time information will be added in the future to allow
passengers to plan their journeys based on up to the minute
information.</p>
<p>Commuters who regularly take the same journey can save their
favourite trips to make it even faster to find the route to their
destination. Users wishing to cycle or walk to their nearest
station or stop can choose to build this into their journey
plan.</p>
<p>And passengers with restricted mobility can personalise their
trips to avoid stairs, lifts and escalators and include wheelchair
access.</p>
<p>For green thinking travellers, each journey gives details on how
much carbon would be saved by leaving the car behind.</p>
<p>Both planners feature departure information for all modes of
travel with the online planner including live details of departures
and arrivals at Birmingham Airport.</p>
<p>As part of the information improvements all online timetables
have been revised to make them easier to read, download and
print.</p>
<p>For more information visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/apps</a> or search NetNav in
the Google Play Store.</p>
<p>"</p>
An innovative online and mobile tool has been created to give passengers tailored information on travelling around the West Midlands using public transport at the click of a button.
17213
0
12
0
Walsall passengers to have their say on transport services
2012-08-30T00:00:00
2012-08-30T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><span>People who use public transport in Walsall are being
offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the
area's network.</span></p>
<p><span>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands � the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</span></p>
<p><span>Staff from�the bus, rail and tram operators�will be on
hand to meet passengers between 1pm and 6pm on September 13 in
the�Centro marquee being set up in St Pauls, close to Walsall's bus
station.</span></p>
<p><span>The event has been organised by Centro, the West Midlands'
integrated transport authority.</span></p>
<p><span>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at
closely by transport bosses and used to make improvements to the
local bus, tram and rail network.</span></p>
<p><span>Kerry Meredith, Principal Officer�(Customer Relations) at
Centro, said: "The event provides us with a perfect opportunity to
really understand the needs of Walsall passengers and non-public
transport users.</span></p>
<p><span>"We are particularly interested in hearing people's views
about how we can improve connections between different forms of
public transport making those connections easier, quicker and more
convenient.</span></p>
<p><span>"We want to make sure we provide a public transport system
that is a genuine alternative to the car and secure the best deal
for passengers by urging bus and rail operators to listen very
carefully to what the public say."</span></p>
<p>"</p>
People who use public transport in Walsall are being offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
17213
0
12
0
Metro system first in UK to win safety award
2012-08-29T00:00:00
2012-08-29T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The Midland Metro has become the first tram system in the UK to
win a prestigious award for passenger safety and crime
reduction.</p>
<p>Judges from the Secured by Design organisation and the
Association of Chief Police Officers have given the coveted Safer
Tram Stop Award to all 23 stops on the system, which is owned by
transport authority Centro and operated by National Express.</p>
<p>The initiative rewards operators who reduce crime and
anti-social behaviour at tram stops. It also advises operators,
designers and architects on how to develop better and safer
environments.</p>
<p>Assessors for the award, a joint scheme between Secured by
Design and British Transport Police, travelled the line between
Birmingham and Wolverhampton inspecting facilities at the
stops.</p>
<p>They also interviewed passengers, asking questions such as how
safe they felt using the Metro and what they felt could be done to
improve it.</p>
<p>The award follows a number of initiatives by the Safer Travel
Partnership, which involves Centro, West Midlands Police, British
Transport Police and National Express, to deter crime and
anti-social behaviour on the system</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for Transforming Rail,
said: ""The Safer Travel Partnership has been highly successful in
reducing crime on the region's transport system and this award is a
reflection of their commitment.</p>
<p>""It is also encouraging how passengers have recognised and
supported the extra CCTV at stops as well as the additional help
points and police patrols that have helped make the Metro such a
safe form of transport."</p>
<p>A recent passenger survey found that 91 per cent felt safe while
travelling on the Metro while 99 per cent were happy with the
length of journey. A further 94 per cent were satisfied with
punctuality.</p>
<p>Safety and security has been a priority in the on-going
development of the Metro, with good lighting and CCTV monitoring at
all stops and onboard the trams.</p>
<p>Offenders have also played a role through the Community Payback
project by cutting back foliage to improve visibility and cleaning
and painting stops. The scheme has involved the Wolverhampton and
Sandwell Community Payback Units and the Staffordshire and West
Midlands Probation Trust.</p>
<p>Dean Watkins, General Manager of National Express Midland Metro,
said: ""The safety and security of our passengers is a key priority
for us and the Safer Tram Stop Award validates and recognises the
work we have done in partnership with Centro and British Transport
Police in this area and represents a significant achievement for
us".</p>
<p>British Transport Police Acting Inspector Chris Casey, from the
Safer Travel Police Team, said: "We are pleased that all Midland
Metro tram stops have been accredited under this scheme.</p>
<p>"Improving security is extremely important as it reduces the
opportunities for criminals, while passengers feel safer while
using the tram stops.</p>
<p>"We will continue to work with our partners to ensure that there
is a safe and secure environment on the Midland Metro network at
all times."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership works to make bus, Metro and train
journeys even safer for passengers by deterring crime and
anti-social behaviour. Anyone seeing nuisance behaviour can text
'bus', 'metro' or 'rail' followed by a space and then details of
the incident including time, date, location and route number to
83010.�</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on the <a
href="/"><strong>www.safertravel.info</strong></a> website or by
telephoning British Transport Police on 0300 123 2211.</p>
<p>"</p>
The Midland Metro has become the first tram system in the UK to win a prestigious award for passenger safety and crime reduction.
17213
0
12
0
Centro rated one of Britain’s best employers
2012-08-22T00:00:00
2012-08-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Following the Olympic success of Team GB, staff at transport
authority Centro are also celebrating gold.</p>
<p>The organisation, which develops and co-ordinates public
transport across the West Midlands, has been awarded a Gold
accreditation in the highly regarded Investors in People
scheme.</p>
<p>The achievement sees Centro join a small number of elite
businesses considered to be the best employers in the UK.</p>
<p>Investors in People works with organisations to help them
improve productivity and performance. It is recognised as the
country's leading people management standard.</p>
<p>Centro's Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, said: "We had already
secured Bronze, which in itself was an achievement, but 12 months
ago we set ourselves the ambitious task of going for Gold.</p>
<p>"We never underestimated the scale of this challenge so to
achieve our goal is an enormous credit to everyone across the
business.</p>
<p>"It is also a key milestone in our journey towards a world class
public transport system delivered by a best in class
organisation."</p>
<p>To reflect the "Going for Gold" theme, the assessment was
actually carried out during London 2012. It found that Centro was a
very positive organisation with a strong focus on supporting staff
in their learning and development while recognising their work and
contribution to the business.</p>
<p>The assessment also found many examples of best practice and
that leadership from the very top was strong, with senior
management seen by staff as trustworthy, effective and
inspirational.</p>
<p>Investors in People's Martin Smith, who carried out the
assessment, said: "I was extremely impressed by the commitment and
professionalism of everyone I met during the review.</p>
<p>"It is clear that Centro's staff take great pride in focusing on
the customer and on delivering outcomes that make a real difference
to the people of the West Midlands."</p>
<p>"</p>
"Following the Olympic success of Team GB, staff at transport authority Centro are also celebrating gold."
17213
thumbGoingforGold.JPG
0
12
0
Reminder to renew concessionary travel passes
2012-08-14T00:00:00
2012-08-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Thousands of people across the West Midlands are reminded that
the deadline is approaching to renew their concessionary travel
pass.</p>
<p>A total of 120,000 older people are to get replacement smart
passes issued by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Their old passes expire on August 31 and Sarah Jones, Centro's
Head of Customer Services, said: "We would urge anyone who hasn't
done so already to check their pass. If it expires on August 31
2012 and they have not received a letter inviting them to renew
they should contact us.</p>
<p>"We have written to everyone on our database whose pass expires
on August 31. These letters were sent out in June but it is always
possible that some people may not have received them.</p>
<p>"If you haven't, please let us know straight away. Our dedicated
helpline is available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and we
can easily renew a travel pass over the telephone."</p>
<p>The English National Concessionary pass was introduced in 2008
and provides free off-peak travel on buses across England for older
people.</p>
<p>Centro administers the scheme locally on behalf of the
Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The concession is enhanced within the West Midlands with free,
off-peak travel on trains and trams across the region.</p>
<p>The original smart passes expired in four batches - March 2012,
August 2012, March 2013 and April 2013 and Centro is currently
processing the August 2012 renewals. Customers with passes expiring
in 2013 will receive their renewal letters nearer to the expiry
date.</p>
<p>Renewal letters have not been sent to blind and disabled pass
holders as a separate process applies to these customers.</p>
<p>Centro writes to these pass holders, whose continued eligibility
for a travel pass has to be reassessed, three months prior to their
passes expiring.</p>
<p>The dedicated telephone number is <strong>08450 755
888.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
The renewal deadline approaches for thousands of pensioners' concessionary travel passes.
17213
thumbHLConcessionaryPass75.jpg
0
12
0
Improved services for bus users in Coventry as Centro agrees new routes
2012-08-08T00:00:00
2012-08-08T00:00:00
University Hospital in Coventry will see imptroved links under the changes.
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users in Coventry are to get even better services after
Centro agreed improvements to routes and services across the
city.</p>
<p>From October 22 the Number 1 service will be extended while the
Number 801 will be linked to the Number 43 to better serve
University Hospital.</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro area manager for Coventry and Solihull, said
the new services fulfilled of a pledge made at the time of the
review.</p>
<p>He said: "Whenever we introduce a new network we know that's
only the first phase</p>
<p>"With the introduction of any new network Centro always looks
closely for areas where services can be improved once the revised
routes actually start running.</p>
<p>"We are delighted that this process, along with the help and
feedback of bus users, has enabled us to identify and provide a
better service."</p>
<p>Travel De Courcey will take over the contract to operate the
Number 801 from National Express and will link it to parts of their
existing Number 43 service.</p>
<p>This will provide a direct hourly service from parts of Eastern
Green and Tile Hill to the hospital via Warwick University and
re-establish a link from Eastern Green to Tile Hill Station.</p>
<p>Next year De Courcey will link this to other orbital services
through Coundon, Holbrooks and Bell Green to provide an 'outer
circle' style service.</p>
<p>National Express will take over the contract for the Number 1
service from West Midlands Special Needs Travel.</p>
<p>It will be extended to Tile Hill and beyond the city centre
along Binley Road to the hospital, Narberth Way and Brade Drive,
replacing the Number 61.</p>
<p>This will provide a new direct bus to the hospital from Tile
Hill, Chapelfields, Earlsdon, Binley Road and Walsgrave.</p>
<p>The hours of operation will be extended to between 8am and 5pm.
It currently runs from 9.30am to 3pm.</p>
<p>The current Coventry network came into effect on February 26
following a major review of routes and timetables across the city,
providing many areas with more frequent services designed to get
more of Coventry's residents travelling by bus.</p>
<p>Centro worked in partnership with Coventry City Council and bus
operators A Line, Blue Diamond, Johnsons, National Express West
Midlands, Stagecoach and Travel De Courcey to conduct the
comprehensive overhaul.</p>
<p>The new network reflects the new or altered cross-city links
being created following multi-million pound works in the city
centre's Broadgate area by Coventry City Council.</p>
<p>It is supported by a partnership agreement between Centro,
Coventry City Council and bus operators.</p>
<p>This pledges investment in the bus network, including new
vehicles, cleaning and monitoring of services, new infrastructure
and Real Time Information, and better signage.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users in Coventry will see improved links to University Hospital as part of improvements to bus routes.
17213
0
12
0
European transport chiefs join forces
2012-07-24T00:00:00
2013-01-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Top transport chiefs from across Europe are joining forces with
Centro in a bid to cut carbon and boost the economy across the
continent.</p>
<p>The region's transport authority will share ideas and
innovations with counterparts from Italy, Czech Republic, Poland,
Spain, Netherlands as part of the Involve project which aims to
find pioneering ways to reduce congestion and improve links to
jobs.</p>
<p>The initiative, which runs for three years, will see delegates
shown the West Midlands' landmark green schemes including
Birmingham Interconnect project and Local Sustainable Transport
Fund schemes.</p>
<p>And with congested roads costing the region more than £2.3
billion each year the project will not only help tackle traffic,
but could also bolster the economy.</p>
<p>Rafael Cuesta, Centro's head of strategic development said: "We
are delighted to be taking part in the Involve project which gives
us the chance to look at how other countries are fighting
congestion.</p>
<p>"It is often overlooked that transport plays a significant role
in supporting our region's economy by connecting people to jobs,
training and education. And by working with other countries we can
find new ways of working and hopefully pass on some of our own
ideas."</p>
<p>The project comes as part of the�<span>PIMMS Capital programme
which aims to get European transport bodies to work together and
share good practice on a range of transport projects.�</span></p>
<p>The scheme was made possible by the Interreg 4C programme and
co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.�</p>
<p>"</p>
Top transport chiefs from across Europe are joining forces with Centro in a bid to cut carbon and boost the economy across the continent.
17213
0
12
0
Highfields take gold in green challenge
2012-07-19T00:00:00
2012-07-19T00:00:00
"L-R (rear) Centro mascots Phoebe and Sam, (standing) Lauren Wall-Hughes, Harry Davies, Kyle Weaver, (kneeling) Peter Walsh, Holly Garbett and Sharna Masey"
<p>"</p>
<p>A Sandwell school has taken first place on the podium after
winning a London 2012 inspired competition.</p>
<p>Highfields Primary School scooped gold in transport authority
Centro's Big Green Sports Day Challenge and were handed £500 for
sports equipment and goody bags for each child.</p>
<p>The competition saw schools across the West Midlands take part
in three events aimed at promoting the benefits of sustainable
travel and healthy lifestyles, key themes of the London 2012
education programme, Get Set.</p>
<p>And the school were paid a visit by Centro's mascots,
eco-warrior Phoebe and Sam the Cyclist who presented their prizes
and trophy.</p>
<p>Year one teacher Manjit Virdee said: "We are delighted to have
won the competition and it's a great reward after the children
worked hard to enter the different challenges.</p>
<p>"They worked really well together which meant we had great
participation in car swap day and lots of children actually took it
a step further and walked to school for the whole week."</p>
<p>The first challenge saw Key Stage 1 children (aged 5-7) asked to
design a sports based character.</p>
<p>While Key Stage 2 children (aged 8-11) were challenged to create
a story starring the winning character for Centro's award winning
eco-friendly website <a href="/">www.letzgogreen.org</a>�</p>
<p>The final challenge asked the whole school to create a campaign
to encourage pupils, parents and staff to leave the car at home for
a day and work together to find environmentally friendly ways of
travelling to school.</p>
<p>Schools had to take part in all three challenges to be in with a
chance of winning the main prize.</p>
<p>Fleur Tooby, Centro's sustainable travel officer said: "We were
really impressed with how much effort Highfields put into the
challenges we set. There were some fantastic entries from schools
across the region but the school were consistently excellent and
ended up worthy winners.</p>
<p>"With the 2012 Games right around the corner it's great that the
children were able to get involved and see how important exercise
and travelling sustainably can be and win new sports equipment at
the same time."</p>
<p>The competition formed part of Centro's campaign which was
awarded the prestigious London 2012 Inspire Mark, which recognises
innovative and exceptional projects directly inspired by the 2012
Olympic and Paralympic Games.</p>
<p>"</p>
A Sandwell school has taken first place on the podium after winning a London 2012 inspired competition.
17213
samandphoebe2.jpg
0
12
0
All change as new Birmingham city centre interchanges launch
2012-07-19T00:00:00
2012-07-19T00:00:00
Buses come out of Corporation Street and the new service interchanges are launched.
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users are reminded that major changes to Birmingham city
centre services come into effect.</p>
<p>All buses and stops will move out of Corporation Street and from
start of service on Sunday July 22 a new network of six
interchanges around the city centre will come into operation.</p>
<p>Any departures after 11pm on Saturday night will be using their
new stops, but buses will be leaving five minutes later than
scheduled to give passengers sufficient time to find their
stop.</p>
<p>The new system sees similar bus routes being grouped together at
the six interchanges to streamline services and reduce traffic
congestion in the city centre.</p>
<p>As part of the changes Moor Street Queensway has been turned
into a dual carriageway, with the east side of the Queensway � the
side nearest to Moor Street railway station � now running in the
southbound direction.</p>
<p>The changes pave the way for work on the forthcoming Metro tram
extension linking Snow Hill Station to New Street Station, which
itself is undergoing the £600 million Gateway rebuild.</p>
<p>The tram extension, which along with the Gateway project is due
for completion in 2015, will feature a stop in Corporation Street,
delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a year directly into
the heart of the shopping district.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, in partnership with
Birmingham City Council and bus operator National Express West
Midlands, has been running a comprehensive passenger information
campaign to promote the changes.</p>
<p>Marshals are posted around the city centre advising passengers
where they need to go to catch their bus.</p>
<p>More than 50,000 maps of the new stop numbers and locations have
already been handed out and 16 public exhibitions are being held
throughout July, while information posters have gone up at stops
throughout the city centre and on board buses.</p>
<p>Walking tours of the new stops can also be organised by
contacting Centro Customer Relations on 0121 214 7214.</p>
<p>Centro passenger services director Stephen Rhodes said: "These
are big changes and we are doing everything we can to let
passengers know what is going on and to minimise any possible
disruption.</p>
<p>"This new network is going to improve the flow of buses around
the city centre, giving passengers better reliability, and will
transform Corporation Street into a more attractive shopping
environment."</p>
<p>The new passenger interchanges will feature high quality
shelters and travel information including maps and clear directions
on how to get to the other interchanges and to key locations and
attractions around the city.</p>
<p>They are located at:</p>
<ul>
<li>Snow Hill/Colmore Row</li>
<li>Paradise Circus/Broad Street</li>
<li>New Street Gateway</li>
<li>Markets</li>
<li>Moor Street/Carrs Lane</li>
<li>Bull Street/Priory Queensway</li>
</ul>
<p>During the coming months every bus stop and shelter in the city
centre will be replaced by a sleek new design complementing the
forthcoming tram stops and on-street information points.</p>
<p>Full details on the new bus stop locations as well as the
forthcoming exhibitions can be found at <a
href="/"><strong>http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users are reminded that services are coming out of Corporation Street.
17213
buscorpnstreet.jpg
thumbHLbusandpedestrians.jpg
0
12
0
All change on the buses as new Birmingham city centre interchanges launch
2012-07-19T00:00:00
2012-07-19T00:00:00
Buses come out of Coporation Street and the new service interchanges are launched.
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users are reminded that major changes to Birmingham city
centre services come into effect.</p>
<p>All buses and stops will move out of Corporation Street and from
start of service on Sunday July 22 a new network of six
interchanges around the city centre will come into operation.</p>
<p>Any departures after 11pm on Saturday night will be using their
new stops, but buses will be leaving five minutes later than
scheduled to give passengers sufficient time to find their
stop.</p>
<p>The new system sees similar bus routes being grouped together at
the six interchanges to streamline services and reduce traffic
congestion in the city centre.</p>
<p>As part of the changes Moor Street Queensway has been turned
into a dual carriageway, with the east side of the Queensway � the
side nearest to Moor Street railway station � now running in the
southbound direction.</p>
<p>The changes pave the way for work on the forthcoming Metro tram
extension linking Snow Hill Station to New Street Station, which
itself is undergoing the £600 million Gateway rebuild.</p>
<p>The tram extension, which along with the Gateway project is due
for completion in 2015, will feature a stop in Corporation Street,
delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a year directly into
the heart of the shopping district.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, in partnership with
Birmingham City Council and bus operator National Express West
Midlands, has been running a comprehensive passenger information
campaign to promote the changes.</p>
<p>Marshals are posted around the city centre advising passengers
where they need to go to catch their bus.</p>
<p>More than 50,000 maps of the new stop numbers and locations have
already been handed out and 16 public exhibitions are being held
throughout July, while information posters have gone up at stops
throughout the city centre and on board buses.</p>
<p>Walking tours of the new stops can also be organised by
contacting Centro Customer Relations on 0121 214 7214.</p>
<p>Centro passenger services director Stephen Rhodes said: "These
are big changes and we are doing everything we can to let
passengers know what is going on and to minimise any possible
disruption.</p>
<p>"This new network is going to improve the flow of buses around
the city centre, giving passengers better reliability, and will
transform Corporation Street into a more attractive shopping
environment."</p>
<p>The new passenger interchanges will feature high quality
shelters and travel information including maps and clear directions
on how to get to the other interchanges and to key locations and
attractions around the city.</p>
<p>They are located at:</p>
<ul>
<li>Snow Hill/Colmore Row</li>
<li>Paradise Circus/Broad Street</li>
<li>New Street Gateway</li>
<li>Markets</li>
<li>Moor Street/Carrs Lane</li>
<li>Bull Street/Priory Queensway</li>
</ul>
<p>During the coming months every bus stop and shelter in the city
centre will be replaced by a sleek new design complementing the
forthcoming tram stops and on-street information points.</p>
<p>Full details on the new bus stop locations as well as the
forthcoming exhibitions can be found at <a
href="/"><strong>http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users are reminded that services are coming out of Corporation Street.
17213
0
12
0
Station bridge gets Banksy treatment
2012-07-18T00:00:00
2012-07-18T00:00:00
"Winners Adeela Ahmad, Oliver Blackburn with graffiti artist Daniel Lickiss"
<p>"</p>
<p>A dark and dingy bridge at a South Birmingham rail station has
been lit up after getting a makeover - from a graffiti artist.</p>
<p>A competition run by transport authority Centro challenged local
pupils to design a mural to be brought to life on the footbridge at
Kings Norton station.</p>
<p>Fourteen-year-old Adeela Ahmad of Kings Norton Girls School and
Oliver Blackburn, of Kings Norton Boys School were the lucky
winners who had their sustainable travel themed creations given the
Banksy treatment.</p>
<p>And after two weeks working against the elements, local graffiti
artist Daniel Lickiss, has left his mark on the bridge which
connects the station's two platforms.</p>
<p>Daniel said: "While I was painting the bridge some of the
comments from people walking past were amazing. Everyone was really
positive and people seem to agree that it's much brighter and feels
much safer to walk across now.</p>
<p>"I help run workshops in Cotteridge Park with children from the
area, to show that graffiti used in the right way and in the right
place can be a great creative outlet. The bridge is another example
of this."�</p>
<p>The mural pictures Thomas the Tank Engine, creation of former
Kings Norton resident Reverend Wilbert Awdry as well as people
using green transport in the area. The designs have been coated in
anti-graffiti paint to prevent damage.</p>
<p>The bridge was previously cast in darkness, leaving many
passengers feeling uneasy about using this crossing between the
station's platforms.</p>
<p>But new lighting was installed as part of a package of
improvements at the station last year including the installation of
real time bus information, improved lighting, sheltered bicycle
storage racks and CCTV.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport said: "We are delighted with how the mural has
turned out and that we were able to work with local pupils to
create something so visually stunning.</p>
<p>"After the changes at the station last year it is great to add
something a little bit different to help make the station a
welcoming place for people travelling in and out of the area."</p>
<p>The work has been supported by Birmingham City Council and
Network Rail and follows a number of initiatives along the Pershore
Road area as part of Centro's wider £500,000 Travel Choices
project. The initiative was aimed at increasing the number of
people choosing to travel by sustainable modes of transport.</p>
<p>Residents were issued with personalised journey plans and
experts working with local schools and businesses to help those in
the area walk, cycle, catch the bus or train or car share to reduce
traffic congestion.</p>
<p>"</p>
A dark and dingy bridge at a South Birmingham rail station has been lit up after getting a makeover - from a graffiti artist.
17213
KingsNortonB.jpg
thumbKingsNortonHeadline.jpg
0
12
0
Centro welcomes Government rail spending plans
2012-07-16T00:00:00
2012-07-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the announcement by the Government today of
millions of pounds of investment in the Midlands rail
infrastructure.</p>
<p>A £9.4bn programme of improvements to the national network was
unveiled by the Department for Transport under the High Level
Output Specification programme (HLOS) for the five year period
between 2014 and 2019.</p>
<p>In the Midlands the Chase Line between Walsall and Rugeley is to
be electrified, a scheme Centro has calculated is worth £113
million to the West Midlands economy and will generate 1,370
jobs.</p>
<p>This is a key project for Centro and one it lobbied hard to be
included for funding in this period.</p>
<p>The Leamington Spa-Coventry-Nuneaton line will also be
electrified while the Birmingham-Tamworth line will be upgraded
with improved signalling.</p>
<p>The Leamington Spa-Coventry-Nuneaton line will form part of an
'Electric Spine' high capacity passenger and freight electrified
corridor.</p>
<p>This will run from the south coast through Oxford, Bedford and
via the Midland Main Line to the East Midlands and South Yorkshire,
with a link from Oxford to the West Coast Main Line via Leamington-
Coventry-Nuneaton.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor John McNicholas said: "This is very
good news for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"The government has clearly taken on board the concerns Centro,
along with local councils and Local Enterprise Partnerships, raised
when the Initial Industry Plan was announced.</p>
<p>"The Electric Spine enables freight to be taken off the roads,
which is good news for everybody, but we will continue to work in
other areas such as the opening of the Walsall to Stourbridge line
to open up other capacity-releasing schemes."</p>
<p>The electrification of the route between Walsall and Rugeley
will:</p>
<ul>
<li>Enable a half-hourly service to operate on the Chase Line on a
cost effective basis</li>
<li>Improve connections for passengers changing at Rugeley Trent
Valley for services to Stafford, Lichfield and London</li>
<li>Avoid the current need to reduce the peak service frequency on
the Chase Line to free up scarce diesel resources</li>
<li>Provide faster journey times with higher capacity electric
trains</li>
<li>Allow the conversion of the existing local diesel service on
the Birmingham � Walsall � Rugeley line to electric operation,
freeing up further diesel trains to strengthen overcrowded services
on other routes.</li>
<li>Create significantly more operational flexibility in the
deployment of LM electric fleet and make better use of both rolling
stock, train crew resources and network capacity</li>
<li>Create a new electrified route between the West Midlands and
the North West, relieving capacity on the current New St �
Wolverhampton � Stafford route and creating an effective
diversionary route for passenger and freight services thereby
facilitating a more robust seven-day railway operation.</li>
<li>Electrification work will also make it easier to create a
larger loading gauge allowing deep sea shipping containers to be
transported.I</li>
</ul>
<p>n the longer term, electrification could allow services such as
the Birmingham � Liverpool train to run via Walsall, significantly
improving Walsall's connectivity to Stafford and the North
West.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for Transforming Rail
Travel, said: "This package of measures offers huge improvements
for the West Midlands and will help make the local network ready
for the arrival of high-speed rail.</p>
<p>"Electrification not only brings environmental benefits but it
will improve freight and passenger connectivity, bringing huge
benefits for the wider region."</p>
<p>"</p>
The Chase Line is to be electrified in a £9.5bn Government upgrade of UK rail infrastructure.
17213
thumbRailgeneric75.jpg
0
12
0
Centro welcomes funding for Midlands schemes in Government’s rail spending plans
2012-07-16T00:00:00
2012-07-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the announcement by the Government today of
millions of pounds of investment in the Midlands rail
infrastructure.</p>
<p>A £9.4bn programme of improvements to the national network was
unveiled by the Department for Transport under the High Level
Output Specification programme (HLOS) for the five year period
between 2014 and 2019.</p>
<p>In the Midlands the Chase Line between Walsall and Rugeley is to
be electrified, a scheme Centro has calculated is worth £113
million to the West Midlands economy and will generate 1,370
jobs.</p>
<p>This is a key project for Centro and one it lobbied hard to be
included for funding in this period.</p>
<p>The Leamington Spa-Coventry-Nuneaton line will also be
electrified while the Birmingham-Tamworth line will be upgraded
with improved signalling.</p>
<p>The Leamington Spa-Coventry-Nuneaton line will form part of an
'Electric Spine' high capacity passenger and freight electrified
corridor.</p>
<p>This will run from the south coast through Oxford, Bedford and
via the Midland Main Line to the East Midlands and South Yorkshire,
with a link from Oxford to the West Coast Main Line via Leamington-
Coventry-Nuneaton.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor John McNicholas said: "This is very
good news for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"The government has clearly taken on board the concerns Centro,
along with local councils and Local Enterprise Partnerships, raised
when the Initial Industry Plan was announced.</p>
<p>"The Electric Spine enables freight to be taken off the roads,
which is good news for everybody, but we will continue to work in
other areas such as the opening of the Walsall to Stourbridge line
to open up other capacity-releasing schemes."</p>
<p>The electrification of the route between Walsall and Rugeley
will:</p>
<ul>
<li>Enable a half-hourly service to operate on the Chase Line on a
cost effective basis</li>
<li>Improve connections for passengers changing at Rugeley Trent
Valley for services to Stafford, Lichfield and London</li>
<li>Avoid the current need to reduce the peak service frequency on
the Chase Line to free up scarce diesel resources</li>
<li>Provide faster journey times with higher capacity electric
trains</li>
<li>Allow the conversion of the existing local diesel service on
the Birmingham � Walsall � Rugeley line to electric operation,
freeing up further diesel trains to strengthen overcrowded services
on other routes.</li>
<li>Create significantly more operational flexibility in the
deployment of LM electric fleet and make better use of both rolling
stock, train crew resources and network capacity</li>
<li>Create a new electrified route between the West Midlands and
the North West, relieving capacity on the current New St �
Wolverhampton � Stafford route and creating an effective
diversionary route for passenger and freight services thereby
facilitating a more robust seven-day railway operation.</li>
<li>Electrification work will also make it easier to create a
larger loading gauge allowing deep sea shipping containers to be
transported.I</li>
</ul>
<p>n the longer term, electrification could allow services such as
the Birmingham � Liverpool train to run via Walsall, significantly
improving Walsall's connectivity to Stafford and the North
West.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for Transforming Rail
Travel, said: "This package of measures offers huge improvements
for the West Midlands and will help make the local network ready
for the arrival of high-speed rail.</p>
<p>"Electrification not only brings environmental benefits but it
will improve freight and passenger connectivity, bringing huge
benefits for the wider region."</p>
<p>"</p>
The Chase Line is to be electrified as part of a £9.5bn Government upgrade of Britain's rail infrastructure.
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Midland pensioners take the bus for the great North run
2012-07-13T00:00:00
2012-07-13T00:00:00
"Councillor Richard Worrall (front) and friends L-R Irene Eynon, John Breeze, Elsie Greaves, Dennis Roberts and Pauline Smith who are off on a five day trip of northern Britain solely on public transport using their national concessionary pensioners passe"
<p>"</p>
<p>A group of Midland pensioners have set out on their own version
of the Great North Run � travelling using just their national
concessionary bus passes.</p>
<p>The intrepid eight, with an average age of just over 70, will be
completing a figure-of-eight tour of the north of England over five
days.</p>
<p>The pass gives free, off-peak travel on buses, trains and trams
across the region and on buses anywhere else in England.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority administers the scheme
in the West Midlands, on behalf of the Department for
Transport.</p>
<p>This expedition will be followed by a similar trip around the
south of England later in the year.</p>
<p>It will also raise money for leukaemia and melanoma research,
the chosen charities of Councillor Dennis Anson, the Mayor of
Walsall.</p>
<p>One of the group is Councillor Richard Worrall, aged 67, who is
a Walsall councillor which he represents for Centro.</p>
<p>He said: "The beauty of the national concessionary pass is that
you can use it anywhere in the country.</p>
<p>"It offers a huge quality of life benefit for its users and we
want to make people aware that it is there for them to spread their
wings."</p>
<p>Joining Richard are 66-year-old Dennis Roberts, of
Wolverhampton, Irene Enyon, aged 76, of Aldridge, Elsie Greaves,
aged 69, of Stafford, John Bruce, aged 85, of Cannock and Pauline
Smith, aged 63, of Burntwood.</p>
<p>They set off from Lichfield on a six day journey taking in
Derby, Bakewell, Sheffield, Barnsley, Leeds, Malton, Whitby,
Middlesbrough, Sunderland, Whitley Bay, Berwick-on-Tweed, Alnwick,
Newcastle, Hadrian's Wall, Carlisle, the Lake District, Lancaster,
Blackpool, Preston, Merseyside, Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth.</p>
<p>The second stage will be later in the summer and will be a
clockwise circuit from the Midlands to east Anglia, the south-east,
and the south west before heading back to the Midlands.</p>
<p>"</p>
A group of intrepid Midland pensioners set out on a tour of northern England using just their concessionary bus passes.
17213
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Major road changes ahead for Moor Street Queensway in Birmingham city centre
2012-07-11T00:00:00
2012-07-11T00:00:00
"Moor Street Queensway in Birmingham city centre, which is to become two-way ."
<p>"</p>
<p>Motorists and pedestrians are being advised of major changes to
one of Birmingham city centre's key routes.</p>
<p>From Sunday July 15 the traffic direction on one side of Moor
Street Queensway is to be reversed as part of the ongoing
transformation of the city transport network.</p>
<p>There will be no access for cars until Sunday July 22 along Moor
Street Queensway as works are still on-going.</p>
<p>Currently all traffic flows in one direction, northbound, but
after July 15 the east side of the Queensway � the side nearest to
Moor Street railway station � will run in the southbound
direction.</p>
<p>The move is part of the preparation for buses moving out of
Corporation Street to six new interchanges around the city centre
the following weekend. There will be no changes to bus services
until then.</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Centro's director of passenger services, said:
"The change to traffic direction in Moor Street means a change for
people to get used to and I would urge motorists and pedestrians to
be aware of how this may affect them..</p>
<p>"We will be doing everything we can to ensure the message gets
out and that people in the area are made aware of how things are
changing.</p>
<p>"It is going to take a bit of getting used to but it is part of
a wider scheme that is going to bring real benefits for people
travelling to or from Birmingham city centre."</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Cabinet Member for Development, Jobs and Skills
at Birmingham City Council, said: ""These are exciting times for
the improvement of public transport in Birmingham, but in order to
deliver the transformation we have planned, some changes are needed
to existing arrangements.</p>
<p>"I would urge passengers using the affected locations to become
familiar with the proposed alterations, so their journeys can be
carried out with minimal disruption.""</p>
<p>From July 12 until July 21 Centro will be providing on-street
marshals at pedestrian crossings on Park Street, Moor Street and
Moor Street Queensway between 7am and 7pm to help people and make
them aware of the change in traffic direction.</p>
<p>There will be mobile billboards which light up, messaging about
looking left and right before crossing the road. They will also
hand out leaflets explaining about puffin street crossings.</p>
<p>Banner signs will also be displayed on Moor Street and Moor
Street Queensway advising of the changes.</p>
<p>The pedestrianisation of Corporation Street will see its ten bus
stops relocated to new points - a week later - from July 22, each
no more than a five minute walk away.</p>
<p>Bus passengers will benefit from new high quality shelters and
travel information including maps and clear directions on how to
get to the other interchanges and to key locations and attractions
around the city.</p>
<p>The move has been widely welcomed by the business community and
retailers who are keen to see a cleaner, more pleasant shopping
environment.</p>
<p>The changes will also pave the way for work on the forthcoming
Metro tram extension linking Snow Hill Station to New Street
Station, which itself is undergoing the £600 million Gateway
rebuild.</p>
<p>The tram extension, which along with the Gateway project is due
for completion in 2015, will feature a stop in Corporation Street,
delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a year directly into
the heart of the shopping district.</p>
<p>The interchanges are at Snow Hill/Colmore Row; Paradise
Circus/Broad Street; New Street Gateway; Markets, Moor Street/Carrs
Lane and Bull Street/Priory Queensway.</p>
<p>A total of 14 public exhibitions giving full details of the bus
service improvements are being held around the city centre until
July 29.</p>
<p>Marshals will also be at city centre bus stops between July 15
and July 29 to provide passengers with information and directions,
while information posters will go up at stops throughout the city
centre and on board buses.</p>
<p>This work is a collaboration between Centro, the region's
transport authority, working in partnership with Birmingham City
Council.</p>
<p>Full details on the new bus stop locations as well as the
forthcoming exhibitions can be found at <strong><a
href="/">http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/</a></strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Moor Street Queensway sees big changes under the public transport revolution in Birmingham city centre.
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Centro welcomes strong West Midlands performance in National Passenger Survey
2012-07-10T00:00:00
2012-07-10T00:00:00
London Midland were singled out for praise in the National Passenger Survey of rail users.
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the results of a national survey which saw
an increase in passenger satisfaction with rail services in the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>The National Passenger Survey (NPS) provides a network-wide
picture of customers' satisfaction with rail travel.</p>
<p>Passenger opinions of train services are collected twice a year
from a representative sample of passenger journeys.</p>
<p>Councillor Kath Hartley, the chairman of Centro's Putting
Passengers First Committee, said: "In comparison with the rest of
the country we have done very well here in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"However there is no room for complacency, we are still in the
middle of the table and that means we will be pulling out all the
stops to ensure we get to the top."</p>
<p>In the survey the West Midlands was ranked fourth out of
England's seven Passenger Transport Executives (PTEs), with all its
scores either increasing or staying the same on the previous
year.</p>
<p>Overall satisfaction in the West Midlands is 88%, which is above
the national average and represents a 4% increase on last year.</p>
<p>Train operator London Midland, which holds the franchise to run
local rail services across the West Midlands, was singled out for
praise in the report, especially for its work in dealing with
delays to services.</p>
<p>The survey found 83% of LM passengers were satisfied with
information provision at its stations, against a national average
of 81%.</p>
<p>Attitude and helpfulness of staff was rated as two per cent
above the national average of 71%.</p>
<p>Passenger satisfaction on sufficient room to stand up or sit
down on board trains was up eight per cent to 74%, while
satisfaction with seating areas on trains was up seven per cent to
80%.</p>
<p>London Midland's Commercial Director Richard Brooks said: "We at
London Midland are�delighted with these results which reflect the
hard work put in by our�staff.� However, we are not complacent and
know that there is still room for improvement.</p>
<p>"All of us at London Midland, working in conjunction�with our
partners at Centro,�will continue to identify ways to improve our
performance for the benefit of our passengers."</p>
<p>Anthony Smith, chief executive of Passenger Focus, said London
Midland, along with Merseyrail and Heathrow Connect, had all
improved "significantly".</p>
<p>"Particularly impressive was London Midlands' whopping 17% rise
in how they dealt with delays," he said.</p>
<p>Merseytravel was top of the seven PTEs on 94%, while Transport
for Greater Manchester came bottom with 78%.</p>
<p>The full survey can be found <a
href="/"><strong>here</strong></a>at the Passenger Focus
website.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro welcomes a national survey which sees an increase in passenger satisfaction with rail services in the West Midlands.
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Extra services introduced for Wolverhampton’s 61 Club
2012-07-10T00:00:00
2012-07-10T00:00:00
"Cllr Judith Rowley, centre, with Centro Black Country area manager Babs Coombes and residents at the launch of the 61 service in 2011."
<p>"</p>
<p>A community bus introduced for residents in Wolverhampton has
proved so successful its hours of operation are to be extended.</p>
<p>The 61 was brought in by Centro for people living in the
Goldthorn Park as part of the Wolverhampton and West Walsall area
review in 2011.</p>
<p>It provides a link to Wolverhampton city centre and has proved
so popular with users since being launched last July they have
dubbed themselves the 61 Club.</p>
<p>As a result of its successful launch 12 months ago the service
is now to be extended from four days a week to six days a week,
running Monday to Saturday, starting from 2<sup>nd</sup> September
2012.</p>
<p>Local councillor Judith Rowley said she was delighted the
service was to be extended.</p>
<p>"The 61 is in huge demand and has really pulled the community
together. As a measure of how popular it is the people who use it
call themselves the 61 Club," she said.</p>
<p>"It gives people access to Wolverhampton's markets and it is so
important, it is a real lifeline for the community of Goldthorn
Park.</p>
<p>"But it's more than just a travel opportunity. Extending the
service has provides a significant opportunity to feel even more
socially included."</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, director of passenger services for Centro, said:
"We are delighted that the 61 has proved so popular.</p>
<p>"As a result of the encouraging patronage we have seen in just
the first few months of operation we are more than happy that we
have had to increase the number of days it operates."</p>
<p>The 61 is an off-peak service in Goldthorn Park introduced
following a review of bus services in the city by Centro, the
region's transport authority, local bus companies and Wolverhampton
City Council.</p>
<p>It replaced the former 641, which had previously been withdrawn
because of low passenger usage, and is now carrying an average of
106 passengers a day.</p>
<p>The service is operated under subsidy from Centro by West
Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT), which operates the
region's Ring and Ride service.</p>
<p>It currently operates between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Mondays,
Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, but from September 2 will also
run on Tuesdays and Thursdays.</p>
<p>It starts at Ednam Road in Goldthorn Park, running along Hornby
Road, Himley Crescent, Dudley Road, Mason Street, then into Queen
Street in Wolverhampton city centre, Victoria Street then
Wolverhampton markets.</p>
<p>WMSNT chief executive Peter Maggs said: "We have aimed to
provide a high quality, reliable and friendly community bus service
in the way that we have always tried to deliver the essential and
popular Ring and Ride service.</p>
<p>"We are pleased to be working in partnership with Centro in
responding to the needs of the residents of Goldthorn Park, as
recognised by Councillor Rowley.</p>
<p>"We believe that by employing the considerate and caring ethos
of WMSNT on the estate based community bus service it has
encouraged passengers to use the 61 service, and we look forward to
being involved in delivering many more such services throughout the
West Midlands in future".</p>
<p>"</p>
A community bus in Wolverhampton proves so successful its hours of operation are to be extended.
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0
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West Midlands steams ahead
2012-07-10T00:00:00
2012-07-10T00:00:00
London Midland was singled out for praise in the National Passenger Survey.
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the results of a national survey which saw
an increase in passenger satisfaction with rail services in the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>The National Passenger Survey (NPS) provides a network-wide
picture of customers' satisfaction with rail travel.</p>
<p>Passenger opinions of train services are collected twice a year
from a representative sample of passenger journeys.</p>
<p>Councillor Kath Hartley, the chairman of Centro's Putting
Passengers First Committee, said: "In comparison with the rest of
the country we have done very well here in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"However there is no room for complacency, we are still in the
middle of the table and that means we will be pulling out all the
stops to ensure we get to the top."</p>
<p>In the survey the West Midlands was ranked fourth out of
England's seven Passenger Transport Executives (PTEs), with all its
scores either increasing or staying the same on the previous
year.</p>
<p>Overall satisfaction in the West Midlands is 88%, which is above
the national average and represents a 4% increase on last year.</p>
<p>Train operator London Midland, which holds the franchise to run
local rail services across the West Midlands, was singled out for
praise in the report, especially for its work in dealing with
delays to services.</p>
<p>The survey found 83% of LM passengers were satisfied with
information provision at its stations, against a national average
of 81%.</p>
<p>Attitude and helpfulness of staff was rated as two per cent
above the national average of 71%.</p>
<p>Passenger satisfaction on sufficient room to stand up or sit
down on board trains was up eight per cent to 74%, while
satisfaction with seating areas on trains was up seven per cent to
80%.</p>
<p>London Midland's Commercial Director Richard Brooks said: "We at
London Midland are�delighted with these results which reflect the
hard work put in by our�staff.� However, we are not complacent and
know that there is still room for improvement.</p>
<p>"All of us at London Midland, working in conjunction�with our
partners at Centro,�will continue to identify ways to improve our
performance for the benefit of our passengers."</p>
<p>Anthony Smith, chief executive of Passenger Focus, said London
Midland, along with Merseyrail and Heathrow Connect, had all
improved "significantly".</p>
<p>"Particularly impressive was London Midlands' whopping 17% rise
in how they dealt with delays," he said.</p>
<p>Merseytravel was top of the seven PTEs on 94%, while Transport
for Greater Manchester came bottom with 78%.</p>
<p>The full survey can be found <a
href="/"><strong>here</strong></a>at the Passenger Focus
website.</p>
<p>"</p>
A national survey finds passenger satisfaction has grown with services in the West Midlands and praises London Midland. �
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Buses move out of Corporation Street
2012-07-05T00:00:00
2012-07-05T00:00:00
How Corporation Street will look
<p>"</p>
<p>Buses will move out of Birmingham's Corporation Street later
this month as part of the on-going transformation of the city
centre and its transport system.</p>
<p>The pedestrianisation of the street will take place on July 22
when its ten bus stops are relocated to new points, each no more
than a five minute walk away.</p>
<p>The move has been widely welcomed by the business community and
retailers who are keen to see the street handed over to
pedestrians, offering a cleaner, more pleasant shopping
environment.</p>
<p>The changes will also pave the way for work on the forthcoming
Metro tram extension linking Snow Hill Station to New Street
Station, which itself is undergoing the £600 million Gateway
rebuild.</p>
<p>The tram extension, which along with the Gateway project is due
for completion in 2015, will feature a stop in Corporation Street,
delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a year directly into
the heart of the shopping district.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, in partnership with
Birmingham City Council and bus operator National Express West
Midlands, today unveiled detailed plans of the new bus stopping
locations as part of a comprehensive passenger information
campaign.</p>
<p>Centro's passenger services director, Stephen Rhodes, said: "We
appreciate these changes mean moving the bus stops from Corporation
Street but we will do everything we can to minimise disruption for
passengers and for retailers and shoppers during the building of
the tram extension itself.</p>
<p>"Not only will the work give Corporation Street a more
attractive, boulevard-style atmosphere but it will improve the flow
of buses around the city centre, giving passengers better
reliability."</p>
<p>The reorganisation of the city's bus services will see stops
located at six new passenger interchanges.</p>
<p>These will feature high quality shelters and travel information
including maps and clear directions on how to get to the other
interchanges and to key locations and attractions around the
city.</p>
<p>Similar bus routes are being grouped together at the six
interchanges to streamline services and reduce traffic congestion
in the city centre.</p>
<p>The interchanges are at Snow Hill/Colmore Row; Paradise
Circus/Broad Street; New Street Gateway; Markets, Moor Street/Carrs
Lane and Bull Street/Priory Queensway.</p>
<p>During the coming months every bus stop and shelter in the city
centre will be replaced by a sleek new design complementing the
forthcoming tram stops and on-street information points.</p>
<p>Councillor Tahir Ali, cabinet member for development, jobs and
skills at Birmingham City Council, said: "We believe the
pedestrianisation and reorganisation of bus services, together with
the Metro extension, a rebuilt New Street Station and a new John
Lewis store can help underpin economic growth and job creation.</p>
<p>"The Metro extension alone will boost the regional economy by
£50 million a year and create 1,300 sustainable new jobs, as well
as help with the on-going improvement of public transport in the
city<strong>."</strong></p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director, National Express West Midlands,
added "We are putting hundreds of extra staff into the city centre
during�the�period of change�to help�passengers find their new stops
and services. This includes every manager�in our business doing
shifts in the city centre to�help our customers find their new
stops.""�</p>
<p>Jonathan Cheetham, Chair of Retail Birmingham, said: "Retail
Birmingham is working closely with Centro and Birmingham City
Council during the building of the Midland Metro Extension to
ensure the city centre remains open for business and we support our
retail members within the area.</p>
<p>"The Midland Metro Extension will deliver more visitors into the
heart of the retail area, with stops on Bull Street, Corporation
Street and Stephenson Street, but also includes significant public
realm improvements to create a truly world-class walking and
shopping experience through our city centre."</p>
<p>A total of 14 public exhibitions giving full details of the bus
service improvements will be held around the city centre until July
29. The first event, aboard the Centro exhibition bus, takes place
between 9:30am and 3pm tomorrow (Friday July 6) by the markets in
Edgbaston Street.</p>
<p>Dozens of marshals will also be at city centre bus stops between
July 15 and July 29 to provide passengers with information and
directions, while information posters will go up at stops
throughout the city centre and on board buses.</p>
<p>Full details on the new bus stop locations as well as the
forthcoming exhibitions can be found at <a
href="/">http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Buses will move out of Birmingham’s Corporation Street later this month as part of the on-going transformation of the city's transport system.
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Matthew Atkins in tune with will.i.am
2012-07-04T00:00:00
2012-07-04T00:00:00
Matthew Atkins chatting with will.i.am at the Prince's Trust.
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro's Matthew Atkins, who turned his life around with help
from The Prince's Trust, has met musician and philanthropist
will.i.am as the star announced a £500k donation to the
charity.</p>
<p>Matthew, a Smartcard Information Services Officer, told the
Black Eyed Peas' frontman how The Trust had helped him secure an
apprenticeship after battling unemployment and depression.</p>
<p>Following a meeting with HRH The Prince of Wales earlier this
month, will.i.am announced his plans to support the work of The
Prince's Trust at the charity's headquarters in London.</p>
<p>The personal donation from the singer, which comes via his
i.am.angel Foundation, will help disadvantaged young people build
skills for work and enterprise, with a focus on technology.</p>
<p>When Matthew came to The Trust, he had lost his job in the
recession and was suffering from depression.</p>
<p>Determined to get his life back on track, he joined The Prince's
Trust Get into Transport course run in partnership with Centro and
Virgin Trains, which helps unemployed young people gain experience
in the transport industry, and won an apprenticeship with
Centro.</p>
<p>Matthew said: "I am so proud to be using my new technology
skills in my job � and I couldn't have done it without the support
I got from The Prince's Trust.</p>
<p>"Meeting will.i.am was an amazing experience and it was
fantastic to be able to hear about how he plans on helping
disadvantaged young people here in the UK. His enthusiasm and
knowledge about technology is inspiring."</p>
<p>will.i.am said: "Working with The Prince's Trust, I am joining
the mission to help transform the lives of disadvantaged young
people living in under-privileged neighbourhoods in the UK.</p>
<p>""My donation to The Trust will help these young people build
skills that are vital in today's and tomorrow's job market
including technology and computer knowledge."�</p>
<p>The funds will enable The Trust to provide enhanced support to
young people on its education programme - xl, its Enterprise
programme, and its personal development Fairbridge programme,
encouraging and developing key computer skills.</p>
<p>The courses support vulnerable and unemployed young people to
get their lives on track. Three in four young people helped by the
charity move into work, education or training.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro's Matthew Atkins came face to face with The Voice judge and chart star will.i.am in aid of the Prince's Trust.
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Centro chairman hails John Lewis development milestone at New Street station
2012-07-03T00:00:00
2012-07-03T00:00:00
"Cllr John McNicholas, left, with Mark Reynolds of Mace, left, Andy Street of John Lewis and David Higgins of Network Rail at the John Lewis development at Birmingham's New Street station."
<p>"</p>
<p>The chairman of Centro Councillor John McNicholas was among the
dignitaries at a ceremony to mark the foundations for Birmingham's
showpiece new John Lewis store.</p>
<p>He joined Sir Albert Bore, the leader of Birmingham City
Council, David Higgins, the chief executive, Network Rail, and Andy
Street, the managing director of John Lewis to see the foundations
for the new shop being laid.</p>
<p>The development is a key part of the £600 million transformation
of Birmingham New Street station and the Pallasades shopping
centre.</p>
<p>Centro is a partner in the re-development of New Street Station
along with Birmingham City Council, Network Rail and the Department
for Transport.</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "The John Lewis store and a redeveloped
New Street station is not just good news for Birmingham but the
West Midlands as a whole as it will create up to 50,000 jobs across
the region.</p>
<p>"Underpinning this is public transport, which will be key in
delivering millions of people to and from the heart of Birmingham
via New Street and to John Lewis."</p>
<p>The redeveloped Pallasades centre and new John Lewis will open
to customers in autumn 2014 with the station redevelopment
completing in 2015.</p>
<p>Network Rail is overseeing the project alongside its delivery
partner Mace.</p>
<p>Work is underway on the £127 million extension of the Midland
Metro, which will stop outside a new entrance to the station in
Stephenson Street once the line is completed in 2015.</p>
<p>Trams will follow a route from the existing Metro terminus at
Snow Hill, along a £9 million viaduct already built by developer
Ballymore, down Upper Bull Street and Corporation Street and on to
Stephenson Street.</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "A
true feat of engineering is taking place on the New Street site to
transform the station, whilst tens of thousands of people continue
to travel in and out of our city - uninterrupted - every day.</p>
<p>"We welcome the retail offer it will bring to the city, boosting
the local economy by more than £25m each year along with the
opportunity for 650 local people to take up new jobs in the
store."</p>
<p>With the foundations laid, the superstructure of the shop will
start to take shape over the coming months, with John Lewis and the
new Pallasades centre set to open in Autumn 2014.</p>
<p>New Street station will remain open throughout construction,
passengers will notice the first major change in April 2013 when a
new concourse opens, the station redevelopment completes in
2015.</p>
<p>Andy Street, Managing Director, John Lewis said: "We are very
pleased to be playing a part in the regeneration of Birmingham city
centre and believe this will cement the city's status as a key UK
retail destination.</p>
<p>"With construction of John Lewis Birmingham now underway, we are
looking forward to fulfilling our long term ambition of bringing
our unique retail and employment offer to the city."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas hails progress on the John Lewis store which will form part of Birmingham's New Street station.
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"Tram-trains the way forward, says transport boss"
2012-06-29T00:00:00
2012-06-29T00:00:00
Tram-trains in operation in Paris
<p>"</p>
<p>Public transport chief Geoff Inskip has urged the government to
invest millions of pounds into tram-trains.</p>
<p>He called on the Department for Transport to set aside £100
million a year from the savings identified in the McNulty Report
into improving efficiency in Britain's rail industry to develop
tram-train networks across the country.</p>
<p>Tram-train is a light-rail public transport system where trams
are able to run on an urban network and on mainline railways shared
with conventional trains.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip is chief executive of Centro, the integrated transport
authority for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>He is also chairman of UK Tram, the forum representing Britain's
tram industry and recently outlined the case for tram-trains to the
All-Party Parliamentary Light Rail Group.</p>
<p>He said: "Tram-train is a brilliant concept ripe for development
� it combines the tram's flexibility and accessibility with a
train's greater speed, and bridges the distance between main
railway stations and a city centre.</p>
<p>"It is why I say the Government� should set aside £100m per
annum from those savings they will be making from McNulty and ring
fence that money for tram-train.</p>
<p>"In this way we can get on with delivering the Department for
Transport's agenda of delivering a better value for money railway
and a greener more sustainable economy."</p>
<p>Work has begun on a national tram-train pilot scheme between
Sheffield and Rotherham which is due to begin operating in
2015.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said it was essential that transport authorities
developed similar projects elsewhere around the country.</p>
<p>"In the Centro region alone we have three possible applications
� Wednesbury- Stourbridge, Walsall-Wolverhampton and
Walsall-Wednesbury," he said.</p>
<p>"By starting work now in other parts of the country the
successful outcomes of the national trial can be immediately
captured without prolonged interruptions for lengthy project
development stages."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said tram-trains were efficient because operating
costs were generally cheaper than those of conventional heavy rail
services.</p>
<p>They offered opportunities for better connectivity because they
were able to utilise spare rail capacity on existing corridors and
former rail routes, and also reduced pressure on the local rail
network.</p>
<p>"Tram-train is a fundamentally proven concept and early
introduction is required - the benefits are too great for the
opportunity to realise them to be missed," Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"It is integral to creating the necessary capacity needed for
the future development of both light and heavy rail in our cities,
bridging the gap between local, urban rail services and light rail
systems and optimising heavy and light rail systems' assets.</p>
<p>"It will also deliver real benefits to passengers - increased
frequencies, faster journey times and improved city centre
penetration."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro boss Geoff Inskip urges the Government to invest in tram-trains.
17213
tramtrain.jpg
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0
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0
Memory Man Andy never forgets a face
2012-06-29T00:00:00
2012-07-31T00:00:00
PCSO Andy Pope
<p>"</p>
<p>A COMMUNITY officer dubbed West Midlands Police's 'Memory Man'
is to be honoured for his ""astonishing"" record of spotting
criminals on Birmingham's streets.<br />
<br />
PCSO Andy Pope has successfully identified more than 130 wanted
people in just 12 months having memorised their images from CCTV
stills and police briefing systems. It has led to the arrest and
conviction of thieves, sex offenders and people wanted for
violence.<br />
<br />
In one remarkable case he even recognised a serial robber who
walked past him in the city centre a YEAR after his image had
appeared on BBC's Crimewatch programme!<br />
<br />
The 34-year-old who works with the Safer Travel team policing
public transport routes will receive the Joyce Campbell Award on
July 11 from West Midlands Police Chief Constable Chris Sims.<br />
<br />
It's an accolade given to honour the force's police staff member of
the year but modest Andy insists some of his spots are down to luck
and being in the right place at the right time.<br />
<br />
He said: ""With Safer Travel I spend a lot of time in Birmingham
and on arterial routes into the centre a lot of offenders do pass
through city at some point and, when they do, I want to be able to
recognise them.<br />
<br />
""I get into work 30 minutes before my shift starts and scan police
systems to see if any new wanted faces have been added and I'll
maybe have another look at lunch as a refresher.<br />
<br />
""I don't think I've got any special gift, just a knack for
remembering faces.<br />
<br />
""I'm responsible for a couple of busy bus corridors; it's my job
to make them as safe as possible so passengers can enjoy a pleasant
journey. Anyone causing a problem for passengers I want to find
them.""<br />
<br />
Father-of-one Andy has helped the Safer Travel team dramatically
cut crime on the region's bus, train and metro network.<br />
<br />
Last year there were 345 fewer victims compared to the previous 12
months and, over the last five years, public transport crime has
fallen by a huge 65 per cent.<br />
<br />
It means that there is only one offence committed on West Midlands
public transport in every 147,000 bus rides.<br />
<br />
West Midlands Police Safer Travel Inspector Gareth Morris, said:
""Andy has shown an astonishing ability in facial recognition and,
as a direct result of his identifications, numerous prolific
offenders have been brought to justice.<br />
<br />
""He has a fantastic work ethic and commitment to Safer Travel;
he's so successful that he's the first stop for many detectives
hoping to identify offenders.<br />
<br />
""He has made a great contribution to helping reduce crime on our
transport networks let's see how many wanted people he can spot
this year!""<br />
<br />
Andy, from Redditch, has been a PCSO for seven years and joined the
Safer Travel team in January 2008 following stints with
neighbourhood police teams in Kings Norton and Acocks Green.<br />
<br />
He rates his Crimewatch identification last year as his best
'street spot'. He added: ""There had been several nasty robberies
on the number 9 bus route and an image of the main suspect appeared
on Crimewatch in 2010.<br />
<br />
""About a year later I was walking in Colmore Row when I passed a
man and thought 'I know that face from somewhere'. I started
chatting to him, took his details, and a few days later we made the
arrest.<br />
<br />
""I may have a knack for remembering faces but my wife and friends
will tell you I'm still more than capable of forgetting birthdays
or anniversaries!""<br />
<br />
Launched six years ago, Safer Travel is a joint venture between
West Midlands Police, British Transport Police and regional
transport authority Centro which works to tackle crime and
anti-social behaviour on public transport.<br />
<br />
Police operations have involved a range of tactics including high
visibility and covert patrols, special transmitters which ""tap""
into live bus CCTV systems, drug sniffer dogs to check passengers
and the mounting of surveillance cameras at key locations.</p>
<p>"</p>
A COMMUNITY officer dubbed West Midlands Police's 'Memory Man' is honoured for his astonishing record of spotting criminals on Birmingham's streets.
17213
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0
12
0
"Tram-trains the way forward, transport boss tells Government"
2012-06-29T00:00:00
2012-06-29T00:00:00
Tram-trains in operation in Paris
<p>"</p>
<p>Public transport chief Geoff Inskip has urged the government to
invest millions of pounds into tram-trains.</p>
<p>He called on the Department for Transport to set aside £100
million a year from the savings identified in the McNulty Report
into improving efficiency in Britain's rail industry to develop
tram-train networks across the country.</p>
<p>Tram-train is a light-rail public transport system where trams
are able to run on an urban network and on mainline railways shared
with conventional trains.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip is chief executive of Centro, the integrated transport
authority for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>He is also chairman of UK Tram, the forum representing Britain's
tram industry and recently outlined the case for tram-trains to the
All-Party Parliamentary Light Rail Group.</p>
<p>He said: "Tram-train is a brilliant concept ripe for development
� it combines the tram's flexibility and accessibility with a
train's greater speed, and bridges the distance between main
railway stations and a city centre.</p>
<p>"It is why I say the Government� should set aside £100m per
annum from those savings they will be making from McNulty and ring
fence that money for tram-train.</p>
<p>"In this way we can get on with delivering the Department for
Transport's agenda of delivering a better value for money railway
and a greener more sustainable economy."</p>
<p>Work has begun on a national tram-train pilot scheme between
Sheffield and Rotherham which is due to begin operating in
2015.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said it was essential that transport authorities
developed similar projects elsewhere around the country.</p>
<p>"In the Centro region alone we have three possible applications
� Wednesbury- Stourbridge, Walsall-Wolverhampton and
Walsall-Wednesbury," he said.</p>
<p>"By starting work now in other parts of the country the
successful outcomes of the national trial can be immediately
captured without prolonged interruptions for lengthy project
development stages."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said tram-trains were efficient because operating
costs were generally cheaper than those of conventional heavy rail
services.</p>
<p>They offered opportunities for better connectivity because they
were able to utilise spare rail capacity on existing corridors and
former rail routes, and also reduced pressure on the local rail
network.</p>
<p>"Tram-train is a fundamentally proven concept and early
introduction is required - the benefits are too great for the
opportunity to realise them to be missed," Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"It is integral to creating the necessary capacity needed for
the future development of both light and heavy rail in our cities,
bridging the gap between local, urban rail services and light rail
systems and optimising heavy and light rail systems' assets.</p>
<p>"It will also deliver real benefits to passengers - increased
frequencies, faster journey times and improved city centre
penetration."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro boss Geoff Inskip urges the Government top invest in tram-trains with savings from the rail industry.
17213
0
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0
Transport chiefs given £33m to help tackle congestion and boost economy
2012-06-27T00:00:00
2012-06-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>West Midland transport chiefs were today handed a £33 million
fighting fund to help tackle congestion, reduce carbon emissions
and kick start the regional economy.</p>
<p>The money has been awarded to transport authority Centro from
the Government's Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) which is
making £560 million available for green travel projects around
England.</p>
<p>Centro, working in close partnership with the seven West
Midlands councils, will now use the money to fund its proposed
Smart Network, Smarter Choices project. The pot will be further
boosted by at least another £15 million from local public and
private sector contributions.</p>
<p>The Smart Network, Smarter Choices project involves carrying out
a wide range of sustainable travel schemes along up to ten key
corridors in the West Midlands to help underpin economic growth,
job creation and meet tough carbon reduction targets.</p>
<p>Work will be aimed at improving public transport services,
walking and cycling routes and the general flow of traffic. Schemes
aimed at influencing people's travel behaviour, especially in
favour of green choices for short trips, will also be carried
out.</p>
<p>Centro's Chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Our congested
roads are costing the West Midlands economy more than £2.3 billion
a year and that is stifling the growth and job creation we so badly
need.</p>
<p>"We believe we can help free up our roads by offering
sustainable transport options that can better connect people to
jobs, skills and training and help bolster the economy.</p>
<p>"That's why today's announcement of £33.2 million is such
excellent news as it gives us some of the resources we need to
tackle many of the transport issues we face here in the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>The Smart Network, Smarter Choices project has been drawn up by
Centro in close collaboration with the Birmingham, Coventry,
Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Walsall, Dudley and Solihull councils as
well as private rail and bus operators.</p>
<p>Schemes along the corridors will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>New or improved walking and cycling routes</li>
<li>Small scale road and junction improvements</li>
<li>Better passenger waiting facilities</li>
<li>Expert travel planning for families, companies and schools</li>
<li>Free travel support for job seekers</li>
<li>More mobile and real time transport information</li>
<li>Smartcard technology for cashless travel</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro's Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, added: "By helping
people to make smarter and greener travel choices we can cut
congestion and improve traffic flows for essential road users such
as hauliers and bus operators.</p>
<p>"To help bring about this change in travel behaviour we will
work closely with families, schools, businesses and community
groups to provide them with the expert support and advice they
need.</p>
<p>"Not only will this help support our regional economy but it can
also bring substantial benefits for the environment and people's
health."</p>
<p>"</p>
"Centro has been given a £33 million boost to help tackle congestion, reduce carbon emissions and kick start the regional economy."
17213
0
12
0
Transport chiefs given £33m boost
2012-06-27T00:00:00
2012-06-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>West Midland transport chiefs were today (Wednesday June 27)
handed a £33 million fighting fund to help tackle congestion,
reduce carbon emissions and kick start the regional economy.</p>
<p>The money has been awarded to transport authority Centro from
the Government's Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) which is
making £560 million available for green travel projects around
England.</p>
<p>Centro, working in close partnership with the seven West
Midlands councils, will now use the money to fund its proposed
Smart Network, Smarter Choices project. The pot will be further
boosted by at least another £15 million from local public and
private sector contributions.</p>
<p>The Smart Network, Smarter Choices project involves carrying out
a wide range of sustainable travel schemes along up to ten key
corridors in the West Midlands to help underpin economic growth,
job creation and meet tough carbon reduction targets.</p>
<p>Work will be aimed at improving public transport services,
walking and cycling routes and the general flow of traffic. Schemes
aimed at influencing people's travel behaviour, especially in
favour of green choices for short trips, will also be carried
out.</p>
<p>Centro's Chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Our congested
roads are costing the West Midlands economy more than £2.3 billion
a year and that is stifling the growth and job creation we so badly
need.</p>
<p>"We believe we can help free up our roads by offering
sustainable transport options that can better connect people to
jobs, skills and training and help bolster the economy.</p>
<p>"That's why today's announcement of £33.2 million is such
excellent news as it gives us some of the resources we need to
tackle many of the transport issues we face here in the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>The Smart Network, Smarter Choices project has been drawn up by
Centro in close collaboration with the Birmingham, Coventry,
Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Walsall, Dudley and Solihull councils as
well as private rail and bus operators.</p>
<p>Schemes along the corridors will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>New or improved walking and cycling routes</li>
<li>Small scale road and junction improvements</li>
<li>Better passenger waiting facilities</li>
<li>Expert travel planning for families, companies and schools</li>
<li>Free travel support for job seekers</li>
<li>More mobile and real time transport information</li>
<li>Smartcard technology for cashless travel</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro's Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, added: "By helping
people to make smarter and greener travel choices we can cut
congestion and improve traffic flows for essential road users such
as hauliers and bus operators.</p>
<p>"To help bring about this change in travel behaviour we will
work closely with families, schools, businesses and community
groups to provide them with the expert support and advice they
need.</p>
<p>"Not only will this help support our regional economy but it can
also bring substantial benefits for the environment and people's
health."</p>
<p>"</p>
"Centro has been given a £33 million fighting fund to help tackle congestion, reduce carbon emissions and kick start the regional economy."
17213
0
12
0
New Centro chairman is appointed
2012-06-26T00:00:00
2012-06-26T00:00:00
Councillor John McNicholas is elected the new chairman of Centro
<p>"</p>
<p>Coventry Councillor John McNicholas has been elected as the new
chairman of Centro, the West Midlands Integrated Transport
Authority, at its annual general meeting (Monday June
25<sup>th</sup> 2012).</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas takes over the post after Labour secured a
majority on Centro following last month's local government
elections.</p>
<p>Councillor Kath Hartley, a Labour member of Birmingham City
Council, has been appointed vice-chairman.</p>
<p>On accepting the position Cllr McNicholas quoted his
predecessor, the late Cllr Angus Adams, when he told members of the
ITA: "It is an honour and a privilege to serve the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"My administration will be inclusive and while there will be
issues we will debate I know that we will resolve them.</p>
<p>"We will be working on behalf of those we represent to get the
best possible world-class public transport system.</p>
<p>"This is an exciting time to be involved in public transport,
there is a huge agenda over the next couple of years and I thank
you in advance for your contribution. I look forward to working
with you."</p>
<p>Born in Plymouth Cllr McNicholas, aged 59, is married to June
and they have two grown-up children.</p>
<p>He and his wife moved to Coventry in the late 1970s and he cut
his political teeth as a shop steward at Jaguar.</p>
<p>He was elected to Coventry City Council in 1986 for the Lower
Stoke ward, which he continues to represent, and has been a member
of Centro since 2005.</p>
<p>In this time he has served on the council's Planning Committee,
the Scrutiny Co-ordination Committee, the Jobs, Skills and Growth
Scrutiny Board and the Economy, Regeneration and Transport Scrutiny
Board.</p>
<p>Until his appointment as chairman he was Centro's Shadow Lead
Member for Policy, District & Local Enterprise Partnership
liaison, and for high speed rail.</p>
<p>He has also served on the West Midlands Joint Committee's
Planning and Transportation Sub-Committee, The Coventry
Partnership, Birmingham Airport Consultative Committee and as a
director of Birmingham International Airport Holdings Limited.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley has represented the Ladywood ward in
Birmingham since 1996.</p>
<p>She sits on the Transport Connectivity and Sustainability
Overview & Scrutiny Committee and before being made
vice-chairman of Centro was its Shadow Lead Member for Bus and
Highways.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Councillor John McNicholas has been elected as the new chairman of Centro, the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority."
17213
JohnMcNicholas.jpg
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Councillor John McNicholas elected as chairman of Centro
2012-06-26T00:00:00
2012-06-26T00:00:00
"Councillor John McNicholas, the new chairman of Centro"
<p>"</p>
<p>Coventry Councillor John McNicholas has been elected as the new
chairman of Centro, the West Midlands Integrated Transport
Authority, at its annual general meeting (Monday June
25<sup>th</sup> 2012).</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas takes over the post after Labour secured a
majority on Centro following last month's local government
elections.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, a Labour member of Birmingham City Council,
has been appointed vice-chairman.</p>
<p>On accepting the position Cllr McNicholas quoted his
predecessor, the late Cllr Angus Adams, when he told members of the
ITA: "It is an honour and a privilege to serve the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"My administration will be inclusive and while there will be
issues we will debate I know that we will resolve them.</p>
<p>"We will be working on behalf of those we represent to get the
best possible world-class public transport system.</p>
<p>"This is an exciting time to be involved in public transport,
there is a huge agenda over the next couple of years and I thank
you in advance for your contribution. I look forward to working
with you."</p>
<p>Born in Plymouth Cllr McNicholas, aged 59, is married to June
and they have two grown-up children.</p>
<p>He and his wife moved to Coventry in the late 1970s and he cut
his political teeth as a shop steward at Jaguar.</p>
<p>He was elected to Coventry City Council in 1986 for the Lower
Stoke ward, which he continues to represent, and has been a member
of Centro since 2005.</p>
<p>In this time he has served on the council's Planning Committee,
the Scrutiny Co-ordination Committee, the Jobs, Skills and Growth
Scrutiny Board and the Economy, Regeneration and Transport Scrutiny
Board.</p>
<p>Until his appointment as chairman he was Centro's Shadow Lead
Member for Policy, District & Local Enterprise Partnership
liaison, and for high speed rail.</p>
<p>He has also served on the West Midlands Joint Committee's
Planning and Transportation Sub-Committee, The Coventry
Partnership, Birmingham Airport Consultative Committee and as a
director of Birmingham International Airport Holdings Limited.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley has represented the Ladywood ward in
Birmingham since 1996.</p>
<p>She sits on the Transport Connectivity and Sustainability
Overview & Scrutiny Committee and before being made
vice-chairman of Centro was its Shadow Lead Member for Bus and
Highways.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Coventry Councillor John McNicholas is the new chairman of Centro, the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority."
17213
0
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0
Centro hits the road to help concessionary passholders
2012-06-22T00:00:00
2012-06-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 120,000 pensioners across the West Midlands are being
urged to make sure they don't miss out on getting their new
concessionary travel passes.</p>
<p>The smartcard pass gives free, off-peak travel on buses, trains
and trams across the region and on buses anywhere else in England
but are now coming up for renewal.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority administers the scheme
locally on behalf of the Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The first smart passes, which were issued in 2007, only have a
maximum working life of five years and have been expiring at
six-monthly intervals in March 2012, August 2012 and March and
April 2013.</p>
<p>In the region of 100,000 new passes were sent out to customers
whose passes expired in March and letters to people whose passes
expire in August 2012 have now been sent out. The letter invites
people to renew their pass by either registering their details
online or via the post by completing and returning their renewal
letter. New passes will be issued during the last 2 weeks of
August.</p>
<p>Sarah Jones, Centro's Head of Customer Services, urged anyone
who has changed address since they were issued a pass to contact
them.</p>
<p>She said: ""These passes can be a real lifeline which is why it
is important that anyone who has changed address since receiving
one lets us know where they are living now". ""We are also keen to
hear from anyone who has a pass that expires on 31 August 2012 who
has not yet received their renewal letter. Tell us if that is the
case, a simple phone call is all it takes and will ensure that you
don't miss out.""</p>
<p>Pass holders with later expiry dates will be issued letters
nearer to the time.</p>
<p>To help people process their applications the Centro exhibition
bus will be taking to the road across the West Midlands over the
next few weeks.</p>
<p>People who have received their letters can take them to staff on
board the bus and complete the application process for a
replacement pass there and then.</p>
<p>They take place at the following dates and locations:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday June 28 � 1pm to 6pm, Wolverhampton city centre,
adjacent to Queens Building/Bus Station.</li>
<li>Friday June 29 � 9.30am to 3pm, Walsall town centre, adjacent
to Poundland, Park Street.</li>
<li>Saturday June 30 � 9am to 3pm, Markets in Edgbaston Street,
Birmingham city centre.</li>
<li>Wednesday July 4 � 9.30am to 3pm, Mell Square, Solihull town
centre.</li>
<li>Thursday July 5 � 9.30am to 3pm, Broadgate, Coventry city
centre.</li>
<li>Friday July 6 � 9.30am to 3pm, Markets in Edgbaston Street,
Birmingham city centre.</li>
<li>Saturday July 7 � 10am to 5pm, Wolverhampton Show, West Park,
Wolverhampton.</li>
<li>Sunday July 8 � 10am to 6pm, Wolverhampton Show, West Park,
Wolverhampton.</li>
</ul>
<p>To notify Centro of a change of address contact Centro's
Customer Services Team on 08450 755 888 , go to <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/olderpeople</a></strong> or
email <a href="/"><strong>ticketing@centro.org.uk</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
"More than 120,000 pensioners across the West Midlands are being urged to make sure they don’t miss out on getting their new concessionary travel passes."
17213
0
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0
West Midlands could benefit from reopening Black Country railway line as freight market booms
2012-06-21T00:00:00
2012-06-21T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The West Midlands has the perfect opportunity to reopen a Black
Country railway line and take advantage of the UK's booming rail
freight market, says the chief executive of the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p>Latest figures from the Rail Freight Group reveal the volume of
UK rail freight has grown 10 per cent in 2011/12.� The UK's rail
freight sector currently generates £6bn of economic benefits per
year.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip believes the West Midlands
is perfectly poised to take advantage of this growth and enjoy the
economic and environmental benefits.</p>
<p>"This is great news for our region and highlights the importance
of re-opening the Walsall-Stourbridge railway line for freight," he
said.</p>
<p>Centro, through the emerging rail strategy and freight strategy,
the Black Country LEP and the West Midlands Regional Rail Forum
have all highlighted the re-opening of the line as a key priority
to support the regional economy and provide additional capacity for
rail freight growth.�</p>
<p>The line would encourage new or existing companies to build new
freight terminals, at potential locations such as Bescot, bringing
jobs and investment into the Black Country.</p>
<p>The Walsall - Stourbridge freight line would form a key link in
a strategic UK freight network and provide a realistic alternative
to the M5 � M6 / M42 corridors, helping to reduce congestion on
core roads through the region.</p>
<p>Centro is also working on plans to use stretches of the line for
so-called Tram-Trains - specially designed passenger vehicles
capable of running on both heavy and light rail tracks. This could
link Stourbridge with Wednesbury with the option of Tram-Trains
connecting with the existing Metro line.</p>
<p>The reopening would also provide the opportunity to divert rail
freight services away from central Birmingham releasing capacity
for new passenger services on routes such as the Camp Hill line in
south Birmingham and the Tamworth line through Castle Bromwich.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said the importance of freight was a key factor in
regional support for high speed rail (HS2).</p>
<p>"HS2 will be a passenger line, but it will release significant
capacity on our existing lines for an increase in passenger and
freight services. The West Coast Main Line carries more than 50% of
all rail freight in the country.� More capacity is required to
manage the ongoing growth forecast in rail freight."</p>
<p>He said the environmental benefits of transferring freight from
road to rail were often overlooked with road congestion costing the
West Midlands economy £2.2bn per year.</p>
<p>"It makes a compelling argument for more rail freight and our
region has to seize this opportunity," Mr Inskip added.</p>
<p>"</p>
Reopening the Black Country railway line could provide a welcome economic and environmental boost for the West Midlands - Geoff Inskip.�
17213
0
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0
Centro to decide on bid for local rail control
2012-06-21T00:00:00
2012-06-21T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro will decide next week whether to
formally tell the Government it is keen to take over responsibility
for local rail services on behalf of authorities across the wider
West Midlands area.</p>
<p>The authority believes that switching power from Government to
the region would mean a better deal for passengers and taxpayers,
while supporting economic growth and job creation.</p>
<p>The Government recently launched a national consultation on the
principle of devolving rail powers from Whitehall to the regions
and has asked Centro for its views before the end of this
month.</p>
<p>Councillors on Centro will vote on Monday (June 25) on whether
to submit a formal expression of interest in taking over the
commissioning and management of local rail once the region's
current franchise, operated by London Midland, expires in September
2015.</p>
<p>This would see Centro have control over the level of fares
charged, the monitoring and performance of local trains and the
laying down of minimum standards of punctuality and
reliability.</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is a huge
opportunity for the West Midlands to have greater control of local
rail services so that it can develop the network in a way that
underpins economic growth anddelivers significant benefits for
passengers. We believe it would also provide a better deal for
taxpayers and help cut carbon.</p>
<p>"By holding control locally, we would be in a far better
position to make sure the local rail network dovetails with other
economic developments and transport networks and fully connects and
feeds into the forthcoming high speed rail line, making sure we
maximise the significant economic benefits offered by HS2. "</p>
<p>Centro's proposed expression of interest has already won the
backing of the wider region after being endorsed by the West
Midlands Rail Members Group which is made up of representatives
from the seven metropolitan councils and surrounding shire
counties.</p>
<p>The regional support comes against a backdrop of increasing
concern over the local network's ability to cope with ever rising
passenger demand.</p>
<p>More than 44 million rail journeys were made in the West
Midlands metropolitan area last year � up six per cent on the
previous year � and with a doubling in rail passengers in the last
ten years, the existing network is now congested with overcrowding
at peak times becoming an increasing problem.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "With passenger numbers continuing to rise, we
badly need more capacity otherwise we will see more local commuter
services squeezed out by inter-city and freight services.</p>
<p>"We believe that giving us greater control of the local network
will enable us to better deliver the capacity we so badly
need."</p>
<p>In its proposed formal response to the Government consultation,
Centro outlines an option for how a devolved rail franchise could
work in the West Midlands, although it is recognised that much work
is needed with the Department for Transport to develop the
arrangements further.</p>
<p>Under the proposed option, Centro would be responsible for
laying down the specifications of the local rail franchise and for
appointing a train operator to run services on its behalf. This
could either be through a joint franchise with the Department for
Transport or through separate contractual arrangements.</p>
<p>Centro would be allocated a budget and have control over the
performance of the local network while taking the revenue risk
under a long term contract.</p>
<p>Local control would allow decisions on issues such as the
service frequencies and staffing levels at stations to be made
locally rather than by the Secretary of State.</p>
<p>Passengers would benefit from locally owned stations with
improved passenger information, better security and staffing, cycle
parking, more frequent trains and better fares integration.</p>
<p>It would also provide an opportunity for improved integration
with bus and tram services while easing the way for a network-wide
smartcard making it easier for passengers to use public
transport.</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, Acting Chairman of Centro and the West Midlands
Rail members Group said; "Our proposals would see the rail network
become more responsive to local priorities while offering a better
deal for taxpayers through the effective balancing of costs and
revenues, changing specifications and fares as required and
promoting local solutions. We believe it can reduce the long-run
costs of the railway."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro will decide next week whether to formally tell the Government it is keen to take over responsibility for local rail services.
17213
0
12
0
Enjoy The Ride with Mr Motivator
2012-06-15T00:00:00
2012-06-15T00:00:00
Bus passengers enjoy a fun workout with Mr Motivator.
<p>"</p>
<p>With the summer holidays approaching people are being urged to
ditch the car and hitch up to a healthier alternative to enjoy them
- and who better to help them on their way than TV's very own
fitness guru Mr Motivator?</p>
<p>He has teamed up with Centro, the region's transport authority,
to help promote its summer initiative Enjoy The Ride.</p>
<p>This aims to get people, especially families, to combine walking
with public transport for days out and other leisure
activities.</p>
<p>Mr Motivator, who regularly appeared on our TV screens on GMTV
in the 1990s, will star in videos on the Centro website from June
18 promoting active travel and the ticketing deals available on
public transport in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>To kick start the programme he went out and about on the network
to meet passengers and get them in the mood by taking part in his
unique brand of fun workouts.</p>
<p>He said: "Enjoy The Ride is a great scheme, it encourages people
to leave the car behind and use public transport to get them to and
from their destination.</p>
<p>"By doing so, we do so much for the environment and personally I
had a great time going on the Centro network and meeting, filming
and having fun with all the people that I met."</p>
<p>Centro marketing manager Julia Lameris said: "It's been a real
pleasure working with Mr Motivator.</p>
<p>"He is really passionate about families keeping fit and
encouraging everyone across the network to get active and enjoy the
ride, whether you're travelling to work, taking your kids to school
or visiting your local attraction by public transport."</p>
<p>There are a range of top value tickets on offer to help families
stay active over the summer.</p>
<p>They include the N bus one day ticket, which allows you to
travel on all buses all day across the Network West Midlands area,
and the N network day tripper which offers unlimited travel by bus,
train and Metro from 09:30 during weekdays and anytime during
weekends and Bank Holidays.</p>
<p>Network West Midlands has also teamed up with some of the best
local attractions to negotiate 2 for1 admissions and make
sustainable travel a regular part of everyday life when buying the
N network daytripper.</p>
<p>For more details on these, and other tickets, and to see Mr
Motivator in Enjoy The Ride, go to the <strong><a href="/">Network
West Midlands</a></strong> website from June 18.</p>
<p>You can also see Mr Motivator in action with the public during
his visit to the Midlands on <strong><a
href="/">YouTube</a></strong></p>
<p>"</p>
TV fitness guru Mr Motivator teams up with Centro to encourage people to enjoy the summer holidays using public transport.
17213
0
12
0
Enjoy The Ride with Mr Motivator
2012-06-15T00:00:00
2012-06-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>With the summer holidays approaching people are being urged to
ditch the car and hitch up to a healthier alternative to enjoy them
- and who better to help them on their way than TV's very own
fitness guru Mr Motivator?</p>
<p>He has teamed up with Centro, the region's transport authority,
to help promote its summer initiative Enjoy The Ride.<br />
�</p>
<p><br />
This aims to get people, especially families, to combine walking
with public transport for days out and other leisure
activities.</p>
<p>Mr Motivator, who regularly appeared on our TV screens on GMTV
in the 1990s, will star in videos on the Centro website from June
18 promoting active travel and the ticketing deals available on
public transport in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>To kick start the programme he went out and about on the network
to meet passengers and get them in the mood by taking part in his
unique brand of fun workouts.</p>
<p>He said: "Enjoy The Ride is a great scheme, it encourages people
to leave the car behind and use public transport to get them to and
from their destination.</p>
<p>"By doing so, we do so much for the environment and personally I
had a great time going on the Centro network and meeting, filming
and having fun with all the people that I met."</p>
<p>Centro marketing manager Julia Lameris said: "It's been a real
pleasure working with Mr Motivator.</p>
<p>"He is really passionate about families keeping fit and
encouraging everyone across the network to get active and enjoy the
ride, whether you're travelling to work, taking your kids to school
or visiting your local attraction by public transport."</p>
<p>There are a range of top value tickets on offer to help families
stay active over the summer.</p>
<p>They include the N bus one day ticket, which allows you to
travel on all buses all day across the Network West Midlands area,
and the N network day tripper which offers unlimited travel by bus,
train and Metro from 09:30 during weekdays and anytime during
weekends and Bank Holidays.</p>
<p>Network West Midlands has also teamed up with some of the best
local attractions to negotiate 2 for1 admissions and make
sustainable travel a regular part of everyday life when buying the
N network daytripper.</p>
<p>For more details on these, and other tickets, and to see Mr
Motivator in Enjoy The Ride, go to the <strong><a href="/">Network
West Midlands</a></strong> website from June 18.</p>
<p>You can also go on <strong><a href="/">YouTube</a></strong> and
see Mr Motivator in action with the public during his visit to the
Midlands.</p>
<p>"</p>
TV fitness guru Mr Motivator teams up with Centro to encourage people to enjoy the summer holidays using public transport.
17213
thumbMrMotivator75.jpg
0
12
0
Rail projects can bring jobs and economic growth
2012-06-15T00:00:00
2012-06-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Three rail projects costing a total of £60m have the potential
to create more than 4,400 new jobs and boost the West Midlands
economy by more than £370m a year, transport chiefs have told the
Government.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has urged Ministers to
include the projects when the Government announces what rail
schemes are to be funded in the five years between 2014 and
2019.</p>
<p>Centro's Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, has told Secretary of
State for Transport Justine Greening that the three projects are
also important in making sure the region's rail network better
connects with and feeds into the forthcoming HS2 high speed rail
link.</p>
<p>The rail industry has already recommended two schemes to be
included in the five year plan known as Control Period 5 - £20m of
improvements to the Water Orton line and £35m of work to increase
capacity between Coventry and Leamington Spa.</p>
<p>The Coventry to Leamington scheme alone can create more than
1,600 new jobs and boost the regional economy by £143m a year.</p>
<p>But Centro has told the Government that at least a further 4,400
jobs can be created and an extra £370m of economic activity secured
by also including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Electrification of the Walsall to Rugeley line (£30m)</li>
<li>Upgrading services and increasing capacity on the Snow Hill
line (£10m)</li>
<li>Building a new station and electrification of the line to
Aldridge (£20m).</li>
</ul>
<p>Mr Inskip said: "These are relatively modest schemes costing
just £60m yet they can bring economic growth worth six times that
amount.</p>
<p>"Investing in our local rail network in the run up to the
arrival of HS2 will also maximise the impact of high speed rail by
spreading the significant economic benefits throughout the
region.</p>
<p>"These projects can help deliver the Government's national
growth agenda and as such should be included in Control Period
5."</p>
<p>Centro is also urging the Government to include preparatory
development work on two major schemes designed to add much needed
capacity to the West Midlands rail network.</p>
<p>These are:</p>
<ul>
<li>The £100m reopening of the Walsall to Stourbridge Freight
Line</li>
<li>The £150m Camp Hill Chords project which would enable two new
suburban rail lines to be run into Moor Street � one from Kings
Norton through Kings Heath and Moseley and one from Tamworth
through Kingsbury, Castle Vale and Fort Parkway.</li>
</ul>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "Both schemes are crucial in terms of
supporting economic growth and exploiting the capacity that will be
released on the local rail network by the arrival of HS2.</p>
<p>"Making a commitment to do the design and development work in
Control Period 5 will enable them to be built very quickly during
the following five year period starting in 2019."</p>
<p>"</p>
The Government hears rail projects costing £60m would boost the West Midlands economy by more than £370m a year.
17213
thumbHLtrainabove.jpg
0
12
0
Minister gets tram extension underway
2012-06-13T00:00:00
2012-06-13T00:00:00
"(left to right) Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Development, Jobs and Skills, Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, Transport Minister Norman Baker and Cllr Jon Hunt, Vice Chairman of Centro, start work on the tram link"
<p>"</p>
<p>Transport Minister Norman Baker has launched work on a
multi-million pound project that will see trams return to the
streets of Birmingham for the first time in more than half a
century.</p>
<p>Mr Baker�started the dig at the junction of Corporation Street
and Bull Street as the task got underway of moving the spider's web
of water pipes and power cables running beneath the city's
streets.</p>
<p>The work by Centro, the region's transport authority, is the
first phase in the construction of the Midland Metro extension
which will run from Snow Hill Station to New Street Station,
creating more than 1,500 sustainable new jobs and boosting the
regional economy by more than £50 million a year.</p>
<p>Mr Baker said: "This scheme is great news for Birmingham and the
West Midlands and will provide a new, greener transport choice for
those wanting to reach the city's shopping streets as well as the
emerging business district in Snow Hill.</p>
<p>"The Metro extension will also cut congestion, improve air
quality and be a real boon for the local economy by creating 1,300
new jobs.</p>
<p>"This is an example of the kind of infrastructure project we
need to help boost growth around the UK and that is why I am
pleased that we have been able to contribute £75 million towards
the cost of the scheme."</p>
<p>The extension will not only link Birmingham's two major rail
stations to the historic Jewellery Quarter and beyond to the Black
Country, but will also deliver more than 3.5 million passengers a
year directly into the heart of the city's shopping district.</p>
<p>Trams will follow a route from the existing Metro terminus at
Snow Hill, along a £9 million viaduct already built by developer
Ballymore, down Upper Bull Street and Corporation Street and on to
Stephenson Street.</p>
<p>It� is due to open in 2015 coinciding with the completion of the
£600 million Gateway rebuild of New Street Station with trams
stopping outside the station's new entrance in Stephenson
Street</p>
<p>The extension is part of a wider £127 million joint project
between Centro and the Black Country and Birmingham City councils
which includes a larger Metro maintenance depot at Wednesbury and a
fleet of 20 new and bigger trams that will increase passenger
capacity and frequency of service between Birmingham and
Wolverhampton to every six minutes throughout the day.</p>
<p>Centro's Vice Chairman Cllr Jon Hunt said: "The start of work on
the Metro extension is a real milestone in the transformation of
our city's transport system.</p>
<p>"It will not only bring jobs and increased economic activity but
will also help create a much improved shopping environment
especially in Corporation which will be cleaner, quieter and far
less congested."</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council's Cabinet Member for
Development, Jobs and Skills, added: "The economic advantages of
rapid transit networks are well documented yet Birmingham remains
the only city of its size in Europe without one.</p>
<p>"This extension will start to put that right and serve as a
platform for further routes to key locations like the airport and
the forthcoming high speed rail station. That will help Birmingham
and the West Midlands compete for jobs and investment in an
increasingly fierce global marketplace."</p>
<p>Work on the extension will see Corporation Street permanently
closed to traffic later�this summer with bus stops switched to new
locations no more than a five minute walk away.</p>
<p>Full details on the new bus stopping locations will be
publicised over the coming weeks through a comprehensive passenger
information campaign.</p>
<p>"</p>
Transport Minister Norman Baker has launched work on a multi-million pound project that will see trams return to the streets of Birmingham.
17213
Image2.jpg
thumbballymoreheadline.JPG
0
12
0
Landmark bus ticketing deal launched in West Midlands
2012-06-11T00:00:00
2012-06-11T00:00:00
"Kevin Crawford of Midland, left, Councillor Jon Hunt and Andy Foster of National Express West Midlands launch the joint ticket for the Number 10 service."
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in the Black Country are set to have an easier
ride with the launch of a landmark ticketing agreement in the West
Midlands between two operators.</p>
<p>The deal, facilitated by Centro, has been struck between
National Express West Midlands and Midland Buses for the Number 10
service between Wolverhampton and Perton.</p>
<p>Both firms run buses on the route and for the first time
passengers who buy a return ticket on one operator's buses can use
it on either company's service for their journey back.</p>
<p>It is the first arrangement of its kind in the West Midlands and
was made possible following the voluntary multilateral agreement
between Centro, the region's transport authority, and bus operators
following the Wolverhampton and west Walsall review in 2011.</p>
<p>The review saw the timetable on the No 10 route become more
co-ordinated with evenly spaced gaps between buses from which the
ticketing arrangement is a direct result.</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Passenger Services Director for Centro, said:
"This is a real breakthrough and exactly the sort of development
that passengers want.</p>
<p>"It is this kind of versatility that makes bus travel even more
appealing and practical for the travelling public and I look
forward to similar arrangements being rolled out across the West
Midlands network."</p>
<p>Councillor Jon Hunt, the deputy chairman of Centro, said: "This
is all about what is best for passengers. As a passenger you want
to be able to get on and off buses with the minimum of fuss and
this arrangement is very encouraging."</p>
<p>Andy Foster, Head of Network Management for National Express
West Midlands, said: "Since the Wolverhampton bus review we have
seen an increase in passengers � up to three per cent more in the
city centre.</p>
<p>"Innovative ideas such as this will cement and build on that
growth."</p>
<p>Kevin Crawford, Operations Manager for Midland, said: "Where two
operators can work together in such a way the big winners will be
the passengers.</p>
<p>"I hope that this is only the start and that we can extend this
to other routes."</p>
<p>"</p>
National Express and Central join forces to launch the first joint bus ticket in the West Midlands.
17213
Service10upright.jpg
0
12
0
Bus operators unveil joint ticketing arrangement
2012-06-11T00:00:00
2012-06-11T00:00:00
"Kevin Crawford of Midland, left, Councillor Jon Hunt and Andy Foster of National Express West Midlands launch the joint ticket for the Number 10 service."
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in the Black Country are set to have an easier
ride with the launch of a joint ticketing agreement between two
operators.</p>
<p>The deal, facilitated by Centro, has been struck between
National Express West Midlands and Midland Buses for the Number 10
service between Wolverhampton and Perton.</p>
<p>Both firms run buses on the route and for the first time
passengers who buy a return ticket on one operator's buses can use
it on either company's service for their journey back.</p>
<p>It is the first arrangement of its kind in the West Midlands and
was made possible following the voluntary multilateral agreement
between Centro, the region's transport authority, and bus operators
following the Wolverhampton and west Walsall review in 2011.</p>
<p>The review saw the timetable on the No 10 route become more
co-ordinated with evenly spaced gaps between buses from which the
ticketing arrangement is a direct result.</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Passenger Services Director for Centro, said:
"This is a real breakthrough and exactly the sort of development
that passengers want.</p>
<p>"It is this kind of versatility that makes bus travel even more
appealing and practical for the travelling public and I look
forward to similar arrangements being rolled out across the West
Midlands network."</p>
<p>Councillor Jon Hunt, the deputy chairman of Centro, said: "This
is all about what is best for passengers. As a passenger you want
to be able to get on and off buses with the minimum of fuss and
this arrangement is very encouraging."</p>
<p>Andy Foster, Head of Network Management for National Express
West Midlands, said: "Since the Wolverhampton bus review we have
seen an increase in passengers � up to three per cent more in the
city centre.</p>
<p>"Innovative ideas such as this will cement and build on that
growth."</p>
<p>Kevin Crawford, Operations Manager for Midland, said: "Where two
operators can work together in such a way the big winners will be
the passengers.</p>
<p>"I hope that this is only the start and that we can extend this
to other routes."</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus operators National Express and Midland launch the first joint ticketing arrangement in the West Midlands.
17213
0
12
0
Funding boost is just the ticket for jobseekers
2012-06-08T00:00:00
2012-06-19T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>An award winning scheme which has helped more than 12,000
unemployed people back into work is set to support even more
jobseekers after securing a landmark funding boost.</p>
<p>The Workwise initiative, which is run by regional transport
authority Centro, provides free journey planning advice and travel
passes for unemployed people travelling to interviews or starting
new jobs.</p>
<p>Now, after talks with Centro, the region's bus and rail
operators have agreed to contribute half of the cost of the free
travel passes for the first four weeks of a new job. The Workwise
schemes in Sandwell and Walsall will be the first to benefit from
the extra funding.</p>
<p>Rachel Hooper, Centro's WorkWise team leader, said: "It's
fantastic news that the operators have agreed to help fund this
project and their contribution means we can increase the number of
people we help.</p>
<p>"In areas like Sandwell where the project provides passes for
the first four weeks of work, this contribution from the bus and
rail companies effectively doubles our funding."</p>
<p>The schemes in Sandwell and Walsall are run in partnership
between Centro, Sandwell Council, Walsall Steps to Work, and
Jobcentre Plus.</p>
<p>A spokesman for Walsall Steps to Work, said: "It's great to be
able to offer our customers a wider choice of travel options as,
through the discounted ticketing scheme , clients can now choose to
use any of the local transport providers.'<br />
<br />
A Sandwell MBC spokesperson added: 'The free passes have helped
many Sandwell residents get back into work. The discount scheme
offered by bus and rail operators will make a significant
difference to the cost of travel for Sandwell residents making it
easier for them to access job opportunities.</p>
<p>The initiative has proven successful across the region and has
helped more than 12,000 people back into work across the West
Midlands since launching in April 2003.</p>
<p>To qualify for free travel passes applicants must contact the
WorkWise team before starting their new employment.</p>
<p>For more information visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"An award winning scheme which has helped more than 12,000 unemployed people back into work is set to support even more jobseekers after securing a landmark funding boost."
17213
0
12
0
New Street's new entrance takes shape
2012-05-30T00:00:00
2012-05-30T00:00:00
Work starts on the new entrance to New Street station
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using New Street station will soon be able to get a
glimpse of the future shape of their station as construction of a
brand new entrance progresses rapidly over the coming weeks.</p>
<p>Situated on the corner of Stephenson Street and Navigation
Street, the new entrance will improve links between the city's
business district and New Street by allowing passengers access to
the first half of the new station direct from Stephenson
Street.</p>
<p>It is expected that the new entrance and the first half of the
new station concourse will open in April 2013 when work will switch
to the redevelopment of the existing station.</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, project director for Network Rail said: "The
area on the north west side of the station will be the first area
to see dramatic changes as part of our plans to transform New
Street and the Pallasades.</p>
<p>""Work is underway to install the first sections of the
stainless steel fa�ade above Stephenson Street and over the coming
months passengers will be able to see one of the most important
entrances into the new station start to take shape.</p>
<p>"Despite the large amount of work now taking place on site,
passengers can be assured that the station will remain open
throughout construction so they can continue to catch their train
as normal.</p>
<p>""Passengers will notice the first major changes when we
effectively switch the station over and open the first half of the
new concourse in April next year.""</p>
<p>The redevelopment of Birmingham New Street station and the
Pallasades centre is backed by transport authority Centro,
Birmingham City Council, Network Rail, Department for Transport and
Advantage West Midlands.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of�Centro said: "Work to transform
New Street Station into a stunning 21<sup>st</sup> century gateway
is really gathering pace now.</p>
<p>"I believe this first glimpse of the new exterior will fire the
public's imagination and build further excitement over the prospect
of finally having a station that Birmingham and the West Midlands
as a whole can be proud of."</p>
<p>In addition to the work to construct the new station entrance,
other activity on site at the moment includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>South side/John Lewis: A second tower crane on the south side
of the station has now been erected and construction of the new
John Lewis department store gets underway next month.</li>
<li>New concourse: work continues to construct the first half of
the new station concourse which will open to passengers in April
2013 when the existing station closes for redevelopment.</li>
<li>East/Bullring side: construction of the Moor St link pedestrian
walkway continues. This walkway will improve the connection between
Stephenson Street, New Street and Moor St stations and will open in
April 2013. Work is also underway to create the new public square
on the east side of the station.</li>
<li>Pallasades: development work in the Pallasades continues apace
with large areas of the centre now behind hoardings as work
continues to create the space for the new atrium. The Pallasades
car park has also closed for demolition and rebuilding.</li>
<li>Lamp Block: work to complete the new train crew accommodation
above platform 1 on the west side of the station is almost
complete.</li>
</ul>
<p>"</p>
Passengers using New Street station will soon be able to get a glimpse of the future shape of their station as construction of a brand new entrance progresses rapidly over the coming weeks.
17213
NewStreetEntranceWorkStarts.JPG
0
12
0
More bus services for passengers as Centro enhances Coventry route
2012-05-17T00:00:00
2012-05-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users in Coventry will benefit from additional links around
the city as transport bosses fulfilled their promise to
passengers.</p>
<p>Residents in Chapelfields will see extra services on the 49 bus
service to Earlsdon and Coventry city centre from June 6.</p>
<p>The route was introduced in February as part of the
comprehensive review of services in the city by Centro, the
region's transport authority, bus operators and Coventry City
Council.</p>
<p>It is operated by West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT)
with subsidy from Centro and partly replaces the former Number 1
service.</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro area manager for Coventry and Solihull, said
the extra services were the result of a pledge made at the time of
the review.</p>
<p>He said: "With the introduction of any new network Centro always
looks closely for areas where services can be improved once the
buses actually start running.</p>
<p>"In this case we reviewed passenger numbers on different
sections of the route over the last two months and listened to
feedback from users.</p>
<p>"We have now asked WMSNT to concentrate resource on the section
of route between Chapelfields, Earlsdon and the city centre, with
the section of the route to Cannon Park being covered by a small
change to the 47 service."</p>
<p>The changes to the 49 will see an hourly service to Chapelfields
during the day.</p>
<p>Centro have agreed to renumber the service '1' as the route
between Chapelfields and the city centre will be identical to the
former service with that number.</p>
<p>Des Rogers, Operations Manager of WMSNT who operate the service
on behalf of Centro said: "WMSNT are happy to assist Centro in the
operation of the service 1 route and will employ promotional
activities to ensure the service is successful and of value to
local residents."</p>
<p>Councillor Bally Singh, Whoberley ward member on Coventry City
Council, said: ""I congratulate Centro for listening to the views
of local people and restoring the historic bus link between
Earlsdon and Chapelfields.""</p>
<p>As well as the additional journeys a Saturday service will also
be introduced on the route, as well as on the 41 service to
Stonehouse Estate in Whitley.</p>
<p>The new network came into effect on February 26 and saw many
changes to routes and timetables across the city, providing many
areas with more frequent services designed to get more of
Coventry's residents travelling by bus.</p>
<p>Centro worked in partnership with Coventry City Council and bus
operators A Line, Blue Diamond, Johnsons, National Express West
Midlands, Stagecoach and Travel De Courcey to conduct the
comprehensive overhaul.</p>
<p>The new network reflects the new or altered cross-city links
being created following multi-million pound works in the city
centre's Broadgate area by Coventry City Council.</p>
<p>It is supported by a partnership agreement between Centro,
Coventry City Council and bus operators.</p>
<p>This pledges investment in the bus network, including new
vehicles, cleaning and monitoring of services, new infrastructure
and Real Time Information, and better signage.</p>
<p>"</p>
Coventry will see extra services and a new route following passenger consultation.
17213
thumbHLCovP.jpg
0
12
0
Walk to Work week kicks off
2012-05-14T00:00:00
2012-05-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Workers across the West Midlands were being urged to get to
their feet today for national Walk to Work week.</p>
<p>The scheme, run by charity Living Streets, will see staff at
organisations across the region, including transport authority
Centro, attempt to walk all or part of their daily commute.</p>
<p>The campaign, which kicked off today (Monday May 14), aims to
highlight the health and environmental benefits of walking and is
part of the Great British Walking Challenge which will see a host
of events during May�to encourage people to put their best foot
forward.</p>
<p>And with latest figures showing a quarter of UK adults now
classified as obese, adding walking to the daily routine could help
shed some problem pounds.</p>
<p>Centro sustainable travel officer, Liam Potts, said:
"Incorporating walking into our daily journeys brings great
benefits for individuals and for the West Midlands as a whole.�</p>
<p>"Walking all or part of your commute is an excellent way to get
some activity into your day, doing wonders for both your mental and
physical health.</p>
<p>"Even if it's not practical to walk the whole way, by getting
off the bus a couple of stops in advance, or walking to the train
station, we can all walk more in our daily lives and reap the
benefits."</p>
<p>The campaign is funded by the Big Lottery Fund to highlight the
role that walking can play in bringing much-needed activity into
our daily lives.</p>
<p>An online tool lets workers log their walks and calculate total
distance, calories burned and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions saved.</p>
<p>Walkers can also pit themselves against others taking the
challenge in their workplace, city or even across the country.</p>
<p>Tony Armstrong, Chief Executive of Living Streets, said: "This
May we're hoping to get the whole country walking. Walking to,
from, or at work is a great way of keeping your activity levels up
and your stress levels down.</p>
<p>"We are urging everyone to give it a go during Walk to Work
Week. We think people will be amazed at what a difference a short
blast of fresh air can do for them.</p>
<p>"That time spent away from the email inbox will break up their
day and improve their productivity once they return."</p>
<p>For more information or to register your organisation visit <a
href="/">www.livingstreets.org.uk</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Workers across the West Midlands were being urged to get to their feet for national Walk to Work week.
17213
0
12
0
Pioneering crime-busting command centre opens
2012-05-14T00:00:00
2012-05-14T00:00:00
"left to right Chief Constable of West Midlands Police Chris Sims, Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening, Chief Constable British Transport Police Andy Trotter and Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, the region’s transport authority"
<p>"</p>
<p>Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening today (11:10am
Monday May 14) launched a pioneering £1.2m command centre dedicated
to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour on the West Midlands
transport network.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Command Centre in Birmingham is the first in
the UK to have officers from a regional police force and British
Transport Police permanently based together.</p>
<p>Equipped with the latest digital technology, staff will use 50
high definition screens to monitor images beamed live from more
than 800 CCTV cameras covering the region's bus, rail and tram
network.</p>
<p>The Command Centre will also serve as a headquarters for up to
79 officers and staff from the Safer Travel Partnership, a
dedicated task force that has helped cut offences on the network by
more than 65 per cent over the last five years.</p>
<p>The Partnership, which includes West Midlands Police, transport
authority Centro, bus operator National Express and more recently
British Transport Police, stages hundreds of operations each year
to deter and combat crime and anti-social behaviour on the
transport network.</p>
<p>Ms Greening said: "Crime on buses and trains is already falling
but state of the art facilities like this will help to further
increase safety on our public transport system.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The excellent work being done here in the West Midlands shows
what can be achieved when operators and the police work together
and I congratulate all those involved in getting this new command
centre up and running."</p>
<p>The opening follows the release of last year's (April 1, 2011 �
March 31, 2012) crime figures which show a 12 per cent reduction (
345 fewer offences) on the bus network, a 12 per cent fall (341
fewer offences) on rail and a four per cent drop (eight fewer
offences) on Midland Metro trams.</p>
<p>Centro's Vice Chairman, Cllr Jon Hunt, said: "The Safer Travel
Partnership has been very successful and it's important to realise
that crime on the network is now at a very low level.</p>
<p>"Despite this success we know that anti-social behaviour remains
an issue for some people and this new Command Centre will help us
tackle that.</p>
<p>"It will allow for greater co-ordination and understanding
between the two forces and a more efficient use of resources but
most importantly it will help provide an even better policing
response to passengers."</p>
<p>The shared Command Centre, which will save the Partnership more
than £400,000 a year, also features briefing rooms and other
facilities from which operations can be planned and deployed.</p>
<p>These involve a range of tactics including high visibility and
covert police patrols, special transmitters which ""tap"" into live
bus CCTV systems, the deployment of drugs sniffer dogs and
surveillance at crime hot spots.</p>
<p>Although crime on the network is at its lowest level for more
than five years, and, excluding vandalism there is now just one
offence in every 147,000 bus rides, recent passenger surveys have
found that nuisance behaviour such as playing loud music and
smoking are key irritants that can also lead to an unfounded fear
of crime.</p>
<p>To help tackle the issue, the new Command Centre will be linked
to the innovative See Something Say Something scheme where
passengers can discreetly send details of anti-social behaviour via
text message to 83010.�</p>
<p>The information is then used by the Safer Travel police team to
pinpoint any anti-social behaviour hotspots and take appropriate
action.</p>
<p>West Midlands Chief Constable, Chris Sims, said: "Bus, train and
tram passengers should be free to use public transport confident
that they will enjoy a safe, pleasant journey.</p>
<p>""Through the Safer Travel Partnership we are committed to
cutting crime and anti-social behaviour on the transport network
and the partnership has made a real difference since it was formed
six years ago. Last year, in-particular, there were almost 700
fewer offences on the network.</p>
<p>"Having all partners working together in this new Command Centre
will help galvanise our efforts still further."</p>
<p>British Transport Police Chief Constable Andy Trotter said: "I
am delighted that British Transport Police is now established as a
key partner within the Safer Travel Partnership and that BTP
officers are playing a pivotal part in the success of this
innovative, cross-modal initiative which benefits rail, Metro and
bus passengers.</p>
<p>"The Safer Travel Partnership provides a win-win situation with
passengers benefiting from the close working relationship between
BTP and West Midlands Police officers on the team, while the
close-knit relationship between the two police forces provides real
value-for-money with a far more efficient use of police
resources.</p>
<p>"The launch of the new Command Centre will further enhance this
burgeoning relationship and will help ensure a seamless policing
response to passengers in the West Midlands, across all three modes
of transport."</p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West
Midlands, added: "We take anti-social behaviour on our buses very
seriously and as a result of the action we have taken�this�has
fallen by 65 per cent in the last five years. Incidents of serious
crime on the bus are few and far between but we know that our
customers don't want people smoking, playing loud music and
refusing to pay their�fares.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The brand new state of the art command centre and extra police
officers for the bus network are great news for our customers. We
encourage people travelling on our services to use the 'See
Something Say Something' number and website to help us target the
problems they want fixing."</p>
<p>Passengers who witness nuisance behaviour during their bus, rail
or Metro journey can use the See Something Say Something service by
texting 'bus' or 'metro' or 'rail' followed by a space and then
details of the incident including time, date, location and route
number to 83010.�</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on to the <a
href="/" title=""><strong>www.safertravelinfo</strong>/</a> website
or by telephoning West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000.�</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999 as usual.</p>
<p>"</p>
A� £1.2m command centre tackling crime on the transport network has opened.
17213
Command1.jpg
0
12
0
Transport Secretary Justine Greening MP opens Stourbridge Bus Interchange
2012-05-14T00:00:00
2012-05-14T00:00:00
Justine Greening MP unveils the plaque at Stourbridge Interchange
<p>"</p>
<p>Transport Secretary the Right Honourable Justine Greening MP has
officially opened the new £7m million Stourbridge Bus
Interchange.</p>
<p>Ms Greening unveiled a commemorative plaque at the complex when
she visited on May 14<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>Tributes were paid at the ceremony to the late chairman of
Centro Councillor Angus Adams, who died suddenly aged 67 in April
and was key in driving forward the new station.</p>
<p>She said: "It's an absolute privilege for me to come here today
and be part of this opening of Stourbridge Interchange. It's a
fantastic new bus station for Stourbridge.</p>
<p>�"It's wonderful to see just how many people have come together
to work to make this thing happen and I would also like to pay
tribute to Angus Adams for the work he did.</p>
<p>�"I know that he really pushed this forward and I am sure that
in many ways this would be a fitting tribute to him and a lasting
legacy for the impact that he had locally."</p>
<p>�Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip described the Interchange
as "a remarkable transformation in public transport" following an
18 month project which saw the new facility built on the site of
the previous station.</p>
<p>�He said: "It is great now to see it in use with all the
operators now using it.</p>
<p>�"There's about two million passengers using this bus station
every year and we're hoping that will grow now with the new
facility that's here."</p>
<p>Councillor Les Jones, the leader of Dudley Council, said: "We've
now got a link from any point in the country, via Stourbridge
Junction and via the Parry People Mover which is an excellent
service, straight to here.</p>
<p>"That's why this is an Interchange, it's not just a bus station.
It is something very special for this town."</p>
<p>Councillor Jon Hunt, the vice chairman of Centro said: "We look
forward to this bus interchange being extremely well-used and being
part of our vision to make bus travel as convenient and accessible
in this region as every other form of travel."</p>
<p>During her visit Ms Greening was also introduced to 94-year-old
Michael Byrne.</p>
<p>Mr Byrne, of Stourbridge, worked for the former Midland Red bus
company from 1948 until leaving in 1973 and was the last bus
conductor to work in the town.</p>
<p>The Interchange offers a major improvement on the former
facility, with fully enclosed and comfortable waiting areas and
cutting edge passenger information systems.</p>
<p>It boasts a contemporary glass and steel design, including a
focal point canopy, a modern station building and concourse
complete with toilets, a Spar convenience store and electronic
passenger information boards telling passengers when their bus is
due.</p>
<p>Other features of the new Interchange include eight, spacious
bus stands allowing easy passenger circulation with doors that
automatically open only when the bus arrives.</p>
<p>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system have
also been installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>A focus has been placed on improving walking routes into the
town centre and a new covered walkway links the station building to
the existing subway from Foster Street. The subway itself has been
refurbished to become much more open and bright.</p>
<p>Better links have also been created to the innovative People
Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction railway station, allowing
for easy interchange.</p>
<p>"</p>
Stourbridge Bus Interchange is officially opened by Transport Secretary Justine Greening MP.
17213
Greening1.jpg
thumbJustineGreening75.jpg
0
12
0
Crime Busting command centre opens
2012-05-14T00:00:00
2012-05-14T00:00:00
"left to right Chief Constable of West Midlands Police Chris Sims, Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening, Chief Constable British Transport Police Andy Trotter and Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, the region’s transport authority at to"
<p>"</p>
<p>Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening today (11:10am
Monday May 14) launched a pioneering £1.2m command centre dedicated
to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour on the West Midlands
transport network.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Command Centre in Birmingham is the first in
the UK to have officers from a regional police force and British
Transport Police permanently based together.</p>
<p>Equipped with the latest digital technology, staff will use 50
high definition screens to monitor images beamed live from more
than 800 CCTV cameras covering the region's bus, rail and tram
network.</p>
<p>The Command Centre will also serve as a headquarters for up to
79 officers and staff from the Safer Travel Partnership, a
dedicated task force that has helped cut offences on the network by
more than 65 per cent over the last five years.</p>
<p>The Partnership, which includes West Midlands Police, transport
authority Centro, bus operator National Express and more recently
British Transport Police, stages hundreds of operations each year
to deter and combat crime and anti-social behaviour on the
transport network.</p>
<p>Ms Greening said: "Crime on buses and trains is already falling
but state of the art facilities like this will help to further
increase safety on our public transport system.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The excellent work being done here in the West Midlands shows
what can be achieved when operators and the police work together
and I congratulate all those involved in getting this new command
centre up and running."</p>
<p>The opening follows the release of last year's (April 1, 2011 �
March 31, 2012) crime figures which show a 12 per cent reduction (
345 fewer offences) on the bus network, a 12 per cent fall (341
fewer offences) on rail and a four per cent drop (eight fewer
offences) on Midland Metro trams.</p>
<p>Centro's Vice Chairman, Cllr Jon Hunt, said: "The Safer Travel
Partnership has been very successful and it's important to realise
that crime on the network is now at a very low level.</p>
<p>"Despite this success we know that anti-social behaviour remains
an issue for some people and this new Command Centre will help us
tackle that.</p>
<p>"It will allow for greater co-ordination and understanding
between the two forces and a more efficient use of resources but
most importantly it will help provide an even better policing
response to passengers."</p>
<p>The shared Command Centre, which will save the Partnership more
than £400,000 a year, also features briefing rooms and other
facilities from which operations can be planned and deployed.</p>
<p>These involve a range of tactics including high visibility and
covert police patrols, special transmitters which ""tap"" into live
bus CCTV systems, the deployment of drugs sniffer dogs and
surveillance at crime hot spots.</p>
<p>Although crime on the network is at its lowest level for more
than five years, and, excluding vandalism there is now just one
offence in every 147,000 bus rides, recent passenger surveys have
found that nuisance behaviour such as playing loud music and
smoking are key irritants that can also lead to an unfounded fear
of crime.</p>
<p>To help tackle the issue, the new Command Centre will be linked
to the innovative See Something Say Something scheme where
passengers can discreetly send details of anti-social behaviour via
text message to 83010.�</p>
<p>The information is then used by the Safer Travel police team to
pinpoint any anti-social behaviour hotspots and take appropriate
action.</p>
<p>West Midlands Chief Constable, Chris Sims, said: "Bus, train and
tram passengers should be free to use public transport confident
that they will enjoy a safe, pleasant journey.</p>
<p>""Through the Safer Travel Partnership we are committed to
cutting crime and anti-social behaviour on the transport network
and the partnership has made a real difference since it was formed
six years ago. Last year, in-particular, there were almost 700
fewer offences on the network.</p>
<p>"Having all partners working together in this new Command Centre
will help galvanise our efforts still further."</p>
<p>British Transport Police Chief Constable Andy Trotter said: "I
am delighted that British Transport Police is now established as a
key partner within the Safer Travel Partnership and that BTP
officers are playing a pivotal part in the success of this
innovative, cross-modal initiative which benefits rail, Metro and
bus passengers.</p>
<p>"The Safer Travel Partnership provides a win-win situation with
passengers benefiting from the close working relationship between
BTP and West Midlands Police officers on the team, while the
close-knit relationship between the two police forces provides real
value-for-money with a far more efficient use of police
resources.</p>
<p>"The launch of the new Command Centre will further enhance this
burgeoning relationship and will help ensure a seamless policing
response to passengers in the West Midlands, across all three modes
of transport."</p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West
Midlands, added: "We take anti-social behaviour on our buses very
seriously and as a result of the action we have taken�this�has
fallen by 65 per cent in the last five years. Incidents of serious
crime on the bus are few and far between but we know that our
customers don't want people smoking, playing loud music and
refusing to pay their�fares.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The brand new state of the art command centre and extra police
officers for the bus network are great news for our customers. We
encourage people travelling on our services to use the 'See
Something Say Something' number and website to help us target the
problems they want fixing."</p>
<p>Passengers who witness nuisance behaviour during their bus, rail
or Metro journey can use the See Something Say Something service by
texting 'bus' or 'metro' or 'rail' followed by a space and then
details of the incident including time, date, location and route
number to 83010.�</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on to the <a
href="/" title=""><strong>www.safertravelinfo</strong></a> website
or by telephoning West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000.�</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999 as usual.</p>
<p>"</p>
Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening today launched a pioneering £1.2m command centre dedicated to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour on the West Midlands transport network.
17213
0
12
0
Passengers urged to have say on Sandwell bus network review
2012-05-09T00:00:00
2012-05-09T00:00:00
West Bromwich bus station
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users in Sandwell are being urged to make their voices heard
in a major review of services.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority is working with
Sandwell Council, Birmingham City Council and bus operators to
scrutinise the network and see what can be done to improve services
in the borough for existing and prospective passengers.</p>
<p>The aim is to build on the already strong transport network to
provide routes that better serve modern travel patterns while also
bringing improved buses, waiting facilities and information.</p>
<p>The review is being ledby Centro, the region's transport
authority, and covers all of the bus services that come into the
Sandwell area.</p>
<p>Centro director of passenger services Stephen Rhodes said: "We
want to know what people think of their bus service and whether it
is providing what they actually want.</p>
<p>"By conducting a network review we can ensure buses best serve
places such as businesses, health, leisure, education facilities
and shops."</p>
<p>�A series of public exhibitions will be held in Sandwell and
adjoining areas throughout May where people can speak to Centro,
bus operators and Sandwell Council staff and give their views.</p>
<p>They are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 12<sup>th</sup> May, 10am to 4pm, static indoor
exhibition in Dudley Bus Station, between Stand C and the Travel
Shop</li>
<li>Sunday 13<sup>th</sup> May, 10am to 4.30pm, Network West
Midlands (NWM) Exhibition Bus at Sandwell Valley Country Park, off
Salter's Lane</li>
<li>Monday 14<sup>th</sup> May, 1pm to 6pm, NWM marquee at
Sainsburys, Halesowen Street, Blackheath</li>
<li>Tuesday 15<sup>th</sup> May, 9am to 1pm, NWM bus at Windmill
Centre in front of Peacocks and Pure Gym, Cape Hill, and 3pm to 7pm
at Wednesbury bus station, Loxdale Street</li>
<li>Wednesday 16<sup>th</sup> May, 10am to 4pm, Static indoor
exhibition in ASDA Great Bridge, in foyer, Brickhouse Lane</li>
<li>Thursday 17<sup>th</sup> May, 10am to 4pm, NWM marquee,
Bearwood Bus Station, Bearwood Road</li>
<li>Friday 18<sup>th</sup> May, 9am to 2pm, NWM marquee by Stone
Cross shops, junction of Walsall Road and Jervoise Lane</li>
<li>Saturday 19<sup>th</sup> May, 10am to 4pm, NWM bus, Oldbury by
Council House and Sainsburys</li>
<li>Monday 21<sup>st</sup> May, 9am to 1pm, NWM marquee at Cradley
Heath Interchange</li>
<li>Tuesday 22<sup>nd</sup> May, 1pm to 6pm, NWM marquee at Tipton
ASDA, Wednesbury Oak Road</li>
<li>Wednesday 23<sup>rd</sup> May, 9am to 3pm, NWM marquee at West
Bromwich markets, High Street, crossroads of King's and Queen's
Squares</li>
<li>Thursday 24<sup>th</sup> May, 1pm to 6pm, NWM marquee outside
Matalan at Merry Hill shopping centre</li>
</ul>
<p>People can also give their views at the Sandwell Public
Transport Conference on Tuesday 29<sup>th</sup> May, between
10.30am and 4pm.�</p>
<p>This is an all day public event at Sandwell Council House in
Oldbury to bring together all public transport issues, ranging from
rail, Metro, bus and Complementary Travel (Ring &
Ride/Community Transport).</p>
<p>Views can also be expressed online at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a>
�<a
href="/"><strong>www.facebook.com/networkwestmidlands</strong></a>
and <a href="/"><strong>www.twitter.com/networkwm</strong></a></p>
<p>They can be sent by post to Customer Relations, Centro House, 16
Summer Lane, Birmingham, B16 3SD. Users can also leave their
contact details with Centro at this address and updates will be
provided.</p>
<p>All comments and views must be received by Centro by May 30.</p>
<p>Information leaflets about the review are to be distributed to
more than 120,000 households across Sandwell.</p>
<p>Other publicity will include notices inside buses, posters at
key locations, local newspaper advertising and information
online.</p>
<p>A series of information exhibitions will then be held in Autumn
2012 outlining the changes to the network.</p>
<p>The review is the latest in a number that have taken place
across the West Midlands including Wolverhampton and west Walsall,
Coventry, Dudley, south Solihull, south Birmingham, north Walsall
and west Birmingham.</p>
<p>They have produced a string of benefits for passengers
including:</p>
<ul>
<li>New and improved bus shelters with up-to-date information at
every stop</li>
<li>Improved links to key shopping destinations</li>
<li>New services on roads that have never had a bus before or have
had their bus withdrawn</li>
<li>More buses with turn up and go timetables on main roads</li>
<li>New and refurbished vehicles</li>
<li>Highways improvements to help buses beat the traffic</li>
<li>More electronic bus stop displays and Real Time
information</li>
<li>Customer care training for drivers</li>
<li>Enhanced safety and security measures both at stops and on the
bus</li>
</ul>
<p>Mr Rhodes said: "Key in all this is the contribution of the
public. I would urge all bus users in Sandwell to take part in the
review consultation and tell us what they think."</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users in Sandwell are being urged to make their voices heard in a major review of services.
17213
WestBromwichbusstation.jpg
thumbHLbusandpedestrians.jpg
0
12
0
Crime falls on West Midlands public transport network
2012-05-08T00:00:00
2012-05-08T00:00:00
Reassurance: The Safer Travel Police Team on patrol
<p>"</p>
<p>Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has fallen by
12 per cent (345 fewer offences) over the last year, figures from
the Safer Travel Partnership have revealed.</p>
<p>Offences were also down 12 per cent (341 fewer crimes) on the
region's rail network and by four per cent (eight fewer offences)
on the Midland Metro tram system.</p>
<p>The drop means crime on and around the region's bus network has
fallen by 65 per cent over the last five years.</p>
<p>Excluding vandalism, this is equivalent to just one offence in
every 147,000 bus rides.</p>
<p>A growing intelligence database, much of it built on information
supplied by passengers themselves, is also helping to pinpoint
crime hotspots and persistent offenders.</p>
<p>Safer Travel figures showed bus crime fell by 15 per cent in
Birmingham, 16 per cent in Coventry and 11 per cent across the
Black Country last year (April 1<sup>st</sup> 2011 to March
31<sup>st</sup> 2012).</p>
<p>Safer Travel, which was launched six years ago, is a joint
venture between West Midlands Police, regional transport authority
Centro, National Express and British Transport Police and works to
make public transport journeys even safer for passengers by
deterring crime and anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p>Inspector Gareth Morris of the Safer Travel Police Team, said:
""The reductions in levels of crime are great news and the team
have had some superb results with arrests and operations to remove
criminals from the transport network.</p>
<p>"That said, while crime is down, nuisance behaviour remains a
concern for passengers and we are working with operators to
identify hotspots and respond appropriately."</p>
<p>Police operations have involved a range of tactics including
high visibility and covert police patrols, special transmitters
which ""tap"" into live bus CCTV systems, the deployment of drugs
sniffer dogs to check passengers and the mounting of surveillance
at crime hot spots.</p>
<p>Although crime on the network is at its lowest level for more
than five years, recent passenger surveys have found that nuisance
behaviour such as playing loud music and smoking are key irritants
that can also lead to an unfounded fear of crime.</p>
<p>Insp Morris urged passengers to use the See Something Say
Something scheme, where they can send details of anti-social
behaviour via text message to 83010.�</p>
<p>"This really helps the Safer Travel Partnership carry out the
right operations in the right place and at the right time to tackle
unacceptable behaviour,"�he said.</p>
<p>Centro's Vice Chairman, Cllr Jon Hunt, added: "The continuing
drop in crime on the transport network is very encouraging and
these latest figures are a further example of the hard work and
success of the Safer Travel Partnership.</p>
<p>"But the travelling public should not have to tolerate
anti-social behaviour during their journey and the Safer Travel
Partnership is therefore right to concentrate its efforts in this
area.</p>
<p>"At the same time passengers can play their part anonymously by
using the See Something Say Something system to give the
Partnership the vital information it needs."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership has also been busy working with
schools to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and
the effects of nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West
Midlands, said: "We take crime and anti-social behaviour on our
buses very seriously and as a result of the action we have taken
offences have fallen by 65 per cent over the last�five years.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"We know that our customers don't want people smoking or�not
paying their way�on their services�which is why we are increasing
the amount of police and doubling the number of inspectors on our
buses."</p>
<p>Passengers who witness nuisance behaviour during their bus, rail
or Metro journey can use the See Something Say Something service by
texting 'bus' or 'metro' or 'rail' followed by a space and then
details of the incident including time, date, location and route
number to 83010.�</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on to the <a
href="/" title=""><strong>www.safertravelinfo</strong></a> website
or by telephoning West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000.�</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999 as usual.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Bus crime down by 12 per cent over the last year, latest figures show."
17213
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0
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0
Balfour Beatty preferred bidders to build Midland Metro extension
2012-05-02T00:00:00
2012-05-02T00:00:00
How the Midland Metro will look in Birmingham's Corporation Street.
<p>"</p>
<p>The UK's largest infrastructure group, Balfour Beatty, has been
named as the preferred bidder to build an extension of the Midland
Metro through Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has appointed Balfour
Beatty to develop a 'best and final offer' for the exciting project
which will see trams run along some of the city's best known
streets.</p>
<p>Over the next few months Balfour Beatty will be working with
Centro's project team and key stakeholders to finalise the design
and construction proposals.</p>
<p>The extension will provide a fast link between Birmingham's two
major rail stations and deliver more than 3.5 million passengers a
year right into the heart of the city's shopping district.</p>
<p>It is one element of a wider £127 million project that will see
a fleet of 20 new trams for the Midland Metro system, which runs
between Birmingham and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Centro's Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is a
prestigious project in the heart of Birmingham and it demands a
construction partner of exactly the pedigree and calibre of Balfour
Beatty.</p>
<p>"We worked with Balfour Beatty last year when they built the
Metro bridge for us over Great Charles Street. That was a clear
demonstration of their proven track record in delivering projects
on budget and on time."</p>
<p>Bill Gifford, Regional Managing Director for Balfour Beatty
Civil Engineering, added: "We are delighted to be working with
Centro to help deliver this important scheme for the city.</p>
<p>"We have built an excellent relationship with Centro which will
continue and help ensure the successful delivery of this
prestigious scheme."</p>
<p>The extension will see trams follow a route from the existing
stop at St Paul's via a new Snow Hill stop and then along a £9
million viaduct already built by developer Ballymore.</p>
<p>It will then go down Upper Bull Street, Corporation Street and
on to Stephenson Street, stopping outside a new entrance at a
rebuilt New Street Station.</p>
<p>The extension is scheduled for completion in 2015 with major
work starting on street in early 2013.</p>
<p>The new fleet of trams, which are to be built by Spanish
manufacturer CAF, will start running in 2014, bringing major
benefits to Metro in the Black Country by increasing passenger
capacity and frequency of service to every six minutes throughout
the day.</p>
<p>Meanwhile contractor Morgan Sindall has already begun work on a
£13 million extension of the Metro maintenance depot at Wednesbury
and other elements of the £127 million project include platform
modifications on the existing line.</p>
<p>The joint project by Centro, the Black Country and Birmingham
City councils, is expected to boost the West Midlands economy by
£50 million a year and create up to 1,300 sustainable new jobs.</p>
<p>It will also link New Street Station to the emerging business
district at Snow Hill and the historic Jewellery Quarter and serve
as a platform for a future�rapid transit network that can connect
and feed into the city's forthcoming High Speed Rail terminus.</p>
<p>Work on the extension will coincide and be closely co-ordinated
with that on the Gateway redevelopment of New Street Station and
other city centre projects and phased to cause as minimal
disruption as possible.</p>
<p>Infrastructure such as shelters and stops will also be carefully
designed to reflect those at Gateway and the proposed new bus
interchange facilities being built in the city centre this
summer.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro announces its preferred bidder to build the Metro extension through Birmingham city centre.
17213
CorporationStreet.jpg
thumbHLMetro1.jpg
0
12
0
Centro and CAF formally sign deal for new Urbos 3 trams
2012-04-27T00:00:00
2012-04-27T00:00:00
"Antonio Campos, left, and Geoff Inskip sign the contract for the new Midland Metro trams."
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro and CAF have formally signed contracts on a deal that
will bring up to 25 new trams to the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The Spanish manufacturer will supply the Urbos 3 trams in a deal
worth in the region of £40 million.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip and Antonio Campos,
International Division Area Director for CAF, put pen to paper to
seal the deal in a signing ceremony at Centro House in
Birmingham.</p>
<p>The trams will replace the current 16-strong Ansaldo Trasporti
fleet to deal with the expected growth in use of the Metro once the
1.3km (0.8 mile) extension between Snow Hill and New Street via
Bull Street, Corporation Street, and Stephenson Street is open.</p>
<p>The new trams will start running from late 2014 on the current
route from Snow Hill to Wolverhampton, with the Midland Metro
extension from Birmingham Snow Hill to Birmingham New Street
station coming on line in 2015.</p>
<p>The extension is expected to boost the West Midlands economy by
£50 million a year and create 1,300 sustainable new jobs.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip said: "I am delighted that we have formally signed
contracts for this exciting new chapter in the story of the Midland
Metro.</p>
<p>"The new Urbos trams are high-quality vehicles which will be a
superb addition to public transport in the Midlands."</p>
<p>Antonio Campos, Commercial Director of CAF, said: "CAF are
thrilled to be involved in the line extension project and believe
the trams will make a significant contribution to improving
transport links between Birmingham and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>"The Urbos 3 tram is a stylish vehicle and will add to the
character of the West Midlands."</p>
<p>The new, bigger trams will provide far greater passenger
capacity between Birmingham and the Black Country.</p>
<p>The five section air-conditioned tram has a passenger capacity
of approximately 200, compared to 156 on the current trams, has two
dedicated spaces for wheelchair users and its features will be
fully compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.</p>
<p>Each section will have passenger information and CCTV
information and protection, and Passenger Assistance Units at each
door.</p>
<p>CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocariles) is based in
Zaragoza and has recently supplied trains for the UK market,
including the Class 332 trains for the Heathrow Express and 64
Class 333 trains for Northern Rail.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 is built in Zaragoza, Spain. CAF has trams
successfully in use in cities around the world including Zaragoza,
Seville and Belgrade and are currently manufacturing trams for
Houston and Nantes.</p>
<p>CAF currently employs around 50 people in the UK at offices in
Coventry, Edinburgh, and Belfast and will project manage the
introduction of the new vehicles from Coventry.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro and CAF formally sign contracts on the deal that will deliver up to 25 new trams.
17213
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thumbsigning.jpg
0
12
0
Top international transport figures visit Birmingham
2012-04-25T00:00:00
2012-04-25T00:00:00
UITP
<p>"</p>
<p>Twenty top international transport experts have visited
Birmingham for a conference looking at the best in public transport
from around the world .</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, hosted delegates from
Singapore, Canada and across Europe, �who were given an overview of
key projects in the West Midlands during their visit for the
International Association for Public Transport (UITP) event.</p>
<p>These included a presentation from Transport for London's Mark
Evers, who highlighted the role of transport at the forthcoming
2012 Olympic Games. Technology advances like the recently launched
Network West Midlands mobile 'app', which beams the latest public
transport information directly to passengers phones, were also
showcased.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, who is also vice president
on UITP, said: "This was a fantastic opportunity to show some of
the important work being done across the region.</p>
<p>"Sharing ideas with our counterparts not only gives us the
opportunity to improve transport for our own passengers, but can
also help improve public transport in other countries.</p>
<p>"It was particularly pleasing to be able to highlight how the
new mobile app has helped meet the demands of modern passengers,
and we hope this proved valuable for the other UITP members."</p>
<p>UITP has 3,400 members from 92 countries worldwide and meets
regularly to share ideas and innovations.</p>
<p>Members aim to promote and improve public transport and
sustainable travel internationally.</p>
<p>The Organising Authorities Committee ran 18-20 April at venues
across Birmingham.</p>
<p>"</p>
Twenty top international transport experts have visited Birmingham for a conference looking at the best in public transport from around the world .
17213
UITP.JPG
0
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Smooth opening for Stourbridge’s new £7m bus station
2012-04-24T00:00:00
2012-04-24T00:00:00
The first bus leaves the new station
<p>"</p>
<p><span>The opening two days of Stourbridge's new £7 million bus
station have gone extremely smoothly, Centro, the region's
transport authority, said today (Tuesday).</span></p>
<p><span>The cutting edge timetable information and comfortable
waiting facilities have also been well received by passengers using
the new Stourbridge Interchange on Sunday and Monday.</span></p>
<p><span>Centro's Bus Station Manager for Stourbridge and
Halesowen, Steve Hutchinson, said: "The big test was on Monday as
people returned to work after the weekend and students and pupils
headed for school.</span></p>
<p><span>"It was incredibly hectic but passengers had little
trouble finding their stands thanks to the extra marshals we had on
site and the information leaflets handed out.</span></p>
<p><span>"By this morning (Tuesday) passengers had clearly got to
grips with the new layout and we hardly had a question. We're
extremely pleased at how well it's all gone so far."</span></p>
<p><span>The first bus � a Number 9 to Birmingham - rolled into the
new station at 7:37am on Sunday. The Interchange had opened its
doors at 5am following the completion of an 18 month-long
build.</span></p>
<p><span>Constructed on the site of the town's old bus station the
new Interchange offers a major improvement on the former facility
with fully enclosed and comfortable waiting areas, including a
convenience store, and cutting edge passenger information
systems.</span></p>
<p><span>Mr Hutchinson added: "We must have had at least 400 local
people come down on Sunday, not to catch a bus but just take a look
at the new station. Quite a few locals also popped along to buy
their Sunday paper from the station's convenience store which shows
how the new facility is already becoming a valued part of the local
community."</span></p>
<p><span>The new Interchange boasts a contemporary glass and steel
design, including a focal point canopy, a modern station building
and concourse complete with toilets, a convenience store and
electronic passenger information boards telling passengers when
their bus is due.</span></p>
<p><span>Other features include eight, spacious bus stands allowing
easy passenger circulation with doors that automatically open only
when the bus arrives.</span></p>
<p><span>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system
have also been installed throughout the site.</span></p>
<p><span>A focus has been placed on improving walking routes into
the town centre and a new covered walkway links the station
building to the existing subway from Foster Street. The subway
itself has been refurbished to become much more open and
bright.</span></p>
<p><span>Better links have also been created to the innovative
People Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy
interchange.</span></p>
<p>"</p>
"<span style=""font-size: 10pt; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"">The opening two days of Stourbridge’s new £7 million bus station have gone extremely smoothly. </span>"
17213
firstbus.JPG
0
12
0
Jack scoops Letzgogreen website drawing competition prize
2012-04-19T00:00:00
2012-04-19T00:00:00
"Jack Hughes, left, with Sam the Cyclist at Cradley Church of England Primary School."
<p>"</p>
<p>Cradley youngster Jack Hughes is top of the class after winning
a competition to design a new website character.</p>
<p>The seven-year-old came up with Sam the Cyclist in a West
Midlands-wide competition organised by Centro for its Letzgogreen
website and centred around the 2012 London Olympics.</p>
<p>Jack, a Year 2 pupil at Cradley Church of England Primary School
in Cradley, Halesowen, was presented with his prize of a
Letzgogreen goodie bag including T-shirts and Olympic characters in
a special assembly.</p>
<p>His fellow pupils also received Letzgogreen badges and
pencils.</p>
<p>But the highlight of the assembly for Jack and his friends was
seeing Sam make his first public appearance when he joined them at
the assembly.</p>
<p>Proud mum Mrs Marie Hughes said: "Jack designed it all himself
and has been chuffed to bits since he found out that his picture
had won."</p>
<p>Head teacher Mrs Marcia Harris said: "I am delighted for Jack
that he has won as he is such a keen cyclist."</p>
<p>"The children entered for the fun of it but it was a fabulous
competition with a very good message."</p>
<p>Devised by Centro's Letzgogreen team, the competition was for
Key Stage 1 children (aged 5-7) who were asked to design a new
character for the Letzgogreen website <a href="/"
target=""><strong>www.letzgogreen.org/</strong></a></p>
<p>A competition for Key Stage 2 youngsters (aged 7-11) is now
underway to design a story featuring Sam and how he would get to
the City of Coventry Stadium to watch the 2012 Olympics football
games.</p>
<p>A final challenge will then be set for schools where pupils will
be asked to swap the car for a day in May and work together to find
environmentally friendly ways of travelling to school.</p>
<p>The winning school receives a Centro-sponsored sports day
featuring the Letzgogreen mascots, sports equipment, prizes and
giveaways.</p>
<p>The aim is to raise awareness about sustainable travel and
encourage schools to work together to help children and their
families to live healthy active lifestyles.</p>
<p>"</p>
Cradley youngster Jack Hughes wins top prize in a competition to design a new website character.
17213
JackHughes.jpg
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0
12
0
Matthew Atkins of Centro is named top Young Professional
2012-04-19T00:00:00
2012-04-19T00:00:00
Matthew Atkins of Centro is named Young Professional of the Year
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro employee Matthew Atkins is on the road to success after
winning a top transport industry award.</p>
<p>He was chosen as the Young Professional of the Year by the West
Midlands branch of the Chartered Institution for Highways and
Transportation (CIHT) in a ceremony at the Manor House Hotel in
Meriden.</p>
<p>The award is made by the CIHT to celebrate individual excellence
in the�highways and transportation�field.</p>
<p>Matthew, aged 22, said: "I am delighted and honoured to have won
this award. I really didn't expect it and I feel very privileged to
have been nominated, so to have actually won is overwhelming.</p>
<p>"Credit has to go to Centro and the Prince's Trust for giving me
this opportunity and for helping me gain the confidence I need to
be successful and to achieve.</p>
<p>"This just goes to show that whatever happens if you never give
you will attain your goals and aspirations."</p>
<p>Matthew was nominated by Centro for his work as an Information
Officer with the Smartcard Technical Services Team.</p>
<p>It developed system in partnership with more than 23 bus
operators across the West Midlands to take advantage of the
smart-enabled English National Concessionary Travel Scheme
Smartcard which is now available on 95% of buses in the region.</p>
<p>Matthew was involved in rolling out the electronic ticket
machines onto the buses in a flagship programme officially launched
by Transport Minister, Norman Baker.</p>
<p>He was responsible for testing the innovative machine software
as well as hardware, work which formed a large part of the plan to
roll out the 2,500 ticket machines across the West Midlands bus
operator fleet during spring and summer 2010.</p>
<p>Matthew joined Centro in 2010 through the Prince's Trust after
winning a full-time paid apprenticeship in the Get IntoTransport
programme.</p>
<p>This is a partnership between Centro and the Prince's Trust
offering young unemployed people the chance to gain workplace
experience and skills.</p>
<p>As a result of his efforts, in 2011 he was awarded the Princes
Trust Celebrate Success Flying Start Award for the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>He now acts as an ambassador for the organisation, meeting with
and talking to unemployed youngsters and inspiring them to get into
employment schemes with the Prince's Trust and to achieve the
heights he has.</p>
<p>CIHT West Midlands branch chairman David Black said: "The judges
were all very impressed with the self-belief, resourcefulness and
professional attitude that Matthew applied to his role in the
Smartcard Technical Services Team.</p>
<p>"Complementing this has been his role as an Ambassador for the
Prince's Trust, meeting and talking with unemployed youngsters and
inspiring them through his achievements in the industry."</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "I congratulate
Matthew on winning this award which is just recognition for his
efforts since joining Centro.</p>
<p>"He is a credit to himself and the Prince's Trust for his input,
enthusiasm and dedication."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro's Matthew Atkins is named as the West Midlands CIHT Young Professional of the Year.
17213
MatthewAtkins1.jpg
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0
12
0
New £7 million Stourbridge Interchange set to open
2012-04-18T00:00:00
2012-04-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Stourbridge's sleek new bus station will open its doors to
passengers this Sunday (April 22) following an 18-month, £7m
build.</p>
<p>The Stourbridge Interchange, which has been developed by Centro,
the region's transport authority, will provide state-of-the-art
facilities for travellers and a landmark, 21<sup>st</sup> century
gateway into the town.</p>
<p>But its opening will be tinged with sadness for many of those
involved in the project following the sudden death last week of
Centro Chairman Angus Adams who was councillor for the Norton ward
of Stourbridge</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, said: "Angus made a
significant contribution to this project and as a Stourbridge
councillor it meant a great deal to him.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"I know he was extremely proud of the work Centro had done in
bringing the project to fruition so it's poignant that he cannot be
with us to see it opened for the people of Stourbridge."</p>
<p>Built on the site of the town's old bus station the new
Interchange offers a major improvement on the former facility with
fully enclosed and comfortable waiting areas and cutting edge
passenger information systems.</p>
<p>It boasts a contemporary glass and steel design, including a
focal point canopy, a modern station building and concourse
complete with toilets, a convenience store and electronic passenger
information boards telling passengers when their bus is due.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "A lot of thought and care has gone into the
design of the new Interchange to give the people of Stourbridge a
truly world class facility that is both comfortable and easy to
use.</p>
<p>"We believe this attention to detail is important because good
public transport plays a key role in underpinning economic growth
and job creation.</p>
<p>"We hope the new Interchange will not only promote Stourbridge
as a place to visit and do business but also serve as a showcase
for the high standard of facilities we are striving to build
throughout the West Midlands."</p>
<p>Other features of the new Interchange include eight, spacious
bus stands allowing easy passenger circulation with doors that
automatically open only when the bus arrives.</p>
<p>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system have
also been installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>A focus has been placed on improving walking routes into the
town centre and a new covered walkway links the station building to
the existing subway from Foster Street. The subway itself has been
refurbished to become much more open and bright.</p>
<p>Better links have also been created to the innovative People
Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy
interchange.</p>
<p>Temporary shelters put up in nearby roads to serve as stops
during the building work will cease use from start of service on
Sunday morning and will be removed over the following days.</p>
<p>The stop in Parkfield Road by the bridge will remain as a drop
off point for passengers and the stop in Church Street will revert
back to a pick up and drop off point which is how it functioned
before work started on the Interchange.</p>
<p>More than 60 residents living near the Interchange enjoyed an
exclusive preview of the new facility last night (Tuesday April 17)
after accepting an invitation from Centro to join a special guided
tour.</p>
<p>"</p>
Stourbridge’s new £7m bus station will open to passengers this Sunday (April 22).
17213
0
12
0
New £7 million Stourbridge Interchange set to open
2012-04-18T00:00:00
2012-04-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Stourbridge's sleek new bus station will open its doors to
passengers this Sunday (April 22) following an 18-month, £7m
build.</p>
<p>The Stourbridge Interchange, which has been developed by Centro,
the region's transport authority, will provide state-of-the-art
facilities for travellers and a landmark, 21<sup>st</sup> century
gateway into the town.</p>
<p>But its opening will be tinged with sadness for many of those
involved in the project following the sudden death last week of
Centro Chairman Angus Adams who was councillor for the Norton ward
of Stourbridge</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, said: "Angus made a
significant contribution to this project and as a Stourbridge
councillor it meant a great deal to him.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"I know he was extremely proud of the work Centro had done in
bringing the project to fruition so it's poignant that he cannot be
with us to see it opened for the people of Stourbridge."</p>
<p>Built on the site of the town's old bus station the new
Interchange offers a major improvement on the former facility with
fully enclosed and comfortable waiting areas and cutting edge
passenger information systems.</p>
<p>It boasts a contemporary glass and steel design, including a
focal point canopy, a modern station building and concourse
complete with toilets, a convenience store and electronic passenger
information boards telling passengers when their bus is due.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "A lot of thought and care has gone into the
design of the new Interchange to give the people of Stourbridge a
truly world class facility that is both comfortable and easy to
use.</p>
<p>"We believe this attention to detail is important because good
public transport plays a key role in underpinning economic growth
and job creation.</p>
<p>"We hope the new Interchange will not only promote Stourbridge
as a place to visit and do business but also serve as a showcase
for the high standard of facilities we are striving to build
throughout the West Midlands."</p>
<p>Other features of the new Interchange include eight, spacious
bus stands allowing easy passenger circulation with doors that
automatically open only when the bus arrives.</p>
<p>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system have
also been installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>A focus has been placed on improving walking routes into the
town centre and a new covered walkway links the station building to
the existing subway from Foster Street. The subway itself has been
refurbished to become much more open and bright.</p>
<p>Better links have also been created to the innovative People
Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy
interchange.</p>
<p>Temporary shelters put up in nearby roads to serve as stops
during the building work will cease use from start of service on
Sunday morning and will be removed over the following days.</p>
<p>The stop in Parkfield Road by the bridge will remain as a drop
off point for passengers and the stop in Church Street will revert
back to a pick up and drop off point which is how it functioned
before work started on the Interchange.</p>
<p>More than 60 residents living near the Interchange enjoyed an
exclusive preview of the new facility last night (Tuesday April 17)
after accepting an invitation from Centro to join a special guided
tour.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Stourbridge’s sleek new bus station will open to passengers this Sunday (April 22) following an 18-month, £7m build."
17213
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Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams dies aged 67
2012-04-11T00:00:00
2012-04-11T00:00:00
Councillor Angus Adams
<p>"</p>
<p>Tributes have been paid to the chairman of Centro, Councillor
Angus Adams, who has died suddenly. He was 67.</p>
<p>Cllr Adams was taken ill at the home of his partner, Jennie, on
Tuesday April 10. He leaves two daughters and three
grandchildren.</p>
<p>A Conservative member of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, he
had been chairman of the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) since
2010.</p>
<p>Councillor Jon Hunt, the vice-chairman of Centro, said:"This is
a very sad loss of a thoroughly decent man and everyone at Centro
sends their sincere condolences to his family.</p>
<p>"Angus leaves the ITA in extremely good shape, with major
investment coming in to the region and services maintained in
difficult times.</p>
<p>"As ITA chairman he was a very effective regional diplomat. He
was a pleasure to work with and he will be greatly missed."</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, the chief executive of Centro, said: "We are going
to sorely miss the drive, experience and enthusiasm of Angus
Adams.</p>
<p>"He was a visionary who worked hard to deliver a world-class
public transport system for the people of the West Midlands and the
wider region.</p>
<p>"His commitment to his role as chairman was matched in no small
part by a mischievous sense of humour that endeared him to
everyone."</p>
<p>Councillor Les Jones, leader of Dudley Council, said: "I am
deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of Cllr Angus Adams, who
was a well-respected colleague and close personal friend.</p>
<p>"Angus was a very experienced and highly valued member of the
cabinet, who was one hundred percent committed to the council and
its residents.</p>
<p>"Angus was very popular and a real character and the news of his
passing has come as a terrible shock to everyone.�</p>
<p>"Our thoughts are with Angus' family at this sad and difficult
time."</p>
<p>Cllr Adams was elected to the Norton ward of Dudley Council in
2000. He was a Cabinet member from 2004 and had previously held
portfolios for lifelong learning, transport and regeneration.</p>
<p>He was a Member of the Stourbridge area committee and has
previously held the chairmanship and vice-chairmanship.</p>
<p>He was also a member of the appointments committee and council
appointee to Norton Community Association and the West Midlands
Joint Planning & Transportation Sub Committee.</p>
<p>With Centro, as well as being chairman of the authority he was
Lead Member for Policy, District & LEP Liaison and HS2,
chairman of the Transport Strategy Committee, chairman of the ITA
Urgency Sub-Committee, chairman of the Transport Governance
Members' Steering Group and was Leader of the ITA Conservative
Group.</p>
<p>Cllr Adams was christened Arthur but had the life-long nickname
of Angus on account of spending his early years in Scotland where
his father was serving with the Army.</p>
<p>However he was a proud Black Country man, moving to the area
with his family as a boy and attending King Edward VI Grammar
School in Stourbridge where he was a keen cross-country runner.</p>
<p>Well known throughout the business community Cllr Adams ran a
number of companies in his working life, mostly in the engineering
sector, before retiring aged 65.</p>
<p>In his leisure time he was a keen golfer and Aston Villa
supporter.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Tributes are paid to the popular chairman of Centro, Councillor Angus Adams, who has died suddenly aged 67."
17213
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Your Public Transport Matters roadshow visits Solihull
2012-04-03T00:00:00
2012-04-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People who use public transport to visit, live or work in
Solihull can have their say on the system by talking to the
experts.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event gives the travelling
public the chance to talk directly with Network West Midlands � the
region's integrated bus, rail and tram system.</p>
<p>Representatives from�bus, rail and tram operators�that run
public transport services in the region will be on hand on April 19
at the�Centro marquee in Solihull High Street outside Touchwood
shopping centre between 1pm and 6pm.</p>
<p>The event has been organised by Centro, the West Midlands'
integrated transport authority.</p>
<p>Feedback from the event will be looked at closely by transport
bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus, tram and
rail network.</p>
<p>Similar events are planned throughout the Midlands over the
summer and autumn.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Principal Officer�(Customer Relations) at
Centro, said: "We want to make sure we provide a public transport
system that is a genuine alternative to the car.</p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity for us to really understand the needs of the passenger
and non-public transport user.</p>
<p>"We look forward to hearing people's views, particularly about
how we can make connections between different services easier,
quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>�"We want to get the best deal for passengers and will be urging
bus and rail operators to listen very carefully to what passengers
say."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People who use public transport to visit, live or work in Solihull can have their say on the system by talking to the experts."
17213
0
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Partnership proves just the ticket for West Midlands rail passengers
2012-04-02T00:00:00
2012-04-02T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Rail passengers across the West Midlands are set to benefit from
a raft of station improvements following a unique partnership deal
between Centro, the region's transport authority and train operator
London Midland.</p>
<p>A total of ten stations are in line for improvements including
cutting edge passenger information, automated ticket machines and
cycle storage facilities.</p>
<p>The work is the result of the recently signed Transforming Rail
Travel agreement � a partnership between Centro and London Midland
to further improve journeys for the 42 million passengers who use
the West Midlands network each year.</p>
<p>Under the deal Centro will fund the £250,000 improvements and
London Midland will carry out the work.</p>
<p>Stations set to benefit include:</p>
<p>Birmingham Snow Hill � Customer Information System (CIS)
improvements to include new information screens at the station
entrance and an extension of the automated public address system.�
New cycle storage will also be installed.</p>
<p>Tipton � CIS improvements on the Birmingham bound platform.</p>
<p>Whitlocks End � CIS summary departure screens (for the entrance
points onto both platforms).</p>
<p>Alvechurch, �Bloxwich, Bloxwich North, Landywood and Rugeley
Town � to have ticket vending machines for the first time
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>Bournville and University which will get additional ticket
vending machines helping to reduce queues for tickets at peak
times. Centro is exploring the feasibility of locating one of the
machines at University on the Birmingham University campus.
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>Centro's Transport Partnership Manager (Rail), Steven Fisher,
said: "These improvements will make a tangible difference to
passengers, making it easier to use the train.</p>
<p>"The number of people using our local rail network has more than
doubled in the last ten years and continues to grow. These
improvements will help encourage even more people to consider using
public transport as a genuine alternative to the car, helping to
reduce the road congestion that is costing our regional economy
more than £2.4 billion a year."</p>
<p>London Midland's Head of Franchise Management, Nicola Moss said:
""This investment shows how by working together in partnership,
Centro and London Midland�can deliver real improvements to rail
services in the West Midlands.� This is really good news for
customers at the ten stations in the scheme.""</p>
<p>Although Alvechurch and the Chase Line stations of Landywood and
Rugeley Town are outside the metropolitan West Midlands, Centro
considers them important stops in the wider journey-to-work area.�
Centro also recently contributed £900,000 to a separate package of
improvements to stations along the Chase Line.</p>
<p>The work at Snow Hill is part of a bigger £1 million project to
upgrade its facilities under the National Stations Improvement
Programme (NSIP). The project is due for completion by 2014.</p>
<p>"</p>
Rail passengers across the West Midlands are set to benefit from a raft of station improvements.
17213
thumbHLtrainabove.jpg
0
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Multi-million pound funding boost for Black Country buses
2012-03-28T00:00:00
2012-03-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in the Black Country are to get a multi-million
pound boost thanks to Government funding announced today.</p>
<p>The Department for Transport has announced Centro is to receive
£5 million from the Better Bus Area Fund towards a £10 million
scheme that will transform Merry Hill bus station and the wider
Brierley Hill bus network.</p>
<p>It has also granted nearly £1.4 million from the Green Bus Fund
for a fleet of 21 hybrid buses to be brought into service on the
Number 1 route running between Wolverhampton and Dudley.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "This is fantastic
news for passengers and a real win-win for our Transforming Bus
Travel scheme.</p>
<p>"It mean that Merry Hill� one of the showpiece shopping centres
of the region � will get a truly 21<sup>st</sup> century bus
station while one of the Black Country's key bus routes will get a
fleet of state-of-the-art environmentally friendly vehicles."</p>
<p>Merry Hill and the neighbouring Waterfront office complex
provide more than 8,000 jobs in retail, construction and the
service industry.</p>
<p>The shopping centre is the second biggest in the West Midlands,
attracting more than 20 million visitors a year, but has suffered
in recent years from heavy traffic congestion</p>
<p>The Brierley Hill Bus Network Transformation Scheme aims to
correct this with a package of measures paid for with the £5m from
the DfT and another £5m from Centro, bus companies, and Westfield,
owners of the Merry Hill centre.</p>
<p>It�will see a revamped bus station with a 25% increase in
capacity and featuring high quality passenger information.</p>
<p>This will include Real Time Information at all bus stands,
improved waiting facilities and an improved interchange and walk
routes.</p>
<p>It will also see new bus lanes and gates on The Boulevard, the
arterial link road between the centre and the A4306.</p>
<p>This will reduce journey times with a dedicated new bus-only
highway link from the A4306, and upgrades to at least 40 stops
along eight strategic routes.</p>
<p>Buses on these routes � the Numbers 002 Merry Hill-Weoley
Castle, 81 Merry Hill-Wolverhampton via Dudley, 222 Merry
Hill-Dudley, 226 Merry Hill-Dudley, 246 Stourbridge-Dudley, 255
Merry Hill-Wolverhampton, 297 Halesowen-Stickly via Marry Hill and
the X96 Wollaston-Wrens Nest - will also have on-vehicle 'talking'
displays installed.</p>
<p>Councillor Patrick Harley, cabinet member for transportation for
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, said: ""This money is a huge
boost to the people visiting and working at Merry Hill, which is
one of the busiest public transport hubs in the region.</p>
<p>""In the long run we are looking at £10million worth of
improvements at the shopping centre including new bus lanes and
buses, a new link to the A4036 and a total refurbishment of the bus
station.</p>
<p>""I am sure bus passengers will be as delighted with this
funding news as we are, which will kick start a new 21st century
public transport�system at Merry Hill.""</p>
<p>The Green Bus Fund support bus companies and local authorities
in England to help them buy new low carbon buses.</p>
<p>The 21 vehicles bid for will be allocated to National Express
West Midlands and are expected to come into service in early
2013.</p>
<p>The Number 1 is a high-frequency Cross City route introduced
under the Wolverhampton and west Walsall network review last
August.</p>
<p>It operates on some of the busiest roads in the Black Country,
serving Wolverhampton and Dudley via Brownhills.</p>
<p>Peter Coates Managing Director of National Express West Midlands
said: "The 21 new hybrids are a big investment into the future of
low carbon and sustainable transport in the West Midlands. We are
delighted to announce they will be coming to the streets of the
Black Country."</p>
<p>"They will reduce our customer's carbon footprint by 30%, look
great and have the latest on board advancements in customer
experience including audio/visual technology to alert those with
hearing and sight problems when their stop is approaching."</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus services in the Black Country get a multi-mullion boost thanks to Government grants.
17213
thumbHLbusandpedestrians.jpg
0
12
0
Multi-million boost to Black Country bus services
2012-03-28T00:00:00
2012-03-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in the Black Country are to get a multi-million
pound boost thanks to Government funding announced today.</p>
<p>The Department for Transport has announced Centro is to receive
£5 million from the Better Bus Area Fund towards a £10 million
scheme that will transform Merry Hill bus station and the wider
Brierley Hill bus network.</p>
<p>It has also granted nearly £1.4 million from the Green Bus Fund
for a fleet of 21 hybrid buses to be brought into service on the
Number 1 route running between Wolverhampton and Dudley.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "This is fantastic
news for passengers and a real win-win for our Transforming Bus
Travel scheme.</p>
<p>"It mean that Merry Hill� one of the showpiece shopping centres
of the region � will get a truly 21<sup>st</sup> century bus
station while one of the Black Country's key bus routes will get a
fleet of state-of-the-art environmentally friendly vehicles."</p>
<p>Merry Hill and the neighbouring Waterfront office complex
provide more than 8,000 jobs in retail, construction and the
service industry.</p>
<p>The shopping centre is the second biggest in the West Midlands,
attracting more than 20 million visitors a year, but has suffered
in recent years from heavy traffic congestion.</p>
<p>The Brierley Hill Bus Network Transformation Scheme aims to
correct this with a package of measures paid for with the £5m from
the DfT and another £5m from Centro, bus companies, and Westfield,
owners of the Merry Hill centre.</p>
<p>It�will see a revamped bus station with a 25% increase in
capacity and featuring high quality passenger information.</p>
<p>This will include Real Time Information at all bus stands,
improved waiting facilities and an improved interchange and walk
routes.</p>
<p>It will also see new bus lanes and gates on The Boulevard, the
arterial link road between the centre and the A4306.</p>
<p>This will reduce journey times with a dedicated new bus-only
highway link from the A4306, and upgrades to at least 40 stops
along eight strategic routes.</p>
<p>Buses on these routes � the Numbers 002 Merry Hill-Weoley
Castle, 81 Merry Hill-Wolverhampton via Dudley, 222 Merry
Hill-Dudley, 226 Merry Hill-Dudley, 246 Stourbridge-Dudley, 255
Merry Hill-Wolverhampton, 297 Halesowen-Stickly via Marry Hill and
the X96 Wollaston-Wrens Nest - will also have on-vehicle 'talking'
displays installed.</p>
<p>Councillor Patrick Harley, cabinet member for transportation for
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, said: ""This money is a huge
boost to the people visiting and working at Merry Hill, which is
one of the busiest public transport hubs in the region.</p>
<p>""In the long run we are looking at £10million worth of
improvements at the shopping centre including new bus lanes and
buses, a new link to the A4036 and a total refurbishment of the bus
station.</p>
<p>""I am sure bus passengers will be as delighted with this
funding news as we are, which will kick start a new 21st century
public transport�system at Merry Hill.""</p>
<p>The Green Bus Fund support bus companies and local authorities
in England to help them buy new low carbon buses.</p>
<p>The 21 vehicles bid for will be allocated to National Express
West Midlands and are expected to come into service in early
2013.</p>
<p>The Number 1 is a high-frequency Cross City route introduced
under the Wolverhampton and west Walsall network review last
August.</p>
<p>It operates on some of the busiest roads in the Black Country,
serving Wolverhampton and Dudley via Brownhills.</p>
<p>Peter Coates Managing Director of National Express West Midlands
said: "The 21 new hybrids are a big investment into the future of
low carbon and sustainable transport in the West Midlands. We are
delighted to announce they will be coming to the streets of the
Black Country.</p>
<p>"They will reduce our customer's carbon footprint by 30%, look
great and have the latest on board advancements in customer
experience including audio/visual technology to alert those with
hearing and sight problems when their stop is approaching."</p>
<p>"</p>
An improved bus station and a fleet of hybrid buses are on the way for Black Country passengers under Government funding. �
17213
0
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HS2 will ease region's escalating rail demand - Geoff Inskip
2012-03-27T00:00:00
2012-03-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>We must have HS2 as soon as possible if we are to cope with
escalating West Midlands demand for rail services, the chief
executive of the region's transport authority will tell a
parliamentary inquiry into high speed rail.</p>
<p>Centro's Geoff Inskip will report that 22.8 million passenger
journeys were made in the West Midlands conurbation in 2000/01 yet
this had almost doubled to 42.8 million journeys by 2010/11.</p>
<p>Centro has been invited to give evidence to the All Party
Parliamentary Group (APPG) for High Speed Rail at Westminster on
April 18.</p>
<p>The APPG inquiry has been set up to examine the UK's rail
capacity needs.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said that HS2 would bring 22,000 jobs and generate
£1.5bn for the West Midlands economy while freeing up desperately
needed capacity on the existing network.</p>
<p>Looking ahead to the inquiry, Mr Inskip said: "We've seen
tremendous growth in rail in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"But what is often overlooked is the important fact that HS2
releases capacity for more train services on our existing lines
allowing us to provide better local and regional rail in our
region.</p>
<p>"It might not grab the headlines but it's vital because this
means we can get more people to work, reduce congestion and
overcrowding and take freight off our roads. This will
significantly boost our economy."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip will also reveal that rail accounted for 17 per cent
of travel into Birmingham in 2001, but this had increased to 27 per
cent in 2010.</p>
<p>In the latest figures from the Association of Train Operating
Companies (ATOC) passenger numbers have risen by six per cent in
the last year.</p>
<p>There are now as many rail passengers using the UK network as
there were in the 1920s when there was twice as much track.</p>
<p>The inquiry has already begun and will also hear from Birmingham
City Council and the Go HS2 pro high speed West Midlands
alliance.</p>
<p>Transport Secretary Justine Greening gave the go-ahead for HS2
on January 10 after a public consultation.</p>
<p>To view Centro's response to the APPG, please <a href="/">click
here.</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"HS2 must be built as soon as possible�to ease�escalating demand for rail services, Centro's�chief executive will tell a parliamentary inquiry into high speed rail."
17213
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Centro and Birmingham City Council sign Memorandum of Understanding for Midland Metro
2012-03-27T00:00:00
2012-03-27T00:00:00
"Cllr Tim Huxtable, left, and Cllr Angus Adams"
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro and Birmingham City Council have signed an agreement
which helps pave the way for the expansion of the Midland
Metro.</p>
<p>The Memorandum of Understanding recognises and acknowledges the
council's support to facilitate Midland Metro development on land
and highway that it owns.</p>
<p>Further agreements with the authority will still be required to
deal with the transfer of land and highway works but the Memorandum
underpins the partnering commitment.</p>
<p>The Memorandum comes following the recent final approval by the
Government for the £128 expansion of the Metro line from Snow Hill
to New Street in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, the region's
transport authority, said: "It's absolutely fabulous that we have
this agreement in place.</p>
<p>"I am confident that what we are working on now will eventually
pave the way for a future Metro network and build on the extension
into Birmingham city centre."</p>
<p>Councillor Tim Huxtable, Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member
for Transport, Environment and Regeneration, said: "The Metro has
the possibility of transforming how people come into Birmingham in
terms of work, play and study.</p>
<p>"Once the city centre extension is complete then we can consider
a Metro system, incorporating the whole of the West Midlands area
which will benefit all of our citizens."</p>
<p>The Midland Metro runs from Wolverhampton to Snow Hill station
in Birmingham city centre via Bilston, Wednesbury and West
Bromwich.</p>
<p>It has 23 stops and operates a fast and frequent service with a
tram every 6-8 minutes during the daytime peak and every 10 minutes
at all other times.</p>
<p>The government gave the final go-ahead in February for work to
start on a 0.8 mile (1.4km) extension from Snow Hill to New Street
station in the heart of Birmingham city centre which will also see
a new tram fleet.</p>
<p>Once completed the expansion of the Metro will result in 1,300
new jobs and be worth £50 million a year in added GDP to the West
Midlands regional economy.</p>
<p>The first new tram is scheduled to come into service - on the
existing line - in February 2014.</p>
<p>The city centre extension with the full new tram fleet is
scheduled to be in service from March 2015.</p>
<p>"</p>
An agreement over future expansion of the Midland Metro is signed by Centro and Birmingham City Council.
17213
MOU1.jpg
0
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0
Patronage and customer satisfaction rises as a result of Bus Network Reviews
2012-03-23T00:00:00
2012-03-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passenger numbers and satisfaction ratings are up in areas
where a major shake-up of services and routes has been carried out,
latest figures have revealed.</p>
<p>Research by Centro, the region's transport authority, shows the
overhauls, known as Bus Network Reviews, are paying dividends in
the West Midlands and bucking the downward trend in passenger
numbers seen in many other parts of the UK.</p>
<p>Since 2008 a total of eight reviews have already taken place
across the West Midlands with Centro working in partnership with
private bus companies and local councils to simplify service
numbers, improve routes, timetables, passenger information and
shelters.</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus on the ITA, said: "A network
review is not always easy as it means changes to bus routes, but it
can also deliver new and improved routes for many people.</p>
<p>The evidence we have gathered shows that Centro is succeeding in
this. The aim is to make using the bus a better choice for more
people."</p>
<p>A report to the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) said that
since 2008 reviews had taken place in Dudley, south Solihull, south
Birmingham, west Birmingham, north Walsall, east Birmingham and
north Solihull, Wolverhampton and west Walsall and Coventry.</p>
<p>The reviews were held as part of Transforming Bus Travel (TBT),
a Centro programme for modernising and enhancing the region's bus
network with partnership agreements targeted to be in place across
the entire Centro region by 2013.</p>
<p>Members were told the first review took place in Dudley in 2008.
Following the review patronage grew 4.2% in the following year
while customer satisfaction soared to 20% above average for the
region.</p>
<p>Similarly, in South Solihull the review took place in 2009 and
the following year patronage had risen by 3.8%, with customer
satisfaction at 88% - a rise of eight per cent on the previous
year.</p>
<p>Key investments from operators have included new and refurbished
buses, improved vehicle cleanliness and bus tracking for Real Time
Information.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>In several areas the review had enabled the highway authority to
introduce schemes to remove congestion and improve journey times at
key junctions for buses.</p>
<p>The reviews have also allowed the introduction of additional
customer benefits, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Improvements to key corridors including new shelters</li>
<li>Significant expansion of Real Time Information</li>
<li>Interchange improvements</li>
<li>Supporting operator investment in hybrid and electric
buses</li>
</ul>
<p>The report said: "The experience of the network review process
has led to key players within Centro and bus operators learning to
trust each other and to understand that an effective network review
process can deliver a long term sustainable network that will
deliver patronage growth.</p>
<p>"This trust between Centro and operators has facilitated the
development of a number of innovative solutions that are unlikely
to have been delivered without this trust in place."</p>
<p>"</p>
Councillors are told passenger numbers and satisfaction ratings rise after bus network reviews.
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Green turns to Olympic gold for Centro
2012-03-22T00:00:00
2012-03-22T00:00:00
"Phoebe, the Letzgogreen Olympic mascot, gives the thumbs-up to Centro receiving the Inspire mark"
<p>"</p>
<p>Green has turned to Olympic gold for Centro thanks to a
competition promoting sustainable travel to schoolchildren.</p>
<p>The transport authority for the West Midlands has been awarded
the right to use the coveted Inspire mark by the London 2012
Olympics Inspire programme.</p>
<p>Inspire recognises innovative and exceptional projects directly
inspired by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which aim to be
the most environmentally friendly games ever.</p>
<p>Centro won Inspire for its My Big Green Sports Day, which
promotes green travel and involves schools across the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>This is done through Letzgogreen, Centro's award-winning
children's website and its London 2012 Inspired mascot� Phoebe.</p>
<p>Letzgogreen is part of 'Live Well, Travel Green', a West
Midlands-wide campaign embracing the 2012 Olympic Games values and
raising the profile of sustainable travel and which can now carry
the Inspire mark.</p>
<p>The competition is based around the Games' football tournament
being held at the City of Coventry Stadium.</p>
<p>The winning school receives a Centro-sponsored sports day
featuring Phoebe, equipment, prizes and giveaways.</p>
<p>The competition is made up of three challenges. The first is for
Key Stage 1 children (aged 5-7) who have been asked to design a new
character for the Letzgogreen website <a
href="/"><strong>www.letzgogreen.org/</strong></a></p>
<p>The second is for Key Stage 2 children (aged 7-11) to design a
story, starring the winning character from the Key stage 1
competition, who goes to Coventry using sustainable transport to
watch the football at the Olympics.</p>
<p>The final challenge is for the whole school, where pupils will
be asked to swap the car for a day in May and work together to find
environmentally friendly ways of travelling to school.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "Receiving the Inspire
mark for My Big Green Sports Day is fantastic news and a great
honour.</p>
<p>"We are delighted to be playing our part in promoting what is
such a key message of the 2012 Olympic Games."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro wins Olympic approval for a competition promoting sustainable travel to schoolchildren.
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Inspire.jpg
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0
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0
Public transport information goes Smart
2012-03-20T00:00:00
2012-03-20T00:00:00
The Network West Midlands Smartphone application
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers in the West Midlands now have the latest public
transport information at their fingertips after the launch of a
free Smartphone application from transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>Commuters can now locate their nearest bus, Metro and train
stops at the touch of a button and, where available, get up to the
minute information on arrivals and departures.</p>
<p>The first version of the Network West Midlands 'app' is now
available for download on phones using android software and
iPhones.</p>
<p>The application, which uses GPS technology to recognise the
user's location, allows favourite stops and stations to be saved,
making it even easier to find out when your next bus, train or tram
is due.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "We have worked
hard to develop this app and are pleased that the initial version
is now available for passengers to download and use.�</p>
<p>"Being able to access location information, timetables and real
time updates on your phone helps meet the demands of the modern
commuter and will also be of great benefit to people unfamiliar
with the area.</p>
<p>"The launch of this app and our Twitter feeds represent a big
step forward in not only modernising the way passengers get
information about public transport, but also the way we engage with
our passengers."</p>
<p>For commuters wishing to find their connections, the app, which
is integrated with Google Maps, pinpoints the nearest stops and
stations for any mode of public transport or for a specific
service.</p>
<p>Users will also receive regular updates on the latest public
transport news and information on tickets and bus operators in the
region.</p>
<p>The launch of the app comes hard on the heels of Centro and
Network West Midlands going live on social networking site Twitter,
allowing passengers to ask questions and gain the latest news and
updates.</p>
<p>Passengers can download the app now from the android market and
iTunes app stores.</p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers in the West Midlands now have the latest public transport information at their fingertips after the launch of a free Smartphone application from transport authority Centro.
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Work starts on £13.8m Midland Metro depot expansion
2012-03-20T00:00:00
2012-03-20T00:00:00
"Shaun Christopher, left, project manager for Morgan Sindall, Councillor Angus Adams, chairman of Centro, Robert Oag, project director for Morgan Sindall, and Geoff Inskip, Centro chief executive."
<p>"</p>
<p>Work has begun on a £13.8 million expansion of the Wednesbury
Midland Metro depot.</p>
<p>Centro, the Midlands' transport authority, has awarded the
contract to Morgan Sindall.</p>
<p>The project will see the existing Metro Centre at Potters Lane
updated ready to receive 20 new trams as part of the £128 million
expansion of the line.</p>
<p>Councillor Tom Ansell, lead member for rail and Metro for
Centro, said: "This is an exciting development for the Midland
Metro.</p>
<p>"Morgan Sindall have been appointed to the job after a rigorous
tendering procedure, having demonstrated a thorough understanding
of the<span>ir</span> brief and approaching the whole process in a
thorough and professional manner."</p>
<p>Jag Paddam, managing director of infrastructure at Morgan
Sindall, said: "This is our first project for Centro and we look
forward to working with them and delivering a project of which they
can be proud.</p>
<p>"We offered a range of value engineering approaches which were
enthusiastically received by the customer and which will help to
ensure both expectations and budgets are met."</p>
<p>The work consists of a 42 metre extension to the east of the
existing maintenance shed along with additional maintenance berths,
four new stabling sidings and a separate testing and commissioning
shed.</p>
<p>There will also be upgrades to the existing overhead line,
infrastructure and communications, and a new substation will be
constructed at Colliery Road, West Bromwich.</p>
<p>It will create 15 new jobs once opened and work is scheduled for
completion in summer 2013.</p>
<p>The Midland Metro runs from Wolverhampton to Snow Hill station
in Birmingham city centre via Bilston, Wednesbury and West
Bromwich.</p>
<p>It has 23 stops and operates a fast and frequent service with a
tram every 6-8 minutes during the daytime peak and every 10 minutes
at all other times.</p>
<p>The government gave the final go-ahead in February for work to
start on a 0.8 mile (1.4km) extension from Snow Hill to New Street
station in the heart of Birmingham city centre which will also see
a new tram fleet.</p>
<p>Spanish tram manufacturer CAF has been chosen to supply up to 25
Urbos 3 trams in a deal worth in the region of £40 million.</p>
<p>Once completed the expansion of the Metro will result in 1,300
new jobs and be worth £50 million a year in added GDP to the West
Midlands regional economy.</p>
<p>The first new tram is scheduled to come into service - on the
existing line - in February 2014.</p>
<p>The city centre extension with the full new tram fleet is
scheduled to be in service from March 2015.</p>
<p>"</p>
A multi-million pound expansion of the Midland Metro depot in Wednesbury gets underway.
17213
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0
Boost for Coventry passengers with improvements pledge
2012-03-08T00:00:00
2012-03-08T00:00:00
The VMA signing at Coventry bus station
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Coventry are to get a host of improvements
thanks to the signing of a new city-wide partnership agreement.</p>
<p>The Voluntary Multilateral Agreement, between Centro, Coventry
City Council, Passenger Focus and bus operators aim to give
passengers faster, more punctual services as well as shorter
waiting times and a more comfortable journey.</p>
<p>The three-year agreement comes as part of the recent
comprehensive network review of bus services in Coventry, which
came into effect on February 26, and was formally signed at the
city's Pool Meadow bus station.</p>
<p>The agreement comes as part of the recent comprehensive network
review of bus services in Coventry, which came into effect on
February 26, and was formally signed at the city's Pool Meadow bus
station.</p>
<p>Bus companies signing up to the agreement include A-Line
Coaches, De Courcey Travel, Central Connect, Johnsons, National
Express Coventry and Stagecoach.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "This has been a
comprehensive review of bus services in Coventry which we feel has
delivered a network relevant to today's city.</p>
<p>"It has seen some big changes and we are confident that people
will see a big improvement and which will encourage them to see the
bus as a viable alternative to the car."</p>
<p>As part of the consultation process leaflets were distributed to
hundreds of thousands of residents across Coventry.</p>
<p>They encouraged people to attend a series of exhibitions or go
online to fill in a questionnaire, while house-to-house surveys
were also conducted.</p>
<p>Many respondents requested more frequent services, and as a
result more than 50% of bus customers in Coventry will now receive
them.</p>
<p>They include:</p>
<ul>
<li>15 buses an hour along Ansty Road</li>
<li>4 buses an hour to Potters Green</li>
<li>To Willenhall via the 12 route every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Willenhall via the 21 route every 6-8 minutes</li>
<li>To Stoke Aldemoor every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Quinton Park and Cheylesmore every 7 to 8 minutes</li>
<li>To Leamington Road every 15 minutes</li>
<li>To Canley every 15 minutes</li>
<li>To Cannon Hill every 30 minutes</li>
<li>To Tile Hill (Jardine Crescent) every 10 minutes</li>
<li>8 buses an hour to Keresley</li>
<li>To Radford and Whitmore Park every 10 minutes</li>
<li>Along Stony Stanton Road every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Harnall Lane, Stoke Heath and</li>
<li>To Ball Hill over 20 buses an hour</li>
<li>Walsgrave Hospital now 12 buses per hour from the city
centre</li>
</ul>
<p>Another request was for improved Sunday and evening
services.</p>
<p>Cheylesmore, Finham, Stivichall, Styvechale Grange, Tile Hill,
Allesley, Coundon, Sewall Highway and Bell Green, Walsgrave
Hospital and Ansty Road will all benefit as a result.</p>
<p>Other key benefits include the installation of 120 new bus
shelters across the city, including a £1million investment in city
centre public transport infrastructure.</p>
<p>Routes�will benefit from other enhancements including Real Time
Information, showing passengers exactly how many minutes until the
next bus is due.</p>
<p>There will also be a more�intensive cleaning regime on buses and
at stops and shelters along the routes.</p>
<p>Emission levels, CCTV on board buses, low-level accessibility on
to buses, real time information, cleanliness, high standards of
driving.</p>
<p>The partnership will seek to improve congestion at the worst
delay points within the city, especially at the University Hospital
where Centro and the City Council will work in partnership with the
hospital and bus operators to provide faster bus journeys into and
out of the complex, which can take anything up to 40 minutes during
heavy traffic.</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro area manager for Coventry and Solihull, said
now the new network was in operation a close eye would be kept open
for areas where improvements could be made.</p>
<p>"The implementation of the new network is just the first phase,"
he said.</p>
<p>"The people of Coventry can be assured that we will be listening
to their feedback and working with bus operators to identify areas
that, wherever possible, can be improved."�</p>
<p>People can get more information on the network changes from <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a><strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: David Sidebottom, left, director of
Passenger Focus, James Swords, Transport Manager for A Line, Ian
Pollard, Commercial Manager for Rotala, Councillor Angus Adams,
chairman of Centro, Councillor John McNicholas, Coventry City
Council, Bob Wildman, general manager for Travel de Courcey, Mark
Kipling, Area Operations Director for National Express Coventry,
Steve Burd, managing director of Stagecoach Midlands, sign the VMA
at Pool Meadow bus station.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers in Coventry can expect a range of improvements under a three year deal.
17213
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0
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0
Centro welcomes consultation on greater local control over rail services
2012-03-08T00:00:00
2012-03-08T00:00:00
Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip
<p>"</p>
<p>A Government request for proposals that would put more control
of the local rail network in the hands of the West Midlands was
today (March 8) welcomed by Centro, the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p>In unveiling a rail command paper, Transport Secretary Justine
Greening announced a consultation on the devolution of power from
Whitehall to local transport authorities.</p>
<p>Centro believes that greater local control can result in better
rail services focussed on the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>The West Midlands rail network is currently operated by private
company London Midland under an eight-year franchise which it
signed directly with the Department for Transport in November
2007</p>
<p>But today's announcement could pave the way for future
franchises to be controlled locally. At the moment only two areas,
London and Merseyside, have control over their local rail
networks.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "We believe that
having more power over rail services sitting here in the West
Midlands can bring real benefits to passengers.</p>
<p>"As we have seen in Merseyside and London � rail devolution can
lead to more investment, more reliable services and networks that
better reflect the needs of local economies, helping to underpin
growth and job creation.</p>
<p>"Given a similar funding package, we can improve services in the
same way in the West Midlands."</p>
<p>Centro, which has been lobbying hard for rail devolution in
recent months, believes giving control to regional authorities will
make rail services more responsive to local needs and passengers'
views.</p>
<p>The authority also argues that devolution offers the prospect of
better integration with tram and bus, and ultimately for
London-style, smart and simple ticketing across all parts of the
public transport network.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "Whilst we recognise that these are tough times
and it will not be possible to transform services overnight, we
will need a fair deal from national government on costs and risks
to make devolution work for both passengers and the West Midlands
economy."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said that during the consultation period Centro would
continue developing proposals on how devolution in the West
Midlands will best work in practice.</p>
<p>He said Centro would also be discussing opportunities with those
authorities bordering the West Midlands metropolitan area so that
devolution brings benefits throughout the wider region.</p>
<p>"</p>
Proposals to put more control of region's rail network in local hands welcomed by Centro.
17213
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0
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0
Survey shows what West Midlands passengers think about their buses
2012-03-07T00:00:00
2012-03-07T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 81 per cent of West Midlands bus passengers are happy
with their service according to new research published today (March
7).</p>
<p>The overall satisfaction rating was revealed by national
transport watchdog Passenger Focus in a comprehensive survey
showing what West Midlands passengers like and don't like about
their bus journeys.�</p>
<p>The research, carried out with support from regional transport
authority Centro and some bus operators including National Express,
shows that 84 per cent are satisfied with the ease of getting on
and off the region's buses while a further 78 per cent are happy
with the safety of the driving.�</p>
<p>Electronic displays carrying bus times are also popular with
travellers, notching up a 79 per cent satisfaction rating.�</p>
<p>But the survey also sheds light on those issues which annoy
passengers with 18 per cent saying they are concerned about
anti-social behaviour.�</p>
<p>Smoking on board, playing loud music and rowdy behaviour are
particular pet hates, according to the results.�</p>
<p>Passengers are also less satisfied with punctuality (64 per
cent) and the cleanliness of buses (64 per cent).</p>
<p>Centro Vice Chairman, Councillor Jon Hunt, said: "We welcome
these valuable findings and it's encouraging to see that the vast
majority of passengers are happy with their service.�</p>
<p>"However, what this survey also shows is that the actions of a
selfish minority who drop litter, play loud music or smoke on board
can often have a very negative effect on fellow passengers.�</p>
<p>"We have been very successful in tackling crime on the bus
network, reducing offences by more than 60 per cent over the last
four years but this survey backs up what passengers regularly tell
us � that it's anti-social behaviour they are most concerned
about.�</p>
<p>"I would therefore urge passengers to tell us about such
incidents through the anonymous See Something Say Something text
line number - 83010.�</p>
<p>"Doing so will greatly help the Safer Travel Partnership carry
out the right operations in the right place and at the right time
to tackle this unacceptable behaviour."�</p>
<p>The survey found that anti-social behaviour was a particular
concern amongst younger people. Several new initiatives are
underway to address this and the Safer Travel Partnership will be
visiting more than 100 schools this year to talk to pupils about
the issue.�</p>
<p>The Passenger Focus survey also found that overall satisfaction
rates are higher in those parts of the West Midlands where Centro,
in partnership with bus companies and local councils, has
modernised routes and services through network reviews.�</p>
<p>So far, eight areas have undergone such reviews with a further
two, Sandwell and North Birmingham, due to take place over the next
two years.�</p>
<p>The reviews involve voluntary agreements with bus companies
which stipulate levels of quality on a wide range of areas
including bus cleanliness and punctuality.�</p>
<p>Centro's Director of Passenger Services, Stephen Rhodes, said:
"The results of this survey show that continuing to roll out these
network reviews is the right thing to do for passengers.�</p>
<p>"The survey also confirms that we are already focusing our
efforts on the issues passengers are most concerned about and
that's why surveys such as this one are so valuable to us.�</p>
<p>"We will be taking these latest findings on board and using them
to help guide our on-going efforts to further improve
services."</p>
<p>Passenger Focus asked passengers to rate their satisfaction with
a wide range of aspects of the bus journey, such as at the bus
stop, on the bus�and the bus driver, as well as their overall
satisfaction with that bus journey and their rating of value for
money.�</p>
<p>David Sidebottom, Passenger Team Director at Passenger Focus,
said: "The Bus Passenger Survey provides the bus industry with a
robust, comparable �benchmarked study of passenger
satisfaction.</p>
<p>"It enables both transport authorities and bus operators to take
positive action on those factors, identified by passengers, that
need improving.�</p>
<p>"It is therefore encouraging to see that both Centro and the bus
operators across the West Midlands have taken note of what
passengers have told them and have committed to improve journeys
for local bus passengers."���</p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their bus or
Metro journey can say something by texting 'bus' or 'metro'
followed by a space and then details of the incident including
time, date, location and route number to 83010.��</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on to <a
href="/">www.safertravel.info</a> or by telephoning West Midlands
Police on 0345 113 5000.��</p>
<p>This service is for nuisance behaviour only and if someone
witnesses a crime they should phone 999 as usual.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p><strong>Notes to Editors:</strong></p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police,
British Transport Police, National Express West Midlands, the
region's seven Community Safety Partnerships and transport
authority Centro. The Partnership works to make bus and Metro
travel even safer for passengers by deterring crime and anti-social
behaviour on and around the network.</p>
<p>"</p>
More than 81 per cent of bus passengers are happy with their service according to new research.
17213
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Station link design work starts
2012-03-02T00:00:00
2012-03-02T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Plans are being drawn up to make it easier, quicker and more
pleasant to travel between two of Birmingham's key train stations
and the emerging Eastside district, site of the city's future high
speed rail hub.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has appointed city
architects Glenn Howells Architects (GHA) to develop detailed
proposals for a high quality link between Eastside, Moor Street
Station, New Street Station and the wider city centre.</p>
<p>More than one million passengers travel the route each year but
Centro and the city council hope to create an interchange between
the two stations and the high speed (HS2) hub that gives the feel
of being in one connected station.</p>
<p>The close proximity of the three sites is seen as a key
advantage with the entrance to the high speed rail hub due to be
built right next to Moor Street Station, itself a short walk from
New Street. The interchange link is likely to include a high
quality pedestrian route and cycling features. Artistic lighting
and possibly public art features are also likely to be looked
at.</p>
<p>The appointment of GHA comes hard on the heels of the
Government's go-ahead last month for the £17 billion HS2 route
between London and Birmingham. It also follows the publication of
the Eastside Masterplan in which GHA was also closely involved.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cllr Angus Adams, Chairman of Centro, said: "Our objective is to
improve the quality of the city environment for pedestrians and
make changing between different types of public transport safe and
attractive.</p>
<p>"This specific programme of work is just part of the first phase
of our strategic vision for making it easier, quicker and more
pleasant to move around the city centre."</p>
<p>The detailed design phase will look at improving the St Martin's
Queensway Tunnel which runs under the Bullring shopping mall and
forms a major part of the route between the New Street and Moor
Street stations. A planning application for the scheme is expected
to be submitted later this year.</p>
<p>Dav Bansal, director at GHA, said: "Citywide thinking � which
started with the launch of the Big City Plan � provides a huge
opportunity to repair the urban fabric of the city centre. Taking
the first step with Centro to develop these detailed proposals is
another milestone in Birmingham's continued regeneration and
follows on from the practice's work on the Eastside Masterplan.</p>
<p>"This project, alongside those that have already been completed
and those that are under way like The Gateway project, could
significantly improve the experience of our city and how it works.
They can do this by providing clear and pleasant pedestrian routes
between areas of the city centre as well as improving the public
realm and overall environment."</p>
<p>This project is part of Birmingham City Council's "One Station"
vision which involves creating better accessibility and
connectivity between the stations. It also connects with the £600
million Gateway redevelopment at new Street Station and future
phases will include a direct link into the high speed rail hub.</p>
<p>Founded in Birmingham more than 20 years ago and with offices in
Birmingham, London and China, GHA is also appointed by Argent on
Paradise Circus and is working on proposals for the National
Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas.</p>
<p>Both Centro and GHA are supporting Business Birmingham at MIPIM,
the international property expo in Cannes, next month.</p>
<p>Transportation consultant Peter Brett Associates and civil and
structural engineers Techniker are also part of Centro's design
team for this project.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
Plans are underway�to connect Birmingham's key train stations and the city's future high speed rail hub.
17213
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0
Deadline looms to renew concessionary travel passes
2012-03-01T00:00:00
2012-03-01T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Thousands of people across the West Midlands are reminded that
the deadline is approaching to renew their concessionary travel
pass.</p>
<p>A total of 126,000 older people are in the first wave of nearly
half a million pass holders to get replacement smart passes issued
by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Their old passes expire on March 31 and Sarah Jones, Centro's
Head of Customer Services, said: "We would urge anyone who hasn't
done so already to check their pass and contact us if they have not
heard anything already.</p>
<p>"We have written to everyone on our database whose pass expires
on March 31<sup>st</sup> but it is always possible people may not
have received the reminder letter.</p>
<p>"If you haven't please let us know straight away. Our dedicated
helpline is available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and we
can easily renew a travel pass over the telephone."</p>
<p>The English National Concessionary pass was introduced in 2008
and provides free off-peak travel on buses across England for older
people.</p>
<p>Centro administers the scheme locally on behalf of the
Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The concession is enhanced within the West Midlands with free,
off-peak travel on trains and trams across the region.</p>
<p>The original smart passes will expire in four batches - March
2012, August 2012, March 2013 and April 2013 and Centro is
currently processing the March 2012 renewals.</p>
<p>Renewal letters have not been sent to blind and disabled pass
holders as a separate process applies to these customers.</p>
<p>Centro writes to these pass holders, whose continued eligibility
for a travel pass has to be reassessed, three months prior to their
passes expiring.</p>
<p>The dedicated telephone number is <strong>08450 755
888.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Thousands of concessionary passholders are reminded the deadline is approaching to renew them.
17213
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Changes to bus services in Birmingham city centre
2012-02-24T00:00:00
2012-02-24T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Birmingham are warned that some stops are to
move as part of works to transform the network in the city
centre.</p>
<p>Carrs Lane is to close on Monday 27<sup>th</sup> February, with
all bus services that previously stopped there being relocated.</p>
<p>This is to allow for gas main replacement and bus stop upgrades
as work begins on six new interchanges around the city centre for
bus passengers.</p>
<p>The work is part of the Birmingham City Centre Interchange
project, which will deliver a major upgrade to bus passenger
facilities, with new bus shelters and bus information points to
help people get around the city easily.</p>
<p>The bus interchange project is scheduled for completion in late
summer this year and will see the introduction of six bus
interchanges around the city centre, paving the way for when the
Midland Metro tram extension from Snow Hill to New Street station
opens in 2015.</p>
<p>Stops that were previously in Carrs Lane have been moved to
nearby Albert Street and Dale End.</p>
<p>A Centro spokesman said: "The project is one of a number of
major building schemes that will transform transport in the
city.</p>
<p>"We apologise in advance for any disruption but once complete
the results will be a bus system that will meet the needs of
passengers in the 21<sup>st</sup> century."</p>
<p>The services affected are:</p>
<p>�</p>
<div center="" style="text-align: ">
<table border="" cellspacing="" cellpadding="">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Bus Service</strong></p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Current Stop</strong></p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p style="text-align: "><strong>New Stop</strong></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>33</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane - DJ</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DL</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>51</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane - DK</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DL</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>55</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Lower Bull Street</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Lower Bull Street</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>72, 94</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Dale End � DE</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Lower Bull Street - DD</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>907</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane � DK</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DM</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>934/A, 935/A, 997</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>High Street � DG</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Dale End � DE</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>952</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane � DK</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DM</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>X51</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane � DH</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DM</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>�</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions where Centro staff will be on hand to
explain the works will take place around the city centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>They are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 25<sup>th</sup> March � Markets, Edgbaston Street, 9am
to 3pm</li>
<li>Monday 5<sup>th</sup> March - High Street loading bay by Marks
& Spencer, 10am to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday 10<sup>th</sup> March - Markets, Edgbaston Street,
9.30 to 3pm</li>
<li>Thursday 15<sup>th</sup> March - Chamberlain Square ( behind
Town Hall), 11am to 3pm</li>
<li>Thursday 22<sup>nd</sup> March - High Street loading bay by
Marks & Spencer, 10am to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday 14<sup>th</sup> April � Markets, Edgbaston Street,
9.30am to 3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 17<sup>th</sup> April - High Street loading bay by
Marks & Spencer, 10am to 6pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 25<sup>th</sup> April � Victoria Square � 11pm to
3pm</li>
<li>Saturday 28<sup>th</sup> April - Markets, Edgbaston Street,
9.30am to 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>To find out what is happening to your bus stopping point in the
city centre during the works, log on to <strong><a
href="/">www.centro.org.uk/connectedcity/maps.swf</a></strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus stops in Carrs Lane are to move as essential roadworks get underway.<strong><br /></strong>
17213
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Essential roadworks means changes to bus services in Birmingham city centre
2012-02-24T00:00:00
2012-02-24T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Birmingham are warned that some stops are to
move as part of works to transform the network in the city
centre.</p>
<p>�Carrs Lane is to close on Monday 27<sup>th</sup> February, with
all bus services that previously stopped there being relocated.</p>
<p>�This is to allow for gas main replacement and bus stop upgrades
as work begins on six new interchanges around the city centre for
bus passengers.</p>
<p>The work is part of the Birmingham City Centre Interchange
project, which will deliver a major upgrade to bus passenger
facilities, with new bus shelters and bus information points to
help people get around the city easily.</p>
<p>The bus interchange project is scheduled for completion in late
summer this year and will see the introduction of six bus
interchanges around the city centre, paving the way for when the
Midland Metro tram extension from Snow Hill to New Street station
opens in 2015.</p>
<p>Stops that were previously in Carrs Lane have been moved to
nearby Albert Street and Dale End.</p>
<p>�A Centro spokesman said: "The project is one of a number of
major building schemes that will transform transport in the
city.</p>
<p>�"We apologise in advance for any disruption but once complete
the results will be a bus system that will meet the needs of
passengers in the 21<sup>st</sup> century."</p>
<p>�The services affected are:</p>
<div center="" style="text-align: ">
<table border="" cellspacing="" cellpadding="">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Bus Service</strong></p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Current Stop</strong></p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p style="text-align: "><strong>New Stop</strong></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>33</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane - DJ</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DL</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>51</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane - DK</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DL</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>55</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Lower Bull Street</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Lower Bull Street</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>72, 94</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Dale End � DE</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Lower Bull Street - DD</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>907</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane � DK</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DM</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>934/A, 935/A, 997</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>High Street � DG</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Dale End � DE</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>952</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane � DK</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DM</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>X51</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Carrs Lane � DH</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Albert Street - DM</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>�</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions where Centro staff will be on hand to
explain the works will take place around the city centre.</p>
<p>They are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 25<sup>th</sup> March � Markets, Edgbaston Street, 9am
to 3pm</li>
<li>Monday 5<sup>th</sup> March - High Street loading bay by Marks
& Spencer, 10am to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday 10<sup>th</sup> March - Markets, Edgbaston Street,
9.30 to 3pm</li>
<li>Thursday 15<sup>th</sup> March - Chamberlain Square ( behind
Town Hall), 11am to 3pm</li>
<li>Thursday 22<sup>nd</sup> March - High Street loading bay by
Marks & Spencer, 10am to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday 14<sup>th</sup> April � Markets, Edgbaston Street,
9.30am to 3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 17<sup>th</sup> April - High Street loading bay by
Marks & Spencer, 10am to 6pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 25<sup>th</sup> April � Victoria Square � 11pm to
3pm</li>
<li>Saturday 28<sup>th</sup> April - Markets, Edgbaston Street,
9.30am to 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>To find out what is happening to your bus stopping point in the
city centre during the works, log on to <strong><a
href="/">www.centro.org.uk/connectedcity/maps.swf</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>�</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus stops in Carrs Lane are to move as essential road works get underway.
17213
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New era dawns on the bus network in Coventry
2012-02-22T00:00:00
2012-02-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers across Coventry were today reminded that major
changes to their buses come into effect this weekend.</p>
<p>The new network has been designed to provide a more localised
service and will see some service numbers, routes and timetables
change from start of service on Sunday February 26.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has worked in
partnership with Coventry City Council and bus operators A Line,
Blue Diamond, Johnsons, National Express West Midlands, Stagecoach
and Travel De Courcey to conduct the comprehensive overhaul.</p>
<p>The review saw Centro conduct a massive consultation exercise
with passengers, traders, and councillors.</p>
<p>"This weekend sees the start of a new era of bus travel in
Coventry, with a new network designed to meet the needs of today's
passengers and businesses," said Centro chairman Cllr Angus
Adams.</p>
<p>"We understand that this is a big change for many people but we
believe the whole area will benefit significantly from the modern
and easy to use bus system that this network review provides."</p>
<p>As part of the consultation process leaflets were distributed to
hundreds of thousands of residents across Coventry encouraging
people to attend a series of exhibitions or go online to fill in a
questionnaire.</p>
<p>House-to-house surveys were also conducted.</p>
<p>Many respondents requested more frequent services, and as a
result more than 50 per cent of bus customers in Coventry will now
receive them.</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro area manager for Coventry and Solihull,
said: "We will be monitoring the new network very closely.</p>
<p>"With any major new network there may be areas where things can
be improved and the public can be assured that we will listen if
they tell us where they think this should happen."</p>
<p>To usher in the new network the partners will sign an agreement
pledging a range of benefits for passengers to build on the
development of the new network.</p>
<p>They include the introduction of a fleet of 40 new buses by
National Express Coventry, new shelters and Real Time Information
systems.</p>
<p>It will also include a pledge to work together to tackle
congestion in the worst affected locations for bus in Coventry.</p>
<p>Centro has undertaken a major publicity campaign to ensure
people are fully aware of this Sunday's changes.</p>
<p>Measures included leaflet drops to households, newspaper
advertisements, posters and 12 exhibitions at venues across the
city.</p>
<p>The new timetables, which have been installed at bus stops
across the area, are available from the Network Coventry travel
shop at the city's Pool Meadow bus station and also at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers in Coventry are reminded that new services and timetables come into effect on Sunday.
17213
0
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Local Transport Minister gives Metro extension the green light
2012-02-16T00:00:00
2012-02-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Construction can now begin on an extension to the Midland Metro
from Snow Hill Station through the city centre to New Street
Station, Local Transport Minister Norman Baker announced today.</p>
<p>The £128m scheme will also deliver a new fleet of trams to run
on the extended route.</p>
<p>Norman Baker said:</p>
<p>"This scheme will bring trams back to the heart of Birmingham,
which is great news for both the city itself and the wider West
Midlands. It will provide a new, sustainable transport choice for
those wishing to reach the city centre's bustling shopping streets
and the emerging business district in Snow Hill.</p>
<p>"The scheme will also cut carbon and create growth by getting
more people onto public transport, create1,300 new jobs and deliver
a £50m boost to the local economy."</p>
<p>The Department for Transport will provide £75.4m towards the
£128 million cost of the scheme which is being led by Centro, the
region's transport authority, in partnership with Birmingham City
Council and the Black Country district authorities.</p>
<p>Today's decision gives final approval for Centro to forge ahead
and sign contracts for the new fleet of trams, a bigger maintenance
depot at Wednesbury and for the construction of the city centre
extension.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said:</p>
<p>"We are delighted to get the final go-ahead from Treasury and
Ministers.</p>
<p>"Norman Baker has been a great advocate for this project and we
will waste no time in pressing ahead with the construction of the
extension which, together with the rebuilding of New Street
Station, will transform our public transport network.</p>
<p>"Today's announcement is marvellous news for passengers and
represents a further shot in the arm for the Birmingham and Black
Country economy."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p><strong>Notes to editors</strong></p>
<p>1. Today's announcement grants Full (final) Approval to the
Midland Metro Extension to Birmingham City Centre, Fleet
Replacement and Depot Enhancement scheme enabling work to
begin.</p>
<p>2. The first new tram is scheduled to come into service - on the
existing line - in February 2014, the enlarged depot will be
available in August 2013 and the city centre extension with the
full new tram fleet will be in service from March 2015.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Construction can now begin on an extension to the Midland Metro from Snow Hill Station through the city centre to New Street Station, Local Transport Minister Norman Baker announced today."
17213
0
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0
Public exhibition dates for new Coventry bus network
2012-02-07T00:00:00
2012-02-07T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions to tell customers about the new-look
Coventry bus network are about to begin.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Network Coventry will hold 12 of the sessions around the city to
inform the public about the changes and new timetables coming into
effect on February 26.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>It has been drawn up following a major consultation exercise
with the public across the city to compile a network that will get
more people travelling by bus.</p>
<p>Leaflets were distributed to hundreds of thousands of residents
across Coventry encouraging people to attend a series of
exhibitions or go online to fill in a questionnaire, while
house-to-house surveys were also conducted.</p>
<p>The exhibitions take place on the following dates:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 11 February � exhibition bus in Bull Yard, Coventry
city centre � 9.30am to 3pm</li>
<li>Monday 13 February � Opposite Post Office in Riley Square, Bell
Green, 10am to 3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 14 February � exhibition bus in Jardine Crescent
precinct, Tile Hill, 12pm-5pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 15 February � exhibition at Methodist Church Hall,
Earlsdon, 10am-3pm</li>
<li>Thursday 16 February � exhibition bus by Tesco entrance, Arena
Park, 1pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Friday 17 February � exhibition bus outside Family centre,
Moseley Avenue, Coundon, 11am to 4pm</li>
<li>Saturday 18 February � exhibition bus at Cannon Park shopping
centre, 9.30am to 3pm</li>
<li>Monday 20 February � exhibition at community centre, Arundel
Road, Cheylesmore, 11am to 4pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 21 February � exhibition in University House atrium,
University of Warwick, 11am to 4pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 22 February � exhibition on main bus station
concourse, Pool Meadow bus station, 12pm to 5pm</li>
<li>Thursday 23 February � exhibition bus outside main entrance,
University Hospital, 1pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday 25 February � exhibition in Lower Precinct, Coventry
city centre, 9.30am to 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>The review was conducted by Centro, the integrated passenger
transport authority for the West Midlands, working in partnership
with Coventry City Council and bus operators A Line, Blue Diamond,
Johnsons, National Express Coventry, Stagecoach and Travel De
Courcey.</p>
<p>Network Coventry is a partnership connecting all public
transport in Coventry as part of Network West Midlands, which
consists of Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and
Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "These
exhibitions are important because they tell people what is going to
be happening on their bus network.</p>
<p>"I would urge all bus users in Coventry to attend so that they
can learn about the forthcoming changes and get all the information
they need."</p>
<p>For up to date information go to <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
A series of public exhibition dates giving information about the new Coventry bus network are announced.
17213
0
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0
Public exhibitions for new Coventry bus network
2012-02-07T00:00:00
2012-02-07T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions to tell customers about the new-look
Coventry bus network are about to begin.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Network Coventry will hold 12 of the sessions around the city to
inform the public about the changes and new timetables coming into
effect on February 26.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>It has been drawn up following a major consultation exercise
with the public across the city to compile a network that will get
more people travelling by bus.</p>
<p>Leaflets were distributed to hundreds of thousands of residents
across Coventry encouraging people to attend a series of
exhibitions or go online to fill in a questionnaire, while
house-to-house surveys were also conducted.</p>
<p>The exhibitions take place on the following dates:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 11 February � exhibition bus in Bull Yard, Coventry
city centre � 9.30am to 3pm</li>
<li>Monday 13 February � Opposite Post Office in Riley Square, Bell
Green, 10am to 3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 14 February � exhibition bus in Jardine Crescent
precinct, Tile Hill, 12pm-5pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 15 February � exhibition at Methodist Church Hall,
Earlsdon, 10am-3pm</li>
<li>Thursday 16 February � exhibition bus by Tesco entrance, Arena
Park, 1pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Friday 17 February � exhibition bus outside Family centre,
Moseley Avenue, Coundon, 11am to 4pm</li>
<li>Saturday 18 February � exhibition bus at Cannon Park shopping
centre, 9.30am to 3pm</li>
<li>Monday 20 February � exhibition at community centre, Arundel
Road, Cheylesmore, 11am to 4pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 21 February � exhibition in University House atrium,
University of Warwick, 11am to 4pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 22 February � exhibition on main bus station
concourse, Pool Meadow bus station, 12pm to 5pm</li>
<li>Thursday 23 February � exhibition bus outside main entrance,
University Hospital, 1pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday 25 February � exhibition in Lower Precinct, Coventry
city centre, 9.30am to 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>The review was conducted by Centro, the integrated passenger
transport authority for the West Midlands, working in partnership
with Coventry City Council and bus operators A Line, Blue Diamond,
Johnsons, National Express Coventry, Stagecoach and Travel De
Courcey.</p>
<p>Network Coventry is a partnership connecting all public
transport in Coventry as part of Network West Midlands, which
consists of Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and
Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "These
exhibitions are important because they tell people what is going to
be happening on their bus network.</p>
<p>"I would urge all bus users in Coventry to attend so that they
can learn about the forthcoming changes and get all the information
they need."</p>
<p>For up to date information go to <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
A series of public exhibitions outlining the new Coventry bus network get underway. �
17213
thumbHLbusandpedestrians.jpg
0
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0
Disappearing tower heralds new start for Southside
2012-02-07T00:00:00
2012-02-07T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A Birmingham landmark is consigned to history as work on the new
New Street station and Pallasades gathers pace.</p>
<p>After 6 months of careful demolition, Stephenson Tower finally
disappeared from the city skyline this week as the team delivering
the redevelopment demolished the ground floor of what was a 22
storey residential tower block.</p>
<p>The demolition is the first stage towards the construction of
the new John Lewis department store which gets underway later in
the spring.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The disappearance of the
tower is the first major sign of the enormous amount of work that's
been going on at New Street; it's just that most of it has, until
now, been inside and hidden from view.</p>
<p>"That work will now become increasingly visible as we move
forward on building a station that passengers and the West Midlands
as whole can be proud of."</p>
<p>The redeveloped Pallasades centre and new John Lewis will open
to customers in autumn 2014 with the station redevelopment
completing in 2015.</p>
<p>Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council added:
"The demolition of Stephenson Tower marks a significant milestone
in the ongoing project, helping to pave the way for a wider £100m
worth of investment in the south side of Birmingham city centre.
The redeveloped station and Pallasades, anchored by John Lewis,
will also underpin the wider development of Birmingham's Enterprise
Zone, which will be the catalyst for 50,000 jobs being created
across the entire West Midlands and wider LEP region.""</p>
<p>New Street station will remain open to passengers throughout the
project with passengers noticing the first major changes to their
journey at the end of this year when the first half of the new
station concourse opens over Christmas 2012.</p>
<p>Birmingham Gateway is backed by Birmingham City Council, Network
Rail, Department for Transport, Centro and Advantage West
Midlands.</p>
<p>Network Rail is delivering the project alongside its delivery
partner Mace.</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, Network Rail project director commented: "The
redevelopment of New Street will deliver a fantastic new station
for passengers with more space, better access and better
facilities. The project also delivers economic benefits and the
successful demolition of Stephenson Tower is another step forward
in our plans for a new look Pallasades and John Lewis department
store that will create jobs and help regeneration in Birmingham
city centre. "</p>
<p>"</p>
A city landmark is no more as work to redevelop Birmingham New Street station gathers pace.
17213
thumbHLnewstreetAtrium.JPG
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0
Consultation on door to door transport proposals
2012-02-02T00:00:00
2012-02-02T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A consultation is to be held over proposals to bring the
application process for Ring and Ride in line with some similar
schemes elsewhere in the UK.</p>
<p>Regular users are being sent questionnaires seeking their views
on possible changes to the way people apply for the door-to-door
transport service.</p>
<p>�At present people wanting to register with Ring and Ride, which
is run by the West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT)
charity, fill in a form identifying their disability and declaring
they find it difficult or impossible to use conventional public
transport.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, which funds Ring and Ride, launched
a review of the service last year to see how it can be improved and
strengthened.</p>
<p>The review has already determined that Ring and Ride remains the
best way of meeting the travel needs of those people unable to use
buses, trains and trams.</p>
<p>Centro has been looking at ways of making the application
process more structured so it can better demonstrate how funding is
targeted effectively at those people who have no transport
alternative to Ring and Ride.</p>
<p>The cost to council taxpayers of providing the service is more
than £10 million a year.</p>
<p>The questionnaire, which is short and easy to complete, needs to
be returned by March 30.</p>
<p>�It will canvass users on proposals to give automatic Ring and
Ride membership to those applicants who send in valid supporting
documentation showing they:</p>
<ul>
<li>Receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability
Living Allowance</li>
<li>Are registered blind or partially sighted (BD8 or CVI
certificate provided)</li>
<li>Receive Higher Rate Attendance Allowance</li>
<li>Receive War Pension Mobility Supplement</li>
<li>Are aged 85 or older</li>
</ul>
<p>It is also proposed that those who do not meet the requirements
for automatic membership can still become members by providing
details showing how they find it difficult or impossible to use
conventional public transport.</p>
<p>Details could include;</p>
<ul>
<li>Documents relating to medical conditions, including copies of
prescriptions</li>
<li>Confirmation of any other received benefits linked to
mobility</li>
<li>Confirmation of mobility problems from medical and/or social
practitioners</li>
</ul>
<p>�Cllr Angus Adams, Chairman of Centro, said: "The proposals will
help ensure that those people who cannot use buses, trains and
trams will continue to get the best Ring and Ride service possible
from the funding available.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The service� is a lifeline for many, allowing them to get out
and about and lead independent lives in their own homes for as long
as possible.</p>
<p>"That's why we are keen for regular users to take a few brief
moments and have their say on how the service should develop by
filling in this easy questionnaire."</p>
<p>It is proposed that to use the service in future people will
need to be given membership of Ring and Ride by Centro, which
already deals with applications for concessionary travel passes for
the blind and disabled and older people.</p>
<p>�Other proposals include renewing membership every three years
and offering temporary membership to those people who have short
term mobility needs such as after a knee or hip replacement.</p>
<p>A total of 18 consultation sessions will also be held at key
locations throughout the West Midlands between February 7 and March
20.</p>
<p>�Users can also complete the questionnaire on line at <a
href="/">www.centro.org.uk/ringandridesurvey</a> where they will
also find an audio and downloadable version.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
A consultation is to be held over proposals to bring the application process for Ring and Ride in line with some similar schemes elsewhere in the UK.
17213
0
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New bus network is announced for Coventry
2012-02-02T00:00:00
2012-02-02T00:00:00
The Coventry bus network undergoes a major shake-up
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Coventry will enjoy a new network of enhanced bus
services at the end of February following a major review.</p>
<p>�Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, has worked in partnership with Coventry City Council
and bus operators A Line, Blue Diamond, Johnsons, National Express
West Midlands, Stagecoach and Travel De Courcey to conduct the
comprehensive overhaul.</p>
<p>The new network comes into effect on February 26 and will see
many changes to routes and timetables across the city, providing
many areas with more frequent services designed to get more of
Coventry's residents travelling by bus.</p>
<p>It follows an extensive consultation and market research
exercise with the public.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "The
driving force for these changes is to make bus travel a more
attractive option for existing and new customers.</p>
<p>"We believe the new network will create long-term bus passenger
growth through a simpler and easier to understand network in the
city."</p>
<p>The new network reflects the new or altered cross-city links
being created following multi-million pound works in the city
centre's Broadgate area by Coventry City Council.</p>
<p>It will be supported by a partnership agreement between Centro,
Coventry City Council and bus operators.</p>
<p>This will pledge investment in the bus network, including new
vehicles, cleaning and monitoring of services, new infrastructure
and Real Time Information, and better signage.</p>
<p>As part of the consultation process leaflets were distributed to
hundreds of thousands of residents across Coventry encouraging
people to attend a series of exhibitions or go online to fill in a
questionnaire, while house-to-house surveys were also
conducted.</p>
<p>Many requested more frequent services, and as a result more than
50% of bus customers in Coventry will now receive them.</p>
<p>�There will be increased frequencies and more buses
including:</p>
<ul>
<li>15 buses an hour along Ansty Road</li>
<li>4 buses an hour to Potters Green</li>
<li>To Willenhall via the 13 route every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Willenhall via the 21 route every 6-8 minutes</li>
<li>To Stoke Aldermoor every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Quinton Park and Cheylesmore every 7/8 minutes</li>
<li>To Leamington Road every 15 minutes</li>
<li>To Canley every 15 minutes</li>
<li>To Cannon Hill every 30 minutes</li>
<li>To Tile Hill North (Jardine Crescent) every 10 minutes</li>
<li>8 buses an hour to Keresley</li>
<li>To Radford and Whitmore Park every 10 minutes</li>
<li>Along Stony Stanton Road every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Harnall Lane, Stoke Heath and Little Heath every 10
minutes</li>
<li>To Ball Hill over 20 buses an hour</li>
<li>Walsgrave Hospital, now twelve buses per hour from the City
Centre</li>
</ul>
<p>Another request was for improved Sunday and evening
services.</p>
<p>Cheylesmore, Finham, Stivichall, Styvechale Grange, Tile Hill,
Allesley, Coundon, Sewall Highway and Bell Green, Walsgrave
Hospital and Ansty Road will all benefit as a result.</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro's area manager for Coventry, said: "This
simpler network will mean less route variants and fewer numbers,
colour coded and better quality information, plus new maps and web
services."</p>
<p>A major information campaign to inform all residents of Coventry
about the changes will now take place in the run-up to February
26.</p>
<p>A leaflet explaining the changes will also be delivered to all
households in Coventry starting on February 1.</p>
<p>It will give details of exhibitions to be held across the city
from 11 February where Centro and bus operator representatives will
tell people about the changes to their services and answer any
questions.</p>
<p>New timetables will be available at these exhibitions and will
also be available online and from the Network Coventry travel shop
at the city's Pool Meadow bus station after this date.</p>
<p>More details can also be found at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
A new bus network is unveiled for Coventry following an extensive public consultation.
17213
CovPrimelinestradepressday032.jpg
thumbCoventrygeneric.jpg
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0
CAF chosen as preferred bidder for new Midland Metro
2012-02-02T00:00:00
2012-02-02T00:00:00
An Urbos 3 tram in operation in Belgrade
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has announced its preferred bidder for the new
multi-million pound tram fleet that will take the Midland Metro
into the 21<sup>st</sup> century.</p>
<p>Spanish tram manufacturer CAF has been chosen as the
front-runner to supply up to 25 Urbos 3 trams in a deal worth in
the region of £40 million.</p>
<p>The order will replace the current 16-strong fleet to deal with
the expected growth in use of the Metro once the 1.3km (0.8 mile)
extension between Snow Hill and New Street via Bull Street,
Corporation Street, and Stephenson Street is open.</p>
<p>The new trams will start running from late 2014 on the current
route from Snow Hill to Wolverhampton, with the Midland Metro
extension from Birmingham Snow Hill to Birmingham New Street
station coming on line in 2015.</p>
<p>The extension is expected to boost the West Midlands economy by
£50 million a year and create 1,300 sustainable new jobs. The new,
bigger trams will also provide far greater passenger capacity
between Birmingham and the Black Country.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro said "This is an
important milestone in the delivery of a world class integrated
transport network.</p>
<p>"Linking the £600m investment New Street station with the
Jewellery Quarter, and the Black Country will stimulate our local
economy."</p>
<p>The Midland Metro extension will eventually create 1,300
sustainable new jobs and boost the West Midlands economy by £50
million a year as the new trams increase passenger capacity between
Birmingham and the Black Country.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "This has
been an extremely rigorous tendering process and all the candidates
have been of a very high standard.</p>
<p>"The new fleet must offer the best value for money with a tram
design that offers robustness with a first-class journey experience
for the passenger."</p>
<p>CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocariles) is based in
Spain and produces trams which operate on a number of worldwide
systems as well as a wide range of railway rolling stock.</p>
<p>It has recently supplied trains for the UK market, including the
Class 332 trains for the Heathrow Express and 64 Class 333 trains
for Northern Rail.</p>
<p>The current 16-strong fleet will initially be replaced with 19
of the new vehicles to deal with the increased frequency and
expected growth in use of the Metro once the extension between Snow
Hill and New Street via Bull Street, Corporation Street and
Stephenson Street is open.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 is a five section air-conditioned tram with a
passenger capacity of approximately 200, compared to 156 on the
current trams, has two dedicated spaces for wheelchair users and
its features will be fully compliant with the Disability
Discrimination Act.</p>
<p>Each section will have passenger information and CCTV
information and protection, and Passenger Assistance Units at each
door.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 is built in Zaragoza, Spain. CAF has trams
successfully in use in cities around the world including Zaragoza,
Seville and Belgrade and are currently manufacturing trams for
Houston and Nantes.</p>
<p>The new trams will be approximately 30 per cent bigger than the
vehicles they replace, allowing more frequent services to be
operated and significantly increasing the passenger-carrying
capacity of the system.</p>
<p>CAF currently employs around 50 people in the UK at offices in
Coventry, Edinburgh, and Belfast.</p>
<p>If awarded the Midland Metro contract CAF will project manage
the introduction of the new vehicles from Coventry.</p>
<p>Antonio Campos Commercial Director of CAF said: ''CAF are
thrilled to be part of this prestigious project and believe the
Urbos 3 trams will provide an enhanced travel experience for the
people of Birmingham and the West Midlands.''</p>
<p>The Midland Metro runs between Wolverhampton and Birmingham Snow
Hill station via Bilston, Wednesbury and West Bromwich.</p>
<p>It has 23 stops and operates a fast and frequent service with a
tram every 6-8 minutes during the daytime peak and every 10 minutes
at all other times.</p>
<p>Centro received bids from all over the world, not just Europe.
All were from overseas manufacturers as there are no tram builders
in the UK.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro announces CAF of Spain as preferred bidders to build the new Midland Metro fleet. �
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0
New era on the buses in Coventry following major review of services
2012-02-02T00:00:00
2012-02-02T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Coventry will enjoy a new network of enhanced bus
services at the end of February following a major review.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, has worked in partnership with Coventry City Council
and bus operators A Line, Blue Diamond, Johnsons, National Express
West Midlands, Stagecoach and Travel De Courcey to conduct the
comprehensive overhaul.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The new network comes into effect on February 26 and will see
many changes to routes and timetables across the city, providing
many areas with more frequent services designed to get more of
Coventry's residents travelling by bus.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>It follows an extensive consultation and market research
exercise with the public.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "The
driving force for these changes is to make bus travel a more
attractive option for existing and new customers.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"We believe the new network will create long-term bus passenger
growth through a simpler and easier to understand network in the
city."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The new network reflects the new or altered cross-city links
being created following multi-million pound works in the city
centre's Broadgate area by Coventry City Council.</p>
<p>It will be supported by a partnership agreement between Centro,
Coventry City Council and bus operators.</p>
<p>This will pledge investment in the bus network, including new
vehicles, cleaning and monitoring of services, new infrastructure
and Real Time Information, and better signage.</p>
<p>As part of the consultation process leaflets were distributed to
hundreds of thousands of residents across Coventry encouraging
people to attend a series of exhibitions or go online to fill in a
questionnaire, while house-to-house surveys were also
conducted.</p>
<p>Many requested more frequent services, and as a result more than
50% of bus customers in Coventry will now receive them.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>There will be increased frequencies and more buses
including:</p>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li>15 buses an hour along Ansty Road</li>
<li>4 buses an hour to Potters Green</li>
<li>To Willenhall via the 13 route every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Willenhall via the 21 route every 6-8 minutes</li>
<li>To Stoke Aldermoor every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Quinton Park and Cheylesmore every 7/8 minutes</li>
<li>To Leamington Road every 15 minutes</li>
<li>To Canley every 15 minutes</li>
<li>To Cannon Hill every 30 minutes</li>
<li>To Tile Hill North (Jardine Crescent) every 10 minutes</li>
<li>8 buses an hour to Keresley</li>
<li>To Radford and Whitmore Park every 10 minutes</li>
<li>Along Stony Stanton Road every 10 minutes</li>
<li>To Harnall Lane, Stoke Heath and Little Heath every 10
minutes</li>
<li>To Ball Hill over 20 buses an hour</li>
<li>Walsgrave Hospital, now twelve buses per hour from the City
Centre</li>
</ul>
<p>Another request was for improved Sunday and evening
services.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cheylesmore, Finham, Stivichall, Styvechale Grange, Tile Hill,
Allesley, Coundon, Sewall Highway and Bell Green, Walsgrave
Hospital and Ansty Road will all benefit as a result.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro's area manager for Coventry, said: "This
simpler network will mean less route variants and fewer numbers,
colour coded and better quality information, plus new maps and web
services."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A major information campaign to inform all residents of Coventry
about the changes will now take place in the run-up to February
26.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A leaflet explaining the changes will also be delivered to all
households in Coventry starting on February 1.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>It will give details of exhibitions to be held across the city
from 11 February where Centro and bus operator representatives will
tell people about the changes to their services and answer any
questions.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>New timetables will be available at these exhibitions and will
also be available online and from the Network Coventry travel shop
at the city's Pool Meadow bus station after this date.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>More details can also be found at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
A new bus network is to launch in Coventry following a major review.
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Public exhibitions for city centre bus changes start
2012-01-24T00:00:00
2012-01-24T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A series of public exhibitions showcasing a £14 million project
that will revolutionise bus travel in Birmingham city centre are
being staged over the coming weeks.</p>
<p>The Birmingham City Centre Interchange scheme will deliver a
major upgrade to bus passenger facilities, including an overhaul of
bus routes and stops.</p>
<p>The work will see the introduction this summer of six bus
interchanges around the city centre and paves the way for when the
Midland Metro tram extension from Snow Hill to New Street station
opens in 2015.</p>
<p>All bus services will be permanently removed from Corporation
Street from the junction of Bull Street to Stephenson Street by the
end of the summer.</p>
<p>Commissioned by transport authority Centro and Birmingham City
Council, the scheme will also involve upgrading pedestrian crossing
facilities and signage and the installation of cycle lanes.</p>
<p>The city's streets will get newly designed shelters, bus totems
and other passenger facilities including easy-to-follow information
to encourage public transport and walking journeys.</p>
<p>The exhibitions take place on the following dates:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, January 24, Victoria Square, 9am � 3pm.</li>
</ul>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday, January 28, Markets, Edgbaston Street, 9am - 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday, February 2, Victoria Square, 9am � 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday, February 25, Markets, Edgbaston Street, 9am �
3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "These are significant
changes to how buses come in and out of the city centre and the
exhibitions are designed to give passengers an oversight of the
work being carried out.</p>
<p>"The project is one of a number of major building schemes that
will transform transport in the city, including the Metro tram
extension, the rebuilding of New Street Station, the runway
extension at Birmingham Airport and the high speed rail link."</p>
<p>To find out what is happening to your bus stopping point in the
city centre during the works, log on to <strong><a
href="/">www.centro.org.uk/connectedcity/maps.swf</a></strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Exhibitions showcasing a £14m revolution in bus services in Birmingham city centre get underway.
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Changes on the buses in Wolverhampton city centre
2012-01-24T00:00:00
2012-01-24T00:00:00
Changes are made to bus services in Wolverhampton
<p>Changes to some buses in Wolverhampton city centre are to be
introduced on January 29 following passenger requests.</p>
<p>Key among them will be National Express West Midlands cross city
service 2 and Wobaston-bound service 6 going into Wolverhampton's
showpiece £25 million bus station.</p>
<p>The changes, which will also address some punctuality problems,
are being made following customer comments and an analysis of how
the network has been operating after a review of the bus network in
the city last July.</p>
<p>They are a result of the partnership between Centro, the
region's transport authority, bus company National Express West
Midlands, Wolverhampton City Council and other local bus
operators.</p>
<p>Babs Coombes, Black Country area manager for Centro, said the
changes were being introduced following passenger feedback but
rerouting services into the bus station would be on a trial
basis.</p>
<p>"As with all bus network reviews we have monitored the changes
to bus services since they were made in July and have listened
carefully to passenger feedback," she said.</p>
<p>"We understand there have been some ongoing concerns about bus
station access and punctuality so we have tried to fine-tune the
network to address these issues.</p>
<p>"The trial of service 2 will allow us to properly understand
whether serving the bus station with cross city routes benefits the
majority of passengers.</p>
<p>"We need to closely monitor these changes and make sure that
they truly reflect passenger needs and are sustainable in the long
term."</p>
<p>The services changing are:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Service 1</strong> Minor timetable changes to
improve punctuality, particularly on Sundays.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Service 2</strong> National Express re-routing in
Wolverhampton city centre to access the bus station.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Services 5/5A</strong> National Express is adjusting
the route in Bilbrook in Staffordshire following local requests and
making some minor timetable changes to address punctuality
issues.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Service 6</strong> � National Express rerouting to
serve the bus station via Cleveland Street. Wolverhampton City
Council has also reconfigured the turning circle at Patshull
Avenue, Wobaston, to allow the buses to turn and wait here instead
of on Wobaston Road and Vine Island.� Once the i54 development is
open then the 6 will serve the dedicated bus stop within the
site.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Service 26</strong> � A new timetable will be
introduced at the same frequency to address punctuality problems on
this service.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Service 62/62A</strong> � Centro and National Express
have revised the timetable for this tendered service to improve
punctuality.</li>
</ul>
<p>Additionally there will be minor timetable changes to services
57, 63, 64, 68, 70, 76, 81 and 560.</p>
<p>There will also be changes to stand allocations within
Wolverhampton bus station to ensure services are grouped with other
buses serving similar destinations.</p>
<p>Simon Mathieson, Black Country Area Operations Director for
National Express West Midlands (NXWM), said the Wolverhampton
network review was a massive project that had brought many benefits
to the city network such as improved routes and timetables and
investment in the bus fleet, waiting facilities and technology.</p>
<p>This has included a £5m investment in new buses on services 2, 3
and 4 by NXWM.</p>
<p>Mr Mathieson said these have complemented Real Time Information
displays at key locations along the routes giving passengers a
minute by minute countdown of when their bus will arrive.</p>
<p>"Since the bus network review came into effect last July initial
signs show that more people are using buses in the city and several
thousand people a week are taking advantage of the new links that
are now available," he added.</p>
<p>"It is this growth that will allow continued investment in the
quality of the bus network in the area and protect services in the
city in the future."</p>
<p>For more information on timetable changes go to the nearest
Centro shop or visit <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></strong></p>
Changes are made to Wolverhampton city centre buses following passenger requests.
17213
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Public exhibitions for Birmingham City Centre Bus Interchanges start
2012-01-23T00:00:00
2012-01-23T00:00:00
<p>A series of public exhibitions showcasing a £14 million project
that will revolutionise bus travel in Birmingham city centre are
being staged over the coming weeks.</p>
<p>The Birmingham City Centre Interchange scheme will deliver a
major upgrade to bus passenger facilities, including an overhaul of
bus routes and stops.</p>
<p>The work will see the introduction this summer of six bus
interchanges around the city centre and paves the way for when the
Midland Metro tram extension from Snow Hill to New Street station
opens in 2015.</p>
<p>All bus services will be permanently removed from Corporation
Street by the end of the summer.</p>
<p>Commissioned by transport authority Centro and Birmingham City
Council, the scheme will also involve upgrading pedestrian crossing
facilities and signage and the installation of cycle lanes.</p>
<p>The city's streets will get newly designed shelters, bus totems
and other passenger facilities including easy-to-follow information
to encourage public transport and walking journeys.</p>
<p>The exhibitions take place on the following dates:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, January 24, Victoria Square, 9am 3pm.</li>
<li>Saturday, January 28, Markets, Edgbaston Street, 9am - 3pm</li>
<li>Thursday, February 2, Victoria Square, 9am 3pm</li>
<li>Saturday, February 25, Markets, Edgbaston Street, 9am
3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "These are significant
changes to how buses come in and out of the city centre and the
exhibitions are designed to give passengers an oversight of the
work being carried out.</p>
<p>"The project is one of a number of major building schemes that
will transform transport in the city, including the Metro tram
extension, the rebuilding of New Street Station, the runway
extension at Birmingham Airport and the high speed rail link."</p>
<p>For more information about the proposed changes to some of the
city centre streets over the next few years please <strong><a
href="/">click here</a></strong> to download"</p>
Public exhibitions advising passengers about the shake-up to buses in Birmingham city centre get underway.
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Indonesian transport delegation visits Centro
2012-01-16T00:00:00
2012-01-16T00:00:00
Susand Bridges and Pete Bond of Centro with the delegation
<p>Centro played host to a delegation from the Indonesian embassy
in London examining best practice in public transport.</p>
<p>The group, lead by Transport Attache Captain Sahattua
Simatupang, was given an overview of key projects being run by
Centro, the transport authority for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>They included the Midland Metro extension, Vision for Movement
in Birmingham city centre and the West Midlands Local Transport
plan.</p>
<p>The visit concluded with a trip on the Metro itself to visit the
recently-opened £22 million Wolverhampton bus station.</p>
<p>The visit was part of a collaboration to enhance international
co-operation between the Indonesian and British governments in key
areas, of which public transport is one.</p>
<p>Capt Simatupang said the group had found the visit extremely
worthwhile.</p>
<p>"Birmingham and the West Midlands have successfully undertaken
projects which the Indonesian government can learn from," he
said.</p>
<p>"Developing public transport is crucial for us, particularly in
our capital Jakarta, and we are keen to continue learning from
Centro."</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "We were delighted and
honoured to welcome the delegation.</p>
<p>"We are sure that meeting our officers and seeing and hearing
about our key projects will be of great benefit to them when they
come to implement their own ideas for public transport in
Indonesia."</p>
A delegation from the Indonesian government visits Centro as part of a tour studying best practice in public transport.
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New coach and lorry park for Birmingham
2012-01-16T00:00:00
2012-01-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A new dedicated coach and lorry park, serving Birmingham city
centre, is now open to hauliers and coach operators, nearly ten
years after the closure of the city's last such dedicated
facility.<br />
<br />
The new secure park, at Brewery Street �will provide 32 coach or
lorry spaces, be monitored by CCTV and feature a rest room with hot
and cold water, showers and toilets.<br />
�</p>
<p>Since the loss of the Masshouse Coach and Lorry Park in 2002,
there has been no dedicated long stay coach or lorry parking
facility for the City Centre except for limited non-secure coach
parking spaces at some attractions and venues.<br />
<br />
The design of the facility has taken on board market intelligence
on lorry parking collated by the DfT and the West Midlands Freight
Quality Partnership, and coach parking information from
Birmingham's main visitor attractions.<br />
<br />
It is estimated that some 20,000 coaches visit the City per annum
bringing over 1 million people. These visits are worth over £20.5
million to the City's economy.<br />
�</p>
<p>The facility will help to encourage more coach tour operators to
come to Birmingham, boosting the City's growing tourism industry.
In 2010 the Frankfurt Christmas Market attracted at least 650
coaches during December.<br />
<br />
In addition to the economic impact, coaches offer environmental
benefits by helping to reduce congestion and air pollution. They
help promote accessibility and social inclusion and are one of the
safest modes of travel.<br />
<br />
In terms of lorry parking the introduction of drivers' hours
restrictions which require drivers to take more frequent breaks,
increases in lorry theft and curfew impositions has highlighted the
lack of suitable off street lorry parking facilities in
Birmingham.<br />
<br />
A study into Lorry Parking sponsored by the West Midlands Regional
Assembly pressed for action by local authorities and the
industry.<br />
<br />
This research on future lorry parking demand has confirmed
increasing demand but a shortage of suitable lorry parking
facilities in the West Midlands especially Birmingham.<br />
<br />
In addition the Lorry Parking Baseline Report published by the
Department for Transport (DfT) in 2009 identified Birmingham as one
of the most difficult locations for lorries to park
overnight.<br />
<br />
Security issues have been a key consideration in the design of the
proposed facility. 40,000 truck crimes are recorded annually in
England, with over £500 million worth of goods being stolen.
�<br />
The coach park will cost £12 for up to 12 hours parking and £15
for 24 hours.<br />
<br />
Phil Bateman MBE, Regional Manager Confederation of Passenger
Transport (West Midlands Region) said:�"This is an important
milestone in the recognition that coach operators and their
customers make a huge contribution to the Local Economy of
Birmingham City Centre.<br />
<br />
"In a survey of just 14 of our West Midlands Members we discovered
that in total they brought more than 1 million passengers into the
City.</p>
<p><br />
"Coaches are now 'plush and luxurious' with some of our members
operating vehicles that cost more than £400,000 to buy. Their
parking safety and their safe stabling is a must for Town's and
Cities that want to take a share of the £1.2 billion that coach
customers spend in the United Kingdom.��<br />
<br />
"These coaching vehicles are used by a wide variety of groups,
from Premier League footballers, through to groups using facilities
like Birmingham's sporting events, theatre, shopping, leisure
events and conference attendance.<br />
<br />
"We very much welcome this Birmingham City Council initiative, and
commend other Cities and Towns to this type of approach." � �<br />
<br />
Gordon Telling, Freight Transport Association's Head of Policy for
the Midlands, said:<br />
<br />
"Truck drivers have a physically demanding job to do and are
legally required to take rest breaks so they require
well-appointed, overnight facilities like this latest one in
Brewery Street which has taken advice and guidance from industry
stakeholders to ensure it is fit-for-purpose.<br />
<br />
"With the ever-present threat of truck theft from organised
criminal gangs it is imperative that adequate protection is
afforded in new lorry parks whatever their size and we welcome the
use of CCTV and electronic gates here."<br />
<br />
Jack Semple, director of policy, Road Haulage Association (RHA)
said: "This is good news for the industry, because it meets an
urgent need. Safe and secure rest areas are essential for truck
drivers who must take regular breaks by law and in the interests of
road safety."<br />
<br />
"Birmingham has been very poorly served in terms of suitable truck
parking, with good driver facilities and also security � crime
against the industry is a serious problem, which we are discussing
with the police and government.<br />
<br />
"The RHA has worked closely with the West Midlands Freight Quality
Partnership over the past few years to identity suitable sites. �We
applaud Birmingham City Council for taking the issue seriously and
hope �many more drivers will be able to rest easy."</p>
<p>"</p>
"A new dedicated coach and lorry park, serving Birmingham city centre, is now open to hauliers and coach operators, nearly ten years after the closure of the city’s last such dedicated facility."
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Fresh appeal to concessionary passholders
2012-01-13T00:00:00
2012-01-13T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A letter campaign contacting thousands of pensioners across the
West Midlands urging them to renew their concessionary travel
passes has proved a success.</p>
<p>But transport bosses say they are still anxious to hear from
pass holders who have yet to respond.</p>
<p>A total of 126,000 older people whose passes expire on March 31
are in the first wave of nearly half a million holders to get
replacements issued by Centro, the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p>So far a total of 93,000 people have renewed and Centro said
while it was delighted so many had responded it was keen to hear
from more than 30,000 holders who have passes that expire on March
31 but have not yet been in touch.</p>
<p>Sarah Jones, Centro's Head of Customer Services, said: "These
passes are a real lifeline for people and while there is still
plenty of time to renew them we would urge anyone who has received
a letter but not yet responded to contact us.</p>
<p>"Similarly, if you have not received a letter but have a pass
that expires on March 31 we would like to hear from you.</p>
<p>"Our dedicated helpline is available between 9am and 5pm Monday
to Friday and we can easily renew a travel pass over the
telephone."</p>
<p>The English National Concessionary pass was introduced in 2008
and provides free off-peak travel on buses across England for older
people.</p>
<p>Centro administers the scheme locally on behalf of the
Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The concession is enhanced within the West Midlands with free,
off-peak travel on trains and trams across the region.</p>
<p>The original smart passes will expire in four batches - March
2012, August 2012, March 2013 and April 2013 and Centro is
currently processing the March 2012 renewals.</p>
<p>Renewal letters have not been sent to blind and disabled pass
holders as a separate process applies to these customers.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro writes to these pass holders, whose continued eligibility
for a travel pass has to be reassessed, three months prior to their
passes expiring.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A dedicated telephone line to respond to enquiries about
renewals is available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. The
number is <strong>08450 755 888.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
OAP concessionary travel pass holders are reminded to contact Centro to get their replacement.
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West Midlands can be blueprint for HS2 benefits - Justine Greening
2012-01-12T00:00:00
2012-01-12T00:00:00
"Centro chief exec Geoff Inskip, Transport Secretary Justine Greening and Centro chairman Angus Adams in"
<p>"</p>
<p>Birmingham and the West Midlands can be the blueprint for how
the UK gets the most out of Britain's new high speed rail network,
Transport Secretary Justine Greening said on a visit to the city
today (Weds).</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The Secretary of State confirmed yesterday (Tues) that the HS2
network linking Birmingham with London, Manchester and Leeds will
be built by 2033. The first phase of the £33bn project will be the
Birmingham to London line due to open in 2026.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>On a visit to the West Midlands on the morning after her
landmark decision, she said: "Birmingham and the West Midlands can
be the blueprint for how we can get the most out of HS2."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Ms Greening met with leaders including Birmingham City Council
Leader Councillor Mike Whitby, Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip,
Centro chairman Angus Adams and Birmingham Chamber chief executive
Jerry Blackett.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"Birmingham and the West Midlands will be at the centre of the
railway network," she said. "The job prospects are extremely
exciting and I'm absolutely committed to getting the most out of
HS2 in Birmingham."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>She said that the 45-minute HS2 journey from Birmingham city
centre to London would be similar to many journey times just
getting around London.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Ms Greening made the five minute walk from New Street station to
the proposed entrance to the Curzon Street HS2 terminal and viewed
the site, as well as the original Curzon Street station dating from
1838.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said the Transport Secretary
had reinforced her commitment to local and regional services.</p>
<p>He said: "The announcement is great news for the West Midlands,
but what's also encouraging is that the Secretary of State
acknowledges that local and regional transport is vital to make the
most of HS2. We're going to be working hard to get the most out of
HS2 and deliver improvements in transport for people right across
our region."</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council Leader Councillor Mike Whitby said: ""I
was delighted that the Transport Secretary was able to learn at
first hand the great benefits HS2 will bring not only to the
country's transport infrastructure, but also as a major catalyst
for regeneration to Eastside, Birmingham and the wider Midlands
region.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"We also discussed HS2's importance within the wider plans to
transform transport links within the city and Birmingham's central
role in ensuring the UK stays connected and moving freely.""<br />
<br />
Birmingham Chamber chief executive Jerry Blackett said it was
important to press ahead with HS2:</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The Secretary of State's announcement was fantastic news for
the city as HS2 will unlock vast levels of development and
growth.�We need to press ahead now and get HS2 through Parliament
as quick as possible so we can get on and build it."</p>
<p>"</p>
The Transport Secretary says the Midlands can show the UK how to capitalise on high speed rail.
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Decision to build HS2 is a tremendous boost for the West Midlands
2012-01-10T00:00:00
2012-01-10T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The Transport Secretary's decision to build HS2 from London to
Birmingham has been hailed as a tremendous boost for the West
Midlands by regional leaders.</p>
<p>Key figures from pro-high speed rail consortium Go-HS2, which
include Birmingham City Council, transport authority Centro,
Birmingham Chamber, NEC Group, Birmingham Airport and Marketing
Birmingham, said today's go-ahead for the project would mean
thousands of jobs and a boost of billions of pounds for the West
Midlands economy.</p>
<p>Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The
go-ahead for HS2 provides probably the single most important
opportunity for economic growth in this region for generations.</p>
<p>"The benefits for Birmingham and the West Midlands are clear and
unquestionable � job creation, increased productivity and greater
investor appeal, all of which will ultimately bring direct benefits
to families who live and work in the region.</p>
<p>"It's great news that we're taking advantage of this tremendous
opportunity to invest for the future and build a 21<sup>st</sup>
century high speed transport system which will link us more easily
to the key markets and cities right across Europe."</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, said that building HS2
would revolutionise travel and bring about tremendous opportunities
for transport in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"This is great news for families across our region which has
been hit hard by unemployment in the recession. We now look forward
to working with the Government to ensure the West Midlands can reap
the full rewards HS2 will bring."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said it was important that Government worked closely
with groups and individuals to reduce impact on the environment and
people's lives.</p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, chief executive at Birmingham Chamber of
Commerce, said: "We applaud the Secretary of State's decision to
back HS2. Transport is vital if we are to grow our economy and
ensure businesses can access markets reliably and quickly.�</p>
<p>"HS2 is clearly the only viable solution to the looming capacity
constraints on the West Coast Mainline and we are pleased that
Justine Greening has backed jobs and growth by backing HS2."</p>
<p>"We have spent two year's consulting on the idea so let's get
the legislation through parliament as quickly as possible."</p>
<p>Paul Kehoe, Chief Executive of Birmingham Airport, said: "HS2 is
great news for the region, great news for UK Plc, and great news
for Birmingham Airport.</p>
<p>Other countries, such as Germany, have a 'multi-hub' airport
model � they link their major airports with High Speed Rail, and
spread the economic activity. They do not stick to the
old-fashioned model of just one major airport.</p>
<p>"With the UK Government's aspiration to rebalance the economy,
Birmingham and other Airports will benefit from HS2, whilst taking
the pressure off the south east and creating jobs for many
thousands of people.</p>
<p>"Birmingham Airport station will be the hub of the High Speed
network � placing Birmingham Airport less than an hour from the
great majority of the UK population."</p>
<p>Neil Rami, head of Business Birmingham, the city's inward
investment programme operated by Marketing Birmingham, said: "Aided
by the significant transport investment already taking place in
Birmingham�� including the £600 million New Street Gateway and the
expansion of Birmingham Airport � HS2 will help attract overseas
investors looking for a gateway to the rest of the UK and Europe
and maintain Birmingham's profile as a global business hub."</p>
<p>Paul Thandi, CEO of the NEC Group, said: "It's fantastic�news to
hear that HS2 has been given the green light. High speed rail is of
great significance to not only our business, but the West Midlands
and the UK's future economy - undoubtedly helping with the economic
recovery over the next decade - so we wholeheartedly support this
decision."</p>
<p>HS2 will provide direct services between Birmingham city centre,
Birmingham Interchange (situated next to the NEC and Airport) and
London reducing travel times to 48 and 39 minutes respectively.</p>
<p>When the full Y-network is completed services will run north
cutting journey times to the East Midlands, South Yorkshire,
Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow and Edinburgh.</p>
<p>The journey time to Leeds from the West Midlands will be halved
to around one hour and the time to Manchester cut from 1h 30m to 49
minutes.</p>
<p>"</p>
Delighted regional leaders welcome the decision that HS2 should be built.
17213
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0
12
0
Signature smartcard road-tested on Rotala buses in Solihull
2012-01-09T00:00:00
2012-01-11T00:00:00
"Terry Johnson, left, operations manager for Blue Diamond, part of the Rotala bus group, and Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro."
<p>"</p>
<p>A prototype bringing the equivalent of London's Oyster card to
the West Midlands has begun trials in Solihull.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has teamed up with
Rotala buses to launch the Signature card, allowing passengers to
pay fares electronically for the first time.</p>
<p>They will also enjoy a cheaper fare compared to paying by
cash.</p>
<p>The technology is being road-tested on Rotala's Signature
services in and around Solihull � the S2, S2A, S3, S4, 30 and
82.</p>
<p>Passenger feedback and the performance of the technology will be
closely monitored over the coming weeks as part of an on-going
evaluation.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, said: "This is an
exciting chapter in the story of smartcard technology and its
introduction to the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"It is a massive step towards our aim of eventually rolling out
Smartcard technology later this year for all bus users across the
Centro region � we have already been in discussion with a number of
other operators to sign up to a wider scheme.</p>
<p>"For the first time, fare paying passengers can do away with the
need for cash and will be able to make their journey by using
electronic technology, a development which takes bus travel into
the 21<sup>st</sup> century."</p>
<p>Ian Pollard, commercial manager of Rotala, said: "We feel the
Signature card is the start of something positive for passengers in
the area.</p>
<p>"Initially it offers passengers the opportunity to make savings
against cash fares they would otherwise have paid and have the
convenience of not finding relatively small amounts of cash for
each journey.</p>
<p>"Longer term we hope it can be developed to include all
operators and make a significant contribution to making ticketing
in the West Midlands more passenger-friendly, enabling a wider
group of bus-users to find a solution that is perfect for their
requirements."</p>
<p>Passengers are able to place their pass on a card reader as they
board the bus, which will deduct the fare from the pre-paid sum
held in its memory. A ticket is then issued in the normal
manner.</p>
<p>The holder will pay a flat fare of £1.60, giving a cheaper and
simpler alternative to paying for a single journey using cash.</p>
<p>The £1.60 fare is a discount offered by Rotala, whose standard
fare is usually £1.90 or £1.70 for a short hop.</p>
<p>The Signature card is issued for free although a minimum £10
needs to be loaded on before it is used.</p>
<p>This can be paid for online at <a
href="/"><strong>www.signaturebus.com/card</strong></a> or from
Centro House in Birmingham and at Centro Travel Shops.</p>
<p>The card can be subsequently topped up on bus or at Centro House
and Centro Travel Shops.</p>
<p>An auto top-up function is also available which links directly
to the customer's credit or debit card and adds £15 whenever the
smart reader is presented with a balance below £2.</p>
<p>For customers not opting for auto top-up there will be a £2
deficit facility (£1 for the child variant) giving a 'get-you-home'
guarantee.</p>
<p>�The name Signature is only being used on the Solihull
road-test, which started on January 9.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said: "This scheme will transform bus travel for many,
many people so it is important we take it one step at a time and
ensure we get it right.</p>
<p>"It has been a complex project, we have had to identify and
implement the necessary technology to get where we are today but we
are confident this trial will be a milestone in the journey to a
successful Smartcard."</p>
<p>"</p>
A prototype equivalent of London’s Oyster card for the West Midlands begins trials in Solihull.
17213
CENTRO13.jpg
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0
12
0
HS2 'must be built' say key Midland figures
2012-01-06T00:00:00
2012-01-06T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>HS2 must be built to bring jobs, investment and better transport
to the West Midlands, regional leaders urged today (Friday).</p>
<p>Key figures from Go-HS2, including Birmingham City Council,
Centro, Birmingham Chamber, NEC Group, Birmingham Airport and
Marketing Birmingham, re-emphasised the importance of high speed
rail to the regional economy.</p>
<p>Their call for HS2 to be built came as speculation mounted
elsewhere that Transport Secretary Justine Greening would announce
her decision on the £17bn project next week.</p>
<p>The decision follows a five-month public consultation which
concluded in July 2011.</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council Leader, Councillor Mike Whitby, said:
"High Speed 2 will provide a vital catalyst to job creation�and the
future economic competitiveness of not only Birmingham, but the
wider region and country at large.</p>
<p>"Alongside initiatives such as the New Street Gateway
redevelopment and Enterprise Zone HS2 is perhaps the single most
important project for the region's future and that of the people
who live here."</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, said that building HS2
would address problems with overcrowding on railways.</p>
<p>"HS2 will not only provide fast, direct links between our major
cities, it will also release capacity on our existing lines
allowing us to run more local, regional and freight services.</p>
<p>"Without this we face a worrying, bleak picture where local
services would be squeezed out and more freight pushed onto our
congested roads."</p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, chief executive at Birmingham Chamber of
Commerce, said HS2 would bring 22,000 jobs and £1.5bn per year to
the regional economy.</p>
<p>"HS2 is vital to the economy of the West Midlands and that of
the UK.� The West Coast Mainline will reach capacity by the early
2020s and without HS2 the economy will stagnate.�If we want jobs
and growth we need HS2."</p>
<p>Neil Rami, head of Business Birmingham, the city's inward
investment programme operated by Marketing Birmingham, said:</p>
<p>"HS2 will provide Birmingham with a competitive edge in
attracting inward investment. Its central UK location and transport
links are already key elements of the city's offer to investors,
and HS2 will strengthen this further by providing faster and more
reliable connections across the UK and into markets across
Europe."</p>
<p>Paul Thandi, CEO of the NEC Group, said: "The NEC site alone,
which is also home to the LG Arena as well as the National
Exhibition Centre, attracts more than three million visitors each
year - 70 per cent of which are from outside the West Midlands, and
10 per cent outside the UK.</p>
<p>"We create 25,000 jobs and generate £1.8billion economic impact
� so with time being one of the most precious commodities, if it's
easier and faster to get to us, then this is a great advantage �
attracting even more visitors from a broader market and greatly
benefiting the wider regional economy."</p>
<p>John Morris Head of Government and Industry Affairs, Birmingham
Airport said, "Birmingham Airport is a strategic national asset
which, with emerging Government thinking, can easily form part of
the solution to over-heated Airport capacity in the south-east.
�There's enough spare capacity at Birmingham to take another nine
million passengers tomorrow - and another 21 million passengers in
future years as Birmingham improves its capability with a modest
runway extension.</p>
<p>"High-Speed 2, would bring Birmingham within 38 minutes of the
capital � or position it in 'Zone 4' of the Underground map,
negating the need for further expansion elsewhere and ensuring that
opportunities and jobs are created across the UK, not just in the
south-east."</p>
<p>"</p>
"HS2 must be built to bring jobs, investment and better transport, regional leaders urge."
17213
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<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias="NewsArticles" />
2013 Press Releases
12
0
Consultation starts on Blackheath traffic plan
2013-11-13T00:00:00
2013-11-13T00:00:00
1208
<p>People are urged to have their say on new proposals aimed at
reducing traffic jams and improving the reliability of buses in
Blackheath town centre.</p>
<p>Sandwell Council and Centro are working together on the plan to
make the town a more attractive place to visit and shop.</p>
<p>They have drafted proposals that would help them bid for
Government money to make the scheme happen.</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions will be held over the coming weeks for
people to look at the plans, ask any questions and fill in a
questionnaire.</p>
<p>People can also look at the plans and give their views
online.</p>
<p>The deadline for comments is Friday 6 December 2013.</p>
<p>Under the proposals, road layouts and bus stops locations would
be changed. The aim is to improve bus services, reduce congestion,
provide extra loading bay space for businesses in the Market Place
area, develop a new pedestrian area and improve access for
cyclists.</p>
<p>Public exhibitions will be as follows:</p>
<p>Wednesday 20 November 2013, 4pm to 7pm, Blackheath Central
Methodist Church, High Street</p>
<p>Saturday 23 November 2013, 3pm to 7pm, Blackheath town centre at
Christmas lights switch-on event</p>
<p>Friday 29 November 2013, 9am to 4pm, Blackheath Market, Long
Lane</p>
<p>Saturday 30 November 2013, 10am to 2pm, Sainsbury's, Halesowen
Street, Blackheath</p>
<p>Cllrr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "These plans will help improve bus
reliability and ease congestion heading into Blackheath town centre
but we want to hear people's views to make sure that what we are
proposing meets the needs of the travelling public.</p>
<p>"The West Midlands loses more than £2.3 billion each year as a
result of road congestion and easing this problem to make it easier
for people to get in and out of key areas like town centres can
play a central role in supporting our economy."</p>
<p>Councillor Ian Jones, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for jobs
and economy, said: ""These are exciting proposals to help make
Blackheath a more attractive place to visit and shop, benefiting
shoppers, local businesses and all road users.</p>
<p>"We want to hear what local people think of the proposals, so we
can consider all views and have an agreed plan which we can use to
bid for funding."</p>
<p>Council Cabinet members will be asked to agree proposals in the
spring once people's views on the scheme have been considered and
any changes made. Then, the council and Centro can use the plan to
bid for funding from the Government.</p>
Scheme aimed at reducing traffic jams and improving reliability of buses
19802
Articlethumb.png
Articlethumb.png
0
12
0
Anti-social behaviour targeted by transport policing plan
2013-11-12T00:00:00
2013-11-12T00:00:00
"(l-r) West Midlands Police Commissioner Bob Jones, Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and Liz France of the British Transport Police Authority launch the region’s new Local Transport Policing Plan"
<p>A three year plan to combat crime and anti-social behaviour on
the region's public transport system was formally launched today
(Tuesday November 12).</p>
<p>The Local Transport Policing Plan, which will involve an
increase in uniformed officers on buses, trains and trams, was
launched in Birmingham by Bob Jones, the West Midlands Police
Commissioner and Cllr John McNicholas, chairman of transport
authority Centro.</p>
<p>The plan, a joint initiative between the Commissioner, Centro
and the British Transport Police Authority, will also involve
asking the Government to give Centro direct powers to tackle
loutish behaviour.</p>
<p>Actions contained in the plan will be channelled through the
existing Safer Travel Partnership a taskforce dedicated to
combating and deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on the
transport network.</p>
<p>The Partnership, which includes West Midlands Police, British
Transport Police, Centro, bus company National Express West
Midlands and train operator London Midland, has already helped cut
crime on the network by more than 67 per cent over the last six
years.</p>
<p>In unveiling the plan at the city's Hippodrome Theatre,
Commissioner Jones and Cllr McNicholas said dealing with
anti-social behaviour would be their key priority.</p>
<p>Commissioner Jones said: "Our unique Safer Travel team now has
the support of the first ever safer travel plan.</p>
<p>"The wider community, as well as the key stakeholders working in
partnership, have been able to determine the priorities that will
help deliver improvements in the coming period.</p>
<p>"Ensuring the safety of public transport is a win-win. The safer
people feel, the more we can encourage greater use of public
transport, which both itself deters crime and ensures that our
public transport services remain sustainable. This in turn supports
economic growth and employment."</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas added: "The Safer Travel Partnership has been
very effective in cutting crime and we will continue to build on
that success.</p>
<p>"But we will also increasingly focus on anti-social behaviour.
For some passengers such behaviour is simply annoying but for
others it can lead an unfounded fear of crime.</p>
<p>"We need to create an environment in which all passengers feel
safe and in doing so we will encourage more people on to public
transport."</p>
<p>Liz France, of the British Transport Police Authority, said: "I
have been very impressed with this piece of genuine partnership
working which demonstrates how, through the determination of the
parties involved, it is possible to work effectively across
boundaries for the benefit of passengers.</p>
<p>"I am also pleased that the plan supports BTPA's ambitions to
reduce crime and disruption, increase confidence and deliver value,
as set out in our recently published strategy."</p>
<p>Latest figures show an 11 per cent increase in passenger
satisfaction with safety on the West Midlands transport network but
17 per cent of passengers still say they feel uncomfortable because
of the anti-social behaviour of others.</p>
<p>Action set out in the policing plan to tackle crime and nuisance
behaviour includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>Increasing the use of CCTV and other technology</li>
<li>Increasing the presence of uniformed officers on the network to
enhance the feeling of safety amongst passengers</li>
<li>Expanding the use of Special Constables within the Safer Travel
Police Team</li>
<li>Providing greater support for crime victims</li>
<li>Educating young people about appropriate behaviour on public
transport</li>
<li>Using expert analysis of graffiti and bus window etching to
identify culprits</li>
</ul>
<p>Another key element includes asking the Government to give
Centro the same powers to tackle anti-social behaviour enjoyed by
Transport for London.</p>
<p>These include being able to impose anti-social behaviour orders
directly, allowing a swift response to be taken on behalf of
passengers.</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands said: "Our Safer Travel Partnership has reduced on-board
crime by 65 per cent over the last five years, with incidents of
crime now extremely rare on the bus network.�</p>
<p>"However, we know there is more to do, especially when it comes
to nuisance behaviour such as playing loud music and putting feet
on seats and that is what our new agreement will tackle."</p>
<p>Patrick Verwer, managing director of London Midland, added: "By
tackling nuisance and clamping down on anti-social behaviour, we
are much more likely to achieve our goal of delivering quality
journeys for everyone.</p>
<p>"The actions of a small minority can succeed in causing major
disruption on the transport network but through effective
partnership working, we can put a stop to it and will make a
difference."</p>
<p>The policing plan will also continue to give passengers the
opportunity to play their part by anonymously sending details of
any incidents through the existing See Something Say Something
service.</p>
<p>The information sent helps police pinpoint nuisance behaviour
hotspots and take appropriate action including undercover
operations.</p>
<p>Passengers can say something by texting 'bus', 'metro' or 'rail'
followed by a space and then details of the incident including
time, date, location and route number to 83010.�</p>
<p>Information can also be given through the new See Something Say
Something smart phone app available from iTunes for Apple devices
and from Google Play for android.�</p>
<p>Passengers can alternatively log on to the <a
href="/">www.safertravel.info</a> website or phone British
Transport Police on Freefone 0800 405040 to give details.�</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency, always dial
999.</p>
<p>"</p>
Three year plan launched to tackle crime and nuisance on region's buses, trains and trams
19783
LocalTransportPolicingPlan001.JPG
0
12
0
New consultation launched over Midland Metro extension in Wolverhampton
2013-11-12T00:00:00
2013-11-12T00:00:00
<p>The public are being asked for their views on proposed changes
to the route of the Midland Metro extension in Wolverhampton which
would save a listed building from demolition.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, wants to know what
people think of a revised route that would save the Grade II listed
old Steam Mill off Corn Hill from the bulldozers.</p>
<p>The changes were made following feedback received from the
public after the launch of the original consultation in May.</p>
<p>Wolverhampton councillor Cllr Judith Rowley, who sits on Centro,
said: "Some respondents expressed concerns that our proposals
involved the demolition of the Steam Mill building.</p>
<p>"To address those concerns we have identified a possible
solution which will still see a partial demolition of the site but
allow us to save the original part of the mill.</p>
<p>"However we still need people to let us know what their views
are on this important scheme and I would urge them to contact us
and tell us what they think."</p>
<p>Under the revised route plans for the Metro in Pipers Row and
Railway Drive will remain unchanged, providing an interchange with
the bus station and railway station.</p>
<p>However the twin track and side platform arrangement previously
proposed at the railway station stop will be replaced by a section
of single track and platform located to the north of the old mill
and closer to the station.</p>
<p>As well as avoiding the need to demolish the steam mill it will
also allow a vehicle drop-off and short stay parking area to be
provided for the railway station, which will be accessed from Corn
Hill.</p>
<p>Exhibitions outlining the new route and giving people the chance
to express their views are to be held in the city.</p>
<p>They will be on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday 14th November, Wolverhampton bus station, 11
am-6pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 19th November, Wolverhampton railway station, 1pm-
7pm</li>
<li>Thursday 21st November, Wolverhampton bus station,
7.30am-3pm</li>
<li>Saturday 23rd November, Queen Square, 9am-3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 26th November, Wolverhampton railway station,
1pm-7pm</li>
</ul>
<p>Views can also be expressed by email to metro@centro.org.uk, via
the Centro website at www.centro.org.uk/metro, calling the Centro
Customer Contact Centre on 0121 214 7214, or writing to Metro
Consultation, Centro, 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham, B19 3SD. The
consultation ends on December 9.</p>
<p>The proposed extension of Metro has been drawn up by Centro in
partnership with Wolverhampton City Council and Neptune
Developments.</p>
<p>It would not only improve passenger connections between bus,
train and tram services, but also support the planned redevelopment
of land next to the rail station which is expected to see £100
million of investment and 1,400 new jobs.</p>
<p>The extension would run along Piper's Row with a stop directly
outside the bus station before terminating at the rail station.</p>
<p>It would open up areas for regeneration and serve as a platform
for future tram routes to New Cross Hospital and the Wednesfield
area.</p>
<p>It would also provide improved Metro links to the wider West
Midlands including a route through to the proposed high speed rail
station and the Broad Street area in Birmingham city centre.</p>
Views wanted on proposed changes to the route of the extension in Wolverhampton city centre.
19784
0
12
0
Views sought on landmark cycling vision
2013-11-11T00:00:00
2013-11-11T00:00:00
<p>Transport bosses are asking the public for their views on
landmark new plans which outline a vision for the future of cycling
across the region.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has worked with the
West Midlands' seven local authorities to draw up its draft Cycle
Charter which will serve as a blueprint for getting more people to
travel on two wheels over the next two decades.</p>
<p>The Charter targets boosting the number of cycle trips from one
per cent of all journeys to five per cent over the next ten years,
then doubling that figure in the following ten years.</p>
<p>A significant increase in investment and high profile leadership
are among the other key developments to form part of the action
plan.</p>
<p>The document also calls for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Creating a coherent cycle network across the West
Midlands.</li>
<li>Better integration of cycling with public transport.</li>
<li>Promoting an extension of 20mph zones in urban areas.</li>
<li>Affordable cycle training for all adults and children.</li>
<li>Further funding to improve cycle infrastructure.</li>
<li>Cross-party political support for cycling.</li>
<li>The appointment of a high profile local cycling champion.</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro is asking the public to submit their views on the 14
point plan which has been backed by each of the region's
councils.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "We already know that 80 per cent
of journeys under five miles in our region are made by car, but
these are distances that can be quickly and easily cycled.</p>
<p>"To get more people on to two wheels we have to make sure that
there is a clear and consistent commitment to improving cycling
infrastructure and ensuring that cycling is considered at the heart
of all future developments across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"Having leaders who are passionate about cycling, from those in
the local community right up to political leaders, has had a major
impact on cycling levels in other regions and we want to make sure
those figures are also in place here.</p>
<p>"Working with all seven local authorities has allowed us to make
plans which will benefit the region as a whole and we want to hear
people's views to make sure the Charter is in line with the needs
of the public."</p>
<p>Currently around 25 pence per head of the West Midlands
population is invested in improving cycling facilities but the
Charter wants to see that figure rise to between £10 and £20.</p>
<p>Centro and the region's councils have already made progress
towards this target with investment in new cycle schemes, including
those funded as part of the wider £50 million Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project.</p>
<p>The project has seen improvements to existing cycle routes in
Birmingham and the Black Country as well as work to develop
extensive new networks in Solihull and Coventry.</p>
<p>Free adult cycle training is also available for residents along
the ten Smart Network, Smarter Choices routes.</p>
<p>Views on the charter must be submitted by December 20.</p>
<p>For more information and to give feedback on the Charter visit:
<a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/Cycling/CycleCharter.aspx</a></p>
Transport bosses are asking the public for their views on landmark plans which outline a vision for the future of cycling in the West Midlands.
14608
0
12
0
First tracks laid for Midland Metro extension
2013-11-05T00:00:00
2013-11-05T00:00:00
"Cllr Roger Horton, left, and Steve Davies, Balfour Beatty managing director for the West Midlands apply the finishing touches to the first stretch of rail for the Midland Metro extension."
<p>The £127 million extension of the Midland Metro in Birmingham
has reached another major milestone.</p>
<p><span>The first of the tracks that will take trams through the
streets of the city centre from Snow Hill station to New Street
station were laid at Colmore Gate in Bull Street.</span></p>
<p><span>The cost of the project includes the new £40 million Urbos
3 tram fleet that will run on the Metro between Birmingham and
Wolverhampton, the first of which arrived from Spain last
month.</span></p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "Trams are
very much a transport mode of the future and this is a significant
and symbolic moment for the Metro extension.</p>
<p>"In the year that sees the 60<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the
last tram running in Birmingham we are seeing the first tracks go
in for a new 21<sup>st</sup> century system.</p>
<p>"These first tracks are another sign of the progress the scheme
is making and people can see that the return of trams, with all the
economic benefits they will bring, is that much closer."</p>
<p>Construction giants Balfour Beatty are building the extension,
scheduled to open in 2015.</p>
<p>It will run from Snow Hill through Bull Street, Corporation
Street and Stephenson Street, terminating outside New Street
station.</p>
<p>Once complete the project will see:<span><br />
</span></p>
<ul>
<li>4,000 cubic metres (around 8,000 tonnes) of concrete used on
the scheme</li>
<li>A total track length of 1.5km, the weight of which is 55kg per
metre</li>
<li>3,000 sleepers installed, each sleeper weighing 100kg.</li>
</ul>
<p><span>John Daft, Balfour Beatty project director, said: "We are
delighted to be celebrating the achievement of this significant
milestone with Centro and Birmingham City Council.</span></p>
<p>"Despite the complexity of the construction works and the highly
confined space we have to operate in, the works are progressing at
an excellent pace.</p>
<p><span>"We are especially thankful to neighbouring businesses and
residents for their continued patience and cooperation during
construction."</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p>The extension from Snow Hill to New Street is expected to create
more than 1,300 new jobs and boost the West Midlands economy by
more than £50 million a year.</p>
<p><span>Consultation has already taken place on Centro proposals
to extend the Metro from New Street Station through Paradise Circus
and up to Centenary Square to help improve transport links and
support economic regeneration taking place in the area.</span></p>
<p><span>More than 90% of people responding to the consultation
were supportive of the further extension which has since received
funding primarily through the Enterprise Zone.</span></p>
<p><span>There are also plans to extend Metro in Wolverhampton city
centre, with an extension along Piper's Row and a stop directly
outside the bus station before terminating at the rail
station.</span></p>
<p><span>The funding package for this extension is being discussed
by Centro and partners Wolverhampton City Council, Neptune
Developments, Network Rail and Virgin Trains as part of the
Interchange Phase 2 project.</span></p>
<p><span>The new fleet of trams, being built by Spanish
manufacturer CAF, will start running in 2014, bringing major
benefits to passengers by substantially increasing capacity and
allowing an increase in frequency of service to every six minutes
throughout the day.</span></p>
<p>Work is also underway on a major extension of the Metro
maintenance depot at Wednesbury to allow for the new larger fleet
of trams.</p>
The £127 million extension of the Midland Metro in Birmingham reaches another major milestone.
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Would-be offenders warned of undercover police patrols
2013-11-04T00:00:00
2013-11-04T00:00:00
<p>People who misbehave or commit offences on the region's public
transport run the risk of being apprehended by undercover officers,
a new campaign warns today (Monday Nov 4).</p>
<p>Hundreds of posters carrying the message '<em>Can you see me
because I can see you'</em> are going up on buses and trains across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The campaign is aimed at raising awareness of the scores of
undercover operations carried out each year by plain clothes
officers from the Safer Travel Partnership.</p>
<p>Although crime is low on the network, the campaign sets out to
deter would-be offenders and in particular those intent on
committing antisocial behaviour.</p>
<p>Acting Sergeant Ben Westwood from the Safer Travel police team
said "Deploying officers in plain clothes is a great way of seeing
the behaviours of people we normally miss when in uniform.</p>
<p>"This tactic is a really good way of targeting crime and
antisocial behaviour on the public transport network and when we
need to act or intervene it always has a positive reaction from
other passengers on board. It is one of those tactics that does
help to make people feel safer."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership, which involves West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police, bus company National Express,
transport authority Centro and train operator London Midland, was
set up seven years ago to combat and deter crime on the
network.</p>
<p>It uses a range of tactics including high visibility police
patrols, special transmitters which 'tap' into live bus CCTV
systems, the deployment of drugs sniffer dogs to check passengers
and surveillance at crime hot spots.<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p>However, many passengers are unaware undercover officers from
the Safer Travel police team regularly ride the network posing as
ordinary passengers.</p>
<p>Vice chair of Centro, Cllr Kath Hartley, said: "Just because you
can't see a uniformed officer on board doesn't mean the police are
not watching you.</p>
<p>"We hope that reminding people about our undercover operations
will make them think twice about acting inappropriately or
committing an offence.</p>
<p>"Passengers often tell us it is antisocial behaviour that really
annoys them. It can also lead to an unfounded fear of crime and
that's why we are determined to crack down on it."</p>
<p>The work of the Safer Travel Partnership has helped cut crime on
the network by more than 49 per cent over the last five years.</p>
<p>However, anti-social behaviour remains an issue and the
Partnership has urged passengers to play their part by anonymously
sending details of any incidents through the See Something Say
Something service.</p>
<p>The information sent helps police pinpoint nuisance behaviour
hotspots and take appropriate action including undercover
operations.</p>
<p>Passengers can say something by texting 'bus', 'metro' or 'rail'
followed by a space and then details of the incident including
time, date, location and route number to 83010.</p>
<p>Information can also be given through the new See Something Say
Something smart phone app available from iTunes for Apple devices
and from Google Play for android.</p>
<p>Passengers can also log on to the <a
href="/">www.safertravel.info</a> website or phone British
Transport Police on Freefone 0800 405040 to give details.</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency, always dial
999.</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands, added: "Instances of crime on our buses are very rare.
However, nuisance behaviour of any kind, including feet on seats
and playing your music too loud, is unacceptable to us and other
passengers, which is why we have asked the police to help us clamp
down on this kind of action."</p>
<p>Meanwhile Safer Travel officers have also been focusing on the
traditional spike in antisocial behaviour often seen around
Halloween and Bonfire night.</p>
<p>Officers from British Transport Police and West Midlands Police
have been mounting high visibility patrols at antisocial behaviour
hotspots.</p>
<p>The patrols kicked off last week to coincide with the nationwide
'Antisocial Behaviour in Focus Week' organised by the Association
of Chief Police Officers.</p>
New campaign highlights work of plain clothes officers on buses, trains and trams
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More security cameras for rail stations
2013-10-31T00:00:00
2013-10-31T00:00:00
<p>Rail passengers are set to benefit from a £700,000 expansion in
crime-busting CCTV cameras at train stations across the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>More than 24 stations will be upgraded with the latest high
definition cameras beaming pin sharp images to a round-the-clock
monitoring centre.</p>
<p>The CCTV improvement package follows discussions between Cllr
John McNicholas, chairman of transport authority Centro, Patrick
Verwer, managing director of London Midland and Cllr Roger Horton,
Centro's lead member for rail, to determine what sort of extra
investment would best benefit local passengers.</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "While crime on the local rail network is
low we felt that installing more CCTV would go a long way in
helping to reduce any fear of crime, especially when station ticket
offices are not open.</p>
<p>"That's why I'm extremely pleased that London Midland also
recognises the benefits of installing more CCTV which reflects what
people using our local rail network have called for in recent
passenger surveys.</p>
<p>"Together with London Midland we will continue to be proactive
on these matters."</p>
<p>Mr Verwer added: "We want our passengers to have reliable and
comfortable journeys on London Midland.</p>
<p>"Part of that comfort is about feeling safe and secure, which is
why we are continuing to work with Centro to make station
improvements including investment in CCTV."</p>
<p>Images from the new CCTV cameras will be monitored 24 hours a
day at the Safer Travel Command Centre in central Birmingham.</p>
<p>The centre is the operational base for nearly 80 police officers
and staff from the Safer Travel Partnership - a taskforce dedicated
to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour on the region's
transport network.</p>
<p>The CCTV expansion will also build on the hard work already
undertaken by Centro and London Midland in improving passenger
security and the perception of safety at local rail stations.</p>
<p>The two organisations were runners up in the Safety and Security
Excellence category at this year's Rail Business Awards for their
various initiatives.</p>
<p>These include the use of the See Something Say Something
campaign on the local rail network which gives passengers the
ability to anonymously report incidents of anti-social behaviour
via, text, email or smartphone app.</p>
<p>More than 44 stations in the West Midlands have also been
independently awarded Secure Station accreditation which recognises
those operators who successfully reduce crime and anti-social
behaviour to provide a safe environment for passengers.</p>
<p>The CCTV expansion will initially see cameras installed at:</p>
<p>Walsall</p>
<p>Sandwell and Dudley</p>
<p>Tipton</p>
<p>Five Ways</p>
<p>Selly Oak</p>
<p>Kings Norton</p>
<p>Northfield</p>
<p>Rowley Regis</p>
<p>Cradley Heath</p>
<p>Marston Green</p>
<p>Acocks Green</p>
<p>Snow Hill</p>
<p>Bescot Stadium</p>
<p>Chester Road</p>
<p>Sutton Coldfield</p>
<p>Four Oaks</p>
<p>Blake Street</p>
<p>Dudley Port</p>
<p>Coseley</p>
<p>Langley Green</p>
<p>Stetchford</p>
<p>Tame Bridge Parkway</p>
<p>Perry Barr</p>
<p>Witton</p>
<p>A further six stations may also be in line for cameras depending
on the final cost of installation at the stations named above.</p>
<p>The package will also see London Midland introduce the concept
of 'meeting points' at stations where passengers with mobility
problems who have booked assistance are met by London Midland staff
who then help them board the train.</p>
"Rail passengers are set to benefit from a £700,000 expansion in crime-busting CCTV"
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West Midlands set for major economic boost, Government report shows
2013-10-29T00:00:00
2013-10-29T00:00:00
<p>The HS2 high speed rail line will deliver more than £2 of
benefits for every £1 spent while offering massive economic
benefits for the West Midlands, a new Government report revealed
today (Oct 29).</p>
<p>Commenting on the Department for Transport's 'Strategic Case for
HS2', Geoff Inskip, chief executive of transport authority Centro,
said it not only showed high speed rail to be good value for money
but also its ability to provide badly needed capacity for Britain's
creaking rail network.</p>
<p>The strategic case shows a revised benefit to cost ratio for HS2
of 2.3. It highlights how alternative 'patch and mend' options to
the existing network would cost billions and inflict years of
disruption on passengers yet only deliver a fraction of the
capacity of HS2.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said: "Today's report shows how important it is to
press on and build HS2 to deliver jobs and investment and to
address soaring demand for rail travel in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"We have a tremendous opportunity to take advantage of our
location at the heart of the network, delivering fast direct
services from the West Midlands to the UK's major cities and
Europe, as well as increasing local, regional and freight
services."</p>
<p>Today's publication of the strategic case for HS2
highlights:</p>
<ul>
<li>A Birmingham city centre station integrated with both Moor
Street and New Street stations.</li>
<li>A Birmingham Interchange station next to the airport/NEC
connecting towns across the West Midlands to other
destinations.</li>
<li>Birmingham to Paris in three and a half hours.</li>
<li>Faster services to Scotland/North-West England, Yorkshire and
the North East</li>
<li>More capacity for commuter services on the Coventry -
Birmingham route.</li>
<li>More capacity for Coventry - London passengers</li>
<li>More Nuneaton - London fast services</li>
<li>Capacity to introduce Kenilworth services</li>
</ul>
<p>The Government's strategic case comes just days after West
Midlands transport chiefs approved a £2 billion package of local
rail, tram and rapid transit schemes designed to get the most out
of HS2.</p>
<p>Centro research has concluded that the Local Connectivity
Package would double the economic benefits of HS2 for the West
Midlands securing, 51,000 jobs and a £4.1bn a year boost to the
local economy.</p>
<p>The package, which was ratified by the region's new Integrated
Transport Authority Shadow Board last week, includes extensions to
the Midland Metro tram system in Birmingham and the Black Country,
new and upgraded rail stations, opening up rail freight lines to
passenger services and the electrification of other key rail
routes.</p>
<p>In approving the package, spokesman for the Shadow Board and
leader of Wolverhampton City Council, Cllr Roger Lawrence, said;
"With the right local transport connections we can double the
benefits of HS2, benefitting people right across the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"We have already secured more than £320 million towards the
package and that's a great start. We will now continue to work
closely with the region's Local Enterprise Partnerships and Network
Rail amongst others to deliver the rest of the package."</p>
<p>Phase One of HS2, connecting London with Birmingham, is
scheduled for completion by 2026 and will tackle demand and
congestion on the southern section of the West Coast Main Line the
busiest railway in Europe.</p>
<p>Phase Two will see the new line split into a Y shaped network
north of Birmingham linking the West Midlands with Manchester in
the North West and Leeds in the North East. That is scheduled for
completion in 2033.</p>
<p>HS2 will cut journey times between Birmingham and Manchester
from around 90 minutes to 41 minutes and a typical journey from
Birmingham to Leeds of around two hours will be halved to 57
minutes.</p>
High speed rail line can bring £2 of benefits for every £1 spent
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Consultation on bus services in southern Birmingham and Solihull
2013-10-29T00:00:00
2013-10-29T00:00:00
9369
The consultation is in partnership with Birmingham and Solihull councils and bus operators.
<p><span>Residents in southern Birmingham and Solihull are being
urged to give their views on bus services.</span></p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, and all bus operators
are working with Birmingham City Council and Solihull Metropolitan
Borough Council to fine-tune the network to deliver the best
possible service for customers.</p>
<p>The consultation is for all bus users but specific changes are
being proposed to the 2, 3, 5, 8A, 8C, 29, 29A, 31, 31A, 49, 58,
59, 60, 73, 98, and the X64 services but Centro is keen to hear
people's views on all aspects of public transport in the two areas
as well.</p>
<p>The consultation has seen the establishment of two partnerships
Southern Birmingham and Solihull between Centro, bus operators, the
respective local authorities and key stakeholders such as employers
and hospitals.</p>
<p>They will work to bring improved buses, waiting facilities and
information over the next three years, and work with local
authorities to improve the reliability of buses.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "We know that
reliable, punctual services are of the utmost importance to
passengers and we have been working with bus operators on ideas
about how reliability could be improved.</p>
<p>"Some of the changes being considered could mean some customers
have to change buses instead of having a direct one as they do now,
which we know isn't ideal but which would mean everyone getting
more reliable services overall.</p>
<p>"No final decisions have been made on any of the changes yet
because we want to hear the views of people first, and I would urge
everyone affected to give us their views."</p>
<p>There will be two public exhibitions where people can give their
views:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 2<sup>nd</sup> November, 9am to 3pm High Street,
Birmingham city centre.</li>
<li>Tuesday 12<sup>th</sup> November, 12pm-6pm, by Marks and
Spencer, Solihull town centre.</li>
</ul>
<p>Questionnaires are also available. These will be handed out with
a pre-paid envelope on the bus services or can be completed online
at <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p>
<p>Views can also be sent via email to <a
href="/">consultationviews@centro.org.uk</a></p>
<p>The consultation ends Friday November 15.</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "Key in all this is the contribution of
the public. I would urge everyone in south Birmingham and Solihull
to take part in the consultation and tell us what they think."</p>
Residents in southern Birmingham and Solihull are being urged to give their views on bus services.
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Coventry families urged to get smart on bus fares
2013-10-25T00:00:00
2013-10-25T00:00:00
<p>Coventry families can now save up to £18.50 a month on the cost
of their bus travel by using the city's first ever smartcard
ticket.</p>
<p>Today's (Friday October 25) launch of the electronic Coventry
'n' Bus pass marks the first of a raft of ticketing options to be
made available by transport authority Centro on its new 'Swift'
smartcard.</p>
<p>The monthly pass costs £43.50 by direct debit and can be used on
any bus in the Coventry area regardless of which company runs the
service.</p>
<p>It offers a significant saving over the existing paper-based 'n'
Bus pass which costs up to £62 a month.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas, who officially launched
the new pass at the Coventry Transport Museum, said: "At a time
when many families are struggling to meet the rising cost of living
we hope this new Swift smartcard can offer a little financial help
as well as making bus travel even easier and more convenient.</p>
<p>"The Coventry 'n' Bus product is a great example of how
smartcard technology allows us to offer more flexible, customised
yet cheaper ticketing for passengers. Our priority now is to launch
a range of 'pay as you go' products on Swift as soon as possible
next year."</p>
<p>The new pass is the first commercial product of its type to be
made available on Swift anywhere in the West Midlands and marks a
major step forward in Centro's £14 million smartcard project.</p>
<p>Further ticket options for the Coventry area will come on stream
with Swift next year. These will include one week and four week
passes available on a 'pay as you go' basis, giving passengers even
more choice and financial flexibility.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive, Geoff Inskip, added: "The launch of the
Coventry 'n' Bus option is a real milestone in our roll out of
Swift.</p>
<p>"You only have to look at London's Oyster card to see how
successful smartcard technology can be in encouraging people on to
public transport by making it quicker, easier and, of course,
potentially cheaper to use.</p>
<p>"Once fully rolled out Swift will enable fare paying passengers
to do away with the need for cash all together and instead make
their journey using 21<sup>st</sup> century technology."</p>
<p>Centro's existing paper-based 'n' bus pass covers the whole of
the West Midlands but the smart technology built into the Swift
card means it can be programmed for use only in a designated
area.</p>
<p>That makes the Swift Coventry 'n Bus product ideal for those
passengers who only want to travel by bus in the Coventry area and
save themselves money in the process.</p>
<p>The launch follows the successful installation of smartcard
readers on all of the region's 2,400 buses.</p>
<p>It also follows agreement with Coventry bus operators including
National Express Coventry, Travel de Courcey, Stagecoach and
Johnsons Coach and Bus Travel.</p>
<p>Peter Power, managing director of National Express Coventry
said: "We are committed to delivering more tickets through the
Swift smartcard in partnership with Centro.</p>
<p>"The introduction of Swift should make it even easier for people
across Coventry to use buses to get to and from work, school and
college."</p>
<p>Chris Simes, commercial manager for Stagecoach Midlands, added,
"We are delighted to be involved with the introduction of this
milestone. This facility will be of real benefit to bus users
travelling in and around Coventry and continues to make the bus
more attractive than the car."</p>
<p>Adrian de Courcey, director of Travel de Courcey, said: "The new
Coventry 'n' bus pass on the Swift smartcard is a revolutionary
moment for bus travel in Coventry as the card can be used across
all bus companies and networks within Coventry.</p>
<p>"It is both cost-effective and convenient and we hope it leads
to greater bus use across Coventry."</p>
<p>The Coventry 'n Bus Swift card is available online at
swiftcard.org.uk or networkwestmidlands.com or by phoning Centro on
0845 303 6760 for an application form.</p>
New Swift smartcard offers savings of up to £18 a month
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£2bn transport package to reap maximum economic benefits from HS2
2013-10-24T00:00:00
2013-10-24T00:00:00
<p><span>A £2bn package of rail, tram and rapid transit schemes to
ensure the West Midlands secures the maximum economic benefits
possible from HS2 has been formally agreed.</span></p>
<p>The Local Connectivity Package, which was ratified by the
region's new Integrated Transport Authority Shadow Board, will
enable the West Midlands to more than double the potential benefits
of HS2 by best connecting and feeding into the high speed rail
line.</p>
<p>The package includes extensions to the Midland Metro tram system
in Birmingham and the Black Country, new and upgraded rail
stations, opening up rail freight lines to passenger services and
the electrification of other key rail routes.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Lawrence, spokesman for the ITA Shadow Board which is
made up of the leaders of the seven West Midland councils, said:
"HS2 offers a once in a lifetime opportunity for our region and we
intend to grab it with both hands.</p>
<p>"With the right local transport connections we can secure more
than 51,000 new jobs and boost the West Midlands economy by more
than £4.1bn a year, benefitting people right across our region.</p>
<p>"We have already secured more than £320 million towards this
package so we can press on and build several of the schemes over
the next five years or so.</p>
<p>"That's a great start and we will now continue to work closely
with the region's Local Enterprise Partnerships and Network Rail
amongst others to deliver the rest of the package."</p>
<p>Cllr Lawrence said the £320m already secured would be used
to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Extend the Midland Metro tram from St George's in Wolverhampton
to the city's rail station and from Birmingham New Street to
Centenary Square</li>
<li>Electrify the Walsall to Rugeley and the Coventry to Leamington
Spa rail� lines</li>
<li>Build a� new rail station and provide services at
Kenilworth</li>
<li>Expand park and ride sites at local rail stations</li>
<li>Introduce a tram-style bus rapid transit system called SPRINT
along the Hagley Road</li>
<li>Upgrade the area between New Street and Moor Street Stations to
create a "One Station" environment</li>
<li>Improve cycle links</li>
</ul>
<p><span>The schemes are earmarked to be built between 2015 and
2019.</span></p>
<p>Other schemes in the Local Connectivity Package include capacity
improvements on the Snow Hill lines, the introduction of rail
passenger services on the Camp Hill line in south Birmingham, Metro
tram extensions from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill and through
Birmingham's Eastside district to the city's HS2 station and a
rapid transit link between the HS2 station at the airport/NEC and
Coventry.</p>
<p>Potential funding sources for the schemes include Network Rail's
control period 6, the Single Local Growth Fund, Enterprise Zone,
private sector developers, local and national government and HS2
Ltd.</p>
<p>The schemes would be delivered over a 10-15 year period, the
equivalent of a £167m a year investment in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The Connectivity Package document is available to download at:
<a href="/">http://www.centro.org.uk/rail/HighSpeed2.aspx</a></p>
£2bn of investment on the back of HS2 is agreed for transport schemes in the West Midlands.
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Councillors get on board with NXWM for unique adopt a bus route scheme
2013-10-22T00:00:00
2013-10-22T00:00:00
"Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas, left, and Peter Coates of NXWM with members of the ITA at the launch of the scheme."
<p>Councillors from Centro will be out and about on the West
Midlands bus network in a unique scheme to further improve
services.</p>
<p>All 27 elected members of Centro have 'adopted' a bus route
within the region under the groundbreaking Partnership Plus
agreement signed by Centro and National Express West Midlands
earlier this year.</p>
<p>Members will travel their routes and see for themselves the
problems passengers and bus drivers may encounter that can affect
services, such as traffic pinch-points.</p>
<p>They will also feedback to National Express their experiences on
the journey including driving standards, cleanliness, time keeping,
safety and security.</p>
<p>Centro members already attend relevant <em>Your Public Transport
Matters</em> events regular meetings between Centro, transport
operators and the public across the Midlands - to hear their views
relating to the area in which their route operates.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "This scheme
will give members first-hand involvement in the many issues
relating to the delivery of bus services in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"By adopting a route members have the chance to provide feedback
to National Express West Midlands on all aspects of service
delivery and influence day-to-day operation for the benefit of
passengers.</p>
<p>"Similarly, National Express is keen to have members assist them
in addressing highways and punctuality issues that can have an
adverse effect on service delivery."</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands said: ""Our partnership with Centro is based on further
improving the services our customers use.</p>
<p>"Councillors using key services across the region and telling us
their experiences will help us to build on our improvements and
ensure that our customers' voice remains at the centre of our
partnership."</p>
<p>Partnership Plus was signed by Centro and National Express in
July this year and promises more than £80 million of investment in
the bus network.</p>
<p>It will see a host of initiatives such as the introduction of
smartcards for bus tickets and 300 new buses, including 15
environmentally friendly hybrids, between now and 2015.</p>
<p>Other measures will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Introduction of Sprint, a rapid transport system using road
based, tram-style buses</li>
<li>Ten new gold bus corridors, which will benefit from new buses,
real time information and increased bus priority</li>
<li>350 new bus shelters</li>
</ul>
<p>The scheme will also deliver improved city centre infrastructure
such as bus shelters for Coventry and Wolverhampton.</p>
Councillors on Centro each adopt a bus route in a scheme to further improve the network for passengers.
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First tram of new £40 million fleet unveiled
2013-10-16T00:00:00
2013-10-16T00:00:00
<p>The first of a £40 million fleet of new Midland Metro trams was
officially unveiled today (October 16) after successfully
completing a four day, 1,000 mile journey from Spain.</p>
<p><span><span>Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council
took the wraps off the tram during a ceremony at the newly extended
Midland Metro depot in Wednesbury.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The vehicle is the first of 20 being delivered to
transport authority Centro over the coming months by Spanish
manufacturer CAF.<br />
</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The new trams will go into service on the existing
Metro route between Birmingham and Wolverhampton next year after
undergoing several months of testing followed by a period of driver
training.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>They will also be deployed on the Metro extension
now being constructed through Birmingham which, when completed in
2015, will see trams return to the city's streets for the first
time in more than 60 years.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Sir Albert said: "The delivery of the first tram is
a real milestone because Metro has a key role to play in the
on-going development of our transport network so that it can
underpin economic growth right across the West
Midlands.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>"Work is already underway on the city centre
extension, but we are now planning to take the Metro on further to
Centenary Square as well as extending it through Wolverhampton city
centre to the railway station."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Centro chief executive, Geoff Inskip, added: "The
new trams and the forthcoming extensions mark the start of an
exciting new chapter for the Midland Metro system which together
with improvements to our local heavy rail system can provide the
transport connections we need to regenerate the West Midlands and
secure the maximum economic benefits possible from the forthcoming
HS2 high speed rail line."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Running between Snow Hill Station and a rebuilt New
Street Station, the Birmingham city centre extension will see the
new silver and magenta-coloured trams deliver millions of people a
year straight into the heart of the city's main shopping
district.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The extension is also expected to create more than
1,300 new jobs and boost the West Midlands economy by more than £50
million a year.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "It's
fantastic to see the first of these very high quality trams arrive
from Spain not least because they will bring real benefits for
passengers.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>"Not only will they provide a more comfortable
journey but the extra capacity means we will be able to run a six
minute frequency throughout the day, helping to increase the number
of people we can carry on the system each year."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The arrival of the first tram required a significant
logistical operation over land and sea.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>It was loaded in two separate pieces onto low loader
trucks at CAF's factory in Zaragoza before being taken under police
escort to the Spanish port of Santander.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>From there it was taken by ship to Plymouth where
the trucks were met by a British police escort for their onward
journey to Wednesbury.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The new Urbos 3 tram is a third bigger than the
Metro's existing 16-strong fleet of Ansaldo Trasporti models,
carrying around 200 passengers compared to 156.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>This, together with a frequency of ten trams an
hour, will increase overall capacity by 40 per cent, easing the
overcrowding that sometimes occurs during peak times as a result of
the Metro's popularity.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>CAF won the contract to supply the new trams
following a rigorous tendering process by Centro last
year.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Although there are no tram manufacturers in the UK,
CAF does employ around 50 people in this country at offices in
Coventry, Edinburgh, and Belfast.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The introduction of the new Midland Metro fleet will
be project managed from CAF's Coventry office while a further 10
jobs are being created at the expanded Wednesbury
depot.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The company's trams are used in cities around the
world including Zaragoza, Seville and Belgrade and it is currently
manufacturing models for Houston and Nantes as well as the West
Midlands.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The new, bigger trams have required the Metro's
existing maintenance depot in Potters Lane, Wednesbury to be
remodelled and extended.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The project, which is costing nearly £14 million,
was carried out by Morgan Sindall and involves a 42 metre extension
to the east of the existing maintenance shed along with additional
maintenance berths, four new stabling sidings and a separate
testing and commissioning shed.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Jag Paddam, managing director of infrastructure at
Morgan Sindall, said: 'Morgan Sindall is proud to be associated
with the new Metro extension.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>"This complex project has been undertaken with
minimal disruption to the day-to-day running of the tram service
thanks to a collaborative approach between our project team and the
operations staff at the depot.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>"We hope that passengers enjoy the comfort and
convenience of travelling in the new trams."</span></span></p>
The first of a £40 million fleet of new Midland Metro trams has been officially unveiled after completing a four day, 1,000 mile journey from Spain.
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Young people give views on future of region's transport
2013-10-16T00:00:00
2013-10-16T00:00:00
9369
Rebecca Oakley (l) and Rebecca Sumner (r) of Lyndon School with Cllr Judith Rowley
<p>Nearly 50 young people today attended a special event to help
shape the future of public transport across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, held the Youth
Engagement Event at Birmingham's Aston University for students from
14 of the region's schools and colleges, to find out what the
commuters of tomorrow want from their transport network.</p>
<p>Forty nine young people aged 11-18 took part in the event where
Centro were told the group's vision for how transport will link
into people's lifestyles in 2030.</p>
<p>Those who attended the day have now been invited to apply to
form part of a 20 strong team of advisers whose ideas and
experiences will help shape Centro's work in the future.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Today was all about us having the
chance to sit down and talk to some of the people who will form the
next generation of commuters in our region.</p>
<p>"Their ideas can help make sure the work we are doing at Centro
moves towards giving the public a transport network which meets the
demands of a modern lifestyle.</p>
<p>"This is just the start of us working more closely with school,
college and university students to find out what would improve
their experiences using public transport. Forming our Youth Forum
will make sure we always hear the opinions of some of the younger
people in our region."</p>
<p>Each attendee took part in three workshops aimed at getting
their feedback on the bus, train and tram network and views on how
life might look in the future.</p>
<p>Technology like Centro's Smartphone applications were discussed,
with many of the young people offering points for development and
improvement.</p>
<p>Centro also highlighted its work with schools and colleges to
help make travel easier for teachers and students as part of its
Smart Network, Smarter Choices project.</p>
<p>Nine schools and colleges from across the region were handed
awards for their work towards helping their pupils and staff take
greener forms of travel.</p>
<p>Smart Network, Smarter Choices has seen schools and colleges
along ten West Midlands routes supported with bespoke expert travel
advice and grants to install equipment to help getting to the
facilities by the bus, train, tram, walking or cycling easier.</p>
Nearly 50 young people attended a special event to help shape the future of public transport.
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Councillor joins front line staff at bus station
2013-10-11T00:00:00
2013-10-11T00:00:00
9369
"Centro’s Richard Worrall (centre) meets passengers Pete and Pearl Davis from Newtown, Birmingham during his day working at Walsall bus station"
<p>Centro member and Walsall Councillor, Richard Worrall, went back
to the shop floor this week when he joined staff for a shift at the
town's bus station.</p>
<p>Cllr Worrall, a former chairman of the transport authority,
spent the day working alongside frontline staff at the station as
part of a series of events organised by Centro to mark National
Customer Service Week.</p>
<p>The week, which started on Monday (October 7), aims to raise
public awareness of the crucial role good customer service plays in
business and how getting it right can help underpin economic
growth.</p>
<p>Cllr Worrall said: "It was a real experience joining our staff
at the station and seeing first-hand the hard work they put in each
day on behalf of bus users.</p>
<p>"Providing a first class service to passengers is vital in
encouraging more people to use public transport and travel in a
sustainable way.</p>
<p>"I believe our staff do a marvellous job, despite sometimes
facing challenging circumstances. They are Centro's unsung
heroes."</p>
<p>This is the third year running that Centro has taken part in
National Customer Service Week, an annual event championed by the
Institute of Customer Service.</p>
<p>The week has also seen other senior councillors and directors
joining those Centro staff who deal face-to-face with the public in
Travel Information Centres, bus stations, customer relations
departments and transport survey teams.</p>
Centro Cllr Richard Worrall spends the day helping passengers after joining staff at Walsall bus station
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Chairman goes back to shop floor
2013-10-09T00:00:00
2013-10-09T00:00:00
9369
Moving ahead - Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas directs National Express Coventry driver David Parkes at the city’s Pool Meadow bus station
<p>The chairman of the region's transport authority went back to
the shop floor when he joined frontline staff at Coventry's Pool
Meadow bus station.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas clocked in to join Centro staff in
marshalling some of the 1,100 buses that use Pool Meadow each
day.</p>
<p>He also took the opportunity to talk to passengers during his
shift, one of a series of events organised by Centro to mark
National Customer Service Week.</p>
<p>The week-long campaign, which kicked off on Monday (October 7),
aims to raise public awareness of the crucial role good customer
service plays in business and how getting it right can help
underpin economic growth.</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "Day in day out Centro's staff work hard
to provide passengers with the type of service they expect and
deserve.</p>
<p>"That could be anything from making sure Centro's bus stations
and shelters are clean and safe to providing concise and up-to-date
travel information.</p>
<p>"Working alongside our staff at Pool Meadow has shown me
first-hand how they strive to put the passenger first in everything
they do and I'm certainly proud of their commitment and
dedication."</p>
<p>This is the third year running that Centro has taken part in
National Customer Service Week, an annual event championed by the
Institute of Customer Service.</p>
<p>Other senior councillors and directors are emulating the
chairman by joining those Centro staff who deal face-face with the
public in Travel Information Centres, bus stations, customer
relations departments and transport survey teams.</p>
Centro chairman clocks in to join staff in marshalling some of the 1,100 buses that use Pool Meadow each day.
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Midland firms offered chance to win £10bn worth of HS2 contracts
2013-10-08T00:00:00
2013-10-08T00:00:00
<p>West Midlands businesses can learn how to land more than £10bn
worth of contracts for the HS2 network at a conference in
Birmingham on November 5.</p>
<p>The event has been hailed by Birmingham Chamber chief executive
Jerry Blackett and Centro boss Geoff Inskip as a tremendous
opportunity for industry in the region.</p>
<p>HS2 Ltd's first Supply Chain Conference will be held at the
International Convention Centre on November 5.</p>
<p>Mr Blackett said: "This is a tremendous opportunity for
businesses of all sizes in the West Midlands to learn how they can
bid for contracts for HS2.</p>
<p>"The first conference is taking place in Birmingham and we want
our businesses to take advantage of our place at the heart of the
high speed rail network."</p>
<p>The conference is the first of a series of events which will
seek to inform companies on how to compete for and, if successful,
win work on the largest infrastructure programme in the UK.
Birmingham has been selected as the first city to host the events
due to its central place in the HS2 network.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip, chief executive of regional transport authority
Centro, said research concluded the West Midlands would benefit
more than any other region from building HS2.</p>
<p>"It is essential that our businesses get on board early to
understand the opportunities high speed rail presents for our
regional economy and win those contracts," he said.</p>
<p>Beth West, HS2 Ltd, Commercial Director said: "HS2 is a
multi-billion pound project to build Britain's new high speed rail
network. The supply chain conference offers businesses the chance
to prepare themselves for the opportunities which will be generated
by this exciting project."</p>
<p>HS2 will demand a wide range of skills across a broad range of
areas as it progresses through the different phases of the
programme; from planning and design to manufacture and
construction.</p>
<p>Businesses can register their interest to attend the event at <a
href="/"
target="">http://www.hs2.org.uk/events/supplychainconference</a></p>
Conference tells how region's businesses can land billions of pounds worth of contracts for the project.
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Showcase offers passengers an insight into public transport
2013-10-04T00:00:00
2013-10-04T00:00:00
<p>The public is being offered the chance to find out first-hand
how regional transport authority Centro is working on behalf of
passengers to further improve services.</p>
<p>A number of stalls will be manned by Centro staff at
Wolverhampton Bus Station on Saturday October 12 to provide people
with a unique insight into the authority's wide ranging role.</p>
<p>The Centro Showcase, which is being staged as part of National
Customer Service Week, will offer people the chance to talk to
staff whose jobs include areas such as smartcard ticketing, safety
and security, extensions to the Midland Metro tram system, public
consultation and the improvement of bus services.</p>
<p>The event will run between 10am and 3pm.</p>
<p>Centro's lead member for putting passengers first, Cllr Kath
Hartley, said: "Centro works hard as the passenger's champion to
constantly improve standards in partnership with the private bus,
rail and tram operators.</p>
<p>"But many people probably don't realise just how wide ranging
Centro's work is and the Showcase will give them the chance to find
out for themselves.</p>
<p>"It will give passengers an opportunity to chat face-to-face
with those staff whose goal it is each day is to provide a world
class transport network."</p>
<p>Some of Centro's senior staff and councillors will also be going
back to the shop floor during National Customer Service Week, which
kicks off on Monday (October 7).</p>
<p>They will be working alongside staff in Centro's Travel
Information Centres, bus stations, customer relations department
and its transport survey teams.</p>
<p>This is the third year that Centro has taken part in National
Customer Service Week which is an annual event championed by the
Institute of Customer Service.</p>
<p>The week aims to raise public awareness of the crucial role that
good customer service plays in business and how getting it right
can underpin economic growth.</p>
Public to find out how Centro works on behalf of passengers to further improve services
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Major investment under partnership between Centro and London Midland
2013-09-30T00:00:00
2013-09-30T00:00:00
"London Midland commercial director Richard Brooks, left, Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, and Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, Cllr John McNicholas, left, the chairman of Centro, and London Midland managing director Patrick Verwer"
<p>Rail passengers are in line for more than £10 million of
improvements to stations across the West Midlands thanks to a new
partnership agreement.</p>
<p>Transforming Rail Travel is a deal between Centro, the region's
transport authority, and London Midland to continue a successful
two year arrangement and deliver further enhancements to services
and facilities.</p>
<p>Measures include a pilot smart-ticketing scheme, more CCTV
cameras at stations, more park and ride provision and better ticket
vending machines.</p>
<p>The original partnership agreement was signed in September 2011
and saw the partnership work together to increase customer
satisfaction, grow passenger numbers and encourage a shift from car
to rail.</p>
<p>This covered more than 50 commitments as part of six themes
integrated working on projects such as smartcard technology,
improving connectivity, customer satisfaction, safety and
environment, marketing and promotion and information.</p>
<p>Key successes have proved to be improved passenger information,
provision of new rail services, development of joint priorities for
investment, improvements to local stations and jointly secured
funding for more cycle storage.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "Two years
on the aspirations of the original partnership agreement have been
substantially delivered.</p>
<p>"The time is now right for a new agreement to set out the way
forward for the next two years.</p>
<p>"We are delighted to be signing a new agreement that will see us
work together to continue to create a more user friendly,
accessible railway and contribute to greater standards of personal
mobility."</p>
<p>Patrick Verwer, London Midland managing director, said: "We are
committed to improving services for our passengers and this
agreement between London Midland and Centro demonstrates a shared
aspiration to improve public transport across the West Midlands
region.</p>
<p>"Working together to align rail, bus and Metro services is just
one of the major benefits of having an integrated transport
authority".</p>
<p>Under the new agreement there will be nearly 50 commitments
under eight themes in which Centro and London Midland will
deliver:</p>
<ul>
<li>A smart-ticketing scheme to season ticket holders and
concessionary pass holders on the Snow Hill lines.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A business case to the Government for improvements on the
Centro-funded Chase line, including enhanced electric services, and
enhanced off-peak services between Birmingham and
Stratford-upon-Avon.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Improved station facilities in the West Midlands including
funded park and ride schemes costing a total of £8.5 million at
Longbridge, Yardley Wood, Rowley Regis, Four Oaks, Kings Norton and
Stourbridge Junction railway stations.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Jointly working to promote the proposed redevelopment of
Wolverhampton station.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>London Midland investing £1 million on station improvements
across the West Midland extending CCTV coverage and achieving
Secure Stations Accreditation for local railway stations.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>£1.2 million being spent on installing lifts at Acocks Green
railway station in Birmingham.</li>
</ul>
<p>The agreement will cover the remaining period of London
Midland's franchise to operate local rail services this will
be until September 2015, although this may be extended until 2017
by the Government.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "Rail
travel is increasing since 2001 it has almost doubled.</p>
<p>"This agreement underpins an already very successful working
relationship between Centro and London Midland from which the rail
user will continue to benefit."</p>
Renewed agreement will bring £10 million of improvements to region's railway stations.
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HS2 is our Crossrail transport boss tells Labour Party conference event
2013-09-30T00:00:00
2013-09-30T00:00:00
<p>HS2 is as vital to the West Midlands economy as Crossrail is to
London, Geoff Inskip told an audience at a Labour Party conference
event.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip, chief executive of West Midlands regional transport
authority Centro, said only HS2 could provide the step-change
needed to provide jobs and growth, while meeting growing demand for
rail and delivering international connectivity.</p>
<p>"HS2 is so important to us it's like our Crossrail. We need a
transport system as good as that in London and only HS2 provides
the capacity we need for intercity travel, local and regional rail
services and freight," he said.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip was speaking at 'HS2 in the West Midlands - an
opportunity for growth on a scale of national importance' alongside
Shadow Rail Minister Lilian Greenwood MP at Labour's Brighton
conference (Sept 22).</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said the number of rail journeys made in the West
Midlands had soared by 14 per cent in the last year.</p>
<p>"Commuters know just how crowded many of our existing routes
have become. This problem is not going to go away and HS2 is the
only way to address it."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said investment in the South East did not receive the
same level of scrutiny from opponents.</p>
<p>"While it is right to examine infrastructure schemes thoroughly
we must be fair and consistent and this should not mean that the
regions lose out."</p>
<p>He described suggestions that work should be carried out on the
existing network instead of HS2 as a 'sticking plaster'
approach.</p>
<p>"We've already spent £9bn on upgrading the West Coast Main Line,
but continuing issues with performance and overcrowding have
already proved this isn't a long-term answer."</p>
<p>Centro recently unveiled research revealing HS2 would generate
51,000 jobs and £4.1bn of investment per year in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>KPMG's national research concluded the West Midlands region was
set to benefit most due to its location at the heart of the
network.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said repeated claims that technology and remote
working negated the need for rail travel were a red herring.</p>
<p>"We can clearly demonstrate rail is growing we've seen passenger
numbers double in the last decade in the West Midlands so we could
argue technology is boosting rather than cutting demand for rail
travel," he added.</p>
<p>The event was chaired by Cllr John McNicholas, Centro Chairman,
with speakers including Cllr Roger Lawrence, Chair West Midlands
Joint Committee, John Morris, Public Affairs Director Birmingham
Airport, and Andrew Cleaves of Greater Birmingham and Solihull
LEP.</p>
Geoff Inskip tells audience that HS2 is as vital to the West Midlands as Crossrail is to London.
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European transport chiefs tell conference that green travel can boost economy
2013-09-30T00:00:00
2013-09-30T00:00:00
<p>Transport bosses are taking their lead from the continent in a
bid to help people take green forms of travel like public transport
and cycling.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro hosted the Travelwise/INVOLVE
conference at Birmingham's Colmore Gate to look at cycling models
from the Netherlands, how investment in transport is supporting
European economies and how travel boosted business during the
London 2012 Olympic Games.</p>
<p>Speakers from Italy also showcased plans to create an extensive
new network of cycle routes in Reggio Emilia, a city in the north
of the country.</p>
<p>Business representatives and travel experts from across the
region attended the conference to learn how green travel options
such as the bus, train, tram, walking and cycling can help their
employees travel to and from work.</p>
<p>The conference took place during the week long international
Grow with Public Transport campaign which aims to show how greener
travel choices can support the economy, the environment and
people's quality of life.</p>
<p>Conrad Jones, Centro's head of sustainability, and who chaired
the conference said: "This was a real opportunity for us to look at
how transport is used to support businesses across the
continent.</p>
<p>"Getting people to and from work and making sure we keep goods
moving is vital to underpinning economic growth and supporting some
of the regeneration taking place in our region at the moment, such
as the creation of the i54 centre in Wolverhampton and the new
Library of Birmingham."</p>
<p>"We have already started work on improving cycling
infrastructure in the West Midlands and working with European
counterparts gives us the opportunity to look at how we can build
on that work in the future.</p>
<p>"Congestion is costing our regional economy billions each year
and at Centro we are committed to finding ways to help people
travel while easing this congestion and providing a boost to the
region."</p>
<p>Centro has been working closely with dozens of businesses as
part of its £50 million Smart Network, Smarter Choices project
which aims to cut carbon, boost the regional economy and connect
residents to jobs, education and training.</p>
<p>Firms such as npower, Birmingham Airport and Solihull's
Touchwood shopping centre have already signed up to the project
which aims to help make travel easier for their staff by installing
equipment such as bicycle storage and changing facilities.</p>
<p>Each company will also receive free bespoke travel plans drawn
up for employees to help inform them of the options available to
them if they choose to leave the car behind.</p>
<p>The project was co-financed by the European Regional Development
Fund and made possible by the INTERREG IV C Programme.</p>
Transport bosses are taking their lead from the continent in a bid to help people take green forms of travel like public transport and cycling.
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West Midlands joins international transport campaign
2013-09-16T00:00:00
2013-09-16T00:00:00
<p>The West Midlands has joined some of the world's leading cities
in an international campaign showing how public transport can
support the economy, the environment and people's quality of
life.</p>
<p><span>Centro, the region's transport authority, is taking part
in the week-long 'Grow with Public Transport' campaign alongside 87
others including global cities such as Paris, Rome, London, Moscow
and Rio de Janeiro.</span></p>
<p>The campaign, which kicks off today (Monday September 16), has
been organised by the International Association of Public Transport
(UITP) and covers a number of themes including the vital role
transport plays in underpinning growth and innovation, energy
efficiency and vision.</p>
<p>'Grow with Public Transport', involving more than 31 countries
in five continents, aims to raise awareness of the benefits of good
transport amongst political decision makers and the general
public</p>
<p>A number of countries taking part in the campaign, such as
France, Spain and China have been developing high speed rail
networks over recent years to help bolster the economies of their
major cities.</p>
<p>As part of the 'Grow' campaign, Centro will be talking about the
50,000 jobs and £4 billion a year economic boost for the West
Midlands that can be secured by the HS2 high speed rail line during
a reception at the Labour Party Conference in Brighton this Sunday
(September 22).</p>
<p>The role that sustainable transport such as cycling can play in
cutting congestion and carbon emissions while improving people's
health will also be emphasised by Centro at a national conference
being staged in Birmingham tomorrow.</p>
<p>Centro will tell the Travelwise/Involve Conference about the £50
million Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which includes a
package of public transport, cycling, walking and road improvement
schemes being carried out along ten of the region's key routes.</p>
<p>The three-year project aims to tackle the road congestion
already costing the West Midlands economy more than £2.3 billion a
year while helping to kick start local growth and job creation.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, who is also a vice
president of UITP, said: "A world class transport system is vital
for a city to prosper.</p>
<p>"That's why this international campaign has been launched to
help demonstrate the economic, environmental and quality of life
benefits that good public transport can bring.</p>
<p>"Here in the West Midlands this can be seen in a number of
recent projects such as the new bus stations at Wolverhampton,
Stourbridge and Merry Hill, the new hybrid buses in Coventry and
the extension of the Midland Metro tram system through Birmingham
city centre. All these projects are helping to grow the local
economy and improve the environment.</p>
<p>"But there's no doubt that the HS2 high speed rail line is the
transport project that offers the biggest economic prize of all
with 50,000 new jobs for the West Midlands and a £4 billion a year
economic boost."</p>
<p>The UITP is a global organisation with 3,400 members from some
92 countries, including public transport authorities and operators,
policy decision-makers, scientific institutes and the public
transport supply and service industry.</p>
Region joins other major cities in campaign highlighting the benefits of public transport.
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Changes to bus stops in Coventry city centre
2013-09-06T00:00:00
2013-09-06T00:00:00
<p>Bus users in Coventry have been warned that some bus stops in
the city centre are to be temporarily moved to allow for street
improvements to be made.</p>
<p>Work on the scheme in Trinity Street starts Monday (September 9)
which, when completed, will result in four new stops.</p>
<p>Each will have a shelter with seats and Real Time Information to
inform passengers when the next bus will arrive.</p>
<p>As part of the scheme the carriageway will be completely
reconstructed, the pavement made wider and a pedestrian crossing
installed.</p>
<p>This phase of the work is being carried out jointly by Centro,
the region's transport authority, and Coventry City Council and is
scheduled to last 12 weeks.</p>
<p>It will begin with the dismantling of shelters on Hales Street
and the foot of Trinity Street.</p>
<p>As a result, services currently using Trinity Street will be
relocated to alternate stops nearby.</p>
<p>Bus stops AA, AB and AC in Trinity Street will be closed and two
temporary stops will be introduced - stop DF opposite the Old Fire
Station for service 21 to Wood End, and stop DG on Fairfax Street
opposite the Bus Station for services 2 and 3 to Fenside and 21 to
Willenhall.</p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Centro area manager for Coventry, said: "Once
complete these works will result in Trinity Street becoming a much
more pleasant environment for pedestrians and passengers.</p>
<p>"We apologise in advance for any inconvenience but it will be
short-term."</p>
<p>Councillor Rachel Lancaster, Cabinet Member for Public Services
said, "Our work in Trinity Street will make a real difference for
all road users. Pedestrians will benefit from wider pavements,
disabled drives from parking right in the heart of the city centre
and bus users will benefit from better stops, that are easier to
access.</p>
<p>"We will complete the work in two phases so we are off site on
the run up to Christmas and we will try to get things back to
normal as quickly as we can."</p>
<p>The full list of stops and services for the duration of the work
is now:</p>
<p>Trinity Street:</p>
<p>Stand AD No 48 to Atherstone/Leicester</p>
<p>Stand AE No 20 to Bedworth</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Fairfax Street:</p>
<p>Stand DG No 2 and No 3 to Fenside and No 21 to Willenhall</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ironmonger Row:</p>
<p>Stand CD Park & Ride South, Nos 8, 8A, 9, 9A, 85 and
585, all to Coventry railway station</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hales Street:</p>
<p>Stand DD (outside Transport Museum) No 55 and No 57 to Nuneaton,
X17 to Warwick, No 16, X15 and X18, all to Stratford</p>
<p>Stand DE (existing 13 and 21 stop) - No 13 to Willenhall, No 86
to Rugby, No 21</p>
<p>Stand DF (opposite Old Fire Station) - No 21 to Wood End</p>
<p><strong>Foleshill Road Services 20, 20A, 20E, 48 and X48 will
continue to board at Stands AD and AE on Trinity Street as
normal.<br />
<br />
</strong></p>
<p>For further information go to<a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/ServiceAlterations/RoadworksandEvents/TrinityStreetCoventry.aspx</a></p>
Bus users in Coventry warned that some bus stops in the city centre are to be temporarily moved.
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HS2 will deliver 50,000 jobs to the West Midlands
2013-09-06T00:00:00
2013-09-06T00:00:00
<p>HS2 will deliver 50,000 jobs to the West Midlands and growth of
£4bn per year in the region's economic output, new research has
revealed.</p>
<p>Figures show that the benefits of connecting Birmingham with
London are more than doubled when the West Midlands is also linked
with the East Midlands, North West and Yorkshire via high speed
rail.</p>
<p>The economic research details for the first time the regional
benefits of the full HS2 'Y' route which puts the West Midlands at
the heart of a network connecting eight major cities.</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "This
is about connecting our regions and providing fast, direct links
delivering jobs and economic growth. This is a tremendous
opportunity for our region to build the transport network we need
and secure more than 50,000 jobs."</p>
<p>Sir Albert is a member of the HS2 Growth Taskforce, led by
former London Olympics chief Lord Deighton, which met in Birmingham
for the first time today (Sept 6) to discuss job creation,
regeneration and development around high speed rail with business
leaders.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of regional transport authority
Centro, said: "We've always said HS2 is about driving the West
Midlands economy and this research proves the point."</p>
<p>"We're right at the heart of the network and our challenge is to
make the most of HS2 and deliver these jobs and benefits using
capacity released on our existing lines and developing new rapid
transit links to our high speed stations."</p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, CEO, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce said: "HS2
has the potential to transform the region economically. In the
short-term, the stimulus created by its construction will be an
enormous boost. In the longer-term, the region becomes a much more
viable prospect for potential investment, and we could see a
massive benefit from migration further north."</p>
<p>"The project also tackles a potential capacity crisis in the
coming decades, which, if left alone, could have a debilitating
effect on the business community," he added.</p>
<p>The Office of Rail Regulation reported last month that the West
Midlands has seen an increase in rail passenger journeys of 14 per
cent in the last year.</p>
<p>Coventry and Birmingham are in the top four UK cities for rail
growth.</p>
<p>Phase One of HS2, connecting London with Birmingham, will tackle
demand and congestion on the southern section of the West Coast
Main Line the busiest railway in Europe.</p>
New research has shown HS2 will deliver 50,000 jobs and growth of £4bn per year to the region."
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Views sought on Birmingham tram extension
2013-09-04T00:00:00
2013-09-04T00:00:00
Proposals would see the Midland Metro extended to Centenary Square
<p>Transport bosses are inviting the public and business community
to give their views on £31 million plans to extend the Midland
Metro in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>The proposals from transport authority Centro would see the tram
system travel through Paradise Circus and up to Centenary Square to
help improve transport links and support economic regeneration
taking place in the area.</p>
<p>Work is currently underway to extend the system to connect the
city's two largest railway stations, New Street and Snow Hill, and
beyond to the historic Jewellery Quarter and the Black Country by
2015.</p>
<p>The proposals, drawn up in partnership with Birmingham City
Council, would build on the work taking place to provide further
connections to key venues like the ICC, Symphony Hall and
Birmingham Museum and Art Galleries.</p>
<p>Trams would run from the new stop on Stephenson Street outside
New Street Station, before travelling along Pinfold Street,
Victoria Square, Paradise Street and Broad Street before
terminating at Centenary Square.</p>
<p>New stops would be created at the Town Hall and Centenary
Square.</p>
<p>A public consultation on the proposed extension, including three
exhibitions in Victoria Square, is being staged between now and the
end of September.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail, said: "Work is
already underway to connect the Midland Metro to both New Street
and Snow Hill stations and we want to build on that and further
improve the network in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>"These plans would play a significant role in supporting some of
the major redevelopment work taking place in the city which will
bring about an extra £2 billion for the economy and create up to
40,000 jobs.</p>
<p>"This extension would provide passengers with a stop right at
the heart of some of Birmingham's key destinations like the new
library, the NIA and the ICC.</p>
<p>"We want to hear the thoughts of passengers and businesses and
would urge them to take the time to take part in the consultation
and give us their views."</p>
<p>Centro has already received approval to integrate the system
with the Paradise Circus redevelopment but are proposing to
slightly amend the route to eliminate the need to build a bridge
over the Suffolk Street Queensway tunnels.</p>
<p>Centro aims to submit before the end of this year an application
to the Government for a supplementary Transport and Works Act Order
which would grant the legal powers needed to build and operate the
extension.</p>
<p>If granted, work could start could start in 2015 and be open for
public use in 2017.</p>
<p>Centro staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide
more information at three exhibitions over the coming weeks.</p>
<p>The exhibitions will be held on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday September 5, Victoria Square, 8am - 3pm</li>
<li>Wednesday September 11, Victoria Square, 11am - 6pm</li>
<li>Tuesday September 24, Victoria Square, 11am - 6pm</li>
</ul>
<p>People can take the survey at: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/metro</a></p>
<p>Comments must be received by September 27.</p>
Transport bosses are asking for views on plans to extend the Midland Metro in Birmingham city centre.
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Safer Travel police officers watch over new school starters
2013-09-02T00:00:00
2013-09-02T00:00:00
<p>Graduating to secondary school can be a daunting prospect for
11-year-olds but any of the region's youngsters using public
transport to reach class this week can be reassured that West
Midlands Police is looking out for them.</p>
<p><span>Officers from the force's Safer Travel team will be
accompanying pupils on buses during the first two weeks of term to
ensure they stay safe.</span></p>
<p><span>They will pay particular attention to new secondary school
starters who are making unfamiliar trips and who may not be
accustomed to using busy public transport routes.</span></p>
<p><span>West Midlands Police Constable Ben Westwood from the Safer
Travel Partnership which also includes PCs from British Transport
Police, plus transport authority Centro and National Express said:
"The operation sees police and colleagues from partner agencies
escorting students onto bus routes and at busy public transport
interchanges.</span></p>
<p><span>"The focus is on new Year 7 pupils: they're likely to be a
bit nervous and some may not have used public transport
before.</span></p>
<p><span>"We'll make sure they get to school safely and also give
crime prevention advice like being aware of who's around them and
to keep valuables safe.</span></p>
<p><span>"We've taken giant strides to cut crime on the transport
networks over recent years but there may still be opportunist
thieves hoping to take advantage of anyone flashing gadgets or
phones who are perceived easy targets.</span></p>
<p><span>"Around 50 officers will take part in the operation it's
enjoyed great success for several years now with the general
public, not just school pupils, appreciating an increased police
presence."</span></p>
<p><span>Safer Travel officers will be accompanying students on key
Birmingham bus routes including those using Pershore Road, Bristol
Road, Hagley Road, Coventry Road, Lichfield Road, Stratford Road
and Washwood Heath Road.</span></p>
<p><span>Other services being monitored will be the 49 service, and
number 11 along east Birmingham.</span></p>
<p><span>The Safer Travel Anti-Social Behaviour team will also take
part in assemblies at several schools emphasising personal safety
on buses and encouraging them to be model passengers!</span></p>
<p><span>Safer Travel has helped dramatically cut crime on the
region's bus, train and tram network: crime on buses has fallen
every year since the team was established in 2007 with offending
rates last year (2012-13) around half what they were in
2007-08.</span></p>
<p><span>Over that period incidents of serious violence have fallen
by 53 per cent, criminal damage is down by three-quarters and
thefts are down by 61 per cent.</span></p>
<p><span>It means that there is only one offence committed on West
Midlands public transport in every 147,000 bus rides.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr John McNicholas, chairman of Centro, said: "A safe
and secure public transport network is our priority which is why
Centro helps fund initiatives such as this.</span></p>
<p><span>"It is thanks in part to the work of the Safer Travel
Partnership that crime on our public transport network has fallen
dramatically over the last few years and is now at a low
level.</span></p>
<p><span>"However, we know young people can feel intimidated when
there is anti-social behaviour onboard and we would encourage them
to take advantage of the See Something Say Something text campaign
to gives them the chance to play their part in helping us to stamp
out this sort of annoying behaviour."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr McNicholas said See Something Say Something was
proving successful in providing the Safer Travel Partnership with
the information it needs to pinpoint where nuisance behaviour is
taking place and mount effective police action.</span></p>
<p><span>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their
bus, train Metro journey can say something anonymously by texting
'bus', 'train' or 'metro' followed by a space and then details of
the incident including time, date, location and route number to
83010.</span></p>
<p><span>Alternatively they can give details by logging on
the</span> <span><a href="/"
target="">www.safertravel.info</a></span> <span>website or by
telephoning West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000.</span></p>
<p><span>See Something Say Something is for nuisance behaviour only
and in the event of a crime, passengers should dial 999 as
normal.</span></p>
Year 8 pupils using public transport in their first week at secondary school will have Safer Travel police looking out for them.
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Blind and disabled children benefitting from changes to pass scheme
2013-09-02T00:00:00
2013-09-02T00:00:00
<p>Young people with disability or blindness can now use their free
travel passes to get to school or college in the mornings after key
changes introduced this week.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has simplified its child
concessionary travel scheme to allow passes provided for children
with disabilities to be used from 6am.</p>
<p>Previously the free passes provided by Centro were only valid
between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays and all day at weekends and
bank holidays.</p>
<p>To travel on the bus outside of these hours children would need
to pay for their journeys or be eligible for an additional pass
from their local council.</p>
<p>But the extended hours mean that only one application needs to
be sent to Centro to cover travel all day for blind or disabled
young people, aged five to 18, in full time education.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "We looked at the way
concessionary passes worked for young people with disabilities and
decided that these changes would make the process a lot
simpler.</p>
<p>"Public transport is a vital way of travelling to school or
college for young people and in most cases this means needing to
travel before 9.30 on weekdays.</p>
<p>"By allowing these passes to cover all day travel we can ensure
that those who rely on public transport as a means of getting
around and accessing education facilities are able to do so,
regardless of the time of day."</p>
<p>Current passes will not be compatible with electronic scanning
devices on buses so each disabled pass holder will be given an
add-on ticket which will need to be presented to drivers along with
their pass.</p>
<p>The add-ons have been sent out to coincide with the start of the
2013/14 academic year.</p>
<p>Over the next 12 months each person will receive a new travel
card which can be read by the machines throughout the day and will
replace the old card and add on.</p>
<p>The changes will eliminate the need for councils to provide
additional passes helping to save money for the public purse.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/</a></p>
Young people with disablility or blindness can now use their free travel passes from 6am.
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Groundbreaking bus information system arrives in West Midlands
2013-08-30T00:00:00
2013-08-30T00:00:00
"Cllr Keith Linnecor with the e-paper screen at the bus stop in Halesowen Street, Oldbury."
<p><span>Electronic book-style technology showing bus timetable,
ticket price and real time service information has gone on trial in
the West Midlands in what is thought to be a world
first.</span></p>
<p><span>Transport authority Centro is trialling an information
suite featuring eight state-of-the-art e-paper screens, similar to
those found in gadgets such as the Kindle, at a bus stop in
Halesowen Street, Oldbury.</span></p>
<p><span>If successful, the screens could eventually replace
traditional paper timetables and electronic displays.</span></p>
<p><span>The groundbreaking £50,000 prototype is being claimed by
Birmingham consultants IBI Group as a world first.</span></p>
<p><span>It allows timetable updates to be sent directly from a
control centre to the device without the need to send someone to
the bus stop to replace paper timetables by hand.</span></p>
<p><span>It also has the added benefit of providing 'next bus'
information in the same unit.</span></p>
<p><span>Passengers with NFC (Near Field Communications)-enabled
smartphones can also 'tap' their phone on each of the displays for
more detailed information on the services and the wider public
transport network.</span></p>
<p><span>The NFC tags link automatically to the most appropriate
area of the Network West Midlands passenger information website to
make it even easier for passengers to access information directly
on their phones.</span></p>
<p><span>Gareth Tyler, Intelligent Transport Systems consultant
with IBI Group said: "This is the first implementation of e-paper
technology of this kind in the public transport arena.</span></p>
<p><span>"It opens the door to enhanced information being readily
available to public transport users at bus stops and public places
as well as offering significant cost savings and operational
benefits to transport authorities such as Centro."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Keith Linnecor, Centro's lead member for the
transport network, said: "It's fantastic to see this new technology
being used here before anywhere else in the world. It puts the West
Midlands right at the cutting-edge of passenger
information.</span></p>
<p><span>"Using e-paper removes the cost and environmental impact
of having to physically replace traditional paper timetables and
gives us the chance to quickly provide updates when amendments to
timetables are made.</span></p>
<p><span>"Having the screens function in this way also allows us to
display important messages when needed and for passengers to access
any extra information they might need straight to their
smartphones."</span></p>
<p><span>E-paper is designed to limit glare from sunlight and can
be read from wider angles to make it easier for passengers to read
even in bright conditions.</span></p>
<p><span>The displays only require power when being updated and
once refreshed, can retain information without needing any
additional electricity.</span></p>
<p><span>At 10.2 inches, each display is slightly bigger than the
largest Kindle currently available giving them the capacity to
display more information.</span></p>
<p><span>In the future, the technology could be used to provide key
public messages, including updates on service disruptions and
information on nearby tram and train services.</span></p>
<p><span>As the device consumes so little power, solar-powered
versions could also be used at remote locations.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Linnecor added: "The new system will be�trialled
until December and we would urge passengers to give us their
feedback before we decide on whether to use the technology on a
wider basis."</span></p>
A world first as E-book passenger information technology goes on trial in the West Midlands.
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Bus links improved to Coventry's University Hospital
2013-08-29T00:00:00
2013-08-29T00:00:00
"(L-R) Clive Robinson, sustainable development manager at UHCW NHS Trust, Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and Peter Power, managing director of National Express Coventry, launch the extended 20A service at University Hospital in Coventry"
<p>Residents, staff and patients living in parts of north Coventry
are to get a new bus service to University Hospital from next
week.</p>
<p>Bus company National Express Coventry and transport authority
Centro are extending the route of the existing 20A service
following calls for more public transport links to the
hospital.</p>
<p>The new-look 20A will go into service from this Monday
(September 2) and will run to the hospital every 30 minutes during
the day time (7am to 7pm) Monday to Saturday.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "We have listened
carefully to what people have been asking for and I'm delighted
that together with National Express Coventry we have been able to
respond.</p>
<p>"This new service will benefit not just those heading to the
hospital but also those people travelling to other key
destinations. However, it's important that people now demonstrate
the need for this new service by making good use of it."</p>
<p>Peter Power, managing director National Express Coventry, added:
"We are pleased to have been able to extend the route of the 20A
service as we know local people want reliable and frequent access
to the University Hospital. We hope that customers will take
advantage of the new service and that it will continue to go from
strength to strength."</p>
<p>The new route will see the 20A, which currently runs from
Trinity Street in the city centre to Bell Green every 30 minutes,
continue along Henley Road to the hospital.</p>
<p>The extension will provide families in the Henley Road area with
a direct bus service not only to the hospital but also to Riley
Square at Bell Green and to the Foleshill Road for the Arena Retail
Park.</p>
<p>Meanwhile those in the Foleshill and Windmill Road areas will
also get a direct link to the hospital and to Henley College.</p>
<p>Clive Robinson, sustainable development manager at UHCW NHS
Trust, said: "We're pleased this route has been extended as it will
give a direct link to Foleshill for our staff, patients and their
visitors.</p>
<p>"It is an important addition and is part of our drive to improve
access to University Hospital."</p>
New hospital bus service is just the tonic for north Coventry families
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Metro goes retro in honour of council stalwart Theresa
2013-08-23T00:00:00
2013-08-23T00:00:00
"Theresa Stewart, left, with Cllr John McNicholas, Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, and Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro lead member for fair, accessible and sustainable transport."
<p>As the countdown continues towards the return of trams to the
streets of Birmingham, for one former city mayor it was a case of
back to the future</p>
<p><span>The last trams ran in 1953 but will return to the city
centre in 2015 when an extension to the Midland Metro from Snow
Hill to New Street station is completed.</span></p>
<p><span>To mark the 60</span><sup>th</sup> <span>anniversary of
the final tram bosses at Centro, the region's transport authority
which runs the Midland Metro, decided to repaint Tram No 11 in the
old Birmingham Corporation colours of blue and cream.</span></p>
<p><span>No 11 is named after former Labour Cllr Theresa Stewart,
Birmingham's first female leader who ran the city council between
1993 and 1999 and was Lord Mayor from 2000-2001.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Stewart was also a member of the West Midlands
Passenger Transport Authority and played a leading role in
persuading the John Major government of the early 1990s to give the
go-ahead for the Midland Metro line.</span></p>
<p><span>She was invited to formally launch her re-branded Metro in
a ceremony at Snow Hill station's Midland Metro platform in
Birmingham on August 23, the day before her 83</span><sup>rd</sup>
<span>birthday.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Stewart said: "I am delighted and very flattered to
see the Metro named after me in the old corporation
colours.</span></p>
<p><span>"I remember very well the meetings in parliament and the
campaign to get permission to open the Metro.</span></p>
<p><span>"It is a super system and I think despite the current
disruption the extension works are causing in the centre of
Birmingham at the moment, once the trams start running through its
streets the more people will realise just how good it
is."</span></p>
<p><span>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "I am delighted
that Theresa Stewart has been able to join us.</span></p>
<p><span>"People who remember the trams in their old Birmingham
Corporation colours do so with great affection and
nostalgia.</span></p>
<p><span>"The fact that trams are once again returning to the
streets of the city is a major milestone for public transport in
Birmingham."</span></p>
<p><span><img src="/"/></span></p>
<p><span>Trams first started running in Birmingham in 1872 when the
Birmingham and District Tramways Co. Ltd opened a line from the
Birmingham boundary at Hockley Brook, through Handsworth to West
Bromwich.</span></p>
<p><span>At Carter's Green, the company's depot, it then forked to
serve Hill Top, south of Wednesbury, and west to Dudley
Port.</span></p>
<p><span>The network grew in the years leading up to the First
World War and Birmingham Corporation eventually took full control
of it in 1912.</span></p>
<p><span>At its peak there were 843 trams, 20 depots, 45 main
routes and a total route length of just over 80 miles.</span></p>
<p><span>However trams fell out of favour after World War
Two.</span></p>
<p><span>Buses were seen as more versatile than trams, cheaper to
operate and didn't need expensive infrastructure.</span></p>
<p><span>The last tram ran in Birmingham city centre on July 4,
1953.</span></p>
<p><span>The new £40m Midland Metro fleet is made by CAF of Spain
and will form part of the £128 million Midland Metro extension,
which is due to open in 2015.</span></p>
<p><span>The extension will run from its current terminus at Snow
Hill station through Bull Street and Corporation Street to
Stephenson Street outside the rebuilt New Street
station.</span></p>
Ex-Birmingham councillor Theresa Stewart launches a new-look Midland Metro with a vintage touch.
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Birmingham to benefit from railway station cycle scheme
2013-08-21T00:00:00
2013-08-21T00:00:00
<p>An innovative £140,000 scheme which allows rail passengers using
Birmingham's three city centre stations to hire bicycles and
continue their journeys by pedal power is to be launched later this
year.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has teamed up with Birmingham City
Council to provide three docks housing state-of-the-art Brompton
folding bicycles at locations near the city's New Street, Snow Hill
and Moor Street railway stations.</p>
<p>The docks, which will each contain 20 of the iconic
British-built bikes, have been funded after Centro and local rail
operator London Midland secured £90,000 funding from the Department
for Transport's Cycle-Rail Fund.</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council has contributed the remaining
£50,000.</p>
<p>The docks are designed to make it easier for people travelling
into the city for business or leisure meetings to travel from the
station to their destination.</p>
<p>Each bicycle is stored in its own individual bay which is opened
using a code sent to a user's phone.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "This is a really inventive way to help
people travelling in and out of the city get to their destinations,
quickly and easily.</p>
<p>"Taking two wheels can play a key role in speeding up journeys
and this is just one of a number of improvements we are working on
to better connect cycling with train travel.</p>
<p>"Making it easier for people working in the city to pick up a
bicycle, can eliminate the expense of taking a taxi or wasted time
spent sitting in traffic."</p>
<p>The Brompton Docks which will be the first installed in the West
Midlands and will build on the wider investment being made by
Centro and Birmingham City Council in improving cycling facilities
across the city.</p>
<p>To use the self-service rental system, users are given a unique
PIN code. A text message including this code, details of the dock
location and when a bicycle is required must then be sent to a
special phone number.</p>
<p>A response is sent to the user's phone detailing which bay will
contain their bike and an access code, which once entered releases
the cycle.</p>
<p>Cllr James McKay, Cabinet Member for a Green, Safe and Smart
city at Birmingham City Council, said: ""We are keen to transform
Birmingham's facilities to place the city at the forefront of
cycling locations.</p>
<p>"This project is one significant step towards that goal, as the
Brompton Docks will help people who commute around the city to
join-up the various elements of their travel plans in a sustainable
and flexible way.""</p>
<p>Rentals will cost £2.50 per day for frequent users and £5.00 for
occasional users.</p>
<p>London Midland Managing Director, Patrick Verwer added: "We are
keen to encourage our passengers to combine their rail journeys
with sustainable methods of onward transport.</p>
<p>"We are therefore very pleased that our successful application
to the Government's Cycle-Rail Scheme means that we have been able
to contribute £90,000 to this exciting project."</p>
<p>For more information on Brompton Docks visit: <a
href="/">www.bromptondock.co.uk</a></p>
New £140,000 scheme will allow rail passengers using Birmingham's three city centre stations to hire folding bicycles.
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New technology is making taking public transport easier than ever
2013-08-16T00:00:00
2013-08-16T00:00:00
Centro's Network West Midlands application
<p>Passengers using the West Midlands bus, train and tram network
are benefitting from a raft of new technology being introduced by
transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>Cutting edge online and mobile tools are being increasingly
harnessed by Centro to make it easier than ever for passengers to
plan their journeys, get up-to-the-minute information on services
and to report anti-social-behaviour - all at the touch of a
button.</p>
<p><span>A range of free smartphone applications can now be
downloaded directly to passengers' Android device or
iPhone.</span></p>
<p>These include the NetNav app which allows users to plan their
bus, train or tram journeys while the Network West Midlands app
provides real time information and locates nearest public transport
stops and stations using GPS technology.</p>
<p>Both apps provide updates on service delays and incidents to
allow passengers to amend their journeys on the move.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership, which consists of Centro, West
Midlands Police, British Transport Police and transport operators,
has also launched the See Something, Say Something app which allows
users to report anti-social-behaviour directly to officers.</p>
<p>Innovative ticketing options which allow cashless travel for bus
passengers using the Swift smartcard will be rolled out over the
coming year following a landmark £81million deal between Centro and
operator National Express West Midlands.</p>
<p>Meanwhile passengers can keep up to date with latest travel
information, report problems with infrastructure and get advice on
ticket options at Centro's passenger information Twitter account <a
href="/">@Networkwm</a>.</p>
<p>Centro Vice Chair, Cllr Kath Hartley, said: "The rise of
technology means that more than ever we need to make sure the
services we provide meet the demands of modern passengers.</p>
<p>"We've been working hard to ensure that we keep looking for ways
to make it even easier for people to take public transport and the
widespread use of real time information is just one example of
this.</p>
<p>"Having up to the minute updates on services and digital help in
planning your journeys is really important these days and it is
great that people now have this kind of information at their
fingertips.</p>
<p>"We will continue to listen to feedback and explore the latest
technological opportunities to help us find ways to make transport
even easier for our passengers in the future."</p>
<p>More than 75 per cent of the region's buses can now be tracked
using real time information after National Express fitted their
1,687-strong fleet with GPS devices.</p>
<p>The services are monitored from a state-of-the-art £1.6 million
control centre which opened earlier this year.�</p>
<p>An overhaul of the transport information website <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> means that information is
now included for out-of-county areas like Redditch and
Staffordshire, while information on the best value tickets and
offers are also available.</p>
<p>The website also features an updated journey planner which
allows users to plot their routes using public transport and those
wanting to get some exercise as part of their trip can choose to
build in a period of walking or cycling to their journey.</p>
<p>Residents planning to spend more time travelling on foot can
make use of the 'Network West Midlands WalkIt' app which is
available for both Android and iPhones.</p>
<p>The app uses GPS technology to map walking routes and allows
users to choose between the fastest possible route, or to take a
more scenic path.</p>
<p>Passengers using the See Something, Say Something app can report
anti-social behaviour, like smoking on public transport, simply by
opening the app and uploading details of what they have seen.</p>
<p>An officer will then contact the passenger for further details
to help build up a picture or pattern of anti-social behaviour
which can then be targeted.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
A raft of new developments is making taking the bus, train and tram easier than ever.
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Passengers benefit from improvements to Black Country route
2013-08-09T00:00:00
2013-08-09T00:00:00
"(l-r) Darlaston South's Cllr Doug James, Cllr Richard Worrall, Centro's lead member for Walsall and Alex Perry, regional managing director for Arriva Midlands launch the new look number 9 service"
<p>More than £420,000 is to be spent improving a key Black Country
bus route for passengers following a joint partnership agreement
between transport authority Centro and Arriva Midlands.</p>
<p>The agreement will see Arriva invest £420,000 in three brand new
buses for the route 9 service between Walsall, Darlaston and Lodge
Fram.</p>
<p>The new single deck buses, which will be specially branded, have
easy access, low floors and greener Euro 5 engines which comply
with European emission standards.</p>
<p>Meanwhile Centro is continuing to subsidise journeys on the
route before 9:30am at a cost of £17,000 a year and has also
produced and funded a joint marketing campaign aimed at making
Black Country customers more aware of what transport services are
available.</p>
<p>This has included a door-drop mailer to homes in the Lodge Farm
area along with leaflets to bus users in the Walsall and Darlaston
areas.</p>
<p>The route 9 timetable has also been improved to provide a
regular 20 minute service through the majority of the day.</p>
<p>Alex Perry, Regional Managing Director for Arriva Midlands said:
"We are pleased to announce the investment on the route 9 for
travellers within the Black Country area.</p>
<p>"It will not only improve the existing service for our
customers, but we hope that through our partnership with Centro, we
will also be able to raise awareness of the options available in
the area so that they will be better informed when considering bus
travel for their future transportation needs."</p>
<p>Cllr Richard Worrall, Centro's lead member for Walsall, added:
""I am delighted to see Arriva investing in improved services with
environmentally-friendly and easy-access buses.</p>
<p>"It's also pleasing to see Centro working with its private
sector partner to make the most of the No. 9 service for the
benefit of the communities it serves and links.""</p>
<p>Route 9 runs up to every 20 minutes daytime Monday to Saturday
between Walsall, Pleck, Darlaston, County Bridge, Bentley and Lodge
Farm.</p>
Number 9 bus gets £440,000 package of benefits
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Growth and jobs priority for new transport authority
2013-08-08T00:00:00
2013-08-08T00:00:00
<p>The leaders of the seven West Midlands councils, as the Joint
Committee, have agreed to become the new transport authority for
the Metropolitan area and steer future development towards economic
growth and jobs.</p>
<p>As the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA), they will decide on
transport strategy and which schemes should be given priority with
an emphasis put on those that can best underpin economic
regeneration.</p>
<p>The leaders will also take responsibility for seeking new
investment on transport.</p>
<p>The decision by the leaders - Cllr Roger Lawrence
(Wolverhampton), Cllr Ann Lucas (Coventry), Cllr Darren Cooper
(Sandwell), Cllr Sir Albert Bore (Birmingham), Cllr David Sparks
(Dudley), Cllr Ken Meeson (Solihull) and Cllr Mike Bird (Walsall) -
will now go before Government for consideration.</p>
<p>Spokesman for the leaders, Cllr Roger Lawrence, said: "Transport
has a key role to play in supporting the economy and driving new
jobs. We believe this decision to become the new ITA is a major
step towards ensuring the West Midlands speaks with a single voice
to secure our growth agenda.</p>
<p>"We are committed also to working closely with our region's
three Local Enterprise Partnerships to secure the transport
investment we need to help all our communities grow and
prosper."</p>
<p>The leaders will now invite the chairs of each Local Enterprise
Partnership (LEP) - Greater Birmingham and Solihull, Black Country
and Coventry and Warwickshire - to join the new ITA.</p>
<p>The existing ITA, made up of 27 councillors from the seven
districts, will continue in its role of overseeing the delivery of
day-to-day transport matters.</p>
<p>And Centro, as the West Midlands Passenger Transport Executive,
will continue to deliver transport projects across the region while
working with operators to further improve services and
infrastructure for passengers.</p>
<p>Cllr Lawrence added: "We recognise the value of Centro as the
delivery body and also want to thank members of the existing ITA
for the work they have done and will continue to do going forward
in their new role.</p>
<p>"As council leaders, our work involves dealing with the
strategic issues affecting the West Midlands such as economic
development.</p>
<p>"We believe this wider involvement can help inform our decision
making on ensuring we can deliver the right transport priorities
across the Metropolitan area and help develop closer ties with the
Shire Counties in the wider travel to work area."</p>
Leaders of the seven West Midlands councils agree to become the region's new transport authority
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New Coventry buses welcomed by Centro chairman
2013-08-05T00:00:00
2013-08-05T00:00:00
"Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas (left) and Peter Power, managing director of National Express Coventry with one of the new £6 million bus fleet"
<p>Passengers in Coventry are to benefit from a fleet of 33 brand
new buses being rolled out as part of a ground breaking deal
between National Express Coventry and transport authority
Centro.</p>
<p>The new £6.4 million fleet of 23 eco friendly Volvo single decks
and 10 ADL double decks are part of the wider £80 million
Partnership Plus deal signed in June by the two organisations which
is set to bring a raft of improvements for the region's bus
passengers over the next two years.</p>
<p>The new single deck buses are being deployed on the 9/9A Green
Lane/Finham service, on the route between the city (Pool Meadow)
and University Hospital at Walsgrave and on the service 20 and 20A
routes between the city and Bedworth and Bell Green.</p>
<p>The double decks are going into service on the 8/8A route
between the city and University Hospital at Walsgrave.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "I am delighted that
National Express Coventry has made such an investment in its bus
fleet in the city.</p>
<p>"These new vehicles, along with commitments in Partnership Plus,
will continue to improve the bus network and the travel experience
for the passenger."</p>
<p>Peter Power, managing director of National Express Coventry,
said: ""These new vehicles are equipped with the latest technology
including greener low emission engines and state of the art
CCTV.</p>
<p>"The new vehicles are a big investment into Coventry's bus
network and we hope that our customers will be as proud of them as
we are."</p>
<p>The Partnership Plus deal will see £65 million of investment in
the bus network by National Express and £16 million by Centro.</p>
<p>Coventry city centre will get new infrastructure, shelters and
passenger information as part of the deal.</p>
<p>Across the region, the partnership will deliver:</p>
<ul>
<li>300 new buses including 15 environmentally friendly
hybrids</li>
<li>Ten new gold bus corridors, benefitting from new buses, real
time information and increased bus priority</li>
<li>350 new bus shelters</li>
<li>Swift smartcard</li>
<li>Expansion of the successful on-bus cleaning scheme</li>
<li>More bus priority to make journeys across the region
quicker</li>
<li>More 'talking buses' featuring audio visual equipment informing
passengers of their next stop</li>
</ul>
Centro chairman welcomes new fleet of 33 National Express Coventry buses
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Only HS2 can meet growing rail demand
2013-08-02T00:00:00
2013-08-02T00:00:00
<p>Transport boss Geoff Inskip says the case for increased capacity
and the need for HS2 is underpinned by demand for rail as journeys
rose by 14 per cent in a year in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip, chief executive of the region's transport authority
Centro, said the latest figures from the Office of Rail Regulation
(ORR) made the definitive case that demand was rising in the West
Midlands and across the UK and that without HS2 our railway cannot
cope.</p>
<p>The ORR reported that the total number of passenger journeys in
the region had risen from 63.9 million in 2010/11 to 73.1 million
in 2011/12 an increase of 14.3 per cent.</p>
<p>"It's clear that rail demand continues to rise and far beyond
the conservative estimates built into the HS2 business case.</p>
<p>"This is not just an issue for London. We are seeing huge growth
year-on-year in the West Midlands and we cannot afford to ignore
this."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said HS2 would not only provide fast, direct links
between our major cities but also release capacity on existing
lines in the West Midlands for more local, regional and freight
services.</p>
<p>"We are clear that unless we provide this capacity the West
Coast Mainline will be full by the early 2020s and we will have to
make difficult choices about which services we operate," he
said.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said Centro had researched what could be done with
capacity released by HS2 on existing lines and wanted to increase
services between Wolverhampton and Coventry and Birmingham and
introduce a service between Walsall and London.</p>
<p>Only HS2 can meet growing rail demand says transport chief as West Midlands passenger journeys rise 14 per cent in a year
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South Birmingham and Solihull families to benefit from green scheme
2013-07-30T00:00:00
2013-07-30T00:00:00
<p><span>Hundreds of families living along two busy routes in South
Birmingham and Solihull are set to benefit from expert personalised
travel advice as part of a carbon cutting project.</span></p>
<p><span>Transport authority Centro, has kick started a scheme to
provide free tailored travel plans for hundreds of homes along the
busy A41 Warwick Road and A45 Coventry Road as part of its Smart
Network, Smarter Choices project.</span></p>
<p><span>Over the next three months, up to 20,000 households along
the routes will be visited by expert travel advisers to help those
wanting to make the switch to public transport, car-sharing,
walking or cycling.</span></p>
<p><span>The first advisers will hit the streets on August 12 in
the Tyseley, Acocks Green, Sheldon and Olton areas and will draw up
bespoke travel plans in a bid to tackle congestion and help
residents beat rising petrol and parking costs.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "Having expert support can help people
make informed decisions on how they travel to work, to see friends
or to do their shopping.</span></p>
<p><span>"We looked for routes in the region with the most
congestion and chose those where we felt residents would benefit
from some expert advice on some of the travel options available to
them.</span></p>
<p><span>"The West Midlands loses more than £2.3 billion each year
through traffic congestion so if we can keep people moving it will
not only cut congestion but help support our economy at as
well."</span></p>
<p><span>Centro will be holding a series of exhibitions across
South Birmingham and Solihull to inform residents of the advantages
of signing up to the scheme.</span></p>
<p><span>The exhibitions will be held at:</span></p>
<p>- <span>Asda Small Heath in the Network West Midlands
marquee Monday August 5</span></p>
<p>- <span>Swan Centre, Yardley Tuesday August 6</span></p>
<p>- <span>Acocks Green in the Network West Midlands
marquee</span><span>,</span> <span>outside Lloyds TSB Friday August
9</span></p>
<p>- <span>Solihull High Street in</span> <span>the Exhibitions Bus
Saturday August 10</span></p>
<p><span>In addition to tailored travel plans, the advisers will
provide support including free public transport tickets, adult
cycle training and local community guides.</span></p>
<p><span>The scheme forms part of the £50 million Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the
region's economy and connect residents to jobs.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member
for development jobs and skills, said: "Transport plays a vital
role in connecting residents to jobs, education and training and it
is important that we make sure people know exactly which options
are available to them.</span></p>
<p><span>"By visiting people in areas of high congestion and
letting them know of different ways to travel we can also help
remove some of the transport barriers which sometimes prevent
people from getting into work."</span></p>
<p><span>The move follows a successful pilot carried out along
Birmingham's busy Pershore Road last year.</span></p>
<p><span>The scheme saw more than 5,000 households ask advisers to
sit down with them and draw up free personalised travel
support.</span></p>
<p><span>The 5,157 residents who signed up were provided with
information or help, such as free bike training, to help them get
from their own front door to their destination without having to
jump in the car.</span></p>
<p><span>Of those who took on personalised travel advice 40 per
cent said they had already changed their travel behaviour as a
result and a further 12 per cent said they intended to make a
change in the future.</span></p>
<p>Solihull Council's Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways,
Councillor Ted Richards, said: "This is an excellent idea and one
that I hope our residents will make the most of. Not only will it
help cut congestion on our roads, but it will also show just how
well-connected the borough is and how many opportunities to try
something different there are."</p>
<p><span>For more information visit:</span><a
href="/"><span>www.mynetwork.org.uk</span></a></p>
Hundreds of families living along two busy routes are set for free expert travel advice.
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Now let’s get on and build it says transport boss as HS2 challenges are rejected
2013-07-24T00:00:00
2013-07-24T00:00:00
<p>Transport boss Geoff Inskip says now is the time to work
together and press on with HS2 after the Court of Appeal today
rejected all seven challenges from opponents to the scheme.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip, chief executive of Centro the region's transport
authority, said he welcomed the news the challenges had been
dismissed as it was time for authorities to work together to get
the best possible benefits from HS2.</p>
<p>"HS2 will connect eight of our ten major cities with fast,
direct services and release capacity on our increasingly congested
existing rail network. We're working with authorities across the
West Midlands to ensure the best possible connectivity with HS2 and
we've already expressed our desire to build a High Speed Rail
Centre of Excellence in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"Now is the time to get on and build it."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said economic research revealed that phase one of
HS2 from Birmingham to London - would deliver 22,000 jobs and
a boost of £1.5bn per year to the West Midlands.</p>
<p>He said the jobs and economic benefits would increase
significantly when Centro announced details of research for phase
two of HS2 linking Birmingham with Manchester and Leeds.</p>
<p>HS2 will cut journey times between Birmingham and Manchester
from around 90 minutes to 41 minutes and a typical journey from
Birmingham to Leeds of around two hours will be halved to 57
minutes.</p>
Geoff Inskip says it is time to press on with HS2 after the Court of Appeal rejected seven challenges.
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Commuters urged to leave the car in Perry Barr during tunnel closures
2013-07-24T00:00:00
2013-07-24T00:00:00
Great Charles Street and St Chad's Queensway tunnels have been closed for major improvements.
<p><span>Motorists in Birmingham are being encouraged to make use
of the free 500 space park and ride site in Perry Barr during the
Queensway tunnel closures.</span></p>
<p><span>Services from the temporary facility at Birmingham City
University are using bus lanes and priority measures to by-pass
queues and get passengers into the city in approximately 15 minutes
during the morning peak period.</span></p>
<p><span>This is five minutes quicker than services ran before the
tunnels were closed.</span></p>
<p><span>The park and ride site is free to use at the university's
North campus off the A453 Aldridge Road, and a return bus ticket
costs just £3 a day.</span></p>
<p><span>Commuters can also pick up the train from Perry Barr
station.</span></p>
<p><span>And, in a further boost to public transport in the city,
commuters into Birmingham can also take advantage of increased
parking spaces at Kings Norton station on the Cross City
line.</span></p>
<p><span>The quicker bus times from Perry Barr were announced by
National Express West Midlands, the company which operates 90 per
cent of services in Birmingham.</span></p>
<p><span>All of their vehicles have tracking devices which use GPS
technology to gather data on their journeys.</span></p>
<p><span>Timothy Woodward, Network Planner for National Express,
said: "By looking at the data since the tunnels closed we can see
services coming into the city along the A34 are making the journey
in good time.</span></p>
<p><span>"With the free parking, special offer tickets and buses
every five minutes from the Birmingham City University site it is
one of the best ways to by-pass any disruption caused by the
tunnels closures."</span></p>
<p><span>The tunnels at Great Charles Street and St Chad's are 40
years old and will be shut until 2</span><sup>nd</sup>
<span>September 2013 for repairs and upgrading.</span></p>
<p>Amey, which maintains the city's roads and highways, said about
75,000 vehicles travelled through the tunnels each day.</p>
<p>For people based in the south of the city, it was announced
today that works had been completed at Kings Norton railway station
to increase parking by around 100 spaces.</p>
<p><span>Chris Perry, Head of Integrated Services atWest
Midlandstransport authority Centro, added: "We're really pleased
that, with the help of Birmingham City Council and Amey, we have
been able to increase the parking capacity at Kings
Norton.</span></p>
<p><span>"It will enable more commuters to use this popular station
and demonstrates further how public transport inBirminghamand
across theWest Midlandsis a first class alternative to the
car."</span></p>
<p>Centro provides 6,500 free parking spaces at 53 heavy rail and
four Metro car parks.</p>
<p><span>For further details about the tunnels closures and park
and ride options, visit</span> <a
href="/">www.brumtunnels.co.uk</a><strong>�</strong><span>or for
information on tickets and changes to bus routes visit</span><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
Motorists are encouraged to use a 500 space bus park and ride site in Perry Barr.
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Super summer days out for families
2013-07-22T00:00:00
2013-07-22T00:00:00
The Transportables join forces
<p>Families looking for a super summer day out can take advantage
of cut price entry to some of the region's best attractions if they
go there by public transport.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has joined forces with six top
destinations to help rescue children from the summertime blues.</p>
<p>Centro is offering discounts on entry to Blue Ice Solihull Rink,
Cadbury World, National SEA LIFE Birmingham, Dudley Zoological
Gardens, Black Country Living Museum and Thinktank Birmingham
Science Museum.</p>
<p>Parents battling the forces of rising petrol and parking costs
can follow the lead of a new family of four superheroes designed to
highlight the range of public transport tickets available in the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>Each member of Centro's "<em>the Transportables</em>" represents
a different type of ticket for those wanting to travel by bus,
train or tram.</p>
<p>To claim the discounts families simply need to show their travel
ticket along with a voucher which can be downloaded from <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/summersaved</a>.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "The summer holiday
is often the time of year when the most families are looking for
days out to help keep their children entertained.</p>
<p>"By using public transport parents can take the hassle out of
driving to a destination and save money on entrance fees as well as
on petrol and parking.</p>
<p>"There are a wide range of tickets available to suit the
different needs of our passengers, so we hope the Transportables
will be a fun way for people to decide how to get the best value
from the public transport network.""</p>
<p>Up to two adults and four children can travel on a family
nnetwork daytripper for just £10.20 and this would entitle them to
a range of savings on admission price to the various venues.</p>
<p>A family of two adults and three children travelling to Cadbury
World by bus, train or Metro would, for example, pay £37.62 for
their entry. This compares to the normal admission price of £53.75,
a saving of more than £16 for a family of five.</p>
<p>Parents looking for ways to entertain their children at home can
visit Centro's <a href="/">www.letzgogreen.org</a> where children
can find out about public transport through interactive stories,
games and puzzles.</p>
<p>For more information and to download the vouchers visit: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/summersaved</a></p>
Families can take advantage of cut price entry to some of the region’s best attractions if they go there by public transport.
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Motorists reminded to play their part during closure of Birmingham tunnels
2013-07-18T00:00:00
2013-07-18T00:00:00
<p>Motorists travelling in and out of Birmingham city centre were
today urged to play their part in keeping the city moving when one
its busiest stretches of highway closes tomorrow night.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro is urging people to make use of the
public transport network while Amey, working in partnership with
Birmingham City Council, carry out a six week refurbishment
programme on the A38 tunnels.</p>
<p>From 10pm tomorrow (July 19) both the St Chad's and Queensway
tunnels will be completely closed to vehicles until September
2.</p>
<p>Residents are being encouraged to make use of the bus, rail and
Midland Metro network and avoid travelling by car during the
closure to help cut congestion on the city's roads.</p>
<p>Centro is providing information on tickets and changes to bus
routes during the closure and commuters can take advantage of the
public transport journey planner on its passenger information
website <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>.</p>
<p>The NetNav journey planning app, available for iPhones or
devices using Android technology, is also available as a free
download.</p>
<p>Chris Perry, Centro's head of integrated services, said: "With
the tunnels closing for six weeks many people's regular route in
and out of the city will be unavailable and other routes are likely
to become more congested.</p>
<p>"Taking public transport, walking or cycling can speed up
people's journeys, help them avoid sitting in traffic and keep road
space clear for essential users such as the emergency services,
hauliers and buses.</p>
<p>"For those who normally drive, our journey planning apps can
help them plot their route by public transport and we are holding a
series of bike trains so that people can learn the best way to
cycle into the city from their area."</p>
<p>Meanwhile the region's biggest bus operator, National Express
West Midlands, will be providing a dedicated £3 ticket giving
commuters a return journey from a special park and ride site being
set up at Birmingham City University's Perry Barr campus.</p>
<p>National Express will also be providing an £80 "Tunnel Special
Ticket" which allows unlimited travel on all its buses for the
duration of the closure.</p>
<p>Passengers travelling from the south and east will be able to
take advantage of reduced parking rates at Birmingham International
rail station and an additional 100 parking spaces are being
provided by Network Rail at Kings Norton station to help those
wanting to continue their journey by train.</p>
<p>Commuters can also take advantage of the 6,500 free spaces at
Centro's 53 heavy rail and four Metro stop car parks across the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>The tunnels, which serve as the city's principle through route
and carry more than 1.5 million vehicles every month, will undergo
repairs and refurbishment, including a new lighting system, during
the six week closure.</p>
<p>For more information on the closure visit: <a
href="/">www.brumtunnels.co.uk</a>.</p>
Motorists urged to use public transport while one of the city's busiest stretches of highway is closed.
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Motorists urged to take public transport during closure of Birmingham's A38 tunnels
2013-07-10T00:00:00
2013-07-10T00:00:00
<p>Motorists travelling in and out of Birmingham city centre are
being urged to let public transport take the strain as the city's
A38 tunnels prepare for a six week closure.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro is informing people of the options
available to them while Amey, working in partnership with
Birmingham City Council, carry out essential refurbishment work on
the St Chad's and Queensway tunnels between July 19 and September
2.</p>
<p>Residents are being encouraged to make use of the bus, rail and
Midland Metro network and avoid travelling by car while one of the
city's busiest stretches of highway is shut.</p>
<p>Centro is providing information on tickets and changes to bus
routes during the closure and commuters can take advantage of the
public transport journey planner on its passenger information
website <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>.</p>
<p>The NetNav journey planning app, available for iPhones or
devices using Android technology, is also available as a free
download.</p>
<p>Chris Perry, Centro's head of integrated services, said: "With
the tunnels closing for six weeks many people's regular route in
and out of the city will be unavailable and other routes are likely
to become more congested.</p>
<p>"Taking public transport, walking or cycling can speed up
people's journeys, help them avoid sitting in traffic and keep road
space clear for essential users like hauliers and buses.</p>
<p>"For those who normally drive, our journey planning apps can
help them plot their route by public transport and we are holding a
series of bike trains so that people can learn the best way to
cycle into the city from their area."</p>
<p>Meanwhile the region's biggest bus operator, National Express
West Midlands, will be providing a dedicated £3 'tunnel ticket'
giving commuters a return journey from a special park and ride site
being set up at Birmingham City University's Perry Barr
campus..</p>
<p>Passengers travelling from the south and east will be able to
take advantage of reduced parking rates at Birmingham International
rail station and an additional 100 parking spaces are being
provided by Network Rail at Kings Norton station to help those
wanting to continue their journey by train.</p>
<p>Commuters can also take advantage of the 6,500 free spaces at
Centro's 53 heavy rail and four Metro stop car parks across the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>The tunnels, which serve as the city's principle through route
and carry more than 1.5 million vehicles every month, will undergo
repairs and refurbishment, including a new lighting system, during
the six week closure.</p>
<p>For more information on the closure visit: <a
href="/">www.brumtunnels.co.uk</a>.</p>
Drivers urged to use public transport during six week closure of St Chad's and Queensway tunnels.
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Transport Secretary visits Rowley Regis Park and Ride
2013-07-08T00:00:00
2013-07-08T00:00:00
"Patrick McLoughlin, left, with the proposals for Rowley Regis Park and Ride including a major cycle hub, Amanda Pickard, Centro Sustainable Travel Officer (Cycling and Walking), along with James Morris MP and Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip."
<p>Transport Secretary the Right Honourable Patrick McLoughlin MP
was in the Midlands to see for himself how a Government fund to
tackle congestion has enable the £3 million expansion of a busy
Park and Ride facility.</p>
<p>In June Centro, the region's transport authority, was awarded £2
million from the Government's Local Pinch Point Fund, a £170
million scheme to remove bottlenecks on the local highway
network.</p>
<p>It enabled Centro to expand its popular Park and Ride scheme at
three railway stations - Kings Norton in Birmingham, Four Oaks in
Sutton Coldfield and Stourbridge Junction.</p>
<p>This freed up funding, allowing Centro to begin work on
expanding parking at Rowley Regis, which serves Birmingham's Snow
Hill and Moor Street stations on the
Birmingham/Stourbridge/Worcester line, the cost of which is in the
region of £3 million.</p>
<p>The work will mean 360 further spaces, increasing capacity to
more than 700 spaces.</p>
<p>It will also see the installation of a 'Cycle Hub' with capacity
for the secure storage of up to 30 bikes. There will also be car
share and electric vehicle charging spaces/points to encourage
access to this station by sustainable means, thus reducing
congestion and pollution.</p>
<p><span>Work is expected to start later this year and is due for
completion in late 2014.</span></p>
<p><span>Research shows that the 6,500 free spaces at Centro's 53
heavy rail and four Metro stop car parks take more than 53,000 cars
journeys off the region's roads each week.</span></p>
<p><span>Mr McLoughlin said: "I think the plans that Centro has for
Rowley Regis are very impressive indeed.</span></p>
<p><span>"As people see the growth in Park and Ride here at Rowley
Regis they will want to use the train and I am glad that funding
from the Pinch Point scheme has made this, and other schemes like
it, possible."</span></p>
<p><span>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, who accompanied Mr
McLoughlin along with Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris,
said: "I was delighted to welcome the Secretary of State and show
him what we are doing here and how it tackles
congestion,</span></p>
<p><span>"Schemes such as Park and Ride play a huge part in
boosting the local economy by helping people get to where they want
to go without relying on the car to get them there."</span></p>
<p><span>James Morris MP said: "It has been good to have the
minister here to see for himself the potential for the development
of Park and Ride at Rowley Regis.</span></p>
<p><span>"I am delighted expansion is to take place, it is very
good news for local people."</span></p>
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin visits soon-to-be-expanded Rowley Regis Park and Ride station.
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Improved services as Solihull Signature services get re-launch
2013-07-05T00:00:00
2013-07-05T00:00:00
"Cllr John McNicholas cuts the ribbon on the new Signature services with Pete Bond, left, head of Transforming Bus Travel for Centro, and Anthony Goozee of Diamond Buses."
<p><span>More frequent buses and improved through-journeys are on
the timetable for passengers following a review of services in
south Solihull.</span></p>
<p>The Signature network, which operates throughout the Meriden Gap
between Birmingham and Coventry, has undergone the review following
its launch in 2010.</p>
<p>Bosses from Centro, the region's transport authority, and
operators Diamond buses, signed a new deal extending the successful
service.</p>
<p>The Signature bus services have the latest environmentally
friendly Euro 5 low emission engines, high-quality leather seats,
CCTV and free wi-fi so passengers can access the internet on the
move.</p>
<p>Routes on the new network are 82, 88, S2, S3, S4, S11 and
S15.</p>
<p><span>Improvements include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span>Frequency of buses between Dickens Heath and Solihull
increased from hourly to every half-hour</span></li>
<li>Frequency of buses between Cheswick Green and Solihull
increased from hourly to every half-hour and journey time reduced
from 30 mins to 15 mins.</li>
<li>Journey time between Balsall Common and Solihull reduced from
45 mins to 30 mins</li>
<li>New links from Balsall Common, Knowle and Dorridge to Solihull
Station</li>
<li>Additional peak journeys on route 82 between Solihull, Hampton
in Arden, Meriden and Coventry</li>
<li>New through journeys from Meriden and Hampton to Knowle and
Balsall Common</li>
</ul>
<p><span>The changes came into effect at the start of June
following extensive public consultation with parish councils and
residents associations at the end of 2012.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "The
Signature network provides high quality vehicles with excellent
customer service and as a result more people are using the
bus.</span></p>
<p><span>"Patronage has increased by more than 40% since it
launched in 2010 and customer satisfaction is the highest in any
area of the West Midlands at over 90%.</span></p>
<p><span>"Now, in 2013, following extensive public consultation and
passenger feedback Centro has designed a revitalised network for
the area, which will be delivered in partnership with Diamond using
a number of hybrid buses and taking style, comfort and convenience
to the next level."</span></p>
<p><span>Birmingham and Solihull area manager Jon Hayes said: "The
Signature services have proved a big success since they were
launched.</span></p>
<p><span>"This agreement marks the start of a new five year
partnership between Centro and Diamond during which we will work
closely together to provide continual improvements, focussed on
delivering one of the very best bus networks in the UK."</span></p>
<p><span>Antony Goozee, business development director, for Diamond,
said: ""Diamond is pleased to have retained this prestige contract
with Centro in Solihull and the surrounding areas using our
Signature brand.</span></p>
<p><span>"Signature is designed to offer a high level of comfort
and appeal to users that both need to use the bus and those who
possibly could use the bus but currently utilise other forms of
transport.</span></p>
<p><span>"We feel that the services have the ability to grow and
have put further resources into working with both Centro and the
local community to ensure we provide a high level of service to our
passengers.</span></p>
<p><span>"With this latest batch of vehicles we have adopted a
green theme with a mixture of hybrid, electric/diesel buses and
Euro 5 diesel buses being used on the network.</span></p>
<p><span>"We look forward to building on the foundations of the
previous contract and improving on what already has proven to be a
successful solution for running bus services in the Solihull
area.""</span></p>
<p><span>The review did result in the withdrawal of the S2A and C
through Temple Balsall and the link between Cheswick Green and
Shirley because of very low passenger numbers.</span></p>
<p><span>However an alternative is on hand through the Heart of
England Taxibus.</span></p>
<p><span>This operates between 8am and 7.30pm Monday to Saturday
and bookings can be taken up to one week in advance, including on
the day of travel if seats are available.</span></p>
<p><span>It operates within the Meriden Gap and travels to areas
such as Coventry city centre, Solihull town centre, Chelmsley Wood,
Birmingham Airport and Birmingham International railway station,
plus local railway stations and shopping centres.</span></p>
<p><span>Vehicles are also accessible to wheelchair users. Bookings
can be made between 9am and 4pm on 0121 783 6869. Concessionary bus
passes are accepted.</span></p>
New and improved services are on the timetable for Signature service bus passengers in south Solihull.
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NXWM and Centro sign £81m deal to transform bus travel
2013-07-03T00:00:00
2013-07-03T00:00:00
"Geoff Inskip, left, Cllr John McNicholas, Cllr Kath Hartley, Dean Finch and Peter Coates of National Express West Midlands."
<p><span>London-style smartcards and hundreds of new buses form
part of a wide-ranging transport package worth more than £80
million set to transform bus travel in the West
Midlands.</span></p>
<p><span>A new bus station in Merry Hill and improved
infrastructure for Coventry and Wolverhampton city centres are
other highlights of the Partnership Plus agreement between Centro
and National Express West Midlands (NXWM).</span></p>
<p><span>It will also see the introduction of the Swift smartcard
on to the NXWM network, allowing all ticket deals to be loaded on
to the card.</span></p>
<p><span>The two year agreement signed by the region's biggest bus
company and the regional transport authority will build on the
improvements delivered by previous partnerships.</span></p>
<p><span>It will include more new buses, more real time information
at bus stops and extra on-bus cleaners.</span></p>
<p><span>The pair's previous partnership, Transforming Bus Travel
2, achieved 100% of its objectives including the introduction of a
smartphone app, delivering the region's first green hybrid buses
and increasing the number of ticket inspectors on the bus
network.</span></p>
<p><span>Partnership Plus will also deliver ambitious new
programs.</span></p>
<p><span>These include Sprint, a European-style rapid transport
system, and ten 'gold' bus corridors which will benefit from new
vehicles, better bus priority measures and real time information at
stops.</span></p>
<p><span>The deal, which sees £65 million of investment by National
Express and £16 million by Centro, will deliver:</span></p>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li><span>300 new buses including 15 environmentally friendly
hybrids</span></li>
<li>Ten new gold bus corridors. Benefitting from new buses, real
time information and increased bus priority</li>
<li>350 new bus shelters</li>
<li>A new bus station at Merry Hill and refurbishments to Dudley
bus station</li>
<li>Swift smartcard</li>
<li>New infrastructure, shelters and information provision for
Wolverhampton and Coventry city centres</li>
<li>Expansion of the successful on-bus cleaning scheme</li>
<li>More bus priority to make journeys across the region
quicker</li>
<li>More 'talking buses' featuring audio visual equipment informing
passengers of their next stop</li>
</ul>
<p><span>National Express chief executive Dean Finch, Peter Coates,
managing director of National Express West Midlands, Centro
chairman Cllr John McNicholas and Centro chief executive Geoff
Inskip signed the agreement in a ceremony at the new Wolverhampton
bus station.</span></p>
<p><span>They were joined by Cllr Kath Hartley, the vice-chair of
Centro and chair of the Putting Passengers First Committee, and
several bus advocates - members of the public who help monitor and
provide feedback on the bus network across the Midlands.</span></p>
<p><span>Elected members of the Integrated Transport Authority will
each 'adopt' a bus route to monitor how the commitments in
Partnership Plus are implemented.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr McNicholas said: "I am truly delighted by the signing
about Partnership Plus and excited by the huge range of benefits it
is going to bring to the passengers of the West
Midlands.</span></p>
<p><span>"Working in partnership with National Express has resulted
in a far-reaching level of commitments enhancing what is already a
21</span><sup>st</sup> <span>century bus network."</span></p>
<p><span>Dean Finch said: "Partnership Plus will build on the
improvements we have already made in the West Midlands including
investment in new vehicles and more on-bus cleaners as well as
promising a limit to future fare rises."</span></p>
<p>"This partnership is great news for bus passengers in the West
Midlands and I believe it will encourage more people to save money,
time and stress by leaving the car at home and using the bus."</p>
Centro and National Express West Midlands sign Partnership Plus.
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Dozens of businesses sign up to carbon busting scheme
2013-07-02T00:00:00
2013-07-02T00:00:00
"Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro’s lead member for green and accessible transport; Gill Hunt sustainable travel officer at Centro and Tom McDonnell, environmental coordinator at NPower"
<p>Dozens of the region's biggest employers have signed up to a
free scheme to shrink their carbon footprint by helping employees
travel in greener ways.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and the region's seven city and
borough councils are supporting businesses with grants of up to
£10,000 to help staff take greener forms of travel to work as part
of its Smart Network, Smarter Choices project.</p>
<p>Grants will be provided to match money invested by organisations
choosing to install green travel equipment such as secure bicycle
storage or real time information screens.</p>
<p>Each company will receive free bespoke travel plans drawn up for
employees to help inform them of the options available to them if
they choose to leave the car behind.</p>
<p>More than 50 businesses have joined up to the scheme including
Birmingham Airport, Coventry's Arena Retail Park, Walsall Football
Club and Solihull shopping centre Touchwood.</p>
<p>Npower, which employs more than 1,000 staff at its sites in
Dudley and Solihull, is the latest to sign up to the project.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "More and more businesses are looking
for ways to help cut their carbon emissions and supporting their
staff in taking greener forms of travel can go a long way to making
this happen.</p>
<p>"With petrol and parking costs on the rise taking public
transport, walking or cycling can help save money as well as
benefitting your health and the environment at the same time."</p>
<p>To qualify businesses must be based along the ten key routes
covered by the <a href="/">Smart Network, Smarter Choices</a>
project and have more than 100 employees.</p>
<p>The project aims to reduce congestion among these routes to help
boost the economy, cut carbon emissions and connect residents to
jobs.</p>
<p>Dave Horton, property sustainability and capital investment
manager at RWE Npower, said: "Working with Centro gives us a
fantastic opportunity to provide additional facilities for our
staff in the West Midlands, making their travel easier and greener,
whilst ensuring we have a minimal impact on our neighbours and the
environment."</p>
<p>For more information and to find out if you qualify visit <a
href="/">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a> or email <a
href="/">business@centro.org.uk</a>.</p>
More than 50 businesses have signed up to a scheme to help their staff travel in greener ways.
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Centro scheme celebrates 10 years supporting the region's unemployed
2013-07-01T00:00:00
2013-07-01T00:00:00
"Alan Potts, Conrad Jones, Jobeda Shahed, Lateef Huthman, Alison Pickett and Cllr Kath Hartley"
<p>An award winning scheme which has helped nearly 14,000 West
Midlands jobseekers back into work celebrated its tenth birthday
today.</p>
<p>It is a decade since transport authority Centro unveiled the
WorkWise project, which provides free travel passes for unemployed
people travelling to interviews or starting new jobs.</p>
<p>To mark the scheme's anniversary representatives, from Centro,
Jobcentre Plus and the region's local authorities gathered at
Centro's Birmingham headquarters to toast the project's success in
supporting 13,691 residents back into work.</p>
<p>At the event new plans were revealed which will see jobseekers
in some areas equipped with a range of tailored cycling support
including free bikes, cycle training and route planning to get to
new jobs with pedal power.</p>
<p>Centro vice chair Cllr Kath Hartley said: "We first launched
WorkWise to try and counteract some of the transport barriers which
prevent people from finding work and it is great to be celebrating
10 successful years supporting our region's jobseekers.</p>
<p>"After starting a new job paying for travel can be difficult,
especially before you pick up your first pay cheque. WorkWise
provides a real lifeline for people so they can concentrate on
getting back into work without worrying about transport.</p>
<p>"The new cycling option means that we will be able to help even
more people find their way back into work and help them keep fit
and active too."</p>
<p>WorkWise first launched in Solihull's Chelmsley Wood and
Birmingham's Sparkhill job centres in June 2003.</p>
<p>After proving a major success the project was expanded to
include larger jobcentres across the West Midlands to help even
more of the region's jobseekers.</p>
<p>WorkWise currently forms a key part of Centro's <em>Smart
Network, Smarter Choices</em> project which aims to connect
residents to jobs, cut congestion and boost the regional
economy.</p>
<p>From this month, the funding has also allowed WorkWise to expand
and include free cycling support for those starting new jobs.</p>
<p>Alan Potts, Senior Partnership Manager for Central England Group
at the Department for Work and Pensions, said: "Having been
involved with WorkWise on and off since it first started ten years
ago, it is great to have been able to see first hand just how big
an impact it can have on helping people get back into work.</p>
<p>"Our aim is always to find the best ways to help support people
in their search for employment and the fact that the project has
been running for 10 years is testament to just how effective it can
be."</p>
<p>Between launching and reaching the latest milestone, WorkWise
has gained national recognition after picking up the transport gong
in the 2007 Guardian Public service Awards.</p>
<p>The following year, the scheme helped Centro scoop the award for
Accessibility in the National Transport Awards which are regarded
as the transport industry's 'Oscars'.</p>
<p>WorkWise is currently available to jobseekers living along the
ten West Midlands <em>Smart Network, Smarter Choices</em> routes.
For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise</a> or enquire at
your local Job Centre.</p>
Award winning project which has helped nearly 14,000 jobseekers turns ten.
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Nine out of 10 give Midland Metro thumbs up in new survey
2013-06-28T00:00:00
2013-06-28T00:00:00
<p>Passengers using the Midland Metro have given the service two
thumbs up in a new survey carried out by transport watchdog
Passenger Focus.</p>
<p>The tram line, which is owned by transport authority Centro and
operated by National Express West Midlands, recorded 90 per cent
satisfaction in the study which is the first Passenger Focus have
conducted on a tram system.</p>
<p>More than 650 people were interviewed along the line, which
connects Birmingham to Wolverhampton via key locations in the Black
Country, and nine out of ten said they were pleased with the
service.</p>
<p>The survey also found that anti-social behaviour is very low on
the tram with only eight per cent of people saying they had
experienced issues.</p>
<p>Passengers gave feedback on how the system could improve in the
future pointing to faster journey times, more capacity and more
hand rails as key improvements.</p>
<p>They also called for conductors to have more information about
disruption on the network and alternative modes of travel.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "The Midland Metro is
very popular with passengers in our region and it is great that
this survey reinforces just how happy residents are with the
service.</p>
<p>"Listening to feedback from passengers is the best way for us to
meet the demands of those who use public transport, so it is
welcome news that Passenger Focus have extended their research to
include the views of those who travel by tram.</p>
<p>"It is particularly pleasing that so many of the areas for
improvement highlighted by passengers will be addressed with the
arrival of the new fleet of trams."</p>
<p>Work along the tram line earlier this year paved the way for the
arrival of 20 new, bigger trams which will start appearing on
tracks from next year.</p>
<p>The new trams will increase capacity by 60 per cent and allow
the Midland Metro to operate a six minute frequency during peak
times.</p>
<p>They will also feature larger interiors with more hand rails and
information will be improved through a new radio system which
allows Metro control to speak directly with passengers.</p>
<p>Passenger Focus chief executive, Anthony Smith, said: "This is
the first piece of passenger research we've carried out on trams,
so it's good to see such high levels of satisfaction.</p>
<p>"Of course, areas for improvement have been identified which
need to be addressed."</p>
<p>The arrival of the new trams forms part of the tram £128 million
extension which will connect Birmingham's Snow Hill and New Street
railway stations and beyond to the Jewellery Quarter and the Black
Country from 2015.</p>
<p>The Midland Metro extension is partnership between Centro,
Birmingham City Council and the Black Country councils.</p>
<p>Peter Coates managing director of national express West
Midlands, which operates the Midland Metro said: "The Midland Metro
is a great service. It is frequent, clean and very reliable. Our
team do a superb job for our customers and I am very proud of the
results they have achieved.</p>
Tram line receives 90 per cent satisfaction rating in study by transport watchdogs.
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Birmingham's HS2 station must deliver direct services to Europe
2013-06-25T00:00:00
2013-06-25T00:00:00
<p>Members of the region's transport authority say Birmingham's
city centre high speed station must be world class with services to
destinations including Paris and Brussels.</p>
<p>Members of Centro gave their continuing support to HS2 at
yesterday's (June 24) Integrated Transport Authority meeting and
set out their plans to deliver the maximum benefits from high speed
rail.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor John McNicholas said investment to
ensure swift links between high speed rail and other forms of
transport was the key to delivering the best return from HS2 in the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>Members have endorsed calls for a twin-track link between HS2
and HS1 to provide international connectivity between the West
Midlands and European cities, as well as domestic high speed
stations in the south east including Stratford and Ashford.</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: <span>"It's essential the West Midlands is
linked to Europe by high speed rail. High speed rail does not
terminate in London and we will be working closely with Transport
for London."</span></p>
<p><span>"There must be a direct link between HS2 and the existing
HS1 line from London to Europe, allowing passengers in the West
Midlands fast, direct rail travel to the continent."</span></p>
<p><span>Members have also called for a 'one-station' design for
Birmingham's city centre station allowing for swift transfer
between local, regional and international services.</span></p>
<p><span>The authority also supports the extension of Metro into
Eastside connecting with the high speed rail station.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr McNicholas</span> said new infrastructure would be
essential in delivering the 22,000 jobs and £1.5bn per year phase
one of HS2 would bring to the region.</p>
<p>Centro is also working with local authorities to examine a rapid
transport link between Coventry city centre and the high speed
station at Birmingham Interchange.</p>
<p>"The high speed line between the West Midlands and London brings
10,000 jobs on its own, but it is the work we do as a region to
enhance connectivity that is key and will deliver 22,000 jobs for
phase one alone," Cllr McNicholas said.</p>
<p>He added that Centro would shortly be publishing economic
figures for phase 2 (connecting Birmingham with Leeds and
Manchester) bringing more jobs and economic growth.</p>
Centro members say city centre station must be world class and link directly with Paris and Brussels.
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Education website proves a hit - one million of them
2013-06-24T00:00:00
2013-06-24T00:00:00
<p>An innovative education website has clicked with school children
after notching more than one million users.</p>
<p>The <a href="/">Letzgogreen.org</a> website was launched by
transport authority Centro in 2008 to help pupils learn about the
benefits of using public transport, cycling and walking.</p>
<p>The site features free downloadable tools and interactive games
for teachers to assist their lesson plans and has averaged more
than 200,000 hits each year en route to reaching the one million
milestone.</p>
<p>Resources on the site are tailored to fit the national
curriculum for children aged four to 11 and many of the region's
schools have used the facility to support lessons.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "Letzgogreen has been a major success
over the last five years and teachers have told us how useful they
find the website in helping them hit key curriculum targets in a
fun and interactive way.</p>
<p>"Reaching one million visits is a real landmark for us and helps
demonstrate just how popular and well used the website has been
since we first launched it."</p>
<p>The milestone means more than 548 visitors have logged on to use
the site's resources each day.</p>
<p>The website offers workshops for Year 6 children to help them
make the transition to secondary education and advise them on how
to travel to their new school.</p>
<p>Since launching Letzgogreen has also played host to several
competitions which allow pupils to win equipment for their schools
or a day out for class mates.</p>
<p>Nearly 10,000 children entered Centro's Olympic themed
competitions last year which involved challenges ranging from
ditching the car for the school run, to creating a sports based
mascot.</p>
<p>Two new competitions for children in Key Stages one and two will
launch this summer to give schools the chance to win eco-friendly
prizes and get a visit from environmental mascot Phoebe.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a href="/">letzgogreen.org</a></p>
An innovative website has clicked with school children after notching more than one million users.
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Centro Black Country boss wins top award
2013-06-21T00:00:00
2013-06-21T00:00:00
Babs Coombes with former England rugby star Matt Dawson at the awards.
<p><span>A Centro employee who manages the public transport network
across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton is toasting
success after picking up first prize in a prestigious
award.</span></p>
<p><span>Babs Coombes, the transport authority's Black Country area
manager, beat off competition from four other women to be named
rising star of the year at the Women First Shine Awards.</span></p>
<p><span>During the glitzy ceremony held at central London's
Marriot Hotel, judges heard how Babs played a key role in bringing
60 new buses to Wolverhampton including the area's first hybrid
electric buses.</span></p>
<p><span>Her work during an overhaul of bus services in Sandwell
was praised after negotiations with operators led to several
improvements for passengers while also achieving savings in
taxpayers' subsidy.</span></p>
<p><span>Attendees also heard that in 2010 after a commercial bus
route in Wolverhampton was withdrawn Babs worked hard to fill the
void and secure a much needed service for elderly residents in the
area.</span></p>
<p><span>This 61 bus route has since proved so popular that it now
receives more than 100 passengers each day and those who use the
service refer to themselves as the "61 club".</span></p>
<p><span>Babs said: ""I am so pleased and proud to have won this
award. It is amazing to have been recognised in this way by women
in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry across the UK for
doing a job which I love.</span></p>
<p><span>""I am really passionate about making public transport
better for people living in the West Midlands, and enjoy working
and meeting with so many different people across the
area.</span></p>
<p><span>"No two days are ever the same and I feel very lucky just
to have the opportunity to do my job so winning the Women First
Shine Rising Star award really is the icing on the
cake."</span></p>
<p><span>Babs joined Centro as a media officer in 2003 before being
selected for its two year talent programme.</span></p>
<p><span>After completing the scheme she was chosen to take on the
role of Black Country area manager working to improve services and
negotiating the best deal for passengers throughout the
area.</span></p>
<p><span>Babs is currently overseeing the £10million Better Bus
Area Fund which will transform bus travel in the Brierley Hill area
by providing improved bus routes and facilities.</span></p>
<p><span>The Women First Shine Awards, which was presented by
former England rugby star Matt Dawson, has been recognising the
achievements of women working in hospitality, passenger transport
and travel and tourism since 2009.</span></p>
Babs Coombes is toasting success after winning a prestigious award for women working in passenger transport.
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Cycling boost for busy South Birmingham route
2013-06-20T00:00:00
2013-06-20T00:00:00
<p>Cyclists along one of South Birmingham's busiest routes are
being given a pedal powered boost thanks to a project to create and
improve cycle lanes in the area.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has teamed up with Birmingham City
Council to extend and adjust cycle routes along the Bristol Road as
part of a £677,000 package of upgrades taking place over the next
two years.</p>
<p>The improvements aim to better connect residents to jobs,
education and training opportunities and will provide links to key
destinations including Selly Oak railway station, the University of
Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.</p>
<p>Other developments will include new bus shelters, junction
enhancements and improved footways for pedestrians.</p>
<p>Part of the money comes from Centro's £50 million Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project with the remainder coming from Birmingham
City Council.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "The south of Birmingham holds some of
the city's most important locations and thousands of people travel
to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the University of Birmingham every
day.</p>
<p>"As the Bristol road is so well used, congestion is often a
major problem but by putting this infrastructure in place we can
give people a real alternative to taking these journeys by car.</p>
<p>"There are already some cycle lanes along this route but many
are incomplete so we felt it was important to plug any gaps so that
those wanting to travel on two wheels could do so hassle free."</p>
<p>Work on the cycle routes will be carried out in three stages to
firstly connect the ring road to Selly Oak before extending to
include Northfield and the city's border at Rubery.</p>
<p>Developments have started on the first phase which will provide
links to Selly Oak railway station, the University of Birmingham
and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.</p>
<p>New lanes will be created and gaps in existing routes will be
filled to ensure a continuous cycle path from the ring road to
Selly Oak.</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for
development, jobs and skills, said: ""This is about having a
joined-up approach to transport, proving alternative provision and
thereby easing congestion, keeping the city moving and improving
access to education and employment.""</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a></p>
"Nearly £700,000 will be spent on improving cycle routes along Birmingham's Bristol Road."
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Park and Ride North bus service in Coventry to close
2013-06-19T00:00:00
2013-06-19T00:00:00
<p><span>A Park and Ride bus scheme in Coventry is to close after
14 years.</span></p>
<p><span>Park and Ride North will cease operation at close of
service on Saturday July 27 as a result of a steady decline in
use.</span></p>
<p><span>The service was based in Courthouse Green and was run by
Centro and Coventry City Council, with services operated by
Coventry firm Travel de Courcey.</span></p>
<p><span>But the service will remain in operation to enable
concert-goers to get to the Coventry Godiva Festival on July
5-7.</span></p>
<p><span>Guy Craddock, Centro area manager for Coventry, said the
decision to close Park and Ride North had not been taken lightly
but it was losing money and current usage averaged just 2.8
passengers a trip.</span></p>
<p><span>He said: "Even though the service is subsidised by Centro
at around £1,900 per week it is still making heavy
losses.</span></p>
<p><span>"Surveys of the passengers who do use the service showed
they would in the main either transfer to Park and Ride South or
use another bus service into the city centre, so we are not likely
to see an increase in car trips there as a result.</span></p>
<p><span>"It is regrettable that we have to make this move but the
service was not paying its way and we have a duty to get the best
deal possible for taxpayers' money."</span></p>
<p><span>Launched in 1999 the Park and Ride service was designed to
relieve traffic congestion from the city centre, and to provide a
more affordable alternative to city centre parking.</span></p>
<p><span>People can park for free then catch a bus into Coventry
city centre for the price of a return fare.</span></p>
<p><span>Park and Ride North operates from a 163 space car park in
Austin Drive.</span></p>
<p><span>The car park is likely to be mothballed in the short term
before Centro and Coventry City Council jointly decide what to do
with the land</span></p>
<p><span>Park and Ride South operates from War Memorial Park, off
Kenilworth Road, and will remain in service.</span></p>
"<p style=""text-align: left;"">Dwindling passenger numbers results in closure of the Park and Ride North service after 14 years."
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Jobs boost for Birmingham’s unemployed as part of the Midland Metro extension
2013-06-10T00:00:00
2013-06-10T00:00:00
"Geoff Inskip, Centro chief executive; Bill Gifford, Balfour Beatty director of operations and Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for development, jobs and skills"
<p>Unemployed Birmingham people are being offered the chance to
fill dozens of new jobs being created by the £128 million extension
of the Midland Metro tram system through the city centre.</p>
<p>Following talks with transport authority Centro and Birmingham
City Council, contractor Balfour Beatty has signed up to the
Employment Access Team (EAT), which aims to support the city's
jobless back into work.</p>
<p>The construction giant, which is building the extension, will
take part in the EAT project over the next two years.</p>
<p>The programme works with key organisations including job
centres, colleges and employers to connect jobseekers in the
Birmingham area with employment, education and training
opportunities.</p>
<p>As part of the scheme the firm has agreed to provide up to 1,000
weeks of employment over the course of the extension project which
will see trams return to the streets of Birmingham in 2015.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive, Geoff Inskip, said: "The tram extension
is a really important project for the people of the West Midlands
and the future prosperity of our region.</p>
<p>"In the current economic climate, it is important that we look
for ways to support people in their search for employment and it is
great that we will be able to do this as part of this vital
work.</p>
<p>"We already know that the Metro extension will boost our economy
by £50 million a year and create 1,300 sustainable new jobs, so the
news that even more jobs will be available for our residents is
extremely pleasing."</p>
<p>Balfour Beatty will make the jobs available for local unemployed
people with the necessary skills to work on the extension.</p>
<p>The agreement also lays out that subcontractors must use local
people to make up 75 per cent of their workforce.</p>
<p>The extension, which is a partnership between Centro and the
Black Country and Birmingham City councils, will see a 20-strong
fleet of new trams deployed on the existing Metro line between
Birmingham and Wolverhampton from next year.</p>
<p>Councillor Tahir Ali, cabinet member for development, jobs and
skills, said: "We are working really closely with employers to
ensure than local and regional developments create job
opportunities for Birmingham people, particularly young people who
are struggling to find work.</p>
<p>"I am pleased that Balfour Beatty has made this commitment to
improve access to work for Birmingham people."</p>
<p>Balfour Beatty was appointed to build the extension last year
after submitting a successful bid.</p>
<p>The extension will connect Birmingham's two biggest railway
stations - Snow Hill and New Street to the Jewellery Quarter
and beyond to the Black Country.</p>
<p>Bill Gifford, Director of Operations for Balfour Beatty said:
""We have a long standing presence in the West Midlands, so we're
delighted to be delivering a scheme that will contribute so
significantly to the region's economic and social prosperity.</p>
<p>"We are also committed to helping build lasting communities, and
as a local employer we want to make sure that throughout the
duration of the project we're helping to support those who are
currently unemployed get back to work."</p>
Contractors working on the tram extension have signed up to a project to create dozens of jobs.
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Tribute to former Centro chairman unveiled at Stourbridge bus station
2013-06-07T00:00:00
2013-06-07T00:00:00
"Margot James MP, Geoff Inskip and James Morris MP (rear) with Angus Adams' daughters Karen Hill (left) and Debbie Harris (right)"
<p>A tribute in stone to former Centro chairman Angus Adams was
unveiled at Stourbridge bus station today (Friday June 7) to
commemorate the key role he played in getting the award winning
facility built.</p>
<p>A granite plaque engraved with an image of the popular Dudley
councillor was unveiled by Stourbridge MP Margot James, Halesowen
and Rowley Regis MP James Morris, Dudley Councillor Les Jones and
Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip as dozens of friends, family
and former colleagues applauded.</p>
<p>Angus, who had been instrumental in pushing forward the
redevelopment of the town's bus station, sadly and unexpectedly,
died in April last year, just weeks before the £7 million
development opened to the public.</p>
<p>Ms James said: "It is a great honour to unveil this plaque in
memory of the late Cllr Angus Adams.</p>
<p>"As ward councillor for Norton, cabinet member for transport and
highways and chairman of Centro, Angus contributed hugely to the
local community and he would have been delighted to see the
positive impact the new Interchange has had on Stourbridge.</p>
<p>"Angus was always full of good humour, and it is absolutely
fitting that his personality and valuable work is being
commemorated today.""</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "Building a new bus station for Stourbridge was
an important goal for Angus and he worked unstintingly to make it
happen. That's why it's so sad he never saw it completed.</p>
<p>"This plaque at least captures and pays tribute to the vital
role he had in providing passengers with such an excellent
facility."</p>
<p>Angus, who had been chairman of Centro since 2010 and a Dudley
councillor since 2000, died after being taken ill at the home of
his partner Jennie Dunn. He was 67.</p>
<p>Although being christened Arthur, his nickname of Angus was due
to him spending his early years in Scotland where his father served
in the Army.</p>
<p>He moved to the Black Country as a boy and went to King Edward
VI Grammar School in Stourbridge.</p>
<p>Well known throughout the business community, Angus ran a number
of companies during his life, mostly in the engineering sector.</p>
<p>The plaque at Stourbridge Interchange was made locally by Davis
Memorials in Old Hill and reads: "This award-winning bus station is
dedicated to Angus who worked tirelessly for its development on
behalf of the people of Stourbridge.</p>
<p>A highly respected local character Angus and his wry sense of
humour are very fondly remembered."</p>
<p>Since being opened in May last year by the then Secretary of
State for Transport Justine Greening, the new Stourbridge
Interchange has landed two top awards.</p>
<p>The sleek glass and steel structure, built by transport
authority Centro with Amey, Interserve and Mott MacDonald, was last
month awarded the Best Large Highway and Transportation Project by
the West Midlands Chartered Institution of Highways and
Transportation (CIHT).</p>
<p>The station also recently landed the Institute of Highway
Engineers' (IHE) Mercia Branch Special Project award.</p>
<p>The Interchange offers a major improvement on the former bus
station, with fully enclosed and comfortable waiting areas and
cutting edge passenger information systems.</p>
<p>A focus was placed on improving walking routes into the town
centre with a new covered walkway linking the station building to
the existing subway from Foster Street.</p>
<p>The subway itself was refurbished to become much more open and
bright.</p>
<p>Better links were also created to the innovative People Mover
connection to Stourbridge Junction railway station, allowing for
easy interchange.</p>
A granite plaque engraved with an image of Angus Adams has been unveiled at Stourbridge bus station.
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Bus users reminded of changes to North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield network
2013-06-06T00:00:00
2013-06-06T00:00:00
<p>Passengers in North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield were today
reminded of changes to their bus services which come into effect
this weekend.</p>
<p>Better connections between Pheasey and the city centre and a new
link to Gravelly Industrial Park are just some of the improvements
being introduced following a major review of services.</p>
<p>All changes begin from the start of service on Sunday June 9 and
passengers will also see alterations to some bus routes and
timetables.</p>
<p>The review saw transport authority Centro work closely with bus
operators and Birmingham and Walsall councils to look at ways to
enhance the network for passengers.</p>
<p>From Sunday a new 936 service will begin running between
Brownhills, Aldridge, Pheasey and Birmingham.</p>
<p>The new service will operate every 15 minutes during peak hours
and every half an hour off peak.</p>
<p>The 934 service will be extended to Walsall from Pheasey,
meaning that there will now be four buses per hour running between
Pheasey and Birmingham following the introduction of the 936.</p>
<p>The changes follow feedback from residents who highlighted the
need for improved links between Pheasey and the city centre during
an extensive public consultation last year with Centro, the
region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "We have worked
closely with Birmingham and Walsall councils and the bus operators
to provide a bus network that reflects the needs of passengers in
this area.</p>
<p>"This new service is the result of extensive partnership work as
well as feedback from passengers and councillors and we hope that
the people of North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield will welcome
the new benefits that the improved network will provide."</p>
<p>Changes to the bus route 66 will see a new link created to
Gravelly Industrial Park on Monday to Friday daytimes.</p>
<p>The timetables for the 51, X51 and 952 services will be
coordinated to provide more evenly spaced buses between Birmingham
and Walsall.</p>
<p>Services 33, 934 and 935A will also operate to revised routes to
ensure more consistently timed services between Birmingham and
Pheasey.</p>
<p>The 78 service which runs between Streetly and Sutton Coldfield
will be extended to and increase to a half hourly service Monday to
Friday.</p>
<p>An exhibition is being held in Victoria Square on Saturday (June
8) from 9am to 3pm, to inform passengers of the changes coming into
effect.</p>
<p>Detailed information on the new services and timetables is
available at: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p>
Amendments to bus services in the area come into effect from Sunday June 9.
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Tributes to former Centro member Cllr Tom Ansell
2013-06-04T00:00:00
2013-06-04T00:00:00
Former Centro member Cllr Tom Ansell
<p>Former Centro member Cllr Tom Ansell has died after a short
illness. He was 70.</p>
<p>Cllr Ansell, a Conservative member for Walsall Borough Council
where he represented Aldridge Central and South for more than 25
years, sat on the Integrated Transport Authority for two years
between June 2010 � June 2012.</p>
<p>During those two years he sat on the Transport Strategy
Committee and the Capital Projects & Local Transport Plan
Committee. In addition, for 2011/12 he was Lead Member for Rail
& Metro.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas (Labour) said: "Although we
were on opposite sides of the political debate I always found Tom
very constructive and helpful and a man of the highest integrity
who took his duties seriously.</p>
<p>"I am saddened to hear of his passing and on behalf of everyone
at Centro I send my deepest condolences to his family."</p>
Former Centro member Cllr Tom Ansell has died after a short illness.
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New 360 orbital bus route is miles ahead of its rivals
2013-06-04T00:00:00
2013-06-04T00:00:00
"Adrian de Courcey, kneeling, with Cllr John McNicholas, left, Guy Craddock, Centro area manager for Coventry, and Andy Hardy"
<p>Coventry has deposed neighbouring Birmingham to claim the crown
of having Europe's longest continuous urban bus
route<strong>.</strong></p>
<p>The new 360 service is a total of 31.5 miles long, nearly six
miles longer than that of the 11 outer circle route in Birmingham
which is just under 26 miles and has held the title since 1926.</p>
<p>The 360 will link some of Coventry's showpiece locations on one
route, including University Hospital, Jaguar Land Rover and the
University of Warwick.</p>
<p>The route has been launched by Centro, the region's transport
authority, and will be operated by award-winning Coventry bus firm
Travel de Courcey<strong>.</strong></p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said the
record-breaking route was a result of customer feedback during a
review of bus services last year.</p>
<p>He said: "The review showed there was a need for a bus service
that linked key areas of Coventry together yet without the need to
travel into the city centre.</p>
<p>"I am delighted that as a result of our partnership working with
Travel de Courcey this service is now available.</p>
<p>"Important destinations such as the hospital, the university and
Jaguar Land Rover now have a direct link which will enable people
to reach them with the minimum of inconvenience."</p>
<p>The 360 runs via the hospital at Walsgrave, Willenhall, Jaguar
Land Rover in Whitley, the University of Warwick in Cannon Park,
Tile Hill railway station, Whoberley, Whitmore Park, the Ricoh
Arena in Rowleys Green and Arena Shopping Park.</p>
<p>Operated by low-floor wheelchair friendly buses, the service
runs up to two buses an hour seven days a week, including evenings
and Bank Holidays.</p>
<p>The new service starts on Sunday June 9 and will run up to two
buses an hour seven days a week, including evenings and bank
holidays.</p>
<p>It will incorporate the current services 701 and 801, which will
be withdrawn, and part of the current 703 and 704 routes. The 703
route remains in operation.</p>
<p>Adrian de Courcey, director of Travel de Courcey, said: "We are
delighted to be working in partnership with Centro to operate the
360 service.</p>
<p>"As a Coventry business we take considerable pride in knowing
that not only are we operating such an important service but one
that also puts the city on the map."</p>
<p>Andy Hardy, chief executive of University Hospitals Coventry and
Warwickshire NHS Trust, added: "This service is good news for the
people of Coventry who rely on the bus to get here.</p>
<p>"It removes the inconvenience of having to travel into the city
centre, change services and catch a connection, and we welcome its
introduction."</p>
Coventry deposes Birmingham to claim the crown of having Europe’s longest continuous urban bus route.
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Centro wins Government cash to expand Park and Ride
2013-06-03T00:00:00
2013-06-03T00:00:00
<p>Centro has been awarded £2 million from the Government to expand
its popular Park and Ride scheme at three more railway
stations.</p>
<p>The cash will go towards enhancing facilities at Kings Norton
station in Birmingham, Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield and
Stourbridge Junction under the West Midlands Access to Growth
Package.</p>
<p>This is a £4m Centro scheme that will see extra parking spaces,
including provision for car sharing bays, electric vehicle charging
points and cycle hubs at these stations.</p>
<p>The money has been awarded under the Government's Local Pinch
Point Fund, a £170 million scheme to remove bottlenecks on the
local highway network.</p>
<p>Centro spokesman Steve Swingler said the West Midlands Access to
Growth Package would deliver strategically-located Park and Ride
expansion supporting jobs, access to employment, housing and
education.</p>
<p>"This is great news for commuters who will now benefit from
badly needed extra spaces at three more key rail stations," he
said.</p>
<p>"The West Midlands is pretty much unique in providing free
parking at its rail stations and the success of our Park and Ride
policy in combating congestion has clearly been recognised by the
Government with this funding award.</p>
<p>"Research shows that the 6,500 free spaces at Centro's 53 heavy
rail and four Metro stop car parks take more than 53,000 cars
journeys off our roads each week.</p>
<p>"However, it could be argued that Park and Ride has become a
victim of its own success with many station car parks often full to
capacity by the end of the morning rush hour. That's why we have
been steadily expanding facilities as and when funding becomes
available.</p>
<p>"Later this year we will be extending Rowley Regis and building
new park and ride facilities at Longbridge and Yardley Wood in
Birmingham but this £2 million award means we can now bring forward
expansion plans for Stourbridge, Kings Norton and Four Oaks."</p>
Park and Ride facilities at three railway stations will be upgraded after Centro wins £2m from Whitehall.
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Free parking spaces temporarily reduced at Northfield rail station
2013-05-28T00:00:00
2013-05-28T00:00:00
<p>Commuters using Northfield railway station in Birmingham will
have fewer free Park and Ride spaces during June while essential
car park resurfacing work is carried out.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, will systematically
close a section of the station's 190 space Park and Ride facility
in three separate phases between Monday June 3 and Monday June 17
(inclusive).</p>
<p>And for three days - Friday June 21 to Sunday June 23 - the
entire car park will close as part of the project which involves
resurfacing and drainage improvements.</p>
<p>The number 19 bus service will not be able to access the station
on these days and a temporary stop will be put in place on South
Road.</p>
<p>There will also be no pedestrian access from Church Hill between
Monday June 10 and Monday June 17 (inclusive).</p>
<p>Simon Gamble, Centro's area asset manager for Birmingham, said:
"We apologise for any inconvenience caused but it is essential that
this work is carried out.</p>
<p>"To minimise the disruption we are doing the work in phases so
that apart from the three days at the very end of the project there
will always be some spaces available."</p>
<p>The project will see:</p>
<ul>
<li>54 bays and six blue badge spaces closed between June 3 and
7</li>
<li>28 bays and six blue badge shut between June 10 and 13</li>
<li>142 bays and nine blue badge closed between June 14 and 17</li>
</ul>
<p>Further blue badge spaces will be available at Selly Oak
Station.</p>
<p>Unlike most parts of the country, West Midland commuters enjoy
free parking with more than 6,500 spaces available at Centro's 53
heavy rail and four Metro station car parks.</p>
<p>Park and Ride has proved hugely successful in persuading
motorists to make the bulk of their daily commute by rail or
tram.</p>
<p>These free spaces are calculated to take more than 53,000
journeys off the region's roads each week, reducing carbon dioxide
emissions by 6,200 tonnes a year.</p>
<p>Plans are currently in place to develop a new Park and Ride site
at Longbridge and extend the existing facility at Rowley Regis.</p>
Car park resurfacing work means fewer spaces will be available during June at Northfield rail station. �
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Hospital transport scheme launched
2013-05-24T00:00:00
2013-05-24T00:00:00
"(left to right) Manjula Patel, health service manager for the Murray Halls Community Trust, Cllr Ian Jones, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for jobs and economy, volunteer driver Chris Barratt and Cllr Judith Rowley, lead member for green and accessibl"
<p>An innovative transport scheme helping people living with cancer
and other serious illnesses get to hospital for treatment was
officially launched today (Friday May 24).</p>
<p>Transport Solutions is a one-stop shop providing transportation
and journey planning for people needing to get to hospitals and
other treatment centres across Birmingham, Wolverhampton and
Sandwell.</p>
<p>The scheme, which was launched at The Public in West Bromwich,
is the result of a partnership between West Midlands-based charity
Murray Hall Community Trust, Macmillan and Centro, the region's
transport authority.</p>
<p>Transport Solutions, which is being part funded by a £27,900
donation from Centro's Transport Regeneration Fund, lays on bespoke
door-to-door transport for patients using volunteer drivers and is
available to people with cancer and palliative stage illnesses in
Sandwell and West Birmingham.</p>
<p>The project has been launched because many patients were
previously unsure about what their transport entitlements were and
what support they could get. This can vary widely depending on what
treatment patients are undergoing, their postcode, income and what
hospital they are attending.</p>
<p>Manjula Patel, Health Service Manager for the Murray Halls
Community Trust, said: "The lack of appropriate transport is a well
known barrier to accessing health care services, which contributes
to the poor health in our population area.</p>
<p>"We hear from people who struggle to access their hospital
appointments and treatment.</p>
<p>"As a charity our response has been to work in partnership with
volunteer drivers, Macmillan and Centro to provide a self funding
affordable transport option, one that is an asset to the
community.""</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, added: "We felt it was important to help fund
this scheme because it puts patients' needs at its very heart.</p>
<p>"It means people who are already dealing with immense challenges
in their lives will at least no longer have to worry about
organising their own transport.</p>
<p>"Getting to treatment or palliative care needs to be easy and
accessible for patients and this project does just that."</p>
<p>The Trust is meanwhile appealing for more volunteer drivers to
take patients to their hospital appointments and treatments.</p>
<p>Volunteer Chris Barratt, from Tipton, said: "When my wife Carol
was ill the support and help the charity gave her was tremendous so
volunteering as a driver is my way of giving something back to
them.</p>
<p>"It's a very rewarding thing to do and I get to meet and help
some lovely people."</p>
<p>Those interested in volunteering should phone 0121 612 2939 or
Fax 0121 612 2934</p>
An innovative transport scheme has been launched to help cancer patients get to hospital for treatment
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New services mean less drama travelling between Birmingham and Stratford
2013-05-21T00:00:00
2013-05-21T00:00:00
Pat Davis receives a new timetable leaflet from Shakespearean actors Emma Jones and Sean O’Grady outside Snow Hill station in Birmingham city centre.
<p>Travellers between Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon now have
rail services as they like them with the introduction of more
frequent services running later into the night.</p>
<p>Centro has teamed up with Warwickshire County Council to fund
the introduction of the new timetable, which came into operation on
May 20.</p>
<p>It will see a later-running service that will allow passengers a
later night out, be they hitting the bright lights and shops of
Birmingham or the world-famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre in
Stratford.</p>
<p>Previously the Stratford-upon-Avon Line, which runs between Moor
Street station in Birmingham and Stratford, had the poorest evening
service in the West Midlands - the last train departed from
Birmingham to Stratford at 8.30pm and a last train from Stratford
to Birmingham at 9.36pm.</p>
<p>The changes will also Saturday service frequency increase from
every hour to half-hourly. The last train from Birmingham to
Stratford will be at 10.30pm and from Stratford to Birmingham will
be 10.32pm.</p>
<p>They will be operated by London Midland under a three-year
agreement with Warwickshire County Council and Centro by extending
some of the existing services which currently terminate at
Whitlock's End.</p>
<p>To promote the new services actors Sean O'Grady and Emma Jones
donned Shakespearean garb to hand out new timetable leaflets in
Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>The timetable enhancement is good news for Pat Davis, of Aston,
Birmingham, who regularly uses the line to see her sister in the
Cotswolds.</p>
<p>She said: "I am delighted to hear there are going to be more
services running later at night. I use the line regularly and it
now means I am going to be able to visit her more regularly and
stay longer."</p>
<p>Hand-in-hand with the new services is the opening of the new
Stratford-upon-Avon Parkway station.</p>
<p>The station, funded and delivered as the centrepiece of
Warwickshire County Council's Local Sustainable Transport Fund
project, is located between Stratford-upon-Avon and Wilmcote
stations and shares a site with the town's existing bus-based park
and ride.</p>
<p>It boasts around 300 car parking spaces with convenient access
by car, bus, bike or on foot.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "I am
delighted that people travelling to Birmingham from Stratford, and
vice versa, will be able to enjoy a longer day or night out instead
of having to cut it short to get the last train back.</p>
<p>"Working in partnership with Warwickshire County Council has
enabled us to provide a service which enhances the rail network
between two of the jewels in the crown in the West Midlands and I
would encourage people to use it as much as they can."</p>
<p>Hannah Collett, senior transport planner at Warwickshire County
Council, said:"We are delighted that we have been able to improve
rail services for passengers travelling between Stratford-upon-Avon
and Birmingham by working with Centro to develop this enhanced
timetable.</p>
<p>"The introduction of these improved services coincides with the
start of passenger train services at the brand new Stratford
Parkway station, a £6.9 million Department for Transport funded
project that we have delivered working with our contractors,
Buckingham Group.</p>
<p>""The new station provides a transport hub for people travelling
to and from Stratford-upon-Avon with excellent travel links for
people travelling by bus, bike, foot or by car. Together with the
new timetable, we hope this will greatly improve people's travel
options."</p>
<p>London Midland commercial director Richard Brooks said: ""Our
new later and more frequent services will give passengers added
flexibility when travelling between Stratford and Birmingham,
whether that be hitting the shops or taking in a play.</p>
<p>"We look forward to welcoming passengers on board our new
services and hope that as many people as possible take advantage of
these timetable improvements."</p>
Rail services between Birmingham and Stratford will now run more frequently and later into the night.
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All change for North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield buses
2013-05-20T00:00:00
2013-05-20T00:00:00
<p>Bus passengers in North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield will be
benefitting from even better services after Centro, bus operators
and local councils agreed improvements to routes and services
across the area.</p>
<p>From Sunday June 9 a new 936 service will begin running between
Brownhills, Aldridge, Pheasey and Birmingham.</p>
<p>The new service will operate every 15 minutes during peak hours
and every half an hour off peak.</p>
<p>The 934 service will be extended to Walsall from Pheasey meaning
that there will now be four buses per hour running between Pheasey
and Birmingham following the introduction of the 936.</p>
<p>The changes follow feedback from residents who highlighted the
need for improved links between Pheasey and the city centre during
an extensive public consultation last year with Centro, the
region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "We have worked
closely with Birmingham and Walsall councils and the bus operators
to provide a bus network that reflects the needs of passengers in
this area.</p>
<p>"This new service is the result of extensive partnership work as
well as feedback from passengers and councillors and we hope that
the people of North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield will welcome
the new benefits that the improved network will provide."</p>
<p>Changes to the bus route 66 will see a new link created to
Gravelly Industrial Park on Monday to Friday daytimes.</p>
<p>The timetables for the 51, X51 and 952 services will be
coordinated to provide more evenly spaced buses between Birmingham
and Walsall.</p>
<p>Services 33, 934 and 935A will also operate to revised routes to
ensure more consistently timed services between Birmingham and
Pheasey.</p>
<p>The 78 service which runs between Streetly and Sutton Coldfield
will be extended to include Parson and Clerk and increase to a half
hourly service Monday to Friday.</p>
<p>A series of exhibitions will be held in the area to inform
passengers of the changes coming into effect.</p>
<p>The exhibitions will be:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday May 30, Mere Green Community Centre, 9.30am to
1pm</li>
<li>Thursday May 30, Sutton Coldfield Parade, 2pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Monday June 3, Collingwood Centre, 10am to 3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday June 4, Aston Tesco, 9.30am to 1pm</li>
<li>Tuesday June 4, One Stop Centre, 2pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Wednesday June 5, Mecca Bingo Kingstanding Circle, 1pm to
6pm</li>
<li>Thursday June 6, Erdington High Street, 1pm to 6pm</li>
<li>Saturday June 8, Victoria Square, 9am to 3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro will be making further improvements in the area as part
its £50 million Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which aims
to boost the regional economy, cut carbon and connect residents to
jobs.</p>
<p>The A34 Walsall Road has been chosen as a key route which will
see walking and cycling measures brought into place over the next
two years.</p>
<p>Residents, schools and employers along the A34 route will also
benefit from journey planning initiatives and grants.</p>
New North Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield network to bring benefits for passengers.
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Talking map for the blind begins trials at Wolverhampton bus station
2013-05-16T00:00:00
2013-05-16T00:00:00
"Julian Coleman, left, of Nexus, Cllr Judith Rowley, and Brian Walters with the Ariadne system at Wolverhampton bus station."
<p>A pioneering information system for the blind and visually
impaired has begun trials at Wolverhampton bus station.</p>
<p>The Ariadne tactile map 'talks' to people to tell them where
they are within the station when they press symbols on a
touch-screen.</p>
<p>The map shows local features such as offices, toilets, walls and
doors, in Braille, raised ink and with tactile symbols that can be
discerned by touch.</p>
<p>But it also features an audio system that enables users to
establish where they are in the station and to calculate how to get
to where they want to.</p>
<p>The map has been developed by Nexus Alpha Low Power Systems of
Rochester, Kent.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, was so impressed it
agreed to install it at Wolverhampton's showpiece £22 million bus
station, which opened in 2011, as part of a working trial.</p>
<p>Patrons of the Beacon Centre for the Blind in Sedgley have been
brought in to help the development team from Centro and Nexus
Alpha.</p>
<p>They give their perspective and make suggestions where they
think the map can be improved for users.</p>
<p>One of them is Brian Walters, aged 73, of Fordhouses,
Wolverhampton, a retired postal worker who lost his sight a decade
ago.</p>
<p>He said: "It's a very good system and I think it is going to be
a big asset for the station, the idea and the technology behind it
is first-rate.</p>
<p>"When I look back at the old bus station and compare it to the
facilities such as talking doors that we have now there is just no
comparison. The modern station is brilliant."</p>
<p>Ariadne is fitted with technology automatically triggered by a
person using a keyfob issued by the Royal National Institute for
the Blind.</p>
<p>The fobs can be used anywhere in the country to activate audio
in Real Time Information stands which have the facility.</p>
<p>With the Ariadne system, a series of beeps enables the user to
firstly locate the machine.</p>
<p>They can then explore the map by touch using raised, interactive
symbols which can either be explained in Braille or conventional
type, or tapped for an audio description.</p>
<p>The system was named after the heroine in Greek mythology who
helped Theseus navigate the labyrinth to slay the Minotaur.</p>
<p>Nexus chief operating officer Julian Coleman said: "The
Wolverhampton trial will help us refine and improve the system so
that one day it can eventually be rolled out across the country,
helping the blind and visually impaired find their way around.</p>
<p>"This is the first in the country and the help of the Beacon
Centre and Centro has been invaluable."</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro lead member for Green and Accessible
Transport, said: "I am delighted that Centro has been able to take
the lead in introducing this superb system.</p>
<p>"A bus station is a very busy place which blind and visually
impaired people use as well as the sighted, and they need
assistance in finding their way around.</p>
<p>"A system such as Ariadne will be invaluable in helping them do
so and ensuring that their experience of using Wolverhampton bus
station is a pleasant one.</p>
A pioneering information system for the blind begins trials at Wolverhampton bus station.
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Olympic hero Tommy remembered with new cycle route
2013-05-14T00:00:00
2013-05-14T00:00:00
"Tommy Godwin’s daughter Kay Jones, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways Councillor Ted Richards, and Centro’s Programme Executive Richard Lawrence"
<p><span>The first part of £2.6million worth of cycle routes in
North Solihull has been officially opened and named after the
Borough's most famous Olympian.</span></p>
<p>Godwin Way, in Chelmsley Wood, was officially unveiled
today.</p>
<p>The route has been named after the late Tommy Godwin, who won
two cycling bronze medals in the 1948 Olympic Games, as well as
being a Torchbearer when the Olympic Flame passed through the
Borough last summer.</p>
<p>Tommy's daughter, Kay Jones, helped open the new route, along
withCouncillor Ted Richards, Solihull Council's Cabinet Member for
Transport and Highways and Centro Programme Executive, Richard
Lawrence.</p>
<p>Kay said: "I'm absolutely thrilled to help openGodwin Way my Dad
would have been very proud. I hope it encourages people to get out
and about on two wheels."</p>
<p>Godwin Wayforms part of the North Solihull Strategic Cycle
Network, which will see 13km of cycle routes built inNorth
Solihullby 2015.</p>
<p>The £2.6m project has been funded through the European Regional
Development Fund and Centro's Smart Network, Smarter Choices
scheme.</p>
<p>The primary aim of the routes is to make is easier for people to
leave their car and instead cycle to work, although the routes will
be open for all two-wheeled users.</p>
<p>Councillor Ted Richards, Solihull Council's Cabinet Member for
Transport and Highways, said: "These new cycle routes are a key
part of the ongoing regeneration in North Solihull and will
hopefully make it much easier and much more tempting for local
people to cycle to work instead of driving as well as being
available for all cyclists in the area to use.</p>
<p>"I'm also delighted to honour the late Tommy Godwin by naming
this first route in his memory. He was a cycling legend and this
route ensures his name will always have pride of place in the
borough."</p>
<p>Richard Lawrence, Centro's Programme Executive, said: "Cycling
is a great alternative to the car for short trips it's quick,
inexpensive and a good way to keep fit.</p>
<p>"These new routes will make it much easier to cycle around North
Solihull and with road congestion costing theWest Midlandsmore than
£2.3 billion each year, travelling on two wheels could also help
boost the economy."</p>
<p><span>For more information about cycling in Solihull,
visit</span> <a
href="/">www.solihull.gov.uk/transport/cyclelanes</a></p>
<span >The first section of a £2.6million network of cycle routes in North Solihull has been officially opened.�</span>
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Three weeks remain on Midland Metro consultation
2013-05-10T00:00:00
2013-05-10T00:00:00
Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas on the Metro tram extension stand at Wolverhampton bus station
<p><span>The public and business community still have another three
weeks to give their views on a £15 million plan to extend the
Midland Metro in Wolverhampton city centre.</span></p>
<p><span>Scores of responses have already been sent to Centro, the
region's transport authority, about the proposals to take trams
along Piper's Row to the city's bus and train stations, helping to
create new jobs and underpin economic growth.</span></p>
<p><span>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas joined staff at
Wolverhampton bus station for one of the public exhibitions being
staged around the city until May 31 when the consultation
ends.</span></p>
<p><span>"We've had some very encouraging feedback about the scheme
which we believe can help unlock further redevelopment in this part
of the city centre, providing a real economic shot in the arm," he
said.</span></p>
<p><span>"These are important plans for Wolverhampton and we are
keen to hear from as many people and businesses as possible so I
would urge people to have their say."</span></p>
<p><span>The proposed extension has been drawn up by Centro in
partnership with Wolverhampton City Council and Neptune
Developments.</span></p>
<p><span>It would not only improve passenger connections between
bus, train and tram services, but also support the planned
redevelopment of land next to the rail station which is expected to
see £100 million of investment and 1,400 new jobs.</span></p>
<p><span>The extension would run along Piper's Row with a stop
directly outside the bus station before terminating at the rail
station.</span></p>
<p><span>It would open up areas for regeneration and serve as a
platform for future tram routes to New Cross Hospital and the
Wednesfield area.</span></p>
<p><span>It would also provide improved Metro links to the wider
West Midlands including a route through to the proposed high speed
rail station and the Broad Street area in Birmingham city
centre.</span></p>
<p><span>People can comment about the plans by logging on to
centro.org.uk/metro or by sending an email to</span> <a
href="/"><span>metro@centro.org.uk</span></a> <span>phoning the
Centro Customer Contact Centro on 0121 214 7214 or writing to Metro
Consultation, Centro, 16, Summer Lane, Birmingham B19
3SD.</span></p>
<p><span>Comments need to be submitted by May 31.</span></p>
<p><span>A number of exhibitions have also being staged with Centro
staff on hand to answer questions and provide more
information.</span></p>
<p><span>The exhibition at the bus station is on until 8pm tonight
(Thursday May 9) and a further event will take place at the rail
station between 11am and 8pm on Tuesday (May 14).</span></p>
<p><span>An unstaffed exhibition is being staged between 9am and
4pm tomorrow (Friday May 10) in the Civic Centre.</span></p>
The public have three weeks to feedback on plans to extend tram system in Wolverhampton city centre
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Transport chief backs HS2's inclusion in the Queen's speech
2013-05-08T00:00:00
2013-05-08T00:00:00
<p>Transport leader Geoff Inskip says HS2's inclusion in today's
(May 8) Queen's Speech is great news for the West Midlands economy
bringing jobs and investment.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip, chief executive of regional transport authority
Centro, said HS2 was now one of the Government's top priorities in
the coming year and this would mean the project can press ahead
with legislation and secure benefits for the regions.</p>
<p>"This is exactly what we wanted to hear a continuing commitment
and tremendous news for the West Midlands," Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"HS2 will bring fast, direct services connecting eight of our
ten largest cities, but it will also release capacity for more
services on our existing lines.</p>
<p>"We're already working to get the best possible benefits from
HS2 at a local and regional level and so this continuing,
unwavering commitment is crucial."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said research revealed that HS2 would deliver 22,000
jobs and £1.5bn per year to the West Midlands when phase one of the
high-speed line between London and Birmingham was completed.</p>
<p>Further work is being done to calculate the benefits for phase
two of the project which runs from the West Midlands to Manchester
and Leeds.</p>
<p>Authorities and organisations across the region are working
together in a Local Connectivity Group to maximise the benefits of
bringing high-speed rail to the West Midlands.</p>
<p>They are calling for direct international services to
destinations including Paris and Brussels and examining new routes
for Metro and heavy rail to feed into and connect with the region's
two high speed rail stations.</p>
<p>They also want to increase rail services on existing corridors,
including Wolverhampton to Birmingham Airport and Birmingham to
Coventry.</p>
<p>The Group also want the Birmingham city centre station HS2 in
Moor Street to be designed to allow for swift transfer between
local and high speed services.</p>
Centro boss Geoff Inskip says announcement is great news for the West Midlands
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Smartphone ‘app’ provides real time information boost
2013-05-03T00:00:00
2013-05-03T00:00:00
Centro's Network West Midlands smartphone application
<p>Passengers can keep track of hundreds more buses at the touch of
a button following a major boost to real time information on a free
smartphone application.</p>
<p>More than 75 per cent of the region's buses are now providing
live updates to transport authority Centro's, Network West Midlands
'app'.</p>
<p>The application, which has been downloaded by more than 20,000
West Midlands passengers, now displays real time information
updates for all 1,687 of the region's National Express buses.</p>
<p>Each of the fleet has been fitted with tracking devices which
use GPS technology to pinpoint their location at any given
time.</p>
<p>The information will feed the application, as well as
information screens at bus stops and stations, to give passengers
up to the minute updates on when their bus will arrive.</p>
<p>Centro vice chair Cllr Kath Hartley said: "We have worked
closely with National Express to ensure that our app provides as
much up to date information as possible and helps to meet the
demands of the modern commuter.</p>
<p>"Knowing when your bus will arrive and being up to date on any
delays can help you plan your journeys much more effectively and we
are working with other operators to try and provide even more real
time information in the future."</p>
<p>Earlier this year National Express, which operates 77 per cent
of the region's buses, unveiled a £1.6 million AVL centre from
which all services are monitored to help identify problems and cut
response times.</p>
<p>Centro has contributed £500,000 to the scheme as part of its
Smart Network, Smarter Choices project.</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands, said:"Customers tell us that knowing in real time when
their bus is due to arrive at the stop is one of the best
improvements we have made.</p>
<p>"This improvement is now coming to smartphones and customers
will know when to leave the office, home or pub to get to their
bus."</p>
<p>The app also uses to GPS technology to help users find their
nearest bus, train or tram stop.</p>
<p>Those who regularly make the same journey can save favourite
stops and stations to make it even easier to find out when the next
services will arrive.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/apps</a></p>
Hundreds more buses are now providing live updates to a free smartphone application.
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Hat trick of awards for milestone Centro projects
2013-05-03T00:00:00
2013-05-03T00:00:00
The Centro team and project partners with the trophies for Stourbridge Interchange and BCCI at the IHE awards.
<p>Centro is celebrating a hat-trick of awards for two milestone
projects.</p>
<p>The new £7 million Stourbridge Interchange landed two top awards
just 12 months after opening.</p>
<p>The sleek glass and steel bus station was awarded the Best Large
Highway and Transportation Project by the West Midlands Chartered
Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT).</p>
<p>Judges were impressed by the project's provision of usable,
quality, real time information through an inspiring and
contemporary building.</p>
<p>The Interchange, built by transport authority Centro with Amey,
Interserve and Mott MacDonald, has also won the Institute of
Highway Engineers' (IHE) Mercia Branch Special Project award.</p>
<p>The IHE also awarded the Large Project of the Year to Centro for
the Birmingham City Centre Interchange project (BCCI), carried out
in partnership with Birmingham City Council.</p>
<p>This was the massive operation in 2012 to remove buses from
Corporation Street and install key interchanges around the city
centre to pave the way for the Midland Metro extension.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "I am
delighted that the hard work of Centro and its partners has been
formally recognised.</p>
<p>"These projects play a key part in our determination to create a
world-class public transport network in the West Midlands fit for
the 21<sup>st</sup> century."</p>
<p>Centro's Stourbridge Interchange project manager Anthony Johnson
said: "Winning these awards recognises the achievement of building
a world class interchange.</p>
<p>"We hope it will not only promote Stourbridge as a place to
visit and do business but also serve as a showcase for the standard
of facilities we are striving to build throughout the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>The Interchange was officially opened by the then Secretary of
State for Transport Justine Greening in May last year.</p>
<p>It offered a major improvement on the former bus station, with
fully enclosed and comfortable waiting areas and cutting edge
passenger information systems.</p>
<p>The contemporary design boasts a modern station building and
concourse complete with toilets, a Spar convenience store and
electronic passenger information screens showing passengers when
their bus is due.</p>
<p>Other features include eight, spacious bus stands allowing easy
passenger circulation with doors that automatically open only when
the bus arrives.</p>
<p>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system were
also installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>A focus was placed on improving walking routes into the town
centre with a new covered walkway linking the station building to
the existing subway from Foster Street.</p>
<p>The subway itself was refurbished to become much more open and
bright.</p>
<p>Better links were also created to the innovative People Mover
connection to Stourbridge Junction railway station, allowing for
easy interchange.</p>
<p>The BCCI project in July 2012 saw the pedestrianisation of
Corporation Street and its ten bus stops relocated to six new
points, backed up by a major public information exercise.</p>
<p>The changes pave the way for work on the Metro tram extension
linking Snow Hill Station to New Street Station, which itself is
undergoing the £600 million Gateway rebuild.</p>
<p>The tram extension, which along with the Gateway project is due
for completion in 2015, will feature a stop in Corporation Street,
delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a year directly into
the heart of the shopping district.</p>
Centro scoops three awards for Stourbridge bus station and Birmingham City Centre Interchange.
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Work begins on Coventry’s cycling revolution
2013-05-02T00:00:00
2013-05-02T00:00:00
"Cyclist Angela Hands; Cllr Lindsley Harvard, Coventry City Council’s cabinet member for city services; cyclist George Riches and Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas"
<p>Coventry's £7 million cycling revolution took a major step
forward this week when work on a key route which will provide links
to University Hospital got underway.</p>
<p>Cycle Coventry, a joint project between Coventry City Council
and transport authority Centro, will see seven stellar cycling
routes created to connect residents to jobs, education and training
opportunities.</p>
<p>Physical work has started on one of the routes which will link
the city centre to Longford via Henley.</p>
<p>The route will also connect to University Hospital and Henley
College.</p>
<p>Councillor Lindsley Harvard, Cabinet Member for City Services
said: "The Cycle Coventry project is about making it easier to get
to key places in the city, such as your place of work or college,
by using your bike. It will also make it easier to get to public
transport links by improving pedestrian, as well as cycle
routes.</p>
<p>"The Sowe Valley route is already well-used and it's fitting
that we start work here and we've had a lot of support from local
groups to help us deliver what they want."</p>
<p>The route will run along part of the popular and picturesque
Sowe Valley footpath before joining up with the Ansty Road near the
hospital.</p>
<p>It was designed with the help of the Cycle Coventry Advisory
Group and the Friends of Sowe Valley.</p>
<p>More than 20 miles of connected routes will be in place once the
project is completed in 2015.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "This is a huge
landmark for a project which will really transform the way people
travel in Coventry.</p>
<p>"We have worked closely with the council to identify important
areas in the city where residents will really benefit from having
strong cycling infrastructure.</p>
<p>"More than 50 per cent of journeys in the city under five
kilometres are currently taken by car, by providing well thought
out cycling routes we can give people a real alternative and help
cut the congestion on our streets."</p>
<p>Coventry City Council have contributed £3.5million of Government
grant funds and will deliver each of the seven routes.</p>
<p>The remaining £3.4million comes from Centro's Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which will deliver £50million of
sustainable improvements across the West Midlands over the next two
years.</p>
Work has started on a £7 million scheme which will provide seven key cycling routes across the city.
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Birmingham New Street's new concourse opens to passengers
2013-04-26T00:00:00
2013-04-26T00:00:00
A showing the new layout of Birmingham New Street
<p>Passengers using Birmingham New Street station can now see the
first major changes in over 40 years after a new concourse was
officially opened.</p>
<p><span>The first half of the new concourse and three new
entrances are open to passengers, with cars using a new entrance
off Hill Street. This will allow the old station and all of its
existing entrances to close for redevelopment.<br />
<br />
Chris Montgomery, Network Rail's project director, said: "The
first half of the new concourse will be bigger, brighter and better
than the old station, with new escalators and lifts also providing
better access.</span></p>
<p><span>By switching off the old station and opening the first
half of the new concourse next door, we can keep passengers moving
through New Street while keeping the station open.<br />
<br />
A major information campaign has taken place over the last few
months, reaching over 1 million people, to inform passengers about
the changes to the station on 28 April. An army of volunteers,
Network Rail and Birmingham City Council staff will help passengers
find their way to, from and around the new concourse. Network Rail
is recommending passengers allow some extra time for their journey
the first time they use the new concourse.<br />
<br />
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "The opening of the
western concourse is a key milestone for the New Street project and
gives the public a real view of how the redevelopment is
progressing.<br />
<br />
When I visited the works at the end of February I was very
impressed - the transformation of the site is giving the West
Midlands the fantastic travel hub it deserves as well as opening up
this part of the city centre to pedestrians."<br />
<br />
The regeneration potential of this £600m development is plain to
see and I am pleased that Government funding is being put to good
use.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for transforming
rail travel, added: "The transformation of New Street Station is
only at its half way stage and many exciting elements, such as the
giant glass atrium, are still to come. Nevertheless this new modern
concourse with platforms served by new escalators and lifts will
bring real benefits for the thousands of passengers using it each
day."<br />
<br />
Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "It has
been a tremendous feat of engineering and logistics to keep one
half of New Street station operating pretty much as normal for
passengers travelling in and out of the city; and I have every
confidence that we will see the same smooth running on the other
side after the switchover happens this weekend."</span></p>
Passengers using Birmingham New Street are now seeing the first major changes in over 40 years.
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New scheme gives a clean sweep on Birmingham and Solihull buses
2013-04-26T00:00:00
2013-04-26T00:00:00
"Cllr Keith Linnecor; Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro vice chair; cleaning squad member Jeanette Crawford-Whitten and Sam Houlders National Express West Midlands’ general manager for central Birmingham"
<p>Cleaners are making sure passengers get a rubbish-free ride by
blitzing buses as they wait to get back on the road.</p>
<p>As soon as passengers have disembarked the cleaners sweep into
action and the bus heads off again, subject to the service running
on time.</p>
<p>Teams are now in action in Birmingham's Colmore Row and Solihull
rail and bus interchange after proving a success in Wolverhampton,
West Bromwich and Coventry bus stations.</p>
<p>They have been introduced as part of the Transforming Bus Travel
partnership agreement between Centro, the region's transport
authority, and bus operator National Express West Midlands.</p>
<p>In Birmingham services taking part are the 22, 23, 24, 29 and
29A, while at Solihull it is the 5, 37, 71, 72 and 966.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro's vice chair, said: "When buses arrive
and passengers are off, we are taking the opportunity to get on
board and clean them out as litter can quickly add up.</p>
<p>"Passengers pointed out that litter on buses was something they
disliked and by working closely with the operators we have been
able to take this step and help improve their experience.</p>
<p>"For operational reasons we can't send the cleaners on to every
bus and passengers can be assured that those vehicles will be
cleaned in the usual way at the end of service, but people can also
play their part by taking their rubbish away with them."</p>
<p>At Wolverhampton bus station, where the scheme was launched, the
cleaners are emptying an average of 10 bags of rubbish a day from
five services.</p>
<p>Sam Houlders, National Express West Midlands' general manager
for central Birmingham, said: "This is a great example of our
partnership with Centro delivering the improvements customers
want.</p>
<p>"These new cleaning squads will ensure that the buses customers
use throughout the day are as clean as when they leave our garages
in the morning."</p>
Litter-busting scheme will see cleaners blitzing buses as they wait to get back on the road.
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Bradford Place to reopen early
2013-04-26T00:00:00
2013-04-26T00:00:00
<p><span>Walsall's Bradford Place bus interchange will reopen to
passengers tomorrow (April 27) after work at the facility was
completed two days ahead of schedule.</span></p>
<p>The number of stands on the Saddlers Centre side of the
interchange has been reduced from five to four to allow more room
for buses and passengers.</p>
<p>The change will allow buses to use the stands more effectively
and provide a clearer, safer passageway which will help cut
congestion and keep buses running on time.</p>
<p>Work was due to be completed on Sunday (April 28) but the
interchange will now reopen to passengers two days early.</p>
<p>Timetable changes to allow more evenly spaced bus services will
be introduced from the start of service on Sunday.�</p>
<p>Centro spokesman Peter Cameron said: "Work to remove one of the
bus stands at Bradford Place to improve the interchange for
operators and passengers has been completed two days ahead of
schedule.</p>
<p>"Rather than have people unnecessarily walking to Bradford
Street and Caldmore Road to catch their buses, as they would have
had to do under the original schedule, we decided to reopen the
interchange from tomorrow (Saturday April 27).</p>
<p>"For timetabling reasons it has not been feasible to introduce
the new stand allocations straight away therefore we will be
operating the old arrangements on Saturday (April 27), then from
Sunday (April 28) the new system will begin.</p>
<p>"We advise passengers to check the information provided at stops
for their service point. Centro staff will be on hand to assist
them throughout this time."</p>
Walsall’s Bradford Place bus interchange will reopen to passengers on April 27.
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Centro unveils new electric car charging points
2013-04-25T00:00:00
2013-04-25T00:00:00
"Adrian Vinsome, left, Cllr John McNicholas and Centro Sustainability and Programmes Officer Hannah Noble at Tile Hill."
<p>Motorists making the switch from petrol and diesel to electric
have been given a boost with the installation of new charge points
across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The electric vehicle charge points (EVCPs) at a number of
railway stations are part of a trial programme being run by Centro,
the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>The EVCPs support the Plugged-In Midlands (PiM) programme, one
of eight such schemes taking place across the UK.</p>
<p>The first EVCP available for public use has now been opened at
Tile Hill Park and Ride in Coventry by Centro chairman Cllr John
McNicholas.</p>
<p>He said: "I am delighted that Centro is at the forefront of
promoting electric vehicles in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"Green technology is increasingly important and by helping to
stimulate the market for low-carbon vehicles we can make a telling
contribution towards reducing pollution."</p>
<p>A programme has been developed to install EVCPs at more stations
over the coming year.</p>
<p>The next electric car charging facility to open to the public
will be at Solihull Park and Ride.</p>
<p>As part of Centro's EVCP programme, further facilities are due
to be installed at the following stations:</p>
<ul>
<li>Yardley Wood Park and Ride</li>
<li>Longbridge Park and Ride</li>
<li>Rowley Regis Park and Ride</li>
</ul>
<p>Initially Centro will trial EVCP's capable of charging two cars
at a time at each car park.</p>
<p>The selected sites have recently been expanded or are due to be
expanded and have the capacity to include EVCPs, ensuring there
will be no loss of general user spaces.</p>
<p>The EVCPs are free to use until March 2014 when the trial will
be reviewed. Drivers wanting to use them will have to <a
href="/">become a member</a> via Plugged in Midlands.</p>
<p>The PiM project is managed by <a href="/" target="">Cenex</a>
and is one of eight 'Plugged-in Places' projects supported by OLEV,
the Office for Low Emission Vehicles.</p>
<p>Centro has ear-marked £55,000 for the programme and there is
scope to claim up to 40% towards the costs of the trial through
PiM.</p>
<p>Adrian Vinsome, Head of Programmes for Cenex, said: "Plugged-in
Midlands aimed to install more than 500 electric vehicle charging
points across the West and East Midlands to support over 1,000 new
electric vehicle registrations, and this target has already been
achieved.</p>
<p>"Centro is offering charging points at carefully considered
locations that will encourage motorists to use EVs, but it is still
promoting public transport for the majority of the journey - this
is exactly the sort of initiative that PiM was hoping to
support."</p>
<p>PiM aims to develop a regional network of more than 500 electric
vehicle charging points across the west and east Midlands that will
be fully compatible with those being installed across the country
under the wider scheme.</p>
<p>Low emission vehicle technology is becoming increasingly common
in public transport National Express West Midlands have a total of
40 hybrid electric buses successfully operating on the streets of
Birmingham and the Black Country.</p>
<p>According to the Department for Transport 3,624 electric cars
and 120,378 hybrid electric cars were licensed on UK roads between
January 1994 and September 2012.</p>
<p>The government is providing up to £400m over the lifetime of
this Parliament to encourage the uptake of ultra low emission
vehicles.</p>
<p>This includes funding for a consumer incentive offering up to
£5,000 off the price of eligible cars and up to £8,000 towards
eligible vans; funding for research development and procurement
programmes; and initiatives to kick-start the installation of
recharging points.</p>
<p>For motorists struggling with the ever-increasing cost of petrol
and diesel the economic benefits of electric cars are
considerable.</p>
<p>For example, some electric models can drive up to 100 miles on a
full charge yet cost just a couple of pounds to charge from flat to
full charge.</p>
New charging points for electric vehicles are unveiled at railway stations across the West Midlands. �
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Views sought on Wolverhampton tram extension
2013-04-23T00:00:00
2013-04-23T00:00:00
8431
A computer generated image of the extension in Railway Drive
<p>The public and business community were today (April 23) invited
to give their views on £15 million plans to extend the Midland
Metro in Wolverhampton city centre.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, wants to take trams
along Piper's Row to the city's bus and train stations, helping to
create new jobs and underpin economic growth.</p>
<p>The extension, which has been drawn up in partnership with
Wolverhampton City Council and Neptune Developments, would not only
improve passenger connections between bus, train and tram services,
but also support the planned redevelopment of land next to the rail
station which is expected to see £100 million of investment and
1,400 new jobs.</p>
<p>A public consultation on the proposed extension, including
several exhibitions, is being staged between now and the end of
May.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's Lead Member for Transforming Rail
Travel, said "These are significant plans that can play a key role
in supporting the regeneration of the city centre while bringing
new jobs and growth to the wider Black Country economy.</p>
<p>"It will also provide a more effective interchange for
passengers moving between tram, bus and train, helping to connect
people to job, education, health and leisure opportunities.</p>
<p>"That's why we want to hear the views of passengers and
businesses. Their opinions are important to us and I would urge
people to take part in the consultation."</p>
<p>The extension would run along Piper's Row with a stop directly
outside the bus station before terminating at the rail station.</p>
<p>It would open up areas for regeneration and serve as a platform
for future tram routes to New Cross Hospital and the Wednesfield
area.</p>
<p>It would also provide improved Metro links to the wider West
Midlands including a route through to the proposed high speed rail
station and the Broad Street area in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>Councillor Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet
Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity, said: "We are
working hard to transform and revitalise our city centre.</p>
<p>"But in order for us to realise these ambitious but achievable
plans, it is vital that we get the transport infrastructure right
to support such major redevelopments that will boost our
economy.</p>
<p>"We are working closely with Centro and partners to deliver a
complete 21st century bus, rail and tram Interchange which will see
the redevelopment of the railway station and multi-storey car park
as well as the Midland Metro Extension.</p>
<p>"The tram is a significant part of our comprehensive approach
for the Interchange, so it is important we hear the views on the
scheme of all residents, businesses and visitors to the city."</p>
<p>To move ahead with the extension Centro aims to submit before
the end of this year an application to the Government for a
Transport and Works Act Order which would grant the legal powers
needed to build and operate the extension.</p>
<p>If granted, and subject to funding being made available,
construction could start before the end of 2015 and take around two
years to complete.</p>
<p>People can comment about the plans by logging on to <a
href="/">www.centro.org.uk/metro</a> or by sending an email to <a
href="/">metro@centro.org.uk</a> phoning the Centro Customer
Contact Centro on 0121 214 7214 or writing to Metro Consultation,
Centro, 16, Summer Lane, Birmingham B19 3SD.</p>
<p>Comments need to be submitted by May 31.</p>
<p>A number of exhibitions are also being staged with Centro staff
on hand to answer questions and provide more information.</p>
<p>The exhibitions will be on;</p>
<p>Saturday April 27 and Saturday May 4, Queens Square 9am -
3pm.</p>
<p>Tuesday April 30, Bus Station 7:30am - 11:30am</p>
<p>Thursday May 9, Civic Centre 10am - 2pm</p>
<p>Thursday May 9, Bus Station 5pm - 7pm</p>
<p>Tuesday May 14, Rail Station 11am 8pm</p>
<p>There will also be an unstaffed exhibition from Monday April 29
to Friday May 10 (except May 2) between 9am and 4pm in the Civic
Centre.</p>
The public have been invited to give their views on a £15 million tram extension in Wolverhampton.
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Transport blueprint for economic growth
2013-04-15T00:00:00
2013-04-15T00:00:00
<p>A new transport blueprint to underpin economic growth and job
creation was unveiled for the West Midlands today (Monday April
15).</p>
<p>"Towards a World Class Integrated Transport Network" sets out
how investing in our public transport infrastructure and freight
networks can help attract business, generate economic activity,
create jobs, cut carbon and congestion and support new housing.</p>
<p>It proposes key targets for the next two decades including half
of all journeys in the West Midlands being made by public
transport, cycling or walking, bringing the region in line with the
way people move around Europe's most prosperous cities.</p>
<p>To encourage people to choose sustainable transport options the
Vision includes;</p>
<ul>
<li>An integrated transport network with real time passenger
information systems and smartcard ticketing</li>
<li>An expanded and integrated rail, rapid transit and bus
network</li>
<li>Encouraging more cycling and walking</li>
<li>A network of 'Smart Routes' to smooth and speed up traffic on
major corridors</li>
<li>Managed motorways with improved junctions.</li>
</ul>
<p>"Towards a World Class Integrated Transport Network", which has
been drawn up by transport authority Centro, emphasises the need to
develop urban policies and public transport in an integrated way in
order to achieve maximum economic benefit.</p>
<p>It therefore reflects the emerging key political and transport
priorities in the region following extensive consultation and input
from the business community, local councils and the wider transport
industry.</p>
<p>The Metropolitan Freight Strategy sets out a long term plan for
the efficient movement of freight both by road and rail. It
includes schemes and initiatives needed to support West Midlands
businesses in their national and international trade as well as
addressing the impacts of freight movements on people and
communities.</p>
<p>Key schemes include the Stourbridge to Lichfield rail corridor,
new managed motorway schemes and the encouragement of greater use
of the M6 Toll by HGVs.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "I would like to thank
all those who responded to our consultation. It is a first step in
establishing how we can achieve a transport network that is
attractive, efficient and easy to use and will enhance connectivity
and stimulate growth and jobs.""</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas added: ""This vision of
urban mobility has been endorsed by the leaders of the seven
metropolitan councils.</p>
<p>"It aims to dovetail and serve as a reference document for the
work being undertaken by their councils as well as the Local
Enterprise Partnerships, Local Transport Bodies and the business
community. We believe it forms a solid foundation on which we can
secure our future prosperity."</p>
<p>Major priorities outlined in the blueprint include the need to
provide local rail and rapid transit connections to the region's
two future high speed rail stations, the need to maximise the
economic potential of Birmingham Airport and greater transport
investment to revitalise the Black Country.</p>
<p>"Towards a World Class Integrated Transport Network" and the new
Metropolitan Freight Strategy were both officially approved today
(Monday April 15) by the West Midlands Integrated Transport
Authority and can be viewed on line from Wednesday (April 17) at <a
href="/">http://www.centro.org.uk/corporateinformation/publications.aspx</a></p>
A new transport blueprint to underpin economic growth and job creation has been unveiled.
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Midland Metro reopens after Easter closure
2013-04-12T00:00:00
2013-04-12T00:00:00
<p>The Midland Metro reopened to passengers on Monday (April 15)
morning after a two week closure for work on a £128 million project
to extend and improve the tram system.</p>
<p>More than 50 engineers have been working around the clock to
complete the work on time and on budget for Centro, the region's
transport authority.</p>
<p>Every platform along the route from Birmingham Snow Hill to
Wolverhampton has been narrowed by approximately 100mm to
accommodate a £40 million fleet of new and bigger trams.</p>
<p>The work means both the old and new trams will be able to
operate along the route.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Centro's Metro Programme Director, said: "The
essential work to alter the platforms along the Midland Metro route
is nearly complete and passengers will be able to start using the
trams again from Monday.</p>
<p>"This is a major step forward for this project and paves the way
for the arrival of the new, bigger trams which passengers will
start seeing on tracks next year.</p>
<p>"The extension will bring major economic benefits to our region
as well as increasing capacity for passengers and we are now ready
to take the next steps in this project."</p>
<p>The 20-strong fleet of new trams will start to go into service
on the current route during 2014 and will enable Centro to increase
the system's frequency to 10 trams an hour throughout the day.</p>
<p>This will increase capacity by 40 per cent, easing the
overcrowding that can sometimes occur during the morning peak as a
result of the Metro's popularity.</p>
<p>All the new trams along the route, which is operated by National
Express West Midlands, will be running by 2015 when an extension of
the system through the streets of Birmingham city centre from Snow
Hill Station to a rebuilt New Street Station opens.</p>
<p>The city centre extension will run from Snow Hill Station, along
Upper Bull Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street where
it will stop outside New Street Station which is currently
undergoing a £600 million rebuild, also due for completion in
2015.</p>
<p>The Metro extension and new trams, a joint project between
Centro, Birmingham City Council and the Black Country councils,
will revolutionise the way people travel around the city giving a
convenient link between Birmingham's two major rail stations.</p>
<p>It will also provide a much needed and easy connection from New
Street to the emerging business district at Snow Hill, the unique
and historic Jewellery Quarter and into the Black Country using the
existing Metro line.</p>
<p>The extension will also serve as a platform for future Metro
routes linking to other key locations such as to the city's
forthcoming high speed rail terminal and Centenary Square.</p>
Tram system has reopened after a two week closure for work on a £128 million project.
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The final test for Birmingham New Street
2013-04-09T00:00:00
2013-04-09T00:00:00
Visitors test out the new concourse
<p>Network Rail opened the doors to the first half of the new
concourse at Birmingham New Street station this weekend, in advance
of its partial opening at the end of April.</p>
<p>More than 200 volunteers were invited to trial the features and
facilities of the new concourse such as the ticket office,
wayfinding signage and access to platforms.</p>
<p>A wide range of volunteers were invited to attend, including
blind and partially sighted people, people with hearing loss and
wheelchair users, to ensure all station passengers were represented
and able to give comprehensive feedback. Network Rail engaged with
a number of different station users and specialist organisations to
help make the transition to the new station as smooth as possible
for everyone.</p>
<p>The day was also important for station staff from Network Rail
and train operators, who have been familiarising themselves with
the new station concourse and working environment since
January.</p>
<p>The team working to get the station and staff operationally
ready for the opening of the new concourse on 28 April is being
lead by Mark Bennett, project manager for Network Rail.</p>
<p>Mark Bennett said: "The trial has been an incredibly worthwhile
exercise and a fantastic opportunity for all involved. We've
committed to keeping New Street station open to passengers
throughout the redevelopment and to date we've been doing most of
our work behind the scenes, so it's been great to invite people in
to show what we've been working on since 2010."</p>
<p>The day gave people the opportunity to understand what they can
expect from the first half of the new station including a new
concourse that will be one-and-a-half times bigger than the current
one. It will also feature all of the facilities expected in a major
station, with a new, larger and improved ticket office and new
lifts and escalators improving access to platforms.</p>
<p>Network Rail will now analyse the feedback gathered during the
day and make any changes needed ahead of the opening of the new
concourse on Sunday 28<sup>th</sup> April.</p>
<p>Further public exhibitions giving comprehensive information
about the station switchover will take place later this week on the
main concourse at New Street between 7am-7pm Thursday (April 11)
and Friday (April 12) and 9am-7pm on Saturday (April 13).</p>
Volunteers test stations's new concourse ahead of its partial opening at the end of April.
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Stourbridge passengers to have their say on public transport
2013-04-08T00:00:00
2013-04-08T00:00:00
<p>Passengers in Stourbridge are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12pm on Wednesday April 10 at
Stourbridge bus station, has been organised by Centro, the region's
transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature Dudley Borough Council members who represent
Stourbridge on Centro, plus staff from bus and rail operators.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus and
rail network.</p>
<p>Dudley Council and Centro member Cllr Bryan Cotterill said:
"This event is the ideal opportunity to really understand the needs
of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Stourbridge bus station we hope to hear from as many people as
possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
Passengers in Stourbridge have the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
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Putting Passengers First conference a big success
2013-04-08T00:00:00
2013-04-08T00:00:00
"Cllr Kath Hartley, left, Christine Bate and Cllr Keith Linnecor, vice-chair of the Putting Passengers First Committee."
<p>The views of the travelling public and how to improve the
passenger experience were the subject of an inaugural Centro
conference.</p>
<p>Nearly 100 delegates attended the first ever Putting Passengers
First conference at Centro House.</p>
<p>They met with transport operators and Centro, the region's
transport authority, and took part in a series of workshops on
public transport in the Midlands.</p>
<p>Among the delegates were the Passenger Champions, a volunteer
scheme set up by Centro last year.</p>
<p>The Champions are 70 regular users of public transport who help
make Centro aware of issues on the network through prompt reporting
and undertaking surveys.</p>
<p>One is Christine Bate, an office worker from Lower Gornal who
catches four buses a day.</p>
<p>She said: "I've found it very worthwhile because it gives you
much more of an understanding of public transport and a chance to
influence things.</p>
<p>"From my perspective the changes in buses in recent years have
been fantastic.</p>
<p>"Modern vehicles such as the new hybrid buses are clean and
reliable, and that progress can be put down in part to people like
me who have passed on what they want to see on the network."</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro and chair of the Putting
Passengers First committee, said the authority had been working
hard to consult with people who use the public transport
network.</p>
<p>She said: "For the last 10 months we have had engagement groups
and upgraded the Your Public Transport Matters events to give
people a voice so that they can tell us what they really want.</p>
<p>"I am delighted so many people were able to attend the
conference, it shows that they share our dedication towards working
for a world class public transport system that the West Midlands
deserves."</p>
<p>Cllr Keith Linnecor, vice-chair of the Putting Passengers First
Committee said: "We really want to reflect what the people who use
public transport want, and this conference is part of that.</p>
<p>"With forums such as this conference we can engage with each
other, with us telling people what we have done and them telling us
where they think we can improve."</p>
The views of the travelling public were the subject of a successful inaugural Centro conference.
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Centro speakers at major urban environment conference
2013-04-05T00:00:00
2013-04-05T00:00:00
<p>Experts from Centro will be among the speakers at a major
conference in Birmingham examining ways of boosting economic
growth.</p>
<p>The inaugural <a href="/">Base Birmingham</a> event takes place
at Warwickshire Country Cricket Ground in Edgbaston on April
11.</p>
<p>More than 600 senior public and private sector figures in the
property, construction and utility supply industries are expected
to attend.</p>
<p>They will hear speakers including environment minister Greg
Barker MP and former Mayor of London Ken Livingstone.</p>
<p>Also speaking will be Centro figures Cllr Kath Hartley, the
authority's vice-chair and lead member for Putting Passengers
First, Stephen Rhodes, director of customer experience, policy and
strategy director Tom McGrath and sustainability and programmes
manager Sandeep Shingadia.</p>
<p>They will tell delegates about the work of Centro, the region's
transport authority, and the importance of public transport both to
the city of Birmingham and the wider region.</p>
<p>This includes building a public transport system for the
21<sup>st</sup> century to work alongside major projects such as
the redevelopment of New Street station and the arrival of HS2.</p>
<p>They will also highlight its work with the Local Sustainable
Transport Fund and how it has given the West Midlands the ideal
platform to make local transport operate in an effective yet
environmentally friendly way.</p>
<p>Cllr Hartley said: "This is an important conference where Centro
can showcase the work it does and how it benefits Birmingham and
the region as a whole.</p>
<p>"Public transport plays, and will continue to play, a key role
in the prosperity of the West Midlands."</p>
<p>Base is a commercial group which organises conferences around
the UK focusing on cities and their infrastructure and how delivery
and commercial opportunity underpins economic growth, investment,
enterprise, job creation and a sense of place.</p>
<p>Areas such as energy generation and distribution, transport,
improving the energy efficiency of homes and offices, waste as a
resource and water are examined as ways of generating growth and
jobs<strong>.</strong></p>
Centro will put public transport on the agenda at an economic growth conference in Birmingham.
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Schools and colleges get £100,000 real time information boost
2013-04-02T00:00:00
2013-04-02T00:00:00
<p>Thousands of students are benefitting from a £100,000 investment
to provide live bus and train updates at their school or
college.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has paid for real time information
screens to be installed at six West Midlands schools and colleges
to help students make their journeys home swiftly and safely.</p>
<p>Sidney Stringer Academy in Coventry, Lordswood Boys and Girls
Schools in Birmingham, Sandwell College, Walsall College and City
College Coventry have all been equipped with either 42 inch TFT
screens or information totems similar to those in Birmingham city
centre.</p>
<p>The money comes from the Congestion Target Delivery Fund which
aims to ease traffic along busy routes with rising congestion.</p>
<p>The screens let students plan their journeys home as well as
displaying up to the minute information on bus and train services
near the facilities.</p>
<p>Buses fitted with GPS technology allow the displays to countdown
on a minute-by-minute basis to when the bus arrives, while the
screens also show timetable information for those without tracking
devices.</p>
<p>Train times will be displayed and updated in real time to
reflect any delays, similar to the screens at rail stations across
the region.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "We looked for areas with high levels
of congestion to decide which schools and colleges would benefit
most from having real time information installed.</p>
<p>"Thousands of our region's pupils rely on public transport to
travel to and from school, so having up to date information on the
next services and any possible delays can be a really important
tool."</p>
<p>More schools and colleges will be benefiting from real time
information screens over the next two years as part of Centro's £50
million Smart Network, Smarter Choices project.</p>
<p>Education establishments along the 10 key routes covered by the
scheme are being encouraged to take advantage of the technology to
help their students make the most of the public transport
network.</p>
<p>Steve Powell, Vice-Principal for Students at Central Campus,
Sandwell College, said: "It is great that Centro has been able to
provide these displays at the college which will make it a lot
easier for students to plan their time effectively.</p>
<p>"If you know when to expect your next bus or train you can
choose to carry on working in the learning base or to have
something to eat without having to worry about when to make your
journey home.</p>
<p>"We hope our students will take advantage of this new resource
which is now up and running in our atrium."</p>
Thousands of students are benefitting from live public transport updates at their school or college.
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More rail investment needed fifty years on
2013-03-27T00:00:00
2013-03-27T00:00:00
<p>The boss of the region's transport authority says more
investment in rail is needed as demand continues to grow, fifty
years to the day since the Beeching cuts (Mar 27).</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said there were plans to
open new rail and Metro lines to passengers in Birmingham and the
Black Country due to continuing demand in the region, but more
investment was needed.</p>
<p>"It is fifty years to the day since Beeching delivered his
report and we're seeing demand for rail continuing to rise," Mr
Inskip said.</p>
<p>"We have seen a doubling in commuter journeys in and out of
Birmingham in the last five years and right across the West
Midlands rail is growing."</p>
<p>The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) revealed
that rail journeys had increased by 30 per cent in Coventry and 22
per cent in Birmingham since 2008.</p>
<p>British railways are at their busiest since the 1920s, despite
the network being half the size it was back then.</p>
<p>Dozens of stations were closed in the West Midlands following
the Beeching report, including stations on the Chase Line.</p>
<p>The Chase line has since reopened to passengers and is set to be
electrified between Walsall and Rugeley, a scheme Centro has
calculated is worth £113 million to the West Midlands economy and
will generate 1,370 jobs.</p>
<p>In 1999 the Metro line opened on the former Wolverhampton to
Birmingham railway line and services and stations have been added
to the busy Cross City route in Birmingham.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said Centro was working with authorities across the
region to maximise the benefits and connections with the planned
HS2 stations and to make use of capacity released on existing
lines.</p>
<p>Centro also wants to reintroduce passenger services to stations
in Moseley and Kings Heath on the Camp Hill line, which is
currently used by freight.</p>
<p>New services between Solihull and Stratford commence in May this
year.</p>
<p>The Beeching cuts refer to the reduction of route network and
restructuring of the railways in Great Britain outlined in two
reports written by Dr Richard Beeching.</p>
<p>The report led to closure of 2,128 stations (more than half of
total at the time), with closure of 6,000 miles of railway line (a
third of the total) and the loss of around 67,000 jobs across the
UK.</p>
"Transport chief says more investment needed to match rising rail demand, fifty years on from the Beeching report."
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Reminder Midland Metro to close at Easter as part of £128 million upgrade
2013-03-27T00:00:00
2013-03-27T00:00:00
Artist’s impression of how the new-look Midland Metro tram will look outside the rebuilt New Street station.
<p>Users of the Midland Metro are reminded it is to temporarily
close at Easter so work on a £128 million project to extend and
improve the tram system can be carried out.</p>
<p>The line between Birmingham and Wolverhampton will be shut after
the last tram on Good Friday (March 29) and reopen on Monday April
15 to allow engineers to modify existing platforms for a £40
million fleet of new and bigger trams.</p>
<p>The 20-strong fleet will start to go into service on the current
route during 2014 and will enable Centro, the region's transport
authority, to increase the system's frequency to 10 trams an hour
throughout the day.</p>
<p>This will increase capacity by 40 per cent, easing the
overcrowding that can sometimes occur during the morning peak as a
result of the Metro's popularity.</p>
<p>All the new trams will be running by 2015 when an extension of
the system through Birmingham city centre from Snow Hill Station to
a rebuilt New Street Station opens.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Centro's Metro Programme Director, said the
closure regrettably meant disruption for passengers but it is the
only way the work could be carried out with the minimum
inconvenience.</p>
<p>He said: "We have chosen the Easter period because many people
take the school break off work, which means fewer passengers will
be affected.</p>
<p>"Deferring the engineering work until the school summer holidays
would jeopardise the build programme for the city centre extension
and the deployment schedule for the new trams.</p>
<p>"We apologise in advance for any inconvenience but it really is
a case of short-term pain for long-term gain as the benefits this
project will bring passengers are substantial."</p>
<p>Thousands of leaflets giving full details of the closure and
alternative travel arrangements have been distributed to
passengers, posters have been put up at stops along the line and
there have been regular announcements over the passenger
information system.</p>
<p>The information is also available on line at <a
href="/">www.NetworkWestMidlands.com</a></p>
<p>Alternative bus and rail services are available and there will
also be a limited replacement bus service in operation, running at
a minimum of 30 minute intervals and calling at 12 locations along
the Metro route. It will operate between 6:30am and 7:15pm Monday
to Saturday during the closure.</p>
<p>The city centre extension will run from Snow Hill Station, along
Upper Bull Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street where
it will stop outside New Street Station which is currently
undergoing a £600 million rebuild, also due for completion in
2015.</p>
<p>The Metro extension and new trams, a joint project between
Centro, Birmingham City Council and the Black Country councils,
will revolutionise the way people travel around the city giving a
convenient link between Birmingham's two major rail stations.</p>
<p>It will also provide a much needed and easy connection from New
Street to the emerging business district at Snow Hill, the unique
and historic Jewellery Quarter and out into the Black Country using
the existing Metro line.</p>
<p>The extension will also serve as a platform for future Metro
routes such as to the city's forthcoming high speed rail terminal
and Centenary Square.</p>
<p>The new trams are being built by Spanish manufacturer CAF.</p>
Midland Metro users are reminded it is to temporarily close at Easter as part of a £128m upgrade.
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Hundreds of families set to benefit from green scheme
2013-03-21T00:00:00
2013-03-21T00:00:00
"Travel adviser, Ryan Dudfield; Senior travel adviser, Anthony Copson; Centro vice chair, Cllr Kath Hartley and Centro’s sustainable travel officer Caroline Ind"
<p>Hundreds of families living along two of the region's busiest
routes are set to benefit from expert personalised travel advice as
part of a carbon cutting project.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has kick started a
scheme to provide free tailored travel plans for hundreds of homes
along the busy A34 Walsall Road and the Black Country's A4123 as
part of its Smart Network, Smarter Choices project.</p>
<p>Over the next three months, up to 6,000 households along the
routes will be visited by expert travel advisers to help those
wanting to make the switch to public transport, car-sharing,
walking or cycling.</p>
<p>The first advisers from transport planning firm Steer Davies
Gleave hit the streets this week in the Quinton and Sedgley areas
and will draw up bespoke travel plans in a bid to tackle congestion
and help residents beat rising petrol and parking costs.</p>
<p>The start of the project comes days after the Government
announced its door-to-door strategy which aims to get more people
using green forms of travel to boost growth, cut carbon, reduce
congestion and improve people's health.</p>
<p>Centro vice chair, Cllr Kath Hartley, said: "This scheme
provides a fantastic opportunity to help people who live in areas
where traffic is a major issue, switch to some of the alternative
travel options available to them.</p>
<p>"Congestion is currently costing the West Midlands more than
£2.3 billion each year so it is important that we are able to
target problem areas and give people the option of leaving the car
behind."</p>
<p>In addition to tailored travel plans, the advisers will provide
additional support including free adult cycle training and local
community guides.</p>
<p>The scheme forms part of the £50 million Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the region's
economy and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>The move follows a successful pilot carried out along
Birmingham's busy Pershore Road last year.</p>
<p>The scheme saw more than 5,000 households asked advisers from
Steer Davies Gleave to sit down with them and draw up free
personalised travel support.</p>
<p>The 5,157 residents who signed up were provided with information
or help, such as free bike training, to help them get from their
own front door to their destination without having to jump in the
car.</p>
<p>Of those who took on personalised travel advice 40 per cent said
they had already changed their travel behaviour as a result and a
further 12 per cent said they intended to make a change in the
future.</p>
<p>Cllr Hartley added: "The success of last year's Pershore Road
project shows how significant an impact these measures can have on
people's lives.</p>
<p>"Not only did it spark a lot of interest among residents along
the route but after working with our advisers it also proved to
have a lasting impact on the way people travelled."</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a></p>
Households along two of the region’s busiest routes are set for expert personalised travel advice.
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Soaring rail use in Coventry and Birmingham highlights need for HS2
2013-03-20T00:00:00
2013-03-20T00:00:00
<p>The number of rail journeys in Coventry and Birmingham has
soared in the last five years underlining the need for more
capacity which will be released by HS2, says transport boss Geoff
Inskip.</p>
<p>Coventry topped the national list with biggest overall growth of
any city with journeys up 30 per cent in the past five years, with
Birmingham in fourth place with overall growth of 22 per cent,
despite the economic downturn.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of regional transport authority
Centro, said the figures were proof of the escalating demand for
rail travel and need for more rail capacity and the need for
HS2.</p>
<p>"Demand for rail travel continues to escalate and this is not
just about London, this is happening right here in the West
Midlands,' he said.</p>
<p>"HS2 will provide fast, direct links between our major cities,
but critically it also releases capacity on our existing lines.
This report demonstrates just how much we need these extra local
and regional services and the sooner the better."</p>
<p>The figures were released by the Association of Train Operating
Companies (ATOC) which reported that British railways are at their
busiest since the 1920s.</p>
<p>Coventry has seen business journeys increase by 48 per cent,
while commuter journeys in and out of Birmingham have more than
doubled in five years.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said Centro had carried out research to understand how
capacity released on existing lines by HS2 could best be used to
maximise the benefits to the West Midlands region.</p>
<p>He said Coventry would benefit from improved rail services once
HS2 is built with new local services to Kenilworth and Leamington
Spa, improved cross-regional links to the Black Country,
Staffordshire and Shropshire and a half-hourly fast Intercity
service to the growing business and employment centre of Milton
Keynes which recorded the second highest rise in journeys (26 per
cent).</p>
<p>Under Centro proposals Coventry would retain a half-hourly fast
Intercity service to London.</p>
<p>"We're also pressing for direct services to mainland Europe
which will mean passengers in Coventry and Birmingham could be in
Paris and Brussels in less than three hours," Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"Network Rail concluded that the West Coast Main Line would be
full by the early 2020s, but the demand we are seeing already means
this could well be a conservative estimate."</p>
<p>Centro is also working with local authorities across the region
to maximise the benefits of HS2 to the wider region through
improved rail, Metro, rapid transit and bus links to the two
high-speed rail stations.</p>
<p>Ten of the 14 cities with the highest growth between 2008 and
2012 are outside the South East.</p>
<p><span>The ATOC release can be viewed</span> <a
href="/">here</a><span>.</span></p>
Transport chief says rising rail use underlines the need for capactiy which will be released by HS2.
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New Street half-time switchover opening date revealed
2013-03-18T00:00:00
2013-03-18T00:00:00
"Artist's impression of the entrance to the new-look New Street station from Stephenson Street, including the Midland Metro extension."
<p>The first half of the new concourse at Birmingham New Street
station will open to passengers <a href="/">on Sunday 28
April</a>.</p>
<p>The switchover will see the first major changes at New Street in
over 40 years and mark a major milestone in the £600 million
redevelopment of the station, which started in 2010.</p>
<p>When the new concourse and new entrances open to passengers, the
old station and all of its existing entrances will close to allow
rebuilding work to continue on this side of the station.</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, Network Rail's New Street Project Director
said: "We've committed to keeping New Street open to passengers
throughout the redevelopment and to date, we've been able to do
most of our work behind the scenes.<br />
<br />
"The half time switchover <a href="/">on 28 April</a> will be the
first time passengers see real changes in how they use, and access
New Street station.</p>
<p>"By switching off the old station and opening the first half of
the new concourse next door, we can keep passengers moving through
New Street while we continue rebuilding the existing half of the
station and shopping centre above."<br />
<br />
The third in a series of public exhibitions will take place next
week on the main concourse at New Street next week between <a
href="/">7am-7pm on Tuesday 19</a>, <a href="/">Wednesday 20</a>
and <a href="/">Thursday 21 March</a>.</p>
<p>Passengers will be able to speak to members of the project team,
view information about how the station will change and work out
which of the new station entrances will suit them best when the
station switches over.</p>
<p>The exhibitions are part of a major information campaign to
inform passengers about the changes at New Street station.
Passengers can also find out more by tweeting @networkrail or from
<a href="/">www.newstreetnewstart.co.uk</a>.</p>
<p>Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "I was impressed
when I visited the works at Birmingham News Street at the end of
February.</p>
<p>"Its transformation is not only giving the West Midlands the
fantastic travel hub it deserves, it is also opening up this part
of the city centre to pedestrians."</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said:
"Keeping New Street open to people living, working and visiting the
city whilst such a major redevelopment has been taking place over
the last two years has been a tremendous technical achievement.</p>
<p>"The fact that the 140,000 passengers using the station every
day have the confidence that they can go about their business
without disruption and the city has kept moving is to be
commended."</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for transforming rail,
added: "This is a real milestone in the transformation of New
Street into a station the whole region can be proud of.</p>
<p>"It's also exciting for the thousands of passengers who use the
station each day as the opening will bring real benefits for them
and be easier to access with new lifts and escalators down to the
platforms."</p>
<p>When the first half of the new concourse opens, it will be one
and a half times bigger than the old concourse and have all of the
facilities expected in a major station, with a new, bigger and
improved ticket office, plus new escalators and lifts improving
access to platforms.</p>
<p>Other major changes include:</p>
<ul>
<li>The existing vehicle and pedestrian entrance outside the front
of the station on Smallbrook Queensway will close, with vehicle
access moving across to a new drop off area and short stay car park
located off Hill Street</li>
<li>Passengers travelling from Moor Street station and pedestrians
on Smallbrook Queensway will be able to access the new concourse
via the new Moor Street link pedestrian walkway which links the
east side of the station to the new entrance on Stephenson
Street.</li>
<li>Passengers can still access the station from Pallasades and
Bullring through a new set of escalators which link the shopping
centre above down to the new concourse.</li>
<li>The Victoria Square entrance on Navigation Street will close to
passengers as new entrances will open onto Stephenson Street and
Hill Street</li>
<li>The station taxi rank will temporarily move to Navigation
Street</li>
</ul>
<p>Once the new concourse opens, the Network Rail & Mace
delivery team will turn their attention to redeveloping the old
station concourse and the remainder of the Pallasades shopping
centre.</p>
<p>The new premium fashion and lifestyle shopping destination,
Grand Central Birmingham, incorporating a four storey John Lewis,
over 40 more shops and more than 15 cafes and restaurants, is set
to open in autumn 2014, with the station redevelopment completing
in 2015.</p>
The first half of the new concourse at Birmingham New Street station will open on April 28.
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All night bus service boost for workers and job seekers
2013-03-18T00:00:00
2013-03-18T00:00:00
<p>Shift workers, job seekers and even holiday-makers are set to
benefit from a new, 24 hour bus service linking some of the
region's biggest employers.</p>
<p>The route of the existing 97 service between Birmingham city
centre, Heartlands Hospital and Chelmsley Wood is to be extended
from this weekend (Sunday March 24) to also serve Birmingham
Airport, National Exhibition Centre and nearby Birmingham Business
Park.</p>
<p>The specially branded bus will also run every hour from midnight
including Saturdays and Sundays, offering a significant transport
boost for shift workers at the various locations.</p>
<p>The new service will open up greater opportunities for
unemployed people in east Birmingham and north Solihull who will
now find it easier to take up work, including hundreds of seasonal
jobs, at Birmingham Airport and the NEC.</p>
<p>The route and 24 hour timetable are the result of a partnership
between Centro, the region's transport authority, bus operator
National Express West Midlands, Solihull Council, Birmingham
Airport and NEC.</p>
<p>Michelle Thurgood, transport specialist at Birmingham Airport
which, together with the NEC is initially funding the service,
said: "This is a small yet significant element in the public
transport access to the airport.</p>
<p>"We're very pleased to see this extension to the 97 service
launch to give both passengers and staff round the clock access to
Birmingham Airport."</p>
<p>James Puxty, head of communications, NEC Group, added: "We
welcome over three million visitors a year at the NEC site and,
with the introduction of Resorts World we will become a true 24/7
leisure, business and entertainment destination.</p>
<p>"This means it is all the more important to offer customers and
staff varied, flexible and cost effective transport options."</p>
<p>The launch of the new service builds on a recent £11 million
scheme led by Solihull Council to improve public transport links in
the area</p>
<p>The scheme has seen:</p>
<ul>
<li>New bus lanes</li>
<li>New bus shelters</li>
<li>Improvements for disabled travellers including easier access
kerbs</li>
<li>Real time information boards for travellers to plan their
journeys more easily</li>
<li>A bus only link to Bickenhill Parkway from the airport</li>
<li>Variable message road signs to better control lanes during big
events</li>
</ul>
<p>Cycle paths and footpaths to join up routes and allow for safer
and greener travel have also been built.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Transport plays a
key role in underpinning economic growth and jobs and this new
service will make it far easier for people to take advantage of new
employment opportunities along the route."</p>
<p>Cllr Ted Richards, Solihull Council's cabinet member for
transport and highways, added: "I am extremely pleased to see this
scheme coming to fruition it has been one of Solihull Council's
ambitions as a way to improve access to jobs. I hope people now
take the opportunity to use this excellent service."</p>
<p>Jack Kelly, head of external communications at National Express,
said: ""The 97 is one of our busiest routes and provides hundreds
of thousands of people with access to work and job
opportunities.</p>
<p>"We are constantly listening to our customers to hear what more
we can do to improve their services and many told us that extending
the hours of the 97 would make things better for them, so we
have.""</p>
<p>Timetables and other information about the new 97 service is
available at <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> and from
the Travel Information Centres at New Street Station and in
Solihull town centre.</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Jack Kelly, head of external
communications at National Express; airport ground crew David
Lavender, Cllr Ted Richards Solihull Council cabinet member for
transport and highways, Michelle Thurgood, Transport Specialist for
Birmingham Airport, Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro, ground
crew Stefanie Bowes,Cllr John McNicholas, Chairman of Centro,
firefighter Roop Johal and James Puxty, head of communications NEC
Group, launch the new 97 service.<br />
</strong></p>
"A 24 hour bus service for Birmingham Airport, the NEC and Birmingham Business Park is launched."
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£3.9m hybrid bus fleet launched
2013-03-13T00:00:00
2013-03-13T00:00:00
"Mayor of Dudley Melvyn Mottram, Pat McFadden MP, Ian Austin MP, Chairman of the Beacon Centre for the Blind Ken Bullock, National Express West Midlands Managing Director Peter Coates and Centro Chairman John McNicholas launch the new buses."
<p>A £3.9 million fleet of greener, more comfortable and
distinctive buses has been launched for Dudley and
Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Local MPs Ian Austin and Pat McFadden teamed up with Peter
Coates, managing director of National Express West Midlands and
John McNicholas, chair of Centro to launch the buses at the Beacon
Centre for the Blind in Sedgley.</p>
<p>The environmentally friendly hybrid buses will not just save
carbon emissions but make transport more accessible to customers
with sight and hearing loss.</p>
<p>The vehicles operate on an electric diesel hybrid engine which
makes them greener. They will also have next stop announcement
technology, making transport easier for customers with hearing and
sight conditions.</p>
<p>The new buses, which will operate on the number 1 service
between Wolverhampton and Dudley, will also be distinctive in
appearance.</p>
<p>They will have a bright green front and have falling leaves down
their side to celebrate the environmental benefits they will have
for the area.</p>
<p>Peter Coates said: "These new vehicles will make a big
difference to Dudley and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>""They will make transport easier for customers with sight and
hearing loss as well as reducing the amount of carbon emitted by an
impressive 440 tonnes a year.</p>
<p>""We are really proud of these state of the art vehicles and we
hope that the people of Dudley and Wolverhampton will be too."</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "I am delighted that these new,
environmentally friendly vehicles are now on the road and serving
the bus passengers of the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"Not only will they encourage new bus technology and stimulate
the market for low carbon vehicles but they will demonstrate to
people that electric hybrid vehicles of this size are viable and
further proof that public transport is a serious and ready
alternative to the car."</p>
<p>Ian Austin MP for Dudley North said: "This investment by
National Express West Midlands and Centro is great news for Dudley.
These new state of the art vehicles will make our air cleaner,
roads quieter and bus travel more accessible to people with sight
and hearing problems."</p>
<p>Pat McFadden MP for Wolverhampton South East said: "I'm
delighted these new greener buses are coming into service
locally.</p>
<p>"They are a step up in comfort, in passenger information and in
environmental standards. At a time when petrol prices seem to be
getting ever higher it is really important that we make travelling
on the bus as convenient and reliable as possible."</p>
Greener and more comfortable buses are launched on the No 1 route in Dudley and Wolverhampton.
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New cleaning contract mops up £225,000 saving
2013-03-08T00:00:00
2013-03-08T00:00:00
"Steve Marriott, Operations Director for Hi-Spec Services and Andrew Thrupp, Centro’s Operational Asset Manager at Stourbridge Interchange"
<p>Taxpayers are set to save more than £225,000 a year after
transport authority Centro secured a new £525,000 annual contract
for the cleaning of its bus stations, travel shops and
headquarters.</p>
<p>The deal, which runs until April 2015, will see cleaning company
Hi-Spec Services Ltd contracted for the daily cleaning of 12 bus
stations around the region, three Travel Information Centres and
Centro House, the authority's offices in Birmingham city
centre.</p>
<p>Previously there had been three separate contracts in place, two
with Hi Spec for the cleaning of bus stations and travel shops and
a third with another firm for the cleaning of Centro House.</p>
<p>Andrew Thrupp, Centro's Operational Asset Manager, said the new
contract was the result of a change in the tendering process that
had seen cleaning companies given the opportunity to decide for
themselves the most efficient and effective way of cleaning the
locations.</p>
<p>"We know how important it is for passengers to have clean and
well managed bus stations which is why Hi-Spec and ourselves have
built some comprehensive quality assurances into the contract.</p>
<p>"We believe the new deal is good news for passengers and great
value for taxpayers thanks to the annual cleaning costs being cut
by a third."</p>
<p>Mr Thrupp said that Hi-Spec had already invested heavily in new
window washing systems and floor cleaning machines at each of the
sites and this was bringing further increases in productivity and
standards.</p>
<p>Steve Marriott, Operations Director for Hi-Spec Services, added:
"We have worked hard with the Centro Team for a number of years now
developing our staff and processes, constantly looking at ways that
we can provide better value for money and also keep and improve the
appearance of the stations and premises for the travelling
public.</p>
<p>"We are delighted to be awarded the opportunity to continue this
productive partnership."</p>
Cleaning contract for Centro's bus stations, travel shops and headquarters will save thousands.
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Free parking spaces at two rail stations reduced during resurfacing work
2013-03-07T00:00:00
2013-03-07T00:00:00
<p>Commuters using two busy West Midlands railway stations will
have fewer Park and Ride spaces this month while important
resurfacing work is carried out.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, will be improving the
surface on the Park and Ride site at Four Oaks station in Sutton
Coldfield and the overflow car park at Sandwell and Dudley station
to repair potholes and improve safety for passengers.</p>
<p>Work will be carried out at Four Oaks between Wednesday March 20
and Monday March 25 resulting in a reduction of up to 79 free
parking spaces. Blue badge parking for drivers with restricted
mobility will be unavailable during this period.</p>
<p>The work will also see the creation of four new parking spaces
designated to passengers sharing a car to the station.</p>
<p>The overflow car park at Sandwell and Dudley will close on
Monday March 11 and reopen Wednesday March 20 once works are
complete. The main car park nearest to the station will remain open
for the duration of the resurfacing.</p>
<p>Centro spokesman Peter Cameron said: "We apologise for any
inconvenience caused but it is essential that this work is carried
out to improve safety for passengers and prevent damage to their
vehicles.</p>
<p>"There will still be more than 170 free parking spaces available
at Four Oaks station and nearly 200 at Sandwell and Dudley while
the work is taking place."</p>
<p>Centro provide more than 40 park and ride sites at rail and
Metro stations across the region.</p>
<p>These spaces are estimated to take more than three million
journeys off the road each year, reducing carbon by more than 6,000
tonnes in the same period.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £14 million in
Park and Ride since 1997.</p>
<p>Plans are currently in place to develop a new site at Longbridge
and extend the existing facility at Rowley Regis.</p>
<p>Mr Cameron added: "Motorists taking advantage of the region's
7,000 free Park and Ride spaces and completing their journeys by
train are directly responsible for taking millions of car trips off
our roads each year.</p>
<p>"That means fewer carbon emissions and less congestion, an
increasingly serious problem which is costing the West Midlands
economy more than £2.3 billion each year."</p>
Park and Ride spaces at Four Oaks and Sandwell and Dudley rail stations will be reduced this month.
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Interactive website launched to help people get lean and green
2013-03-06T00:00:00
2013-03-06T00:00:00
<p>An innovative and interactive new website has been launched to
keep people informed about dozens of new schemes making it easier
to use public transport, walk or cycle in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, has unveiled the <a
href="/">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a> site to provide updates and
details of the landmark £50 million Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project.</p>
<p>The project, which is being delivered by Centro in partnership
with the seven West Midlands councils, will put in place a package
of measures, to help people change their travel behaviour in favour
of green options.</p>
<p>Schemes will include new or improved walking and cycling routes,
small scale road and junction improvements, better passenger
waiting facilities and expert travel planning for families,
companies and schools.</p>
<p>Registered users at the 'My Network' website can blog about
their journeys, share photos and videos or join Centro's advocate
scheme, where people with a passion for public transport spread the
word about the positive impact Smart Network Smarter Choices has
made on their lives.</p>
<p>An interactive forum also allows passengers to discuss important
issues such as improving cycling in the region, how they travel to
work or events happening in their area.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport, said: "This website is a fantastic way for
people to share their experiences of making the switch to greener
forms of travel or to find out more about the options available to
them.</p>
<p>"With the cost of petrol and parking on the rise it is important
that we provide real alternatives for people which can help them
save money and have a positive impact on their health.</p>
<p>"There will be a lot of work taking place over the next few
years to make taking public transport, walking or cycling even
easier in our region and this is the ideal way to not only inform
people about what is happening but for them to tell us and others
their thoughts."</p>
<p>Each West Midlands district has its own page on the website,
meaning users can find the latest information on their area at the
click of a button.</p>
<p>Schools, colleges and businesses can also find out more about
the range of benefits available to them including free specialist
travel advice.</p>
<p>For more information visit <a
href="/">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a></p>
"New website launched to keep people informed about dozens of new schemes making it easier to use public transport, walk or cycle."
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Coventry and Wolverhampton passengers to have their say on public transport
2013-03-06T00:00:00
2013-03-06T00:00:00
<p>Passengers in Coventry and Wolverhampton are being offered the
chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area's
network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' events have been organised
by Centro, the region's transport authority and will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The Coventry event takes place between 10am and 12pm on
Wednesday March 13 in Bull Yard in Coventry city centre.</p>
<p>The Wolverhampton event takes place between 10am and 12pm on
Saturday March 16 in Queens Square in Wolverhampton city
centre.</p>
<p>Both will feature local councillors who represent Coventry and
Wolverhampton on the authority and staff from bus and rail
operators will be invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus and
rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro and a Coventry
councillor, said: "This event is the ideal opportunity to really
understand the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Bull Yard and Queens Square we hope to hear from as many people as
possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
Passengers in Coventry and Wolverhampton can give transport chiefs their views about the network.
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Safer Travel to step up police patrols on busy bus routes
2013-03-05T00:00:00
2013-03-05T00:00:00
The Safer Travel team on patrol
<p>BUSY Birmingham bus routes will be targeted by police throughout
March as officers look to tackle a trend that has seen thefts from
passengers spike during the month in each of the last two
years.</p>
<p>Opportunist thefts like bag snatches and purse dipping on the
region's buses ran at more than 20 per cent above the yearly
average in both March 2011 and 2012.</p>
<p>West Midlands Police's Safer Travel team has now launched an
operation that will see intensive policing of city routes to
reassure passengers and deter offenders.</p>
<p>Plain-clothes officers will also be travelling on targeted
routes to identify suspects and catch thieves in the act.</p>
<p>Acting Sergeant Karen Taylor from Safer Travel, said: "Most
perpetrators of crime on public transport don't have valid tickets
so we'll be working alongside revenue inspectors. Any fare dodgers
will be spoken to by officers and checks made against police
computers.</p>
<p>"The operation will also include increased high visibility
patrols and police inputs at schools where we'll be offering advice
to pupils on keeping property safe.</p>
<p>"And of course we'll be dealing with anyone found behaving
anti-socially on public transport and anyone pointed out by the
driver as causing problems on board."</p>
<p>Almost two-thirds of bus passenger victims in March 2011 and
2012 were students, with thieves snatching phones, watches, bags
and lap-tops. But with more than 800 on-board security cameras
monitoring the regional network, offenders run the very real risk
of being identified on CCTV and arrested.</p>
<p>Act Sgt Taylor, added: "A common vulnerability is passengers
leaving phones, bags or computers on a seat and not keeping an eye
on them this is an invitation for opportunist thieves to strike so
officers will be stressing crime prevention advice to
passengers.</p>
<p>"Crime on public transport has dropped considerably in recent
years and there is now an average of just one offence in every
147,000 bus trips.</p>
<p>"However, in the last two years March has seen above average
levels of thefts and robberies on public transport but we're
determined to do something about.""</p>
<p>The operation sees West Midlands Police working alongside
transport police colleagues, National Express, Centro, London
Midland, Chiltern Railways and CCTV operators to protect
passengers.</p>
<p>Mark Babington, Safer Travel Manager for Centro, the region's
transport authority, added: "Crime on the transport network is very
low after falling by more than 65 per cent since 2007. Much of that
success is down to the work of the Safer Travel Partnership and
operations like the one we are carrying out this month.</p>
<p>"But we know anti-social behaviour can be a real concern for
passengers; that's why we would urge them to use the See Something
Say Something scheme to help provide us with information we need to
help stamp out nuisance behaviour."</p>
<p>Passengers who see nuisance behaviour during their journey can
say something by texting 'bus', 'metro' or 'rail' followed by a
space and then details of the incident including time, date,
location and route number to 83010.</p>
<p>Information can also be given through the new See Something Say
Something smart phone app available from iTunes for Apple devices
and from Google Play for android.</p>
<p>Passengers can also log on to the www.safertravel.info website
or phone British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 405040 to give
details. In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency, always
dial 999.</p>
Police to target busy Birmingham bus routes during March to prevent opportunist thefts.
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Seven new Special Constables join the Safer Travel Team
2013-03-04T00:00:00
2013-03-04T00:00:00
"The seven new Specials at St Paul's Metro stop in Birmingham. L to R Tom Young, Radek Rajewski, Leigh Russell, Danny Jones and Robin Hopkins. Front L to R Ben Robinson and Neil Shepherd."
<p>The number of volunteer Special Constables on the beat with the
Safer Travel Police Team in the West Midlands has been boosted
after seven new officers were sworn-in at a ceremony in
Birmingham.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Police Team falls under the Safer Travel
Partnership which brings officers from British Transport Police and
West Midlands Police together to work closely with staff from
transport authority Centro and transport operators with the aim of
making travel on trains, trams and buses in the West Midlands even
safer.</p>
<p>The team uses a variety of tactics including targeted patrols
based on intelligence, random checks such as Gateway operations and
undercover patrols. Officers also utilise mobile CCTV cameras, body
worn CCTV cameras, drugs sniffer dogs and safety arches to assist
them.<br />
<br />
Officers also go into schools regularly to teach children the
importance of good behaviour on the public transport network.</p>
<p>The new Special Constables who will be joining the team were
officially sworn-in by Magistrate Jill Parker, chair of the
Wolverhampton Branch, at Saturday's ceremony which was held at The
Safer Travel Command Centre.</p>
<p>The new recruits were then presented with certificates by
Superintendent Allan Gregory, of British Transport Police.</p>
<p>Special Constables have the same uniform and powers as regular
police officers and are instrumental to the success of policing
teams. They are required to work a minimum of 16 hours per month
but most work far more than the minimum required hours, helping to
boost the numbers of frontline officers on the beat.</p>
<p>Inspector Lee Gordon, in charge of the Safer Travel Policing
Team, said: "Saturday was a proud day for the team as well as each
of the Special Constables and their families.</p>
<p>"Special Constables are an important part of police forces and
perform the full-range of policing duties. The contribution made by
Special Constables to what we do is invaluable, helping us to make
sure that passengers using the transport network in the West
Midlands are not only safe, but feel safe."</p>
<p>Centro's Vice Chair, Cllr Kath Hartley, said: "Passengers
consistently tell us they want to see more officers on the
transport network and that's why we have helped fund the
recruitment of these Specials.</p>
<p>"The team will be highly visible on the rail and Metro networks,
helping to cut crime and provide a reassuring presence for
passengers."</p>
Police presence on the West Midlands transport network has been boosted with the recruitment of seven new Special Constables
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West Midlands must be served by direct high speed rail services to Europe
2013-02-27T00:00:00
2013-02-27T00:00:00
Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas
<p>The West Midlands must be served by direct high speed rail
services to Europe if it is to take full advantage of the
tremendous opportunity HS2 brings, says the chairman of the
region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, chairman of Centro, said high speed rail
services would be able to reach Paris and Brussels from Birmingham
in less than three hours.</p>
<p>Through services to other cities on the growing European high
speed rail network, such as Amsterdam and Frankfurt, would also be
possible.</p>
<p>"High speed rail presents a tremendous opportunity for the West
Midlands bringing jobs and investment," he said.</p>
<p>"Journey times from Birmingham to London, Leeds and Manchester
will be halved by high speed services, but it is essential we're
also able to take full advantage of improved European
connections."</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said it would be a missed opportunity if high
speed rail passengers from the West Midlands had to change trains
or even stations in London in order to access international
services.</p>
<p>He said provision must be made for passport and customs control
at Birmingham's city centre station in Moor Street and at the
Birmingham Interchange station.</p>
<p>"I welcome the proposed direct link between HS2 and the existing
HS1 line from London to Europe but it must be capable of allowing
passengers in the West Midlands fast, direct rail travel to the
continent."</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said the current proposal for a single track
HS1-HS2 link may prove inadequate to meet future demand and added
that the West Midlands was working closely with Transport for
London and other authorities to ensure UK regions could be served
by European connections.</p>
<p>"I urge the Government to consider a fully segregated two track
link between HS2 and HS1, which could cater not only for high speed
rail services from the West Midlands to a range of destinations on
the continent but which would also facilitate new high speed rail
links between the region and economic centres in East London and
Kent.</p>
<p>"High speed rail is great news for our region and we want to see
fast, direct links with European cities."</p>
Centro Chairman says region needs direct high speed rail services to Europe.
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Your Public Transport Matters roadshow arrives in Walsall
2013-02-20T00:00:00
2013-02-20T00:00:00
<p>Passengers in Walsall are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12pm in Park Street, Walsall town
centre, on Saturday February 23, has been organised by Centro, the
region's transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Walsall on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus and
rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr Richard Worrall, one of the Walsall representatives on
Centro, said: "This event is the ideal opportunity to really
understand the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Park Street we hope to hear from as many people as possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
Passengers in Walsall can give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
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See Something, Say Something mobile phone app is launched
2013-02-19T00:00:00
2013-02-19T00:00:00
Sgt Chris Casey of the Safer Travel police team with a mobile phone displaying the See Something’ Say Something app.
<p>Passengers on the public transport network can instantly report
antisocial behaviour over the internet with the launch of a
pioneering mobile phone app</p>
<p>The See Something, Say Something app has been unveiled by the
Safer Travel Partnership.</p>
<p>More than 230 people have already downloaded it to their Apple
and android phones in the latest chapter of the successful See
Something, Say Something campaign on the West Midlands bus, train
and tram network.</p>
<p>People witnessing antisocial behaviour such as smoking on public
transport simply open up the app and upload details of what they
have seen.</p>
<p>Sgt Chris Casey of the Safer Travel police team said: "This app
is the first of its kind in the UK having been successfully used in
the United States and it is already attracting interest from other
authorities such as Transport for London.</p>
<p>"Once a user sends us the details of an incident an officer will
get back in touch and gather further information to build a picture
or pattern of antisocial behaviour which can then be targeted
appropriately."</p>
<p>See Something, Say Something was originally launched on the bus
network in 2008 and has since been extended to rail services across
the West Midlands and the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Alternatively to the app, passengers who see nuisance behaviour
during their journey can also say something by <strong>texting
'bus', 'metro' or 'rail'</strong> followed by a space and then
details of the incident including time, date, location and route
number to <strong>83010</strong>.</p>
<p>They can also give details by logging on the <a
href="http://www.safertravelinfo/" target="_blank"
title="">http://www.safertravelinfo/</a><a
href="http://www.safertravelinfo/"
target="_blank">http://www.safertravelinfo/</a>""
href=""http://www.safertravel.info/"">www.safertravel.info
website or by telephoning British Transport Police on Freefone 0800
40 50 40. In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency, always
dial 999.</p>
<p>Thousands of passengers have used the system to provide crucial
information that has enabled the Safer Travel Partnership to
pinpoint crime and anti-social behaviour hot spots and take
appropriate action.</p>
<p>Safer Travel comprises transport authority Centro, West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police and transport operators and exists
to make public transport in the West Midlands even safer.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: ""Crime on the
public transport network is at a record low but anti-social
behaviour can ruin someone's journey and also lead to an unfounded
fear of crime.</p>
<p>""This app is expanding the valuable role that See Something,
Say Something plays in helping us tackle nuisance behaviour and
help provide a quiet and relaxing environment for their
journey.""</p>
<p>The app can be downloaded by iPhone users <a href="/">here</a>
and by Android users <a
id="uk.org.centro.SeeSomethingSaySomething&hl=en"""
href="/"></a>here.</p>
A mobile phone app is the latest weapon in the fight against antisocial behaviour on public transport.
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Metro tram network to close as work continues on £128 million upgrade
2013-02-14T00:00:00
2013-02-14T00:00:00
A computer generated image of how the new trams will look in front of a rebuilt New Street Station
<p>The Midland Metro is to temporarily close this Easter so work on
a £128 million project to extend and improve the tram system can be
carried out.</p>
<p>The line between Birmingham and Wolverhampton will be shut after
the last tram on Good Friday (March 29) and reopen on Monday April
15 to allow engineers to modify existing platforms for a £40
million fleet of new and bigger trams.</p>
<p>The 20-strong fleet will start to go into service on the current
route during 2014 and will enable Centro, the region's transport
authority, to increase the system's frequency to 10 trams an hour
throughout the day.</p>
<p>This will increase capacity by 40 per cent, easing the
overcrowding that can sometimes occur during the morning peak as a
result of the Metro's popularity.</p>
<p>All the new trams will be running by 2015 when an extension of
the system through the streets of Birmingham city centre from Snow
Hill Station to a rebuilt New Street Station opens.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Centro's Metro Programme Director, said: "We
appreciate that the closure will cause disruption for passengers
but it is the only way we can carry out the work.</p>
<p>"We have chosen the Easter period because many people take the
school break off work which means fewer passengers will be
affected.</p>
<p>"Deferring the engineering work until the school summer holidays
would jeopardise the build programme for the city centre extension
and the deployment schedule for the new trams.</p>
<p>"We apologise in advance for the inconvenience but the benefits
that this project will bring for passengers are substantial. It
really is a case of short term pain for long term gain."</p>
<p>Thousands of leaflets will be available over the coming weeks
giving passengers full details of the closure and alternative
travel arrangements.</p>
<p>Posters will also be put up at stops along the line and there
will be regular announcements over the passenger information
system.</p>
<p>The information will also be available on line at
NetworkWestMidlands.com from tomorrow (Friday February 15).</p>
<p>Apart from alternative bus and rail services there will also be
a limited replacement bus service in operation, running at a
minimum of 30 minute intervals and calling at 12 locations along
the Metro route. It will operate between 6:30am and 7:15pm Monday
to Saturday during the closure.</p>
<p>The city centre extension will run from Snow Hill Station, along
Upper Bull Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street where
it will stop outside New Street Station which is currently
undergoing a £600 million rebuild, also due for completion in
2015.</p>
<p>The Metro extension and new trams, a joint project between
Centro, Birmingham City Council and the Black Country councils,
will revolutionise the way people travel around the city giving a
convenient link between Birmingham's two major rail stations.</p>
<p>It will also provide a much needed and easy connection from New
Street to the emerging business district at Snow Hill, the unique
and historic Jewellery Quarter and out into the Black Country using
the existing Metro line.</p>
<p>The extension will also serve as a platform for future Metro
routes such as to the city's forthcoming high speed rail terminal
and Centenary Square.</p>
<p>The new trams are being built by Spanish manufacturer CAF.</p>
The Midland Metro is to close over Easter as part of the £128 million extension programme.
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Centro backs Stop Hate in fight against hate crime
2013-02-08T00:00:00
2013-02-08T00:00:00
"Rose Simkins of Stop Hate, left, and Insp Lee Gordon of Safer Travel launch the campaign."
<p>Centro has joined the fight against hate crime by backing an
information campaign offering support to its victims.</p>
<p>Posters advising people what to do if they suffer - or witness -
racial, sexual or other forms of abuse are to be displayed at bus
stations, travel shops and Midland Metro stops across the Centro
region.</p>
<p>The campaign is a collaboration between Safer Travel and Stop
Hate UK, a charity that provides independent and confidential
support to people affected by hate crime.</p>
<p>People can contact the charity by phone via a 24 hour hotline
0800 138 1625, text, post or online to report hate crimes, access
support, and get information.</p>
<p>The hotline will be displayed on digital information screens at
stations while a business card version of the poster will also be
distributed.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, chair of Centro's Putting Passengers First
committee, said: "No-one should have to put up with this kind of
behavior and I am delighted that we at Centro have been able to
help Stop Hate.</p>
<p>"People using the public transport network will now know they
have someone they can turn to in confidence should they be on the
receiving end of such vile behavior motivated only by a perceived
difference."</p>
<p>Hate crimes consist of hostility, prejudice or hatred based on a
person's:</p>
<ul>
<li>age</li>
<li>disability</li>
<li>gender identity</li>
<li>race, ethnicity or nationality</li>
<li>religion or belief</li>
<li>Sexual orientation.</li>
</ul>
<p>Incidents that can be deemed as hate crimes include name calling
and verbal abuse, bullying and harassment, spitting and physical
attacks, damage to property, graffiti, written notes, emails and
text messages</p>
<p>Stop Hate is a nationwide charity that provides 24 hour support
to people who have been affected by hate crime in 30 areas across
the UK.</p>
<p>Its patron is Doreen Lawrence OBE, the mother of London teenager
Stephen Lawrence who was stabbed to death by a racist gang in
1993.</p>
<p>Stop Hate chief executive Rose Simkins said: "Stop Hate UK is
delighted to be working in partnership with Centro.</p>
<p>"The partnership shows the commitment of both organisations to
tackle hate incidents and crimes and encourage reporting in order
that victims can receive support and assistance from a range of
agencies."</p>
<p>Further details of the service can be found at <a
href="/">www.stophateuk.org</a></p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership consisting of Centro, West
Midlands Police, British Transport Police and transport
operators.</p>
<p>Whilst the public transport network in the West Midlands enjoys
a very low crime rate, the partnership works to make it even safer
and dispel any perceived fears of crime.</p>
<p>Safer Travel manager Mark Babington said: "Crime on Public
Transport is at its lowest for years, and whilst passengers are
telling us that they are feeling safer, we want to ensure we tackle
the small number of hate crime incidents that occur each year to
make journeys even safer.</p>
<p>"We understand that some victims of hate crime do not feel
comfortable reporting such incidents to the police and therefore
this partnership with Stop Hate UK, which enables anonymous
reporting to a third party, is vitally important."</p>
Centro joins the fight against hate crime by backing an information campaign offering support to victims.
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Rail passengers urged to claim free travel compensation
2013-02-08T00:00:00
2013-02-08T00:00:00
<p>Rail season ticket holders in the West Midlands, who suffered
major disruption late last year, are being urged to take advantage
of free travel days being offered as compensation by train operator
London Midland.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, Chairman of Centro, the region's transport
authority, said it was important that season ticket holders took up
the offer and secured some recompense for the disruption they
experienced as a result of driver shortages.</p>
<p>"We're pleased that London Midland has offered this free travel
for season ticket holders which helps to off-set the inconvenience
they experienced due to last autumn's delays and cancellations," he
said.</p>
<p>"We also welcome the £2.25 million investment in a range of
measures to benefit passengers that the Department for Transport
has agreed with London Midland on the back of the poor
performance.</p>
<p>"We are working closely with London Midland on what sort of
measures can best benefit passengers here in the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>London Midland services were severely disrupted between
September and December 2012 but the company has since said that it
has addressed the driver shortage while agreeing the compensation
package, worth £7 million, with the Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The package includes five days of free travel across the London
Midland network for season ticket holders affected by the
disruption, half a million cheap fares on routes between Birmingham
and London, Crewe and Liverpool, and £2.25 million to be spent on
improvements for passengers, mainly in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Passengers who are members of Centro's Direct Debit or Corporate
Travel season ticket schemes will receive the free tickets
automatically but other season ticket holders need to complete a
form on the London Midland website.</p>
<p>For further information, or to claim, visit <a
href="/">www.londonmidland.com/about-us/latest-news/additional-compensation-package-for-2012-season-ticket-holders/</a></p>
Season ticket holders who suffered major disruption last year urged to take advantage of free travel days.
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New buses are just what the doctor ordered
2013-02-07T00:00:00
2013-02-07T00:00:00
Centro Vice Chair Cllr Kath Hartley and National Express West Midlands General Manager Steve Hale launch the new �talking buses� at Russells Hall Hospital
<p>A fleet of eight new "talking buses" was officially launched
today (Thursday February 7) on the 222 route running between
Dudley, Russells Hall Hospital and Brierley Hill.</p>
<p>The vehicles represent a £1.5million investment into the area by
bus operator National Express West Midlands and are part of a wider
£10 million project in partnership with Centro, the region's
transport authority.</p>
<p>The new buses, which are a slimmer version of a normal single
deck bus, are designed to manoeuvre around local housing estates
more quickly and easily.</p>
<p>The eight new buses will feature industry leading
technologyincluding next stop announcements telling passengers with
visual and hearing impairments where the bus will be stopping
next.</p>
<p>Centro is also installing new shelters and more Real Time
Information displays along the route.</p>
<p>The wider £10million scheme to improve bus service across the
Black Country includes £5 million from the Government's Better Bus
Area Fund, £1.5 million from Centro, £1.5million from Westfield,
owners of the Merry Hill shopping centre and a further £2 million
from bus operators.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro's Vice Chair and Lead Member for
Putting the Passenger First, said: "We warmly welcome this
investment in new buses for the Black Country and it demonstrates
the commitment of all parties to improving public transport in the
Brierley Hill area.</p>
<p>"These new buses with next stop announcements are the first of
their kind in the Black Country. They are just another example of
how we are working together to make people's journeys as easy and
convenient as possible. The announcements will be particularly
useful for those passengers who may not be familiar with the
route."</p>
<p>Steve Hale, General Manager National Express West Midlands
added: "These new vehicles are a big investment into our services
in Dudley and Brierley Hill. They feature the latest advancements
in customer comfort, including a state of the art heating system
that ensures our buses are cool in the summer and warm in the
winter.</p>
<p>"The new design of the vehicle, which is slimmer than regular
buses, will also mean that we can serve housing estates easier than
we have previously been able to."</p>
<p>The 222 will feature distinctive green route branding, making it
easier for customers to find and use the service when making
regular journeys to hospital appointments.</p>
<p>To encourage customers to use the new vehicles, National Express
West Midlands and Centro have launched a joint leaflet giving
people information on the service and vouchers for cheaper bus
travel.</p>
New 'talking buses' launched in Dudley
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Pool Meadow Bus Station second access formally opened
2013-02-05T00:00:00
2013-02-05T00:00:00
"Cllr Lindsley Harvard, left, and Cllr John McNicholas cut the ribbon to open the second access at Coventry’s Pool Meadow bus station."
<p>A new access into Coventry's Pool Meadow Bus Station has been
formally opened.</p>
<p>The access, which comes off White Street and enters the site
between the former fire station and Junction 2 of the city ring
road, was completed on time and on budget at £284,000.</p>
<p>The work was funded by Centro and Coventry City Council and
carried out by the council's own Direct Labour Organisation.</p>
<p>The project has also seen the introduction of a new bus and
cycle lane in nearby White Street and improved access to the coach
park there.</p>
<p>Councillor Lindsley Harvard, Coventry City Council Cabinet
Member for City Services, said: ""This is a simple, very effective
solution. It will be easier for bus operators to access Pool Meadow
and better for bus passengers.</p>
<p>"It will also mean that we can make improvements outside Pool
Meadow widening pavements and narrowing the roads, which will help
to improve the whole area."</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro and a Coventry City
councillor, said: "This project has been a successful collaboration
between Centro and Coventry City Council and I am delighted that it
has worked so well.</p>
<p>"The new access will improve services and safety for bus users
and pedestrians alike.</p>
<p>"Enhancing facilities such as Pool Meadow and introducing a new
bus and cycle lane in White Street is all part of our aim to reduce
journey times and provide a vibrant and viable network."</p>
<p>The work will make it easier for passengers to access and exit
Pool Meadow on Fairfax Street, which runs behind the bus
station.</p>
<p>The coach drop-off and pick-up bays in White Street will allow
coach passengers easy access to the facilities in the station.</p>
<p>They will also be in a good location for access to two of
Coventry's major tourist attractions - the cathedral and Transport
Museum. Coaches will then be able to park in the new coach
park.</p>
A new access into Coventry’s Pool Meadow Bus Station has been formally opened.
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Reminders go out to renew concessionary travel passes
2013-01-30T00:00:00
2013-01-30T00:00:00
The concessionary pass is issued by Centro on behalf of the DfT
<p>Holders of concessionary travel passes that expire this spring
are being urged to contact Centro if they have not had a letter
reminding them to apply for a replacement.</p>
<p>A total of 207,000 older people have passes that will no longer
be valid from either March 31 or April 1 and will receive
replacements issued by Centro, the region's transport authority, in
the latest round of renewals.</p>
<p>Letters were sent out from January 9 advising holders their
passes are due to expire on either of these dates and the send out
is now complete.</p>
<p>The letters will include a Personal Renewal Form for people to
fill in to claim their new pass, which will be issued within three
to four weeks of receipt of the application back at Centro.</p>
<p>Passes can also be renewed online at <a
href="/"><strong>www.centro.org.uk/renewal</strong></a></p>
<p>The recent bad weather may have led to delays in people
receiving their letters, but all should now have arrived and so
Centro are asking pass holders to contact the authority if they
have not received a letter.</p>
<p>If the pass expires on 31 March or 1 April 2013 and they have
not received a renewal letter and form by February 4 they are being
asked to ring a dedicated helpline <strong>08450 755
888.</strong></p>
<p>Sarah Jones, Centro's Head of Customer Services, said: "These
passes are a real lifeline for people and we do not want them to
miss out"</p>
<p>"There is still plenty of time to renew but we would advise
people to check the expiry date on their pass and if they do not
receive a renewal letter by February 4 to contact us."</p>
<p>"We would also ask anyone who has received a renewal letter and
not yet responded to do so. If they have sent off the renewal form
they should receive the new pass by the end of February. If they do
not we would again ask them to contact us.</p>
<p>"Once anyone receives their new pass they should destroy the old
one immediately and commence using the new one."</p>
<p>The English National Concessionary pass was introduced in 2008
and provides free off-peak travel on buses across England for older
people.</p>
<p>Centro administers the scheme locally on behalf of the
Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The concession is enhanced within the West Midlands with free,
off-peak travel on trains and trams across the region.</p>
<p>The original 'smart' passes expired in four batches - March
2012, August 2012, March 2013 and April 2013 and Centro is
currently processing the 31 March and 1 April 2013 renewals.</p>
<p>Renewal letters have not been sent to blind and disabled pass
holders as a separate process applies to these customers.</p>
<p>Centro writes to these pass holders, whose continued eligibility
for a travel pass has to be reassessed, three months prior to their
passes expiring.</p>
Concessionary travel pass holders are urged to contact Centro about organising a replacement card.
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Local Transport Minister launches £50 million project
2013-01-30T00:00:00
2013-01-30T00:00:00
"Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro’s lead member for green and accessible transport; Local Transport Minister Norman Baker; Conrad Jones, Centro’s head of sustainability and Sophia Shoukat"
<p>A landmark £50 million project to help kick start the West
Midlands economy and cut traffic congestion and carbon was today
officially launched by Local Transport Minister Norman Baker.</p>
<p>The Smart Network, Smarter Choices project will see a range of
initiatives put in place to help people change their travel
behaviour in favour of green options such as public transport,
cycling and walking.</p>
<p>Mr Baker was at Sandwell Council House to launch the three year
project which will see a package of measures introduced along 10
key routes across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Measures will include better walking and cycling routes, road
improvements, expert journey planning for families, schools and
businesses and even free travel for jobseekers.</p>
<p>The project, which is being delivered by transport authority
Centro and the region's seven local authorities, aims to better
connect people to work, skills and training opportunities, helping
to underpin the local economy.</p>
<p>Local Transport Minister Norman Baker said: "Traffic congestion
is costing the West Midlands £2.3 billion a year. This project will
play an important role in tackling that and supporting local
economic growth, whilst also cutting carbon as more people switch
to more sustainable ways to travel."</p>
<p>Measures will be tailored for each of the 10 routes but will
include initiatives such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Small scale road and junction improvements</li>
<li>Better passenger waiting facilities</li>
<li>Expert travel planning for families, companies and schools</li>
<li>More mobile, online and real time passenger information</li>
<li>Smartcard technology for cashless travel</li>
<li>New or improved walking and cycling routes</li>
</ul>
<p>The project also includes funding for an expansion of the
award-winning WorkWise scheme which provides free travel passes for
unemployed people travelling to interviews or starting new
jobs.</p>
<p>During the launch Mr Baker met 18-year-old Sophia Shoukat from
Tividale, who used the WorkWise scheme to help land a planning
apprenticeship with Sandwell Council after spending more than a
year unemployed.</p>
<p>Sophia said: "When you start a new job the cost of everything
starts to add up, particularly paying for lunch and travel even
before you get your first pay cheque. It would have been a real
challenge for me to get back into work without the extra support
from the WorkWise scheme.</p>
<p>"The new job means that I can be independent and support myself
and I would recommend WorkWise to anyone who is currently looking
for work."</p>
<p>The project follows Centro's successful £33 million bid to
Government's Local Sustainable Transport Fund and is supported by a
further £15 million from local public and private
contributions.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for green and
accessible transport said: "I am delighted that we have launched
our Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which will help people
make smarter, greener travel choices across the region.</p>
<p>"Getting more people to use public transport, walk or cycle can
help cut traffic congestion and free up our roads for essential
users like hauliers and bus operators.</p>
<p>"This project will not only help support our regional economy
but can also bring substantial benefits for the environment as well
as people's health."</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="/">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a></p>
Transport Minister Norman Baker has launched a landmark £50 million West Midlands project.
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HS2 to bring growth boost for West Midlands
2013-01-29T00:00:00
2013-01-29T00:00:00
"(l-r) Birmingham City Council cabinet member for development, jobs and skills, Cllr Tahir Ali, Transport Minister Stephen Hammond and Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro"
<p>Birmingham will be one of the best connected cities in the UK
providing jobs and economic growth right across the West Midlands,
transport minister Stephen Hammond said today (January 28).</p>
<p>Mr Hammond visited Birmingham for a tour of the proposed HS2
station site at Moor Street in the city centre as plans for phase 2
were unveiled by the Government linking Birmingham with Manchester
and Leeds.</p>
<p>"Birmingham and the West Midlands can take advantage of being
right at the centre of the high-speed rail network and the benefits
it will bring to the existing rail and road network through
released capacity," Mr Hammond said.</p>
<p>"HS2 is vital as an engine for growth in the UK and the West
Midlands will be at the heart of that."</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council cabinet member for development, jobs and
skills, Cllr Tahir Ali said: "The announcement of phase 2 is great
news for Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region bringing
jobs, delivering tremendous opportunities for growth and
investment, and improving transport infrastructure."<br />
<br />
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said journey times between
Birmingham and Manchester and Leeds would be halved by HS2.</p>
<p>"This provides a real economic boost and releases capacity on
our crowded existing network for more local, regional and freight
services," he said.</p>
<p>"We're excited because we're right at the heart of this network
and the challenge for us now is to get the very best return we can
from HS2."</p>
<p>Birmingham Chamber of Commerce chief executive Jerry Blackett
added: "Fast direct high speed rail connections and lower operating
costs will make the West Midlands which will be at the heart of a
network stretching from London to Scotland - an increasingly
attractive alternative to the overheated South East for business
investment."</p>
<p>Today's announcement of HS2 phase 2 connects the West Midlands
with the East Midlands, Yorkshire and the North West, linking eight
of the UK's ten biggest cities.</p>
<p>HS2 will cut Birmingham to Manchester journey times from the
current 1h 31m to 41m and Birmingham to Leeds from 2h to 57m.</p>
<p>Independent research reveals phase one of HS2 (from Birmingham
to London) will generate 22,000 jobs in the West Midlands and
deliver £1.5bn per year to the regional economy.</p>
Minister says HS2 will put West Midlands at the heart of the UK’s ‘engine for growth’
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Announcement of northern routes will put West Midlands at the heart of HS2
2013-01-25T00:00:00
2013-01-25T00:00:00
Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip
<p>The West Midlands will benefit from being right at the heart of
Britain's high speed rail network with the announcement of the
northern routes, says the boss of the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip said the Transport
Secretary's forthcoming announcement of HS2 phase 2 would connect
the West Midlands with the East Midlands, Yorkshire and the North
West and boost the regional economies.</p>
<p>An announcement on the line of route and stations for phase 2
which will connect eight of the UK's ten biggest cities - is
expected in the next few days.</p>
<p>"So much of the talk so far has inevitably focused on the phase
one link from Birmingham to London, but the economic benefits of
linking our regions with faster, direct services are often
overlooked," Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>HS2 will cut Birmingham to Manchester journey times from the
current 1h 31m to 41m and Birmingham to Leeds from 2h to 57m.</p>
<p>"Journeys times between Birmingham and Manchester and Leeds will
be halved by HS2 and this is great news for our region and
theirs.</p>
<p>"We're excited because we're right at the heart of this network
and the challenge for us now is to get the very best return we can
from HS2."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said HS2's fast, direct services between major cities
would also release capacity on crowded existing lines for more
passenger and freight services.</p>
<p>"Our challenge is to ensure local and regional transport links
in seamlessly with high speed rail," he added.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said Centro had drawn up plans to increase local and
regional passenger services, such as adding services from
Wolverhampton to Birmingham Airport and introducing a
Walsall-London service, using the released capacity.</p>
<p>Road congestion is costing the West Midlands £2.3bn per year and
Centro also has plans to reopen the Walsall-Stourbridge freight
line transferring freight from road to rail.</p>
<p>Work is already underway on the £127m Metro extension through
Birmingham city centre and the £600m redevelopment of Birmingham
New Street station.</p>
<p>Independent research reveals phase one of HS2 will generate
22,000 jobs in the West Midlands and deliver £1.5bn per year to the
regional economy.</p>
Region will benefit from being at the heart of Britain's high speed rail network says Centro boss.
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Solihull passengers to have their say on public transport
2013-01-21T00:00:00
2013-01-21T00:00:00
<p>Passengers in Solihull are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12pm in Mell Square in Solihull town
centre on January 26, has been organised by Centro, the region's
transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Solihull on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus and
rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr Ted Richards, one of the Solihull representatives on
Centro, said: "This event is the ideal opportunity to really
understand the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Mell Square we hope to hear from as many people as possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
Passengers in Solihull have the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
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Exhibitions underway for new Bromsgrove Railway Interchange
2013-01-17T00:00:00
2013-01-17T00:00:00
"Bromsgrove resident Steph Boulter hears about the new Bromsgrove railway interchange project from Centro project manager Ian Frostick, left, and Worcestershire County Council transport planning officer David Balme."
<p>Exhibitions outlining a new £14.4 million railway interchange
for Bromsgrove are underway.</p>
<p>Representatives from Worcestershire County Council and Centro,
the region's transport authority, have been gathering the views of
people in the town centre and commuters using the current
station.</p>
<p>The public consultation will run until March 17 and people's
views will be incorporated as far as possible into the design of
the proposed new station, which will be built about 400m south from
the existing one in Aston Fields.</p>
<p>The scheme will be jointly funded by the county council and
Centro, working in partnership with the Department for Transport
and Network Rail.</p>
<p>Work is due to start in spring 2014 and is scheduled for
completion in summer 2015.</p>
<p>The new interchange will include a station building, four
platforms connected by a footbridge and lifts, and a 350-space car
park.</p>
<p>The station project will facilitate electrification of the line
between Barnt Green and Bromsgrove by Network Rail.</p>
<p>The electrification project is due for completion in summer 2016
and will allow increased frequency of trains between Bromsgrove and
Birmingham.</p>
<p>Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet Member for transport,
Cllr John Smith OBE, said:""This new rail station for Bromsgrove is
a great boost for the town and will greatly improve transport
choice and connections for residents travelling from and to the
town.</p>
<p>"I hope everyone will take the opportunity to give us their
feedback on the plans, which will help to ensure the new station is
indeed the right station for Bromsgrove.""</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "This is an exciting
development for Bromsgrove which will bring great benefits to the
town and I would urge people to give us their views."</p>
<p>An exhibition bus will be at Bromsgrove railway station between
7am-9.45am and 4pm-6pm and in Bromsgrove High Street between
10.30am-3.30pm on January 29 and 30.</p>
<p>People can also give their views by filling in an online
questionnaire at <a
href="/"><strong>www.worcestershire.gov.uk/bromsgrovestation</strong></a>
or by writing to Freepost RSGG-HSZK-HSGL, Worcestershire County
Council, Transport Policy & Strategy Team, County Hall,
Spetchley Road, Worcester, WR5 2NP.</p>
Exhibitions outlining a new £14.4 million complex and gathering public views get underway.
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Countdown to New Street's half-time switch over
2013-01-15T00:00:00
2013-01-15T00:00:00
Birmingham New Street Gateway
<p>Passengers using Birmingham New Street will soon see the first
major changes to the station in over 40 years when the huge project
to redevelop the station reaches the half way point this
April.<br />
<br />
In three months time, the station will 'switch over' when the
existing concourse and entrances which have been in use since the
1960s will close and passengers start to use the first half of the
brand new concourse.<br />
<br />
Next week, a campaign to inform passengers about the changes kicks
off with the first of a series of public exhibitions taking place
at New Street station. Passengers will be able to ask questions and
pick up information to find out how the changes will affect
them.<br />
<br />
Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for transforming rail,
said: "The concourse switchover will give passengers their first
real taste of the significant improvements coming their way with
this exciting redevelopment.<br />
<br />
"But it will also mean a major change in the way New Street
Station operates and I would therefore encourage passengers to use
the information being provided to help familiarise themselves ahead
of the switchover."<br />
<br />
The first of a series of public exhibitions will take place next
week on the main concourse at New Street between 7am-7pm on Tuesday
15, Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 January. Passengers can also find
out more by tweeting @networkrail or from <a
href="/">www.newstreetnewstart.co.uk</a>.<br />
<br />
Chris Montgomery, Network Rail project director said: "We've
committed to keeping New Street open to passengers throughout the
redevelopment and to date, we've been able to do most of our work
behind the scenes.<br />
<br />
"The switchover in April will be the first time passengers see
real changes in how they use, and access New Street station. By
switching off the old station and opening the first half of the new
concourse next door, we can keep passengers moving through New
Street while we continue rebuilding the existing half of the
station and shopping centre above."<br />
<br />
Rail minister Simon Burns said: "The redevelopment of Birmingham
New Street is already proving to be a huge success and illustrates
the Government's commitment to invest in railways and improve one
of the country's major transport hubs.<br />
<br />
""We have committed £160m to this scheme which will deliver a host
of improvements including more than doubling concourse capacity and
providing easier access and movement for passengers. The switchover
marks another major landmark for the redevelopment and hopefully
will be a welcome sight to rail users and the people of
Birmingham."<br />
<br />
Around 1000 construction workers are currently on site at New
Street, main areas of activity include:<br />
<br />
Platforms: Platforms are refurbished one at a time, leaving the
other 11 platforms open to allow a full train service to run.
Platform 8 is currently closed and will reopen on Sunday 10
February when work will move to Platform 9.<br />
<br />
Moor Street Link: This new pedestrian route will open alongside
the new concourse in April providing a link between Moor Street
station, Smallbrook Queensway and the new concourse via Stephenson
Street.<br />
<br />
Pallasades/Grand Central & John Lewis: Demolition is ongoing
in several areas including the old car park and the centre of the
building to form the new atrium which will open in 2015. The
Pallasades remains open throughout the redevelopment. On the south
side of the station, construction of the John Lewis department
store is well underway.<br />
<br />
Fa�ade: The first sections of stainless steel fa�ade were
installed above Stephenson Street in December 2012. The entire
north elevation and new North West corner entrance is due to be
clad when the switchover happens in April.<br />
<br />
Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The
refurbished Birmingham New Street station will provide a much
improved transport interchange for the 140,000 passengers who use
it every day and these changes are designed to keep passengers and
trains moving while this major work goes ahead.<br />
<br />
""This is a vital project for the city, stimulating economic
growth and regeneration and, in the newly-named Grand Central, it
will provide one of the best-connected retail spaces in the
country."<br />
<br />
New concourse facts:<br />
<br />
- When the first half of the new concourse opens it will have all
of the facilities expected in a major station with a new bigger and
improved ticket office plus improved access with new up and down
escalators and lifts improving access to platforms.<br />
<br />
- Navigation Street footbridge at the west end of the station will
close to passengers as new entrances will open onto Stephenson
Street and Hill Street.<br />
<br />
- There will also be new escalators up to the Pallasades to
replace the existing ones which will close to allow the old
concourse to be rebuilt.<br />
<br />
- The existing vehicle station entrance on Smallbrook Queensway
will close with access to the new drop off area and short stay car
park moving across to Hill Street<br />
<br />
- The station taxi rank will temporarily move to Navigation
Street.</p>
<div item-summary="">
<p>- The Centro New Street Travel Information Centre will move
location to the new concourse. The main entrance will close and you
will be able to access the Travel Information Centre via the Moor
Street link. This new pedestrian route will open alongside the new
concourse in April providing a link between Moor Street station,
Smallbrook Queensway and the new concourse via Stephenson
Street.</p>
</div>
Passengers using Birmingham New Street will soon see the station's first major changes in decades.
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Centro and councils welcome investment in regional rail network
2013-01-08T00:00:00
2013-01-08T00:00:00
Millions will be spent increasing line speeds and reducing congestion which will improve journey times and capacity.
<p>A planned £550 million upgrade to the West Midlands rail network
was today welcomed by the region's councils as good for passengers
and the economy.</p>
<p>The investment, to be made by Network Rail through its Strategic
Business Plan between 2014 and 2019, will also help the region cope
with soaring passenger numbers, the West Midlands Rail Members
Group (WMRMG) said.</p>
<p>The group, made up of representatives from the seven
metropolitan councils and neighbouring shire counties, said the
improvements were a step in the right direction towards developing
a regional network that can best connect and feed into the
forthcoming high speed rail route, known as HS2.</p>
<p>However, the group expressed disappointment that an upgrade to
the line between Birmingham and Tamworth, had not been included in
Network Rail's Strategic Business Plan.</p>
<p>This would have provided additional capacity and improved access
to the important freight terminals at Kingsbury and Birch Coppice,
near Tamworth.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of WMRMG and chairman of
Centro, the region's transport authority, said: "We believe the
Strategic Business Plan is good news for passengers, bringing them
more frequent, reliable and faster services on a number of key
routes.</p>
<p>"It's also good news for our region's economy because a well
connected and efficient rail system can play a key role in
supporting economic growth and job creation.</p>
<p>"It is vital we have a passenger and freight network which can
meet the needs of the commuters and businesses of today but which
can also maximise the significant economic benefits to be offered
by the forthcoming HS2 high-speed rail scheme."</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said improvements outlined in the plan would
allow more trains to be run locally, helping to meet soaring
demand.</p>
<p>The number of passengers using the West Midlands network has
almost doubled over the last decade and over 42 million passengers
a year now use the network in the metropolitan area alone</p>
<p>Some of the key projects in the Strategic Business Plan
include:</p>
<ul>
<li>A £255m programme of works to increase line speeds and reduce
train congestion in the Stafford area.</li>
<li>£65m electrifying the Cross City Line between Barnt Green and
Bromsgrove with three instead of two trains per hour between
Redditch, Bromsgrove and New Street.</li>
<li>A joint Centro/Coventry City Council/Warwickshire County
Council project for two new stations and an extra train per hour on
the Coventry to Nuneaton line.</li>
<li>Electrification and new tracks between Coventry and Leamington
boosting freight and accessibility to Birmingham Airport.</li>
<li>Walsall to Rugeley electrification improving journey times and
capacity for commuters heading into Birmingham.</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr McNicholas added: "We are particularly pleased that the
electrification of the line between Walsall and Rugeley has been
included as this is something that Centro and the region's
councillors had campaigned hard for.</p>
<p>"The one slight disappointment is that the absence of the
improvements to the Tamworth line, as we felt this was important to
help the cope with rising demand and prepare the network for the
arrival of HS2 in 2026.</p>
<p>"We will however continue to work closely with Network Rail and
the wider industry to get the additional passenger and freight
capacity on the Tamworth line, as well as new south Birmingham
commuter routes included in the following five year plan."</p>
<p>Independent research has shown that the economic benefits of HS2
can be more than doubled by having the right local rail and
transport network to connect with the region's two planned stations
one at Eastside in Birmingham city centre and one near the
airport/NEC.</p>
<p>Having such connections in place can increase the number of jobs
created in the West Midlands from 10,000 to 22,000 and the boost to
the economy from £600 million a year to £1.5 billion.</p>
A £550 million upgrade of the West Midlands rail network is welcomed by Centro and local councils.
17213
300108_049170116Bromsgrovecopy.jpg
thumbHLVirgin.jpg
0
12
0
Work starts on bus station second access
2013-01-03T00:00:00
2013-01-03T00:00:00
"Cllrs John McNicholas, left, and Lindsley Harvard at the new Pool Meadow second access site"
<p>Work is underway to create a new access into Pool Meadow Bus
Station. The access will come off White Street and enter Pool
Meadow between the former Fire Station and Junction 2.</p>
<p>The work is being funded by Centro and Coventry City Council and
should be complete by the end of January 2013.</p>
<p>Councillor Lindsley Harvard, Cabinet Member for City Services,
said: ""The new entrance, directly off the ring road, will be great
news for Pool Meadow - encouraging more buses into the bus
station.</p>
<p>""But it will have wider benefits too. It will mean fewer buses
will use Fairfax Street so we will be able to carry out some
improvements for pedestrians there - widening the pavements and
removing the traffic lights at the junction of Priory Street and
Fairfax Street to create a nicer environment for all users. We will
also be able to plant more trees.</p>
<p>""This work is the start of our city centre Phase 2 improvements
which will also include the removal of more traffic light junctions
as we aim to change both the look and feel of the city
centre.""</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro and a Coventry City
councillor, said: "I'm delighted that Centro and the City Council
have worked closely together to create a scheme that will improve
services and safety for bus users and pedestrians alike.</p>
<p>"Bus services in Coventry city centre underwent a major review
last year and enhancing facilities such as Pool Meadow and
introducing a new bus and cycle lane in White Street is all part of
our aim to reduce journey times and provide a vibrant and viable
network."</p>
<p>Coach drop-off and pick-up bays will also be created alongside
Pool Meadow to allow coach passengers easy access to the facilities
in Pool Meadow.</p>
<p>They will also be in a good location for access to two of
Coventry's major tourist attractions - the Cathedral and Transport
Museum. Coaches will then be able to park in the new coach park at
White Street.</p>
Work is underway to create a new access into Coventry's Pool Meadow Bus Station.
17213
Ringroadsliproadtwo.jpg
thumbCoventrygeneric.jpg
0
12
0
Sandwell passengers to have their say on public transport
2013-01-03T00:00:00
2013-01-03T00:00:00
<p>Passengers in Sandwell are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12pm at West Bromwich bus station on
January 16, has been organised by Centro, the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Sandwell on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus and
rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, one of the Sandwell representatives on
Centro, said: "This event is the ideal opportunity to really
understand the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
West Bromwich bus station, we hope to hear from as many people as
possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
Passengers in Sandwell get to chance to give their views on public transport in the borough.
17213
0
12
0
Work starts on expanding Park and Ride at Longbridge railway station
2013-11-14T00:00:00
2013-11-14T00:00:00
Cllr Roger Horton, left, Cllr Tahir Ali and Mark Goodall of London Midland mark the start of work on installing Park and Ride at Longbridge railway station.
<p>Commuters have another reason to let the train take the strain
as work began on a new free-to-use car park at a Birmingham railway
station.</p>
<p>The car park at Longbridge will provide 102 spaces as part of
the popular Park and Ride scheme.</p>
<p>The £700,000 project is scheduled to be complete by Christmas
and will feature CCTV including a monitored walking route to the
station, Help Points and energy efficient lighting.</p>
<p>The station sits next to the on-going regeneration works at the
former Rover car plant in Longbridge, which now houses major
developments such as the new Bournville College, and the car park
has been designed in partnership with developers St Modwen.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "This is
good news for commuters as it means this busy station now has a
dedicated car park, something which will ease the pressure on other
nearby stations.</p>
<p>"It is also good news for the environment as more spaces means
more people are able to use Park and Ride, which means more cars
off the roads.</p>
<p>"This work will add to the other investment in the regeneration
of this area which is taking place at the moment, such as the new
Bournville College."</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Cabinet Member for Development, Jobs and Skills
at Birmingham City Council said: "This excellent scheme is the
latest chapter in the regeneration of Longbridge and the creation
of the new local centre.</p>
<p>"I am delighted this vibrant development has a railway station
at its heart, and the new car park will do much to encourage people
to leave their vehicles there and use the train."</p>
<p>Mark Goodall, head of Cross City Service for London Midland
trains, said: "We know from what our passengers tell us that car
parking is high on their agenda. This development creates that
important link between road and rail and gives more people access
to the Cross City line".</p>
<p>The work at Longbridge will be mirrored by similar projects at
Rowley Regis and Yardley Wood in the New Year.</p>
<p>Earlier this year Centro was awarded £2 million from the
Government to expand the Park and Ride scheme at three more railway
stations.</p>
<p>The cash will go towards enhancing facilities at Kings Norton
station in Birmingham, Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield and
Stourbridge Junction under the West Midlands Access to Growth
Package.</p>
<p>The £4m Centro scheme will see extra parking spaces, including
provision for car sharing bays, electric vehicle charging points
and cycle hubs at these stations.</p>
<p>The money has been awarded under the Government's Local Pinch
Point Fund, a £170 million scheme to remove bottlenecks on the
local highway network.</p>
New £700,000 car park will provide 102 free spaces for commuters using Longbridge station.
19785
Longbridge2.jpg
0
1
0
Leaders hail introduction of the HS2 Hybrid Bill
2013-11-25T00:00:00
19786
<p style="text-align: left;">West Midland leaders today
(Monday November 25) hailed the introduction of the HS2
Hybrid Bill in Parliament as an historic day for rail in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The bill is being introduced into the
Commons this afternoon and will provide the powers to build and
maintain the first phase of HS2, as well as securing planning
permission for the works.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Geoff Inskip, chief executive of
regional transport authority Centro, said the introduction of the
Bill was an important date and demonstrated the determination of
the main political parties and organisations and individuals across
the UK to build HS2.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"HS2 will deliver jobs and
opportunities and address problems with capacity as demand for rail
continues to soar. It will benefit people across our region and
throughout the UK," her said.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham
City Council, added: "Real progress is being made and this is an
exciting time for our region. The West Midlands is at the heart of
the high speed rail network and the latest economic research
reveals we stand to benefit the most.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"We are determined to ensure we
deliver the maximum benefits from the line, not just for Birmingham
itself but for the whole of the city region."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Last week Sir Albert, who is also
Core Cities' cabinet member for transport, visited Downing Street
with other leaders to press the case for high speed rail and
outline the opportunities for the major cities across the UK.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Sir Albert said research concluded HS2
would deliver 51,000 jobs and £4.1bn per year to the West
Midlands.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Jerry Blackett, CEO of Birmingham
Chamber of Commerce said: "Business is right behind high speed rail
and excited about the opportunities this massive project brings -
so the introduction of the Bill is an exciting development for
us."</p>
Submission of high speed bill is an historic day for rail in the Midlands.
19786
0
2
0
Centro to build new bus station in Cradley Heath as part of £10 million investment
2013-11-25T00:00:00
<p>New buses, better bus routes, and highways improvements around
the Merry Hill shopping centre in Brierley Hill and a world class
bus interchange in Cradley Heath are just some of the benefits in
the scheme.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is spearheading the
scheme which saw £5 million awarded to the region by the
Government's Better Bus Area Fund.</p>
<p>The West Midlands was the only region in the country to receive
£5 million - the maximum award possible - and this has been
supplemented by £5 million from local sources.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "£10 million of
improvements to the bus infrastructure around Brierley Hill is
fantastic news for the passenger and the area in general.</p>
<p>"It is going to bring massive benefits both for the people who
work and shop at Merry Hill and the wider Brierley Hill area, with
newer, more modern buses running on roads where there are better
journey times and increased reliability."</p>
<p>The key benefits of the scheme are:</p>
<ul>
<li>£3.3 million invested in new buses by operators</li>
<li>£1.9 million new bus and rail interchange at Cradley Heath to
provide enhanced links from the rail network to Brierley Hill</li>
<li>£1.1 million in highways improvements on The
Boulevard, the arterial link road between the centre and the
A4306, and Pedmore Road</li>
<li>£1 million of shelter and information improvements on eight key
routes into Brierley Hill</li>
<li>£700,000 towards the Black Country Swift smartcard scheme in
Dudley</li>
<li>£200,000 WorkWise scheme for Dudley.</li>
</ul>
<p>Originally it was proposed to build a new bus station in Merry
Hill itself but this option has been shelved after proving too
expensive.</p>
<p>Cllr David Sparks, the leader of Dudley Council, said: "I am
delighted at this huge investment in public transport into Merry
Hill and the wider Brierley Hill area and we remain committed to
helping improve public transport.</p>
<p>"This scheme is great news for passengers, businesses and
residents and I believe it will encourage more people to save
money, time and stress by leaving the car at home and using the
bus.</p>
<p>"It is really good news for local residents who will be able to
cross the Pedmore Road to get to Merry Hill in safety."</p>
<p>The Department for Transport's Better Bus Area Fund allows
transport authorities to bid for up to £5 million to encourage bus
travel through schemes that improve accessibility to jobs and
services and reduce congestion.</p>
<p>Each award has to be matched by locally sourced funding - the
West Midlands was the only authority to receive the full amount of
£5 million, awarded in spring 2012, and resulting in a total pot of
£10 million.</p>
<p>Work is due to start on the scheme in spring 2014 and is
scheduled for completion by Christmas that year</p>
Bus passengers are to benefit from a £10 million package of improvements in the Black Country.
19787
0
0
0
Stratford-upon-Avon to Birmingham trains,rail,Snow Hill,Solihull
As you like it - the best way to travel Bard none
2013-12-05T00:00:00
19788
Shakespearean players Audrey Marrett and Vaughan Heath herald the launch of direct rail services between Solihull and Stratford with (l-r) Terry Oliver, London Midland’s head of Snow Hill services, Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, Councillor Peter Butlin, Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for transport and planning and Cllr John McNicholas, chairman of Centro
<p class="p1">Day-trippers, culture vultures and shopaholics have
been handed an early Christmas present with the first direct train
service between Solihull and Stratford-upon-Avon in more than 30
years.</p>
<p class="p1">The new service, which begins on Monday (December 9),
is the result of a £1.5m partnership deal between regional
transport authority Centro, Warwickshire County Council and train
operator London Midland.</p>
<p class="p1">Silhillians heading to the world renowned Royal
Shakespeare Company or simply for a day out in the Bard's home town
are being offered an hourly daytime service running Monday to
Saturday. </p>
<p class="p1">Meanwhile those in south Warwickshire heading to
Solihull for some retail therapy at its flagship stores can also
take advantage of the new service and leave the car
behind. </p>
<p class="p1">Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and
Metro, said: "Stratford-upon-Avon has always been a popular
destination for West Midlands people while Solihull has established
itself in recent years as a prime shopping location. </p>
<p class="p1">"This new direct rail service now makes it possible
for people to have a great day out without having to worry about
congestion or car parking. With Christmas fast approaching the
timing of the launch could not be better." </p>
<p class="p1">The new Solihull service has been made possible by
the introduction of a second train each hour between Birmingham
Snow Hill and Stratford-upon-Avon and routing it via Solihull on
weekdays between 10am and 6pm. One of the two trains every hour on
a Saturday will also go via Solihull. </p>
<p class="p1">There will also be a 7:29am morning peak train from
Stratford-upon-Avon to Solihull and on to Birmingham Snow Hill
(arriving at 8:19am) and an evening peak train leaving Snow Hill at
5:56pm for Solihull and arriving in Stratford-upon-Avon at
6:49pm. </p>
<p class="p1">Councillor Peter Butlin, Warwickshire County
Council's portfolio holder for transport and planning, said: "The
new Stratford-upon-Avon to Solihull train service is great news for
people living in south Warwickshire, particularly if they regularly
travel to Solihull to work or shop. We hope that people in Solihull
will also use this great new service to sample everything that
Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. </p>
<p class="p1">"Warwickshire County Council is committed to enabling
people to choose more sustainable ways to travel and this improved
timetable from London Midland, which we have worked closely with
Centro to deliver, will also mean better transport links to and
from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon." </p>
<p class="p1">Terry Oliver, London Midland's head of Snow Hill
services, added, "This is great news for residents of both
Stratford-upon-Avon and Solihull, and I'm delighted that our
partnership with Centro and Warwickshire County Council has enabled
us to implement these changes." </p>
<p class="p1">The new services form part of a wider package of
improvements for the line, which include the opening of the new
Stratford Parkway train station by Warwickshire County Council
earlier this year. </p>
<p class="p1">The new station enabled service enhancements, again
jointly funded by Warwickshire County Council and Centro, to be
introduced including making the last train between Birmingham and
Stratford-upon-Avon 11:30pm instead of 9:30pm and increasing
Saturday services to two trains an hour. </p>
<p class="p2">Full timetable details of the new services are
available at <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/train93/stratford_station.aspx">
http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/train93/stratford_station.aspx</a></p>
First direct train service between Solihull and Stratford-upon-Avon in more than 30 years
14516
0
1
0
Transport spending options to go to public consultation
2013-11-25T00:00:00
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, held a special meeting
today (Monday November 25) where members agreed there should be a
public consultation over the budget reduction options.</p>
<p>The leaders of the seven West Midlands district councils -
Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and
Wolverhampton - have asked Centro to consult on a range of options
aimed at saving ten per cent from the transport authority's
budget.</p>
<p>Centro has already saved nearly a third of its operational
expenditure over the last four years without impacting on frontline
services for passengers.</p>
<p>But with district councils facing financial constraints of their
own, Centro has been tasked with consulting on the options and
consequences of making a further £14 million of savings over the
next two years.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "If the proposed cuts
to our budget go through we are facing difficult choices.</p>
<p>"This is why it is vitally important that the public give us
their views in the consultation about where they think savings
should be made."</p>
<p>Options to be put to the public include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on buses instead
of half</li>
<li>Removing free local rail and tram travel for eligible people or
introducing a nominal annual charge of around £30</li>
<li>Reducing the grant to Ring and Ride</li>
<li>Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus services</li>
<li>Removing the locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible
people to travel free on buses after 11pm (free bus travel between
9:30am and 11pm would be unaffected)</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="color: #444444;"> </span></p>
<p>Further options to fully achieve the proposed ten per cent
reduction would include completely stopping Centro funding for Ring
and Ride or for child bus fare concessions.</p>
<p>The eight week consultation will run from November 25 to January
19 and views can be made in the following ways: </p>
<ul>
<li>By emailing <a
href="mailto:budgetviews@centro.org.uk">budgetviews@centro.org.uk</a></li>
<li>By writing to Budget Views, Centro House, 16 Summer Lane,
Birmingham, B19 3SD</li>
<li>By completing an online questionnaire at <a
href="http://www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation"
title="www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation">www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation </a></li>
<li>Via Twitter: @networkwm #yoursay</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="color: #444444;"> </span></p>
<p>There will also be a series of public exhibitions: </p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday November 30 - 9am-3pm, Broadgate, Coventry city
centre</li>
<li>Saturday December 7 - 9am-3pm, Stone Street Square, Dudley</li>
<li>Saturday December 14 - 9am-3pm, High Street, Birmingham,
adjacent to Marks and Spencer</li>
<li>Wednesday December 18 - 9am-3pm, West Bromwich bus station,
adjacent to Shopmobility</li>
<li>Saturday January 4 - 9am-3pm, Mell Square, Solihull</li>
<li>Saturday January 11 - 9am-3pm, Queens Square,
Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Saturday January 18 - 9am-3pm, Park Street, Walsall, adjacent
to Poundland</li>
</ul>
The public is to get its say on how best to meet a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.
19789
0
0
0
Public spending,transport,population
London transport investment per head is double that in West Midlands
2013-12-04T00:00:00
<p>New analysis of recently released Treasury public spending
figures reveals that public spending on transport in London is £545
per head compared with just £202 in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The figures also show other regions are also falling way behind
London with £213 per head for the North East, £265 for the North
West and £246 for Yorkshire and the Humber.</p>
<p>The figures also show that public spending per head of
population on transport is at a five year low for the West
Midlands, London and the North.</p>
<p>The disparity in public spending on transport between London and
the West Midlands is not matched for public spending as a whole, or
for spending on education or health. It is also a relatively recent
phenomenon rather than the historic norm.</p>
<p>The analysis is entirely based on figures in the Treasury's 2013
Country and Regional Analysis which is published on the Treasury's
website.</p>
<p>Cllr David Wood, chair of Pteg, the organisation which
represents Centro and the five other biggest transport authorities
outside London, said: "Transport is key to unlocking growth in
our cities and we have welcomed government support for transport
schemes which benefit our such as the extension to the Midland
Metro.</p>
<p>"However, what the Treasury's own public spending figures show
is that transport spend per head is declining and, within that
spend, London continues to get well over double the level of spend
that our regions receive.</p>
<p>"There is no argument from us that London needs and deserves a
high quality transport system.</p>
<p>"Any visitor to London can see with their own eyes the scale and
benefits of investment - from Oyster cards to the new Routemaster
bus, and from the total overhaul of the London Underground to the
new London Overground network.</p>
<p>"All this investment has been key to supporting London's
economic performance. But what holds true for London also holds
true for the next tier of major cities which also need to see
investment on a similar scale if the UK economy is to be
rebalanced."</p>
Yet public spending on transport generally is at a five year low
14517
0
0
0
budget consultation,west midlands,travel
Birmingham residents urged to take part in budget consultation
2013-12-10T00:00:00
<p class="p1">Birmingham residents are being urged to give their
views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport
spending.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro, the region's transport authority, has been
tasked by the seven West Midlands councils that fund it with making
the savings - ten per cent of its budget - over the next two
years.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and staff will
be outside Marks and Spencerin the High Street in Birmingham city
centre this Saturday (December 14) between 9am and 3pm to talk to
the public about the proposals and answer questions.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr McNicholas said: "If proposed cuts to our budget
go through we are facing difficult choices.</p>
<p class="p1">"The free bus pass for eligible people is funded by
Government and will remain in place, but it is hugely important
that the public give us their views in the consultation about where
they think savings should be made.</p>
<p class="p1">"I would strongly urge the people of Birmingham to
attend this event and have their say on these decisions."</p>
<p class="p1">Centro has already saved nearly a third of its
operational expenditure over the last four years without impacting
on frontline services for passengers.</p>
<p class="p1">But with district councils facing financial
constraints of their own Centro has been tasked with consulting on
the options and consequences of making a further £14 million of
savings over the next two years.</p>
<p class="p1">Options to be put to the public include:</p>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on
buses instead of half</li>
<li class="li1">Removing free local rail and tram travel for
eligible people or introducing a nominal annual charge of around
£30</li>
<li class="li1">Reducing the grant to Ring and Ride for local
determination</li>
<li class="li1">Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus
services</li>
</ul>
<p class="p2"><span class="s2">·</span><span
class="s3"> </span>
Removing the locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible people
to travel free on buses after 11pm</p>
<p class="p1">Further options to fully achieve the proposed ten per
cent reduction would include completely stopping Centro funding for
Ring and Ride or for child bus fare concessions </p>
<p class="p1">The eight week consultation will run from November 25
to January 19 and views can be made in the following ways:</p>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li3"><span class="s4">By emailing <a
href="mailto:budgetviews@centro.org.uk">budgetviews@centro.org.uk</a></span></li>
<li class="li1">By writing to Budget Views, Centro House, 16 Summer
Lane, Birmingham, B19 3SD</li>
<li class="li1">By completing an online questionnaire at <a
href="/budgetconsultation"><span
class="s5">www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation</span></a> </li>
<li class="li1">Via Twitter: @networkwm #yoursay</li>
</ul>
Birmingham residents are being urged to give their views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.
14394
0
0
0
Public transport is just the ticket for Christmas
2013-12-12T00:00:00
<p class="p1">Christmas shoppers and revellers are being urged to
leave the car at home and take advantage of public transport this
festive period.</p>
<p class="p1">With a Christmas crackdown on drink driving already
underway by West Midlands Police, those planning to have a tipple
can breathe easy in the knowledge that an extensive bus and Metro
timetable has been put in place for the holidays.</p>
<p class="p1">Boxing Day in particular, when no trains are running,
will have the most comprehensive bus timetable for decades. It will
see frequent services throughout the day, arriving in city centres
as early as 6:30am so shop staff can get to work and shoppers can
bag an early bargain in the sales.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr John McNicholas, chairman of transport authority
Centro, said: "This time of year sees large numbers of people out
shopping, visiting friends and family or going to office parties to
enjoy a festive drink so the public transport on offer this
Christmas will provide an ideal alternative to driving.</p>
<p class="p1">"Centro has spent some time in recent weeks talking
with the region's various bus operators about putting in place the
most extensive Boxing Day timetable the region has seen for many
years. I'm delighted this will be the case on what is, after all,
one of the busiest shopping and sporting days of the year."</p>
<p class="p1">A Saturday bus service, with extra early morning
services on key routes, will operate on Monday December 23,
Christmas Eve, Friday December 27, Monday December 30 and New
Year's Eve.</p>
<p class="p1">A full Sunday service will be in place on New Year's
Day throughout the West Midlands except in Coventry where buses
will run on key routes only, finishing at 7pm.</p>
<p class="p1">Meanwhile the Midland Metro will operate a normal
service over the festive period on all days except Boxing Day when
there will be a 15 minute service between 8.30am and 6pm and New
Year's Day when a Sunday service will be in place. There will be no
bus or Metro services on Christmas Day.</p>
<p class="p1">A reduced rail timetable will be in place on
Christmas Eve with services taking the customary break on Christmas
Day and Boxing Day.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro started paying for Boxing Day bus services on
key routes ten years ago. Before that there had been no services
for more than two decades.</p>
<p class="p1">The move has proved extremely popular and passenger
numbers are now so high that National Express West Midlands has
been operating many of the routes on a commercial basis in recent
years without the need for a subsidy from the public purse.</p>
<p class="p1">Full details of public transport services over the
entire festive period including Boxing Day bus services are
available at <a href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"><span
class="s1">www.networkwestmidlands.com</span></a></p>
<p class="p1">Leaflets containing the details will also available
at local travel shops in the Network West Midlands area from
Wednesday December 18.</p>
Christmas shoppers and revellers are being urged to leave the car at home and take advantage of public transport this festive period.
19790
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0
Last chance to give views on landmark cycling plans
2013-12-13T00:00:00
<p class="p1">Residents are being reminded to give their views on
landmark plans aiming to increase the region's cycling levels by
five times over the next ten years.</p>
<p class="p1">The draft West Midlands Cycle Charter, drawn up by
transport authority Centro and the region's seven local
authorities, will serve as a blueprint to see more journeys taken
by pedal power.</p>
<p class="p1">The Charter targets raising the number of trips taken
on two wheels, from one per cent of all journeys to five per cent
over the next ten years, then doubling that figure in the following
ten years. </p>
<p class="p1">Plans will see Centro work closely with Birmingham,
Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton
councils to produce a clear strategy to improve cycling in each of
the region's districts.</p>
<p class="p1">More investment in cycling infrastructure and the
creation of a connected West Midlands cycle network are among the
other developments to form part of the action plan.</p>
<p class="p1">The document also calls for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Creating a comprehensive cycle network across the West
Midlands.</li>
<li>Better integration of cycling with public transport.</li>
<li>Promoting an extension of 20mph zones in urban areas.</li>
<li>Affordable cycle training for all adults and children.</li>
<li>Further funding to improve cycle infrastructure.</li>
<li>Cross-party political support for cycling.</li>
<li>The appointment of a high profile local cycling champion.</li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">Centro is still taking people's views on the 14 point
plan which has been backed by each of the region's councils.</p>
<p class="p1">The consultation will run until Friday December
20.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair,
accessible and sustainable transport, said: "We have worked hard to
draw up plans that we believe will really make the difference in
making cycling a mainstream travel choice in our region.</p>
<p class="p1">"We want this charter to inform the way that cycling
is supported and encouraged by each of the region's councils,
Centro and other partners to improve the safety and make it easier
for people to travel on two wheels.</p>
<p class="p1">"That is why it is so important that we hear the
views of residents to find out what they believe would help make
cycling a realistic and viable transport option for them."</p>
<p class="p1">Currently around 25 pence per head of the West
Midlands population is invested in improving cycling facilities but
the Charter wants to see that figure rise to between £10 and
£20.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro and the region's councils have already made
progress towards this target with investment in new cycle schemes,
including those funded as part of the wider £50 million Smart
Network, Smarter Choices project. </p>
<p class="p1">The project has seen improvements to existing cycle
routes in Birmingham and the Black Country as well as work to
develop extensive new networks in Solihull and Coventry.</p>
<p class="p1">Free adult cycle training is also available for
residents, commuters and students along the ten Smart Network,
Smarter Choices routes.</p>
<p class="p1">For more information and to give feedback on the
Charter visit: <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/Cycling/CycleCharter.aspx">
www.networkwestmidlands.com/Cycling/CycleCharter.aspx</a></p>
Residents are being reminded to give their views on landmark plans aiming to increase the region’s cycling levels.
19791
0
2
0
New Street passengers asked to leave more time for journeys
2013-12-20T00:00:00
<p style="line-height: 17pt;"><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Passengers travelling through Birmingham New Street Station in the
run up to Christmas are being asked to allow extra time for their
journeys.</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 17pt;"><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
With a major Increase in the number of passengers using the station
over the festive period, people are also being asked to take extra
care.</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span
style="color: black; line-height: 150%; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Network Rail will be implementing crowd control measures at the
station this weekend and up until Christmas Eve to prevent
overcrowding on the platforms. At busy times, passengers may
be asked to wait a short while on the station concourse to allow
platforms to clear.</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span
style="color: black; line-height: 150%; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Steve Lewis, Network Rail station manager, said: "We would urge
passengers to allow extra time to catch their train from New Street
ahead of Christmas while we manage the huge increase in passengers
using the station.</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span
style="color: black; line-height: 150%; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
"The safety of passengers is our priority and over the last few
weekends we have seen nearly 200,000 passengers a day use the
station, a 75,000 increase on a typical day. </span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span
style="color: black; line-height: 150%; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
"We would appreciate their patience while we implement these crowd
control measures which are there for the safety of all passengers
using the station."</span></p>
Passengers travelling through Birmingham New Street Station over Christmas are being asked to allow extra time for their journeys.
14404
0
0
0
£60,000 improvement package for Whitlocks End station
2013-12-17T00:00:00
<p>Rail passengers travelling from Whitlocks End are benefitting
from a range of new station facilities, thanks to funding sourced
by London Midland and transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>A total of £60,000 has been spent on modernisation and
improvement works, including a new bicycle shelter which has
doubled cycle storage capacity at the station from 12 to
24. </p>
<p>New customer information screens have also been installed,
providing passengers with detailed timetable information, travel
updates and alerts. </p>
<p>Terry Oliver, London Midland's head of Snow Hill services said,
"Through our partnership with Centro we continue to deliver a range
of benefits to passengers and I'm delighted with what we have
achieved at Whitlocks End.</p>
<p>"The station already benefits from excellent park and ride
facilities and the additional cycle storage provides customers with
even more choice when planning their daily commute".</p>
<p>The passenger waiting shelters on platforms one and two have
also been replaced as part of the improvement programme. </p>
<p>Kerry Swingler, Centro's smarter choices team leader said,
"On-going improvements like these make the local rail system even
more attractive and easier for passengers to use.</p>
<p>"I'm particularly pleased to see extra cycle storage installed
as this can play a key role in encouraging more people to cycle to
the station, helping to cut congestion and carbon."</p>
<p>Whitlocks End is the final station to reach completion in the
West Midlands 2012/13 Cycle-Rail funded schemes. Other
stations to have benefited from funding and improvement works are
Rugeley Trent Valley, Kidderminster, Hagley, and Wythall.</p>
Rail passengers travelling from Whitlocks End are benefiting from a range of new station facilities.
14395
0
0
First tracks for the Midland Metro extension are laid in Birmingham city centre
2013-11-05T00:00:00
<p class="p1">The £127 million extension of the Midland Metro in
Birmingham has reached another major milestone. </p>
<p class="p1">The first of the tracks that will take trams through
the streets of the city centre from Snow Hill station to New Street
station were laid at Colmore Gate in Bull Street.</p>
<p class="p1">The cost of the project includes the new £40 million
Urbos 3 tram fleet that will run on the Metro between Birmingham
and Wolverhampton, the first of which arrived from Spain last
month.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said:
"Trams are very much a transport mode of the future and this is a
significant and symbolic moment for the Metro extension.</p>
<p class="p1">"In the year that sees the 60<sup>th</sup>
anniversary of the last tram running in Birmingham we are seeing
the first tracks go in for a new 21<sup>st</sup> century
system.</p>
<p class="p1">"These first tracks are another sign of the progress
the scheme is making and people can see that the return of trams,
with all the economic benefits they will bring, is that much
closer."</p>
<p class="p1">Construction giants Balfour Beatty are building the
extension, scheduled to open in 2015.</p>
<p class="p1">It will run from Snow Hill through Bull Street,
Corporation Street and Stephenson Street, terminating outside New
Street station.</p>
<p class="p1">Once complete the project will see:</p>
<ul>
<li> 4,000 cubic metres (around 8,000 tonnes) of concrete used
on the scheme</li>
<li>A total track length of 1.5km, the weight of which is 55kg per
metre</li>
<li>3,000 sleepers installed, each sleeper weighing 100kg</li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">John Daft, Balfour Beatty project director, said: "We
are delighted to be celebrating the achievement of this significant
milestone with Centro and Birmingham City Council.</p>
<p class="p1">"Despite the complexity of the construction works and
the highly confined space we have to operate in, the works are
progressing at an excellent pace.</p>
<p class="p1">"We are especially thankful to neighbouring
businesses and residents for their continued patience and
cooperation during construction." </p>
<p class="p1">The extension from Snow Hill to New Street is
expected to create more than 1,300 new jobs and boost the West
Midlands economy by more than £50 million a year.</p>
<p class="p1">Consultation has already taken place on Centro
proposals to extend the Metro from New Street Station through
Paradise Circus and up to Centenary Square to help improve
transport links and support economic regeneration taking place in
the area. </p>
<p class="p1">More than 90% of people responding to the
consultation were supportive of the further extension which has
since received funding primarily through the Enterprise Zone.</p>
<p class="p1">There are also plans to extend Metro in Wolverhampton
city centre, with an extension along Piper's Row and a stop
directly outside the bus station before terminating at the rail
station.</p>
<p class="p1">The funding package for this extension is being
discussed by Centro and partners Wolverhampton City Council,
Neptune Developments, Network Rail and Virgin Trains as part of the
Interchange Phase 2 project.</p>
<p class="p1">The new fleet of trams, being built by Spanish
manufacturer CAF, will start running in 2014, bringing major
benefits to passengers by substantially increasing capacity and
allowing an increase in frequency of service to every six minutes
throughout the day.</p>
<p class="p1">Work is also underway on a major extension of the
Metro maintenance depot at Wednesbury to allow for the new larger
fleet of trams.</p>
First tracks for the Midland Metro extension are laid in Birmingham city centre
19792
0
0
Centro,Judith Rowley
Schools take advantage of discount travel ticket this Christmas
2013-12-20T00:00:00
<p style="text-align: left">Teachers and pupils have been spreading
Christmas cheer after taking advantage of a new ticket which allows
discount travel for schools on the region's public transport
network.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Transport authority Centro's nNetwork
Class Pass allows six teachers and up to 30 children to travel all
day on all bus, train and tram services in the West Midlands for
£60.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Schools from across the region have
been using the ticket to take their students on festive trips in
the run up to the holidays.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Forty pupils from Joseph Leckie
Secondary School and Millfield Primary School in Walsall travelled
from Bescot Stadium by train into New Street to visit Birmingham's
famous German Market and students from Lyndon School, Solihull,
took the pass to go carol singing around the borough.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Class pass saves more than £100 on the
cost of buying each teacher and student their own nNetwork day
ticket which would cost £165.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead
member for fair, accessible and sustainable transport, said: "Class
Pass provides the perfect opportunity for schools to save some
money while taking their pupils out and about for the day.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"The fact the ticket can be used on
all buses trains and trams in the region gives it the extra
flexibility to help students and teachers get to some of the
region's best destinations and can be cheaper than hiring
coaches."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The ticket also includes the cost of
bespoke personalised journey planning from Centro's education team
to help schools plot the easiest ways to get to their
destinations.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Rowena Bailey, Lyndon school's
community coordinator said: "The 'Class Pass' provides an excellent
opportunity for school trips to take place without the expense of
hiring a coach.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"It's also a great way to introduce
students to the benefits of using public transport instead of
relying on their families to drive them to where they want to
go.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"Today's trip, which involved taking
the school choir to three different locations in Solihull, was a
wonderful way for the students to experience using buses, to see
how easy it is, and how convenient too."</p>
Teachers and pupils have been taking advantage of a ticket that allows discount travel for schools of the region's public transport network.
14366
0
0
Solihull public consultation event over budget cut proposals
2013-12-23T00:00:00
<p class="p1">Solihull residents are being urged to give their
views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport
spending.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro, the region's transport authority, has been
tasked by the seven West Midlands councils that fund it with making
the savings - ten per cent of its budget - over the next two
years.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and staff will
be in Mell Square in Solihull town centre on Saturday January 4
between 9am and 3pm to talk to the public about the proposals and
answer questions.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr McNicholas said: "If proposed cuts to our budget
go through we are facing difficult choices.</p>
<p class="p1">"The free bus pass for eligible people is funded by
Government and will remain in place, but it is hugely important
that the public give us their views in the consultation about where
they think savings should be made.</p>
<p class="p1">"I would strongly urge the people of Solihull to
attend this event and have their say on these decisions."</p>
<p class="p1">Centro has already saved nearly a third of its
operational expenditure over the last four years without impacting
on frontline services for passengers.</p>
<p class="p1">But with district councils facing financial
constraints of their own Centro has been tasked with consulting on
the options and consequences of making a further £14 million of
savings over the next two years.</p>
<p class="p1">Options to be put to the public include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on buses instead
of half</li>
<li>Removing free local rail and tram travel for eligible people or
introducing a nominal annual charge of around £30</li>
<li>Reducing the grant to Ring and Ride for local
determination</li>
<li>Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus services</li>
</ul>
<p class="p2">
· Removing the
locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible people to travel free
on buses after 11pm</p>
<p class="p1">Further options to fully achieve the proposed ten per
cent reduction would include completely stopping Centro funding for
Ring and Ride or for child bus fare concessions </p>
<p class="p1">The eight week consultation will run from November 25
to January 19 and views can be made in the following ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>By emailing <a
href="mailto:budgetviews@centro.org.uk">budgetviews@centro.org.uk</a></li>
<li>By writing to Budget Views, Centro House, 16 Summer Lane,
Birmingham, B19 3SD</li>
<li>By completing an online questionnaire at <a
href="/budgetconsultation">www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation</a></li>
<li>Via Twitter: @networkwm #yoursay</li>
</ul>
Solihull residents are being urged to give their views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.
14397
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Wolverhampton,consultation
Wolverhampton residents urged to take part in public consultation event over budget cut proposals ...
2014-01-07T00:00:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Wolverhampton residents are being
urged to give their views over a proposed £14 million reduction in
transport spending.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro, the region's transport authority, has been
tasked by the seven West Midlands councils that fund it with making
the savings - ten per cent of its budget - over the next two
years.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and staff will
be in Queen Square in Wolverhampton city centre, on Saturday
January 11 between 9am and 3pm to talk to the public about the
proposals and answer questions.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr McNicholas said: "If proposed cuts to our budget
go through we are facing difficult choices.</p>
<p class="p1">"The free bus pass for eligible people is funded by
Government and will remain in place, but it is hugely important
that the public give us their views in the consultation about where
they think savings should be made.</p>
<p class="p1">"I would strongly urge the people of Wolverhampton to
attend this event and have their say on these decisions."</p>
<p class="p1">Centro has already saved nearly a third of its
operational expenditure over the last four years without impacting
on frontline services for passengers.</p>
<p class="p1">But with district councils facing financial
constraints of their own Centro has been tasked with consulting on
the options and consequences of making a further £14 million of
savings over the next two years.</p>
<p class="p1">Options to be put to the public include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on buses instead
of half</li>
<li>Removing free local rail and tram travel for eligible people or
introducing a nominal annual charge of around £30</li>
<li>Reducing the grant to Ring and Ride for local
determination</li>
<li>Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus services</li>
<li>Removing the locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible
people to travel free on buses after 11pm</li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">Further options to fully achieve the proposed ten per
cent reduction would include completely stopping Centro funding for
Ring and Ride or for child bus fare concessions </p>
<p class="p1">The eight week consultation will run from November 25
to January 19 and views can be made in the following ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>By emailing <a
href="mailto:budgetviews@centro.org.uk">budgetviews@centro.org.uk</a>
</li>
<li>By writing to Budget Views, Centro House, 16 Summer Lane,
Birmingham, B19 3SD</li>
<li>By completing an online questionnaire at <a
href="http://www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation">www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation</a></li>
<li>Via Twitter: @networkwm #yoursay</li>
</ul>
Wolverhampton residents are urged to give their views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.
17213
0
0
Busy Walsall routes given £500,000 boost2
2014-01-09T00:00:00
<p class="p1">More than £500,000 has been spent on improving
traffic flow along some of Walsall's busiest roads as part of a
carbon busting project.</p>
<p class="p1">Transport authority Centro teamed up with Walsall
Metropolitan Borough Council to identify key congested routes in
the borough.</p>
<p class="p1">This includes the No 4 bus route which connects
Walsall to the shopping and employment centres of West Bromwich,
Blackheath and Brierley Hill.</p>
<p class="p1">Other changes were also made along well used roads
linking Walsall to Darlaston and Wednesbury.</p>
<p class="p1">Over the last 12 months a package of measures has
been introduced along the routes to speed up journey times, improve
bus reliability and cut congestion.</p>
<p class="p1">Changes made include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Improvements to traffic junctions</li>
<li>Changes to pedestrian crossings to improve walking access to
local facilities</li>
<li>Installing intelligent traffic signals</li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">The money comes from Centro's Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy and
connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair,
accessible and sustainable transport, said: "This work will improve
travel for those using public transport and cut congestion for
essential road users like buses and hauliers. </p>
<p class="p1">"These measures should really help improve journeys
for Walsall people wanting to get to and from key areas like West
Bromwich, Blackheath and Brierley Hill.</p>
<p class="p1">"Delivering people into the heart of these centres
means that we can support the economy by better connecting
residents to jobs and making it easier for people to visit popular
shopping areas."</p>
<p class="p1">The work also includes upgrading four pedestrian
crossings to puffins to help improve safety for those travelling on
foot and to cut down on traffic delay for buses and motorists.</p>
<p class="p1">Traffic lights at the crossings have been fitted with
energy efficient LED lights which last longer and reduce the need
for engineers to visit the sites to replace traditional bulbs.</p>
<p class="p1">Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader and portfolio
holder for regeneration and transport at Walsall Council, said: "As
a council it's one of our top priorities to create safe and
sustainable places for people in Walsall.</p>
<p class="p1">"These measures will improve access to other key
Black Country centres for Walsall residents and provide improved
links for work, shopping and leisure.</p>
<p class="p1">"Keeping traffic moving at key points on the network,
including the popular No 4 bus route will also help reduce
congestion and energy consumption at traffic signals."</p>
More than £500,000 has been spent on improving traffic flow along some of Walsall’s busiest roads as part of a carbon busting project.
19762
0
1
0
<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias="NewsArticles" />
2014 Press Releases
0
Wolverhampton residents urged to take part in budget consultation
2014-01-09T05:00:00
<p class="p1">Wolverhampton residents are being urged to give their
views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport
spending.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro, the region's transport authority, has been
tasked by the seven West Midlands councils that fund it with making
the savings - ten per cent of its budget - over the next two
years.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and staff will
be in Queen Square in Wolverhampton city centre, on Saturday
January 11 between 9am and 3pm to talk to the public about the
proposals and answer questions.</p>
<p class="p1">Cllr McNicholas said: "If proposed cuts to our budget
go through we are facing difficult choices.</p>
<p class="p1">"The free bus pass for eligible people is funded by
Government and will remain in place, but it is hugely important
that the public give us their views in the consultation about where
they think savings should be made.</p>
<p class="p1">"I would strongly urge the people of Wolverhampton to
attend this event and have their say on these decisions."</p>
<p class="p1">Centro has already saved nearly a third of its
operational expenditure over the last four years without impacting
on frontline services for passengers.</p>
<p class="p1">But with district councils facing financial
constraints of their own Centro has been tasked with consulting on
the options and consequences of making a further £14 million of
savings over the next two years.</p>
<p class="p1">Options to be put to the public include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on buses instead
of half</li>
<li>Removing free local rail and tram travel for eligible people or
introducing a nominal annual charge of around £30</li>
<li>Reducing the grant to Ring and Ride for local
determination</li>
<li>Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus services</li>
<li>Removing the locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible
people to travel free on buses after 11pm</li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">Further options to fully achieve the proposed ten per
cent reduction would include completely stopping Centro funding for
Ring and Ride or for child bus fare concessions. </p>
<p class="p1">The eight week consultation will run from November 25
to January 19 and views can be made in the following ways:</p>
<ul>
<li><span class="s5">By emailing <a
href="mailto:budgetviews@centro.org.uk"><span
class="s6">budgetviews@centro.org.uk</span></a></span> <span
class="s7"> </span></li>
<li>By writing to Budget Views, Centro House, 16 Summer Lane,
Birmingham, B19 3SD</li>
<li>By completing an online questionnaire <span class="s8">at <a
href="/budgetconsultation"><span
class="s9">www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation</span></a></span></li>
<li>Via Twitter: @networkwm #yoursay</li>
</ul>
Wolverhampton residents are being urged to give their views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.
19760
0
0
£1.4m package to boost city's transport links to i54
2014-01-09T08:00:00
<p>The joint project by Wolverhampton City Council and transport
authority Centro will see a raft of upgrades to Stafford Road.</p>
<p>These include improved traffic management, enhanced park and
ride and cycling facilities and the use of cutting edge
communications technology including CCTV to improve traffic
management.</p>
<p>The project, due for completion in spring 2015, will also
explore ways of providing Wi-Fi onboard buses travelling the
route.</p>
<p>The announcement by the Department for Transport that it had
awarded the city council and Centro £1m towards the project is a
major boost for on-going plans to overhaul transport links to
i54.</p>
<p>It also complements other employment and housing developments
taking place along Stafford Road such as at the Goodyear site
and the various regeneration projects in the city centre.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for Wolverhampton,
said: "It's vital we have the right transport links in place for
people to access these new job opportunities.</p>
<p>"The improvements should greatly improve the flow of traffic for
all road users and make it easier for people to reach i54 by public
transport or even by bicycle. This is just the start, however, and
we intend to improve links still further."</p>
<p>Councillor Peter Bilson, Cabinet Member for Economic
Regeneration and Prosperity at Wolverhampton City Council, said "I
am delighted that we have been awarded this funding from the
Department for Transport for improvements between i54 and
Wolverhampton city centre.</p>
<p>"Improving the ease of movement for people on this major route
is fundamental to the regeneration of this high profile area of the
city and will support the anticipated future growth in business,
housing and traffic."</p>
<p>The package of improvements will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Upgraded bus shelters with real time information at key
locations</li>
<li>Additional cycling infrastructure</li>
<li>A refurbished Park and Ride site with new signage</li>
<li>Improvements to existing traffic lights, including bus
detection technology which keeps them on green if a bus is
approaching</li>
<li>Upgraded pedestrian crossings, again using bus detection
technology</li>
<li>Variable message signage</li>
<li>Wireless communication and CCTV to allow improved traffic
management and Wi-Fi on buses</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I54, a joint project between Wolverhampton City Council,
Staffordshire County Council and South Staffordshire Council, has
already attracted a number of global companies including Aerospace
company MOOG, food testing specialists Eurofins and Jaguar Land
Rover.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jaguar Land Rover's new £500m engine manufacturing centre is
currently under construction bringing with it almost 1,400 new jobs
by 2017 and thousands more in the supply chain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>ISP (International Security Printers) is the latest company to
invest in the site and recently started work on a new 5 acre
development. </p>
A package of public transport improvements along the main route between Wolverhampton city centre and the i54 has been agreed.
14396
0
0
Busy Walsall routes given £500,000 boost
2014-01-09T14:00:00
<p class="p1">More than £500,000 has been spent on improving
traffic flow along some of Walsall's busiest roads as part of a
carbon busting project.</p>
<p class="p1">Transport authority Centro teamed up with Walsall
Metropolitan Borough Council to identify key congested routes in
the borough.</p>
<p class="p1">This includes the No 4 bus route which connects
Walsall to the shopping and employment centres of West Bromwich,
Blackheath and Brierley Hill.</p>
<p class="p1">Other changes were also made along well used roads
linking Walsall to Darlaston and Wednesbury.</p>
<p class="p1">Over the last 12 months a package of measures has
been introduced along the routes to speed up journey times, improve
bus reliability and cut congestion.</p>
<p class="p1">Changes made include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Improvements to traffic junctions</li>
<li>Changes to pedestrian crossings to improve walking access to
local facilities</li>
<li>Installing intelligent traffic signals</li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">The money comes from Centro's Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy and
connect residents to jobs. </p>
<p class="p1">Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair,
accessible and sustainable transport, said: "This work will improve
travel for those using public transport and cut congestion for
essential road users like buses and hauliers.</p>
<p class="p1">"These measures should really help improve journeys
for Walsall people wanting to get to and from key areas like West
Bromwich, Blackheath and Brierley Hill.</p>
<p class="p1">"Delivering people into the heart of these centres
means that we can support the economy by better connecting
residents to jobs and making it easier for people to visit popular
shopping areas."</p>
<p class="p1">The work also includes upgrading four pedestrian
crossings to puffins to help improve safety for those travelling on
foot and to cut down on traffic delay for buses and motorists.</p>
<p class="p1">Traffic lights at the crossings have been fitted with
energy efficient LED lights which last longer and reduce the need
for engineers to visit the sites to replace traditional bulbs.</p>
<p class="p1">Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader and portfolio
holder for regeneration and transport at Walsall Council, said: "As
a council it's one of our top priorities to create safe and
sustainable places for people in Walsall.</p>
<p class="p1">"These measures will improve access to other key
Black Country centres for Walsall residents and provide improved
links for work, shopping and leisure.</p>
<p class="p1">"Keeping traffic moving at key points on the network,
including the popular No 4 bus route will also help reduce
congestion and energy consumption at traffic signals."</p>
More than £500,000 has been spent on improving traffic flow along some of Walsall's busiest roads as part of a carbon busting project.
17213
0
0
Centro,Cycling
Indoor cycle training boost for Coventry residents
2014-01-13T07:00:00
<p>Would-be cyclists feeling the cold-snap can take advantage of
free indoor training sessions for first time riders this month.</p>
<p>Coventry City Council and Centro, the region's transport
authority, are funding the classes at Woodlands Academy in Broad
Lane and the city's famous Ricoh Arena.</p>
<p>Free training for beginners has already been available at other
venues in Coventry but this is the first time that instruction has
taken place in an indoor setting.</p>
<p>Sessions will be run by expert trainers from BikeRight! and are
available for both adults and children wanting to learn to
cycle.</p>
<p>The classes will be held on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 18 January - Woodlands Academy, 9:45am - 12pm or 1pm -
3.15pm</li>
<li>Saturday 25 January - Ricoh Arena, 9:45am - 12pm</li>
</ul>
<p>Councillor Lancaster, Cabinet Member for Public Services said:
"Many people think about getting fitter at this time of year and
cycling is a fun and free way for families to get active.</p>
<p>"If you haven't ridden a bike in years or have never learnt,
then you can take advantage of free cycle training courses and even
borrow a bike if you need one. The indoor venue also means that the
weather can't dampen your spirits and you can learn to ride in time
for the better weather."</p>
<p>More than 350 people have already taken part in free cycle
training and maintenance classes being run across the city over the
last 12 months.</p>
<p>The training forms part of the Cycle Coventry project which aims
to get more people in the saddle by creating seven new cycling
routes across the city and providing free support and training.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "At this time of year many people
may have been given a bike for Christmas, bought a new one in the
sales or just fancy dusting off an old one.</p>
<p>"With the cold weather at the moment people might be reluctant
to take their first ride outdoors and that's why it's the perfect
time to provide training away from the elements to help build up
skills and confidence on two wheels."</p>
<p>For more information and to book training sessions visit: <a
href="http://www.coventry.gov.uk/cyclecoventry"
target="_blank">www.coventry.gov.uk/cyclecoventry</a></p>
Would-be cyclists feeling the cold-snap can take advantage of free indoor training sessions for first time riders this month.
19761
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Halesowen
Halesowen passengers to have their say on public transport
2014-01-13T12:08:00
<p>Passengers in Halesowen are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12pm on Thursday January 16 at The
Cornbow Centre in Halesowen town centre has been organised by
Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Halesowen on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus and
rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "This event
is the ideal opportunity to really understand the needs of
passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
The Cornbow we hope to hear from as many people as possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
Passengers in Halesowen have the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
14399
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,ring and ride
Walsall to host final public consultation event over budget proposals
2014-01-15T14:16:00
<p class="p1">Walsall residents are being urged to give their views
over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro, the region's transport authority, has been
tasked by the seven West Midlands councils that fund it with making
the savings - ten per cent of its budget - over the next two
years.</p>
<p class="p1">Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas and staff will
be by Poundland in Park Street, Walsall town centre, on Saturday
January 18 between 9am and 3pm to talk to the public about the
proposals and answer questions.</p>
<p class="p1"><span>The event will be the last of seven that have
taken place around the West Midlands before the consultation
concludes on January 19.</span></p>
<p class="p1">Cllr McNicholas said: "If proposed cuts to our budget
go through we are facing difficult choices.</p>
<p class="p1">"The free bus pass for eligible people is funded by
Government and will remain in place, but it is hugely important
that the public give us their views in the consultation about where
they think savings should be made.</p>
<p class="p1">"I would strongly urge the people of Walsall to
attend this event and have their say on these decisions."</p>
<p class="p1">Centro has already saved nearly a third of its
operational expenditure over the last four years without impacting
on frontline services for passengers.</p>
<p class="p1">But with district councils facing financial
constraints of their own Centro has been tasked with consulting on
the options and consequences of making a further £14 million of
savings over the next two years.</p>
<p class="p1">Options to be put to the public include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on buses instead
of half</li>
<li>Removing free local rail and tram travel for eligible people or
introducing a nominal annual charge of around £30</li>
<li>Reducing the grant to Ring and Ride for local
determination</li>
<li>Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus services</li>
<li>Removing the locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible
people to travel free on buses after 11pm</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Further options to fully achieve the proposed ten per cent
reduction would include completely stopping Centro funding for Ring
and Ride or for child bus fare concessions </li>
</ul>
<p class="p1">The eight week consultation began on November 25 and
concludes on January 19. Views can be also made in the following
ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>By emailing <a
href="mailto:budgetviews@centro.org.uk">budgetviews@centro.org.uk</a>
</li>
<li>By writing to Budget Views, Centro House, 16 Summer Lane,
Birmingham, B19 3SD</li>
<li>By completing an online questionnaire at <a
href="/budgetconsultation">www.centro.org.uk/budgetconsultation</a></li>
<li>Via Twitter: @networkwm #yoursay</li>
</ul>
Walsall residents are being urged to give their views over a proposed £14 million reduction in transport spending.
14417
0
0
Centro,Wolverhampton,bus,Willenhall,Wednesfield,Walsall,Portobello
Faster, more reliable bus services for Black Country passengers
2014-01-14T11:31:00
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Passengers are set to benefit from
faster, more reliable and convenient bus services across part of
the Black Country thanks to a package of new routes and timetable
improvements.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Transport authority Centro,
working in partnership with National Express West Midlands and
other local bus companies, is launching several new services
alongside other enhancements to the existing network in
Wednesfield, Willenhall and Wolverhampton.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Among the changes are improved
connections to the i54 South Staffordshire business park where
hundreds of new jobs are being created with the arrival of
companies such as Jaguar Land Rover.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Some of the bus service changes
are a direct result of requests and feedback from passengers and
include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">A new, fast service between i54
and Wolverhampton city centre, taking just 18 minutes instead of
the existing 38 minute journey</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">Services to i54 from The
Scotlands, Wednesfield, Willenhall and Bilston</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">A new service from the city
centre into and around the New Cross Hospital site</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">A new pilot service through
Portobello linking with Walsall, Wolverhampton and
Willenhall</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">A new service from Wood End to
Cannock Road temple</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">Co-ordination of the 69 and 89
services to provide a 15 minute frequency between Wolverhampton,
Wednesfield and New Invention</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Centro's vice chair, Cllr Kath
Hartley, said: "We have listened carefully to passengers over
recent months and have used their views to shape this package of
improvements.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">"The changes will not only provide
faster and more reliable journeys but also better connections
between key destinations.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">"The new services to the i54 are
especially important as they will enable people to access the many
new jobs being created there."</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Full details of the changes, which
come into effect on January 26, will be available at a series of
public exhibitions.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">These will take place
at:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">Willenhall Markets between 9:30am
and 3pm on Saturday, January 18</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">Wolverhampton Bus Station between
3pm and 7pm on Tuesday January 21</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">Wednesfield Markets between 9am
and 3pm on Friday January 24</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Details are also available
at</span> <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/wednesfield"><span
style="color: #0000ff;">www.networkwestmidlands.com/wednesfield</span></a></p>
Passengers are set to benefit from faster, more reliable and convenient bus services across part of the Black Country.
14406
0
0
west midlands,Centro,John McNicholas,bus,National Express,Partnership Plus,Peter Coates
£5 million investment in Sutton Coldfield bus fleet
2014-01-13T13:00:00
<p><span>Passengers in Sutton Coldfield and Birmingham are to
benefit from a fleet of 26 brand new buses.</span></p>
<p>National Express West Midlands unveiled the £5million of
investment as part of Partnership Plus, the company's £81million
agreement with Centro.</p>
<p>The fleet of more environmentally friendly, British-made double
deckers are part of a raft of improvements National Express West
Midlands and Centro are bringing to the region's bus network over
the next two years.</p>
<p>The new buses will be in used on the main routes between
Birmingham and Sutton 902, 904 and 905.</p>
<p>The routes serve Hill Hook, Falcon Lodge and Roughley
respectively and 45,000 residents in these areas will receive half
price day travel so they can trail the new buses to see the
difference the improvements have made.</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands said: "These new vehicles are equipped with the latest
technology.</p>
<p>"We have greener low emission engines, GPS tracking to provide
real time information on their arrival time to customers and state
of the art CCTV.</p>
<p>"The new vehicles are a big investment into Sutton and
Birmingham's bus network and we hope that our customers will be as
proud of them as we are."</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "Partnership
Plus is delivering real benefits to bus passengers of which this
superb new fleet of vehicles is just the latest example.</p>
<p>"I am delighted to see them come into service and it sends a
clear signal that our partnership with National Express West
Midlands is delivering a world-class standard bus network."</p>
Passengers in Sutton Coldfield are to benefit from 26 new buses thanks to the Partnership Plus agreement.
14459
0
0
Centro,bus,Dudley,markets
Dudley bus station remains open in £6.7m town centre markets revamp
2014-01-20T12:38:00
<p>Passengers using Dudley bus station are being advised of changes
to stops as work begins on the redevelopment of the town's market
place.<br />
<br />
The £6.7 million scheme by Dudley Council will see a renovation of
the market place from the junction with High Street, through Castle
Street to the junction of Castle Hill.<br />
<br />
The bus station will remain open throughout the Castle Street
phase of the works, which started on 20 January and is scheduled to
finish in the summer.</p>
<p>During this period buses will not be permitted to exit via
Castle Street and diversions will be in place.<br />
<br />
Diversions will be in place and temporary shelters are to be
installed outside Castle Hill Casino in Castle Hill, Dudley Central
Mosque in Castle Hill, and in Birmingham Street after the junction
with Bourne Street.<br />
<br />
Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro and lead member for the
Putting Passengers First committee, said: "It is important that
people remember Dudley bus station will remain open during these
major works.<br />
<br />
"However temporary stops are being introduced because the works
means some exit roads from the station will be closed, so bus users
should check to see how their service may be affected."<br />
<br />
The work will take part in two phases. Castle Street, from the
Earl of Dudley statue to the junction of New Street, forms phase
one and is scheduled to be completed between January and May.</p>
<p>Contractors will then move into the market place itself, with
this work due to commence in May as the Castle Street works come to
an end.</p>
<p>Full road closures will be in place on Castle Street and New
Street from Monday January 20 to the end of May.</p>
<p>Cllr Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for transportation at Dudley
Council, said: "It's great that work to significantly regenerate
this part of the town is due to start shortly.</p>
<p>"While any project of this scale will inevitably bring some
temporary disruption, we want people to be aware that Dudley bus
station will remain fully operational throughout the works.</p>
<p>"We are confident that the end result will be well worth it in
terms of the benefits it will bring to all who work, do business,
shop or visit in the town centre and I'd like to thank people in
advance for their patience and co-operation".</p>
<p>Bus services affected by the road closures will be allocated to
the following:<br />
<br />
• 1 Tettenhall Wood - From normal stand Q to stand A (Bus
Station)<br />
• 24 Foxyards - From normal stand M to temporary stand T2 (Castle
Hill)<br />
• 27/27A - From normal stand M to temporary stand T2 (Castle
Hill)<br />
• 81 Wolverhampton - From normal stand N to temporary stand T3
(Castle Hill)<br />
• 82 Wolverhampton - From normal stand N to temporary stand T3
(Castle Hill)<br />
• X96 Wren's Nest - From normal stand N to temporary stand T3
(Castle Hill)<br />
• 126 Wolverhampton - From normal stand R to temporary stand T1
(Birmingham Street)<br />
• 205/205E Wall Heath/Kingswinford - From normal stand N to
temporary stand T3 (Castle Hill)<br />
• 222 Merry Hill - From normal stand L to temporary stand T2
(Castle Hill)<br />
• 223 Bilston - From normal stand N to stand C (Bus Station)<br />
• 229 Bilston - From normal stand N to stand B (Bus Station)<br />
• 257 Stourbridge - From normal stand M to temporary stand T2
(Castle Hill)<br />
<br />
For further bus timetable information go to <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/home/home.aspx">www.networkwestmidlands.com/home/home.aspx</a></p>
Temporary stops are introduced at Dudley bus station as a £6.7m redevelopment of the town's markets gets underway
14461
0
0
Centro,Smart Network Smarter Choices,Sustainable Travel,Network West Midlands,High Arcal,The High Arcal School
Dudley school is on the right path
2014-01-23T12:54:00
14519
The High Arcal School pupils l-r, Caitlan Cox (13), Willow Curran (13) and Amy Davies (13)
<p>Pupils at a Dudley school have become the first in the region to
benefit from a project making it easier for young people to travel
to school or college.</p>
<p>The High Arcal School in Sedgley has been handed a £5,000 boost
from transport authority Centro to install a footpath which
directly connects the school with local residential areas.</p>
<p>The money comes from Centro's government funded Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy
and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>The new path links the main entrance on High Arcal Drive with
roads to the south of the school, meaning students in this area now
have a direct walking route without having to loop around the
building.</p>
<p>Pupils unveiled the pathway and were presented with an award
recognising their commitment to greener ways of travelling at a
special eco day held this week.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Many children rely on walking as
their main method of travelling to and from school, so adding this
pathway makes the school a lot more accessible for those who make
their journeys on foot.</p>
<p>"This project is all about trying to make journeys a lot easier
for people who live along routes in our region where congestion is
a real issue.</p>
<p>"Making sure young people can get to and from school or college
easily is just as important to us as connecting our residents to
jobs and training."</p>
<p>The pathway will also allow students and teachers to easily
access a nearby nature reserve which is used for geography and
science field trips.</p>
<p>As part of the project High Arcal also had bespoke travel plans
drawn up by expert travel advisers to help advise staff and pupils
on the best ways to make their journeys without the car.</p>
<p>The path is another step for the school which already holds the
internationally recognised eco-schools status which is awarded to
those who demonstrate a commitment to green travel.</p>
<p>Luke Bodin, Head Boy at the school, said: "We think that it's
importance to build students' knowledge into Sustainability, having
a healthy lifestyle and many other important aspects of day to day
life.</p>
<p>"At High Arcal we believe in providing exceptional education and
having an eco day is a great extended curriculum opportunity with
endless benefits."</p>
<p>During the eco day, pupils took part in a nature walk and were
visited by cycling experts to help show tips on cycling to school
and maintaining a bike.</p>
<p>Centro's three year Smart Network, Smarter Choices project was
launched in 2012 after funds were secured from the government's
Local Sustainable Transport Fund.</p>
Pupils at a Dudley are benefiting from a project making it easier for young people to travel to school or college.
14520
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Travel de Courcey,Coventry,360
Minor timetable changes to 360 service in Coventry
2014-01-24T11:56:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Bus passengers using the showpiece 360
service in Coventry are being advised of minor timetable changes
coming into effect this weekend.</p>
<p>The changes come into effect from end of service on Sunday
January 26 following a revision of the timetable for the route,
which was introduced last year.</p>
<p>There is no change to the route or service frequency - every 30
minutes during the day and hourly on a Sunday - but some changes
have been made to arrival/departure times at University
Hospital.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro and who represents
Lower Stoke on Coventry City Council, said: "We monitor routes all
the time to ensure that they best serve the people using them.</p>
<p>"In this case we have done so since its launch and saw that we
needed to make some slight changes to the timetable.</p>
<p>"We would advise people using the service to check to see how
they may be affected."</p>
<p>At 31.5 miles long, the 360 is Europe's longest continuous
urban bus route and is operated by Coventry firm Travel de
Courcey.</p>
<p>It was introduced as a result of the Coventry area network
review in 2011 and serves some of the biggest names in the city,
including the hospital, Jaguar Land Rover and the University of
Warwick.</p>
Passengers using the 360 service in Coventry are advised of changes to the timetable.
17213
0
0
Centro,Judith Rowley,Wolverhampton,bus,Willenhall,National Express West Midlands,New Invention
Better bus links launched between Wolverhampton and Willenhall
2014-01-27T11:21:00
14611
(l-r): Toni Tipper Wolverhampton acting general manager at National Express West Midlands, Cllr Ian Shires and Cllr Judith Rowley
<p>Faster and more convenient bus services between Wolverhampton
and Willenhall were officially launched today (Monday January 27)
as part of a package of route and timetable improvements.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, working in partnership with National
Express West Midlands and other bus companies, has overhauled the
local network to improve the co-ordination of services for
passengers.</p>
<p>Some of the changes, including faster services to New Cross
Hospital, are a direct result of requests and feedback from local
people.</p>
<p>The new-look network was launched at New Invention by Cllr
Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible and
sustainable transport, Walsall councillor Ian Shires and Toni
Tipper, Wolverhampton acting general manager at National Express
West Midlands.</p>
<p>Cllr Rowley said: "The changes reflect much of what passengers
asked for and I believe they will bring significant benefits for
many people.</p>
<p>"The new network will provide faster and more reliable journey
times and improve connections between the main destinations."</p>
<p>The improvements include:<br />
• A more direct route for both the 28 and 69 between New
Invention, New Cross Hospital and Wolverhampton.<br />
• Timetable changes to the 41 to improve reliability and to
provide a 15 minute evenly spaced timetable with service 28 between
New Invention and Willenhall<br />
• A new evening and Sunday service for Allens Rough on
service 41, following the route of the daytime service<br />
• Faster journey times for the 69 with an extended route to
serve more of Wolverhampton city centre<br />
• Co-ordination of the 69 and 89 services to provide a 15
minute frequency between Wolverhampton, Wednesfield and New
Invention</p>
<p>Cllr Shires said: "I'm pleased that Centro and National Express
have taken on board the feedback and suggestions that I and local
passengers put forward following the original overhaul of the
network two years ago.</p>
<p>"The bus changes will greatly improve New Invention's
connectivity and compliment the new mini park and ride facility
built by Walsall Council behind the shopping square. It should all
help to attract more people to New Invention which, of course, is
good news for traders."</p>
<p>Ms Tipper added: "We have worked hard with our partners Centro
to ensure the improvements our customers want are made. Residents
in Walsall, Willenhall and Wolverhampton will have more reliable
and direct services."<br />
Full details of the changes are available at <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/wednesfield">www.networkwestmidlands.com/wednesfield</a></p>
Faster and more convenient bus services between Wolverhampton and Willenhall have been launched.
14612
0
0
rail,Centro,London Midland,Roger Horton,Terry Oliver,Park and Ride,Yardley Wood
More free parking for south Birmingham rail commuters
2014-02-03T11:20:00
14625
Cllr Roger Horton (left) from Centro and Terry Oliver of London Midland launch work on the new Park and Ride facility at Yardley Wood Station
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Commuters using
a suburban rail station are to get more free parking thanks to a
£260,000 'Park and Ride' extension.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Centro, the
region's transport authority, has started work on a second car park
at Yardley Wood Station in Birmingham adding a further 59 spaces to
the 100 already available.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">The extension
is being carried out to ease overcrowding at the station's Park and
Ride facility which has proved so popular with commuters that it is
often full before the end of the morning rush hour.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">With 30 per
cent of all journeys into Birmingham city centre now being made by
train the extra spaces could see a further 30,000 commuter car
journeys taken off the roads each year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Cllr Roger
Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro said: "Our Park and
Ride schemes play a key role in helping to cut carbon emissions and
the traffic congestion that is costing our local economy more than
£2 billion a year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">"But they have
become so successful that many, like the one at Yardley Wood,
become full up very quickly each day. These extra spaces will now
make it easier for commuters to park for free and complete their
commute by train."</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">The new Yardley
Wood facility is being built on the site of a former petrol station
in Highfield Road and will feature low energy lighting, a cycle
shelter, CCTV cameras and help points linked to the Network Safety
and Security Centre.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Work is
expected to be completed by early summer.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Terry Oliver,
head of Snow Hill services at train operator London Midland, added:
"Extending the free Park and Ride facilities at Yardley Wood will
be a massive benefit to both commuters and leisure travellers who
use the Snow Hill lines.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">"We know
there's a huge demand for free parking facilities and we're
delighted that our partnership with Centro has enabled us to
deliver this."</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Centro and its
partners have invested more than £15 million in Park and Ride
facilities since 1997 to provide more than 7,331 free spaces at 53
heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops across the
region.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">These spaces
are calculated to take around three million journeys off the
region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more
than 6,000 tonnes.</span></p>
Yardley Wood station to a £260,000 ‘Park and Ride’ extension.
14626
0
0
Midland Metro,Metro,Birmingham city centre,tram,extension
City centre tram exhibition launched
2014-02-04T10:00:00
14630
Centro's Cllr Roger Horton and Cllr Kath Hartley launch the Metro city centre exhibition
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">The
public are being offered the chance to find out more about the
forthcoming Midland Metro tram extension through Birmingham city
centre.</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">Shoppers,
office workers and visitors to the city can get expert advice and
information about the project by hopping on board a mobile
exhibition vehicle that will be parked near the entrance to the
House of Fraser store in Corporation Street tomorrow (Wednesday
February 5) between 11:30am and 2pm.</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">The
exhibition is the first of several being staged over the coming
months by transport authority Centro and construction giant Balfour
Beatty which is building the extension.</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">As well
as information about the construction timetable and the line of
route from Snow Hill Station to New Street Station there will also
be details about future extensions to Centenary Square and to the
planned high speed rail station in Eastside</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">Centro's
lead member for rail and Metro, Cllr Roger Horton, said: "This is
an exciting project and the exhibition is a great opportunity to
find out more about the construction timetable and how the trams
will help transform the way people move around the city.</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">"Once
completed next year, the extension will deliver more than three
million passengers a year directly into the heart of Birmingham's
shopping district which is great news for retailers and for the
region's economy as a whole."</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">The
£128 million joint project by Centro and the Black Country and
Birmingham City councils is expected to create more than 1,300 new
jobs and boost the regional economy by more than £50 million a
year. It is also expected to increase the number of passengers
using the Metro each year from five to eight million.</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">The
project includes a £13 million maintenance depot at Wednesbury and
a £40 million fleet of new trams which will start going into
service on the existing Metro route between Snow Hill and
Wolverhampton later this year.</span></p>
<p><span
style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt;">Meanwhile
work is progressing on laying the on-street tracks for the
extension which will see trams run from Snow Hill through Bull
Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street, terminating
outside New Street Station, where a £600 million rebuild is also
due for completion next year.</span></p>
Public offered chance to find out more about city centre tram extension.
14632
0
0
Restorative Justice scheme gets formal launch in Birmingham
2014-02-07T10:32:00
14655
Trevor Brown of Birmingham Youth Offending Service, left, , Cllr Jess Phillips, Birmingham Victim's Champion, Leonie Folan of Safer Travel Anti-Social Behaviour Team, Cllr Judith Rowley of Centro and Tony Dallison, Head of Service for National Express West Midlands.
<p>A scheme putting young people to work repairing vandalism they
have caused on public transport has been launched in
Birmingham.</p>
<p>The Restorative Justice project has been launched by Birmingham
Youth Offending Service and the Safer Travel Partnership.</p>
<p>The pilot scheme is for young people aged between 10 and
18-years-old across Birmingham and encourages them to recognise the
harm their anti-social activities cause.</p>
<p>It is seen as more constructive than simply prosecuting them and
giving them a criminal record.</p>
<p>The scheme was launched at the National Express West Midland
Central Bus depot in Digbeth, Birmingham, by Cllr Judith Rowley of
transport authority Centro and Cllr Jess Phillips, the Birmingham
Victims Champion.</p>
<p>Cllr Rowley said: "This scheme can make a huge difference by
encouraging young people to think about the consequences of their
actions.</p>
<p>"Previously those actions could potentially have resulted in a
criminal conviction, all for a moment's stupidity - restorative
justice prevents that yet sees the perpetrator putting right the
damage they have caused.</p>
<p>"Crime on the public transport network is very low but
anti-social behaviour can deter people from using it so I welcome
this innovative initiative to prevent it.</p>
<p>Restorative justice has been known to reduce reoffending by as
much as 27 per cent.</p>
<p>Cllr Phillips said: "One of the strong points of this scheme is
the way it breaks down barriers between young people and
authority.</p>
<p>"It is such an important step along the path of ensuring
youngsters, who all too often feel alienated from society, realise
that they are in fact an important part of it and have much to
offer.</p>
<p>"They of should of course put right the damage they have caused
but the beauty of this scheme is that it also helps them re-engage
and see things from the perspective of others, particularly the
victim. </p>
<p>"This is an all-important tool when tackling issues of
re-offending - seeing things from the victims' perspective is a key
element to rehabilitation."</p>
<p>Tony Dallison, Head of Service Delivery for National Express
West Midlands said: "Our drivers are very keen to see this scheme
work.</p>
<p>"It is not just about youngsters cleaning buses and repairing
vandalism, it is also about them being made to realise that verbal
abuse and other anti-social behaviour is not victimless."</p>
<p>The Birmingham project will work with 32 offenders over a 24
week period and if successful will be developed in other parts of
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>It will cost a total of £22,000 and is being funded by Centro
through the Transport Regeneration Fund, with match funding by
Birmingham Youth Offending Service.</p>
<p>The scheme is cost effective - for every £1 spent on restorative
justice the criminal justice system saves £9.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership is a collaboration between Centro,
British Transport Police and West Midlands Police.</p>
<p>Together with transport operators it works to reassure the
travelling public and reduce crime and anti-social behaviour on the
public transport network.</p>
<p>The Birmingham Victims Champion represents people affected by
crime and anti-social behaviour and works to ensure the police,
courts and probation services meet their needs.</p>
A scheme putting young people to work repairing vandalism they have caused on public transport has been launched in Birmingham.
14654
0
0
Centro,budget,transport authority
Decision due on proposed transport budget
2014-02-07T14:36:00
<p>Transport authority Centro is proposing to safeguard free tram
and train travel for eligible people and half price bus fares for
children under plans to save £7 million from the coming year's
budget.</p>
<p>Councillors serving on the authority will meet next Friday
(February 14) to decide on how to balance the books while securing
a five per cent budget reduction for 2014/15.</p>
<p>As well as retaining free tram and train travel and half price
child fares, it is also proposed to keep free bus travel after 11pm
for older people, the blind and disabled. Free bus travel from
9:30am onwards is protected and will be untouched.</p>
<p>The region's Ring and Ride charity would receive an annual grant
of £8.5 million, enabling it to maintain a door-to-door transport
service between 8am and 8pm Monday to Saturday.</p>
<p>A new £1 per trip fare would be introduced and ways of providing
a limited Sunday service explored.</p>
<p>The budget recommendations, which aim to shield passengers as
far as possible from cuts to frontline services, will require
Centro to reduce its own operational and staffing costs by £3
million (15 per cent) which is £1 million more than originally
planned.</p>
<p>It means Centro, through on-going staffing restructures and
other efficiencies, will have reduced such costs from £27 million
in 2010 to £16.5 million in 2014/15 - a cut of nearly 40 per
cent.</p>
<p>The recommendations will, however, enable Centro to reduce the
amount of money it needs from the region's seven district councils
- Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and
Wolverhampton - who are facing similar budget cuts of their
own.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "The district
councils have seen their own funding cut dramatically so it's only
right that Centro responds by reducing the amount of funding it
requires from them.</p>
<p>"That means making some very tough choices but in drawing up
these recommendations Centro has tried to protect passengers and
hard working families as much as possible.</p>
<p>"In order to do that, Centro will be finding extra savings
internally. However, cutting its operational costs for the coming
year by 15 per cent will inevitably impact on its workforce and the
way it delivers those services especially given the substantial
internal cuts already made over the last four years."</p>
<p>Friday's meeting will also see councillors asked to approve a £1
million reduction in bus station and infrastructure maintenance to
achieve total savings of £7.3 million for 2014/15.</p>
<p>That would enable Centro's levy on the district councils to be
reduced from £146 million to £138.7 million.</p>
<p>The recommendations have been shaped and influenced by more than
8,000 responses given during a recent public consultation.</p>
<p>People were asked to give their views on a range of proposed
options aimed at saving ten per cent (£14 million) from the Centro
budget over the coming two years.</p>
<p>Options included:</p>
<ul>
<li>Children paying two thirds of the adult fare on buses instead
of half</li>
<li>Removing free local rail and tram travel for eligible people or
introducing a nominal annual charge of around £30</li>
<li>Reducing or scrapping the annual £10.5 million grant to Ring
and Ride</li>
<li>Reducing the number of taxpayer funded bus services</li>
<li>Removing the locally funded 'add on' which allows eligible
people to travel free on buses after 11pm</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr McNicholas added: "I would like to thank all those members
of the public who put forward their views during the consultation.
They have played a key role in helping Centro put these budget
recommendations together.</p>
<p>"But while we have identified savings of £7 million for the
coming year we still face finding similar savings for 2015/16."</p>
<p>The budget report due to go before the Integrated Transport
Authority meeting on Friday February 14 can viewed at <a
href="http://bit.ly/1eEB2xX">http://bit.ly/1eEB2xX</a></p>
Recommendations drawn up to secure a five percent budget saving.
14662
0
0
Birmingham passengers get their say at public event
2014-02-10T11:00:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Passengers in Birmingham are being
offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the
area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 3.30pm and 5.30pm in the Pavilions
shopping complex off the High Street in Birmingham city centre on
Wednesday February 12, has been organised by Centro, the region's
transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Birmingham on
the authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local
bus and rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, the vice-chair of Centro and who represents
Ladywood in Birmingham, said: "This event is the ideal
opportunity to really understand the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
The Pavilions we hope to hear from as many people as possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs." </p>
Passengers in Birmingham are being offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
14665
0
0
MP welcomes new bus route
2014-02-10T08:00:00
14670
Pat McFadden MP, Babs Coombes of Centro and Peter Coates Managing Director of National Express West Midlands on the new 40 service.
<p class="firstpara"><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Pat McFadden, Labour MP for Wolverhampton South East, has welcomed
the decision by Centro and National Express West Midlands to
re-route the 40 service.</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
National Express West Midlands and Cento made the call to re route
the 40 following a campaign by Pat McFadden MP and the local
community.</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
The service will provide residents in the Portobello area of
Wolverhampton with links to the City Centre, Willenhall and
Walsall.</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
At a meeting with local residents Pat McFadden MP, Babs Coombes
Black Country Manager at Centro and Peter Coates Managing Director
of National Express West Midlands told residents the good
news.</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
The service will run every 30 minutes throughout the
day.</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Pat McFadden, Labour MP for Wolverhampton South East said: "This is
a great victory for the local community and many residents lives
will be made much easier by this change. I would like to thank
National Express West Midlands and Centro for listening to our
concerns and acting on them. Local residents must now play their
part and make sure the bus is well used."</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West Midlands
said: "We are always willing to meet members of the community who
have concerns about bus services to see what improvements we can
make. I am pleased to have been able to work alongside Pat and
Centro to make these improvements and hope that they prove popular
with local residents."</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Babs Coombes, Black Country Area Manager at Centro said: "It is
Centro's job to ensure that local residents' concerns about
transport are heard and acted upon. This is a great result for the
residents' of Portobello and we hope the new links will lead to
more people catching the bus."</span></p>
<p><span
style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">
Details of the new route and timetables are available at <a
href="http://bit.ly/1blwHAZ">http://bit.ly/1blwHAZ</a></span></p>
Route changed after community campaign in Wolverhampton
14671
0
0
Centro,London Midland,Longbridge,Bournville College
New car park opens at Longbridge railway station
2014-02-11T15:00:00
14674
Mark Goodall of London Midland, left, and Cllr Roger Horton at the new Longbridge station car park.
<p>Another new, free-to-use car park has been opened at a
Birmingham railway station.</p>
<p>The car park at Longbridge will provide 102 spaces as part of
the popular Park and Ride scheme.</p>
<p>The £700,000 project boasts CCTV, Help Points and a barrier
which reads travel passes and tickets, which means only genuine
rail passengers will be able to use the car park.</p>
<p>The station sits next to the on-going regeneration works at the
former Rover car plant in Longbridge, which now houses major
developments such as the new Bournville College.</p>
<p>The car park works are being carried out in partnership with St
Modwen, who are developing the old Rover site.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "I am
delighted that we are able to expand Park and Ride still further
with this dedicated facility for Longbridge, something which will
ease the pressure on other nearby stations.</p>
<p>"A key feature is the ticket barrier - local residents had
flagged their concerns that the car park may get clogged up by
non-train users and that genuine commuters would have to park
in nearby streets. I am glad to say that we have taken heed."</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Cabinet Member for Development, Jobs and Skills
at Birmingham City Council said: "The new car park at Longbridge
station is a major contribution to the delivery of the
Longbridge Area Action Plan.</p>
<p>"It will help improve connectivity to the city centre and
increase access to jobs for local people."</p>
<p>Mark Goodall, head of Cross City Service for London Midland
trains, said: "Our customers really value free park and ride
facilities, so I'm delighted that through our partnership with
Centro we are helping to make the daily commute for local rail
travellers even easier."</p>
<p>Last year Centro was awarded £2 million from the Government to
expand Park and Ride at three more railway stations.</p>
<p>The cash will go towards enhancing facilities at Kings Norton
station in Birmingham, Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield and
Stourbridge Junction.</p>
<p>This will see extra parking spaces, including provision for car
sharing bays, electric vehicle charging points and cycle hubs at
these stations.</p>
<p>The money was awarded under the Government's Local Pinch Point
Fund, a £170 million scheme to remove bottlenecks on the local
highway network.</p>
Another new, free-to-use car park has been opened at a Birmingham railway station.
14675
0
0
Centro,ring and ride,budget,free tram and train travel,child bus fares
Key transport services safeguarded despite budget cut
2014-02-14T13:32:00
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Transport
chiefs have voted to keep half-price bus fares for children
and free tram and train travel for eligible people despite
implementing a £7 million budget cut.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Councillors
serving on Centro, the region's transport authority, also decided
to safeguard free bus travel after 11pm for older people, the blind
and disabled.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">The approved
budget for 2014/15 will see the region's Ring and Ride charity
receive an annual grant of £8.5 million so that it can provide a
door-to-door transport service between 8am and 8pm Monday to
Saturday.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">A new £1 per
trip fare will be introduced and Centro will work closely with the
charity over the coming weeks to mitigate any effect on Ring and
Ride users. One area to be explored will be the provision of a
limited Sunday service.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Centro members
had considered cutting or even ending half price child fares, free
tram and train travel and the Ring and Ride service in a bid to
save five per cent of the transport budget in 2014/15 and a further
five per cent in 2015/16.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">A public
consultation was held in which people were invited to give their
views on the options and how they would affect the way they travel.
More than 8,000 people responded.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Centro
chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said after today's budget decision:
"What the public consultation clearly showed was that the services
provided by Centro are highly valued by many people.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">"The responses
we received have played a key role in helping Centro members decide
how and where to make the necessary savings.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">"As always, the
passenger is our top priority and I believe we have succeeded in
protecting them as far as possible in setting this very challenging
budget."</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Cllr McNicholas
said it had only been right for Centro to reduce the budget given
the dramatic cuts in Government funding being faced by the district
councils - Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull,
Walsall and Wolverhampton.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">He said the
approved five per cent cut meant Centro would now be able to reduce
its levy on the councils by £7.3 million for the coming year with
the overall budget falling from £146 million to £138.7
million.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">As well as a £2
million reduction in the Ring and Ride grant, the approved budget
will also involve a £1 million reduction in bus station and
infrastructure maintenance, changes to subsidised bus access
standards and measures to reduce financing costs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">In order to
limit the impact on frontline services Centro will be required to
cut its own operational and staffing costs by £3 million (15 per
cent) which is £1 million more than originally planned for
2014/15.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">It means that
through on-going staffing restructures and other efficiencies,
Centro will have reduced such costs from £27 million in 2010 to
£16.5 million in 2014/15 - a cut of nearly 40 per cent.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Cllr McNicholas
added: "Over the last four years Centro has made on-going cuts in
its operational costs by restructuring its workforce and by finding
other efficiencies.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">"However, a
further 15 per cent cut in the coming year will inevitably impact
further on Centro's staff and the way they deliver
services."</span></p>
Centro budget to be cut by £7 million
17213
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Walsall
Walsall passengers to have their say on public transport
2014-02-19T11:00:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Passengers in Walsall are being
offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the
area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 11am and 1pm on Saturday February
22 at The Saddlers' Centre in Walsall town centre, has been
organised by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Walsall on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local
bus and rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "This
event is the ideal opportunity to really understand the needs
of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
The Saddlers' Centre we hope to hear from as many people as
possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs." </p>
Public transport users in Walsall can give their views on the network to Centro this weekend.
14699
0
0
bus,Safer Travel,West Midlands Police,attack
Bus thug behind bars after top deck attack caught on CCTV
2014-02-21T15:00:00
14713
The CCTV footage of Jason Wilson's attack on another bus passenger sparked public outrage.
<p>A man who subjected a fellow bus passenger to a prolonged
beating, breaking his nose, is now behind bars.<br />
<br />
Jason Wilson, from Dudnill Grove in Bartley Green, battered his
victim with a series of kicks, knees and punches in an "over the
top" reaction to being asked if he could stop his partner's
children throwing sweets.<br />
<br />
The 35-year-old squirted lemon juice in the man's eyes,
temporarily blinding him, before launching the seven-minute attack
on the No. 24 bus as it travelled through Birmingham city centre on
January 11.<br />
<br />
<a
href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=29LaFpj08-4">
CCTV footage</a> from top-deck cameras was released through
West Midlands Police's website and social media channels in a bid
to trace the attacker.</p>
<p>The footage generated a massive response with many people naming
Wilson as the offender.</p>
<p>Arrest attempts were made at several addresses known to Wilson
and, as the net closed in, he handed himself in to a police station
on February 20.<br />
<br />
He was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and at
Birmingham Magistrates Court the following day he was remanded into
prison after admitting the offence. He is set to appear at the
city's crown court on March 7 for sentence.<br />
<br />
Investigating officer PC Antony Watts, said: "People were
understandably disgusted by the footage: the victim was minding his
own business when he politely asked Wilson to stop the children
throwing sweets at him...but that request prompted a barbaric,
prolonged attack.</p>
<p><span><span>"At one stage Wilson stood on a seat to get a better
kicking angle…the victim was lucky to escape with only a broken
nose as it could have been much worse. And what makes it even more
shocking is that he unleashed the attack in front of the children
he was travelling with."</span><br />
<br />
<span>"The response from the public to our appeal was fantastic
with many people offering new information and several providing
Wilson's name and address…it was only a matter of time before we
caught up with him.</span><br />
<br />
<span>The 21-year-old victim, from Birmingham's Woodgate area, was
travelling on the bus in Broad Street at around 5.45pm when he was
attacked; he suffered facial cuts and bruises in addition to a
broken nose.</span><br />
<br />
<span>In interview, Wilson made a full and frank admission, saying
it was an over the top reaction, but said he sprayed the victim
with lemon juice and not pepper spray.</span><br />
<br />
<span>A 32-year-old Quinton woman travelling on the bus with
Wilson was arrested on February 6 - the day after police released
the camera footage - and remains on police bail whilst officers
probe whether she was involved.</span><br />
<br />
<span>Sergeant Ben Westwood from the Safer Travel Unit, part of
the Safer Travel Partnership, said: "There are around 11,000 CCTV
cameras on West Midlands buses so people need to accept that if
they commit offences on board they are likely to be caught on
camera.</span><br />
<br />
<span>"These cameras provide high quality images which help police
trace offenders and provide irrefutable evidence…as Wilson has
found to his cost.</span><br />
<br />
<span>"Fortunately crime on the region's buses remains low and
incidents of this nature are rare: latest figures show that,
excluding vandalism, there is just one offence in every 147,500 bus
rides."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>The Safer Travel Partnership is a collaboration
between Centro, the region's transport authority, West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police and transport
operators </span></span> with the aim of making travel on
trains, trams and buses in the region even safer.</p>
A man who attacked a fellow passenger in a prolonged assault on a bus in Birmingham is behind bars.
14714
0
0
Centro,Safer Travel,West Midlands Police,British Transport Police,Bob Jones,Kath Hartley
Safer Travel Police Team swears in Special new recruits
2014-02-21T14:30:00
14716
The new Specials with Cllr Kath Hartley of Centro, left, Supt Gillian Murray of British Transport Police, and Bob Jones.
<p style="text-align: left;">Travel on the West Midlands public
transport network is now even safer with the recruitment of 12 new
Special Constables.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The volunteer officers have been
jointly recruited by West Midlands Police and British Transport
Police to join the Safer Travel team, which deals with crime and
anti-social behaviour on public transport.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">They will be the first Specials to
have a dedicated role in policing the region's trains, buses and
trams.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The 12 recruits were sworn in as
Special Constables at a ceremony at the Safer Travel Command Centre
in Birmingham.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The men and women hold down a variety
of day jobs and include full-time students and bus drivers.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Inspector Lee Gordon, in charge of the
Safer Travel Team, said: "I am delighted to welcome these new
officers to the team.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"Special Constables make a valuable
contribution to local policing and provide an important link with
the community.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"They will provide a visible
reassurance for people using trains, trams and buses, help reduce
crime and make passengers feel safe and secure."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The Safer Travel Police Team carries
out regular reassurance and intelligence-led patrols on public
transport and organises regular operations to target criminals who
operate on the network </p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Officers also work closely with
youngsters about the importance of good behaviour.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Special Constables have the same
powers as regular officers and wear the same uniform. Their hours
are flexible but they are required to work a minimum of four hours
each week.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The recruitment honours an election
commitment made by West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner
Bob Jones to make public transport safer in the West Midlands by
bolstering the force's pool of volunteer officers.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">He said: "I salute the Special
Constables, they are remarkable people who serve the community and
play a vital role in policing.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"These new recruits are a fantastic
addition to the Safer Travel Team."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The Safer Travel Police Team falls
under the Safer Travel Partnership.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">This is a collaboration between West
Midlands and British Transport Police, Centro, the region's
transport authority, and transport operators, with the aim of
making travel on trains, trams and buses in the region even
safer.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">For more information log onto: <a
href="http://www.safertravel.info/">www.safertravel.info</a></p>
Twelve Special Constables join the Safer Travel police team.
14718
0
0
Free railway station events to be held for cyclists
2014-02-19T15:30:00
<p>Cyclists visiting some of the West Midlands' busiest railway
stations can take advantage of free sessions making it easier for
people travelling by pedal power and train track.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro will be running the Love Your Bike
events at 18 West Midlands stations this year.</p>
<p>The events will feature free cycle safety checks, police bike
security marking, discounted 'D' locks and the chance to sign up
for free cycle training or maintenance classes.</p>
<p>Sessions begin in March with more scheduled to take place
throughout the year.</p>
<p>The events will be held at:</p>
<p><em>Birmingham and Solihull</em></p>
<ul>
<li>Acocks Green</li>
<li>Longbridge </li>
<li>New Street </li>
<li>Northfield </li>
<li>Olton </li>
<li>Selly Oak </li>
<li>Solihull</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Black Country</em></p>
<ul>
<li>Coseley </li>
<li>Cradley Heath</li>
<li>Dudley Port</li>
<li>Priestfield </li>
<li>Rowley Regis </li>
<li>Sandwell and Dudley </li>
<li>Wednesbury Parkway </li>
<li>Wolverhampton</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Coventry</em></p>
<ul>
<li>Canley </li>
<li>Coventry</li>
<li>Tile Hill</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair accessible and
sustainable transport, said: "Cycling to and from your local
station can help connect journeys over longer distances and keep
people fit and healthy.</p>
<p>"Love Your Bike events give those who already cycle a chance to
have their bikes checked over and can provide some useful advice
for people who are keen to start cycling."</p>
<p>The sessions form part of Centro's government funded Smart
Network, Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost
the economy and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Events which took place last year were shortlisted at the 2013
Cycle Rail Awards after more than 250 free bike checks were carried
out.</p>
<p>For more information and the full schedule of events visit:
www.networkwestmidlands.com</p>
Cyclists visiting some of the West Midlands’ busiest railway stations can take advantage of free events this year.
14721
0
0
Centro,London Midland,Roger Horton,Rob Hebron,Stourbridge
Passenger feedback sees new timetable for Stourbridge Shuttle
2014-02-25T11:00:00
14726
The shuttle service between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town.
<p>Stourbridge residents are set to benefit from the introduction
of a revised timetable on the shuttle service that connects
Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town.</p>
<p>The new timetable, which comes into effect on Sunday 2 March,
will substantially improve connection times with London Midland
services departing from Stourbridge Junction station.</p>
<p>Terry Oliver, London Midland's head of route for Snow Hill
services said, "We made a number of changes to the Snow Hill lines
timetable in December 2013, implementing an hourly stop at
Hartlebury for the first time in almost 50 years, and an improved
service linking Solihull and Stratford upon Avon.</p>
<p>"The impact of these timetable amendments was that it changed
the arrival and departure time of services at Stourbridge Junction,
which meant passengers using the connecting shuttle service having
to wait longer than the usual 2-3 minutes.</p>
<p>"We listened to feedback from our passengers and acted quickly
to rewrite and implement a revised timetable that provides a better
connection to services on the Snow Hill line".</p>
<p>Rob Hebron, Chair of the Stourbridge Line User Group said,
"We are delighted that London Midland has revised the timetable and
commend the team behind this decision for being customer-focused
and proactive. </p>
<p>"The company has also taken on board our suggestion to improve
links between bus and train services early on Saturday mornings, so
this really is a win-win situation for the people of
Stourbridge".</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for rail for Centro, the region's
transport authority, said: "I am delighted to see that the
timetable is being adjusted.</p>
<p>"It will mean better connectivity between Stourbridge Town and
Stourbridge Junction and therefore a better service to passengers,
something which is always to be welcomed."</p>
<p>Customers are advised to check the new timetable online before
travelling at <a
href="http://www.londonmidland.com">www.londonmidland.com</a></p>
A revised timetable is introduced on the shuttle service between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town.
14725
0
0
Centro,Birmingham,Midland Metro,Metro,tram,HS2,Curzon,Eastside
Birmingham unveils huge HS2 redevelopment plan
2014-02-27T12:00:00
14744
Computer generated image of the Curzon HS2 station and Metro tram link
<p>Ambitious plans to create a thriving new district around
Birmingham's high speed rail station were unveiled today (Thursday
February 27). </p>
<p>More than 141 hectares of land in the city's Eastside district
would be transformed in one of the biggest urban regeneration
schemes in Britain, and by far the biggest redevelopment so far
announced on the back of the HS2 high speed rail project. </p>
<p>The new developments will be focused around the brand new city
centre station - Birmingham Curzon - where HS2 will terminate on
its 49 minute journey from London. The station will place the city
at the heart of the new national high speed network. </p>
<p>The Birmingham Curzon HS2 Masterplan, drawn up by the city
council, also includes a new Metro tram route branching off the
extension currently being built through the city centre and
travelling down through Eastside before stopping directly
underneath the Birmingham Curzon station. </p>
<p>The Masterplan would create more than 14,000 jobs, 600,000 sq
metres of new employment floorspace and 2,000 new homes. The
regeneration will boost the city's economy by £1.3bn each
year. </p>
<p>The plans are a critical part of the city's efforts to support
its burgeoning creative, learning and research sectors and the
booming professional and financial services industry. </p>
<p>City leaders in Birmingham today hailed the potential of HS2 as
a catalyst for urban regeneration and called on political leaders
to push ahead with the rail scheme and help unlock growth across
the country. </p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham Council said: "Today we
set out our vision for how Birmingham can use HS2 as a catalyst to
transform a huge part of our city, bringing with it jobs and
prosperity for people in the West Midlands. </p>
<p>"We're not waiting around for HS2 to get built before we get
started. We're announcing our plans today, and we're ready to start
building as soon as the new railway gets the green
light." </p>
<p>Lord Deighton, Commercial Secretary to the Treasury and Chair of
the HS2 Growth Taskforce added: "Birmingham is going the right way
about realising the benefits of HS2 by developing ambitious plans
to kick-start development. </p>
<p>"Their vision for the Curzon HS2 Masterplan demonstrates the
transformational value of HS2, not just for rail passengers but for
the communities that the railway will serve." </p>
<p>HS2 will boost the West Midlands economy by £4.1 billion each
year and create more than 51,000 new jobs by providing extra
capacity and better connections to London and the north. </p>
<p>Birmingham Curzon station will be Birmingham's HS2 hub, linking
phase one of the project, from London to Birmingham, and phase two
from Birmingham to Leeds and Manchester. </p>
<p>It will be the first new station to be built in Birmingham for
over 100 years and when complete will be the biggest building in
the city. </p>
<p>The original Curzon Street station was one of oldest in the UK,
and the first ever London to Birmingham service arrived there in
September 1838. </p>
<p>The historic Grade I listed entrance of the old Curzon Street
station will be revived as part of the Masterplan. </p>
<p>Construction is set to start on the HS2 line and stations in
2017 with the first passenger services arriving in Birmingham in
2026.</p>
Ambitious plans to create a thriving new district around Birmingham’s high speed rail station unveiled
14747
0
0
Public consultation launched on tram link to high speed rail
2014-02-27T16:15:00
14742
<p>The public are being invited to give their views on plans for a
further extension to the Midland Metro in Birmingham city
centre.</p>
<p>The Birmingham Eastside Extension will take trams to the
proposed HS2 station at Curzon Street and, for the first time,
create a public transport link between all of the city centre
railway stations.</p>
<p>It would take two years to build and is planned to be open in
time for the launch of the first phase of the high-speed railway
line between Birmingham and London in 2026.</p>
<p>The plans have been drawn up as part of the Birmingham Curzon
HS2 Masterplan which was unveiled today (Thursday February 27) by
Birmingham City Council and can be viewed at
www.birmingham.gov.uk/birminghamcurzonhs2.</p>
<p>The Masterplan sets out how more than 141 hectares of land in
the city's Eastside district would be transformed in one of the
biggest urban regeneration schemes in Britain, and by far the
biggest redevelopment so far announced on the back of the HS2 high
speed rail project.</p>
<p>Regional transport authority Centro, which has worked closely
with the city council in drawing up the Masterplan, is keen to hear
the views of the public on the proposed tram link which includes
two possible route options.</p>
<p>• Option 1 - is the longest, at 925 metres. It would join the
existing Metro network at the junction of Bull Street and
Corporation Street and travel down Lower Bull Street before turning
right onto High Street. It would continue into Carrs Lane, cross
Moor Street Queensway, where there will be a new Metro stop, before
continuing along Eastside promenade to the new Curzon Street
station stop.</p>
<p>• Option 2 - measures 800 metres. Like Route 1 it will join the
existing Metro network at the junction of Bull Street and
Corporation Street. It will travel along Lower Bull Street crossing
Dale End then on to New Meeting Street with a stop at Albert Street
before reaching Moor Street Queensway and joining the new Curzon
Street Station stop.</p>
<p>Centro's Vice Chair, Cllr Kath Hartley, said the scheme would
enhance other major improvements to the city's transport network
such as the transformation of New Street station, the other Metro
extensions through the city centre currently being built and
planned and the lengthened runway at Birmingham International
Airport.</p>
<p>"The Metro extension can play a key role in supporting
Eastside's on-going regeneration by providing better transport
links to the city centre and the wider region," she said.</p>
<p>"With the Enterprise Zone and HS2 being located there, we are
seeing an increased focus on Eastside. It's therefore important we
get the right transport connections in place so that the area can
grow sustainably. A Metro link can help achieve this."</p>
<p>The Birmingham Eastside Extension is designed to allow future
expansion of the Metro to the east of Birmingham, potentially
linking to Birmingham International Airport/National Exhibition
Centre, the International stations and UK Central/Solihull.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, added: "This is an
important scheme that will help shape the future of Eastside and
the city centre itself.</p>
<p>"That's why we are keen to hear from the public. Their views are
a vital part of the process because they help us understand the
pros and cons of the scheme from their perspective."</p>
<p>The public can give their views at www.centro.org.uk/metro</p>
<p>They can also be given at a series of public exhibitions being
staged in Birmingham High Street, the first of which was taking
place today between 10am and 6pm.<br />
Further exhibitions will be held on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 1st March from 9am-5pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 4th March from 10am-6pm</li>
<li>Thursday 6th March from 10am-6pm</li>
<li>Wednesday 12th March from 10am</li>
</ul>
<p>The deadline for comments is March 28.</p>
The public are being invited to give their views on plans for a further extension to the Midland Metro in Birmingham city centre.
14746
0
0
Theresa May,Home Secretary,James Morris,Safer Travel,Halesowen,Centro
Home Secretary Theresa May meets Safer Travel Partnership
2014-03-07T17:11:00
14761
Mark Babington, left, and Insp Lee Gordon with Theresa May MP at Halesowen bus station.
<p style="text-align: left;">Home Secretary Theresa May MP learned
how public transport in the West Midlands is policed and protected
in a whistle-stop tour to Halesowen.</p>
<p>She visited Halesowen bus station where she met Mark Babington,
Safer Travel Partnership Mananger, and Inspector Lee Gordon of the
Safer Travel police team.</p>
<p>They told her about the work of the Partnership, which comprises
Centro, West Midlands Police, British Transport Police and
transport operators.</p>
<p>Mark Babington said: "She was very interested to hear about the
collaboration between the two services and Centro and how together
with the operators we police 400 million journeys a year.</p>
<p>"Public transport enjoys a very low crime rate but the Safer
Travel Partnership is committed to making it even safer and,
importantly, making people feel safe."</p>
<p>The Partnership uses information gathered to engage in numerous
activities to address issues including reassurance and enforcement
patrols, work with schools and colleges, and covert operations.</p>
<p>The first of its type in the country, it also has access to
around 1,00 CCTV cameras located at bus, rail and Metro stations,
Park and Ride sites, bus routes and bus shelters.</p>
<p>The dedicated control centre is staffed 24 hours a day to spot
and respond to incidents.</p>
<p>Ms May's visit was organised by Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP
James Morris and included a visit to Halesowen police station.</p>
Home Secretary Theresa May learned about the Safer Travel Partnership in a visit to Halesowen bus station.
14762
0
0
Busy Sandwell route given £650,000 boost
2014-03-10T16:30:00
<p>More than £650,000 is being spent on cutting congestion along
one of Sandwell's busiest bus routes.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has teamed up with Sandwell Council
to provide a package of improvements along roads including the No 4
route.</p>
<p>Those travelling along the route, which connects Walsall with
Blackheath, will benefit from more efficient travel to West
Bromwich city centre, Sandwell College and West Bromwich bus
station.</p>
<p>The move follows more than £500,000 spent on similar
improvements to the No 4 and other bus routes in the Walsall
area.</p>
<p>Upgrades to nine junctions will be made including bus priority
measures which will speed up journeys for passengers.</p>
<p>Pedestrians in the area will also see improved crossing
facilities with five pelican crossings being replaced with puffin
crossings, which allow people to view both the display and oncoming
traffic while waiting for the signal to change.</p>
<p>The money comes from Centro's government funded Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy
and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Making changes to junctions and
crossings might seem like small improvements but when taken along
the route as a whole will have a major impact of the efficiency of
people's journeys.</p>
<p>"These upgrades will really help ease the flow of traffic along
these already busy routes and improve journeys for bus passengers,
motorists and pedestrians."</p>
<p>The changes will see improvements made along parts of the busy
Walsall Road, Oldbury Road, High Street and Churchbridge.</p>
<p>Further work to improve walking and cycling routes in the
borough will also be completed over the next 12 months.</p>
<p>Cllr Maria Crompton, Sandwell's cabinet member for highways and
environment, said: "This is excellent news for Sandwell's
residents.</p>
<p>"By working with Centro we're making life easier for people
travelling to and from the borough and creating better links with
our neighbours."</p>
More than £650,000 is being spent on cutting congestion along one of Sandwell’s busiest transport routes.
19762
0
0
Centro,Midland Metro,Metro,Baroness Kramer
Minister announces £5 million Wolverhampton tram track upgrade
2014-03-13T14:22:00
14766
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, Baroness Kramer and Cllr Roger Horton and Metro extension workers Shivdeep Kumar and Jagmohan Singh
<p>Transport Minister Baroness Kramer today (Thursday March 13)
announced a £5 million funding package to upgrade the on-street
Midland Metro tram tracks through Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>The Minister made the announcement while in Birmingham to see
first-hand how construction is progressing on the £128 million
Metro extension through the heart of the city.</p>
<p>The government funding will enable transport authority Centro to
replace tracks in the Bilston Road area of Wolverhampton which are
now 15-years-old and badly worn.</p>
<p>The work, due to be carried out during this year's school summer
holidays, will help the Metro maintain its 99 per cent reliability
while offering passengers a much quieter, smoother ride.</p>
<p>Baroness Kramer said: "This tram line is really important to the
local economy. It provides a frequent link to key areas of
employment, development and regeneration.</p>
<p>"The £5m we are providing today will both help to maintain the
A41, a key route in Wolverhampton and will also ensure that the
Midland Metro system continues to be an efficient and attractive
way for people to get around."</p>
<p>Centro's lead member for Rail and Metro, Cllr Roger Horton,
said: "These are exciting times for the Metro and I'm delighted
that the Minister has been able to come and see how the tram is
helping to transform the city.</p>
<p>"But the funding announced today will bring real benefits for
the five million passengers who already use the Metro. The track
upgrade in Wolverhampton will mean more comfort for passengers and
will be particularly noticeable in terms of less noise and
vibration when our new fleet of trams start going into service
later this year."</p>
<p>The £128 million tram extension includes a £40 million,
20-strong fleet of sleek Urbos 3 trams being built by Spanish
manufacturer CAF.</p>
<p>The new, bigger trams will provide 40 per cent more capacity on
the system helping to meet an expected rise in passenger numbers -
from five to eight million - when the Birmingham city centre
extension opens next year.</p>
<p>The extension, a joint project by Centro and the Black Country
and Birmingham City councils, is expected to create more than 1,300
new jobs and boost the regional economy by more than £50 million a
year.</p>
<p>It will see trams run from Snow Hill through Bull Street,
Corporation Street and Stephenson Street, terminating outside New
Street Station, where a £600 million rebuild is also due for
completion next year.</p>
<p>The Minister was told how the replacement Wolverhampton tram
tracks and the Birmingham city centre extension will use a
different type of steel which is much harder wearing than the
original tracks.</p>
<p>The Wolverhampton upgrade will involve the replacement of worn
rail and 'crossovers' that allow trams to change tracks. It will
also involve road resurfacing around the track and Centro is
liaising closely with Wolverhampton City Council to co-ordinate the
work.</p>
<p>The upgrade will mean a degree of disruption for passengers but
is being carried out during the school summer holidays when
passenger numbers are at their lowest.</p>
<p>Alternative bus services will also be available to ensure
passengers are still able to make their journeys.</p>
<p>Full details of the changes to services and alternative buses
will be announced closer to the time.</p>
Baroness Kramer has announced a funding package to upgrade the on-street Midland Metro tram tracks through Wolverhampton.
14767
0
0
Centro,Cycling,Network West Midlands,Baroness Kramer,Cycle hub
State-of-the-art cycle storage facility officially opened
2014-03-13T15:46:00
14769
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, Centro vice chair Kath Hartley, Transport Minister Baroness Kramer and London Midland managing director Patrick Verwer
<p>Transport Minister Baroness Kramer today unveiled the first of a
new generation of bespoke cycle storage hubs being installed at
railway stations across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The 'cycle hub' at Selly Oak railway station is the result of a
one-off custom design by transport authority Centro and will now
serve as the blueprint for other stations in the region.</p>
<p>The sleek, glass and steel structure provides weather-proof
storage for up to 23 bicycles and features a state-of-the-art,
swipe card activated door along with internal and external CCTV
cameras to help keep bikes secure.</p>
<p>The project has been part funded by £60,000 secured by local
rail operator London Midland from the Association of Train
Operating Companies' (ATOC) Cycle-Rail fund.</p>
<p>Baroness Kramer, who cut the ribbon on the unique structure,
said: "It is fantastic to see these facilities delivering
environmental benefits while helping people keep fit.</p>
<p>"If we are serious about helping people to make greener
journeys, we need to make it easier. This new cycle hub does just
that, allowing people to securely store their bike at the station
and take the train knowing their bike is safe."</p>
<p>Access to the hub is available for regular cyclists using the
station who sign up to the scheme.</p>
<p>Around 50 cyclists will be able to join initially and each will
be issued with a unique swipe card providing 24-hour-access.</p>
<p>Work is already underway to install similar facilities at
Longbridge, Stourbridge Junction and Rowley Regis stations.</p>
<p>Centro is also working with Birmingham City Council to identify
other possible venues in the city as part of the council's Cycle
Revolution project.</p>
<p>Centro vice chair, Cllr Kath Hartley, said: "It is important
that we provide the infrastructure people need to keep bikes safe
and sheltered if they choose to cycle to and from their local
station.</p>
<p>"This is just one of the steps we are taking to help connect
cycling with other forms of transport and we are working closely
with Birmingham City Council to look at other stations where we
might be able to install these hubs."</p>
<p>Patrick Verwer, managing director of train operator London
Midland said: "This is another great example of the London Midland
- Centro Partnership agreement in action and part of a whole series
of jointly developed station improvements to benefit
passengers.</p>
<p>"Thanks to the Government's Cycle-Rail fund we have been able to
contribute a further £240k towards the new integrated cycle hire
scheme currently being installed.</p>
<p>"Centro are to be congratulated. As well as being a practical
contribution to sustainable transport the hub looks superb, it's
modern and inviting - as far away from the idea of a mere bike shed
as it's possible to get."</p>
<p>The design was created to be low-maintenance and as adaptable as
possible, allowing it to be used at stations across the region
where cycling is a popular mode of travel.</p>
<p>The one-of-a-kind design was built in Stoke-on-Trent by
construction firm Broxap Ltd and stands at three and a half metres
tall with an iconic wave style roof.</p>
<p>Conard Haigh, ATOC's head of integrated transport, said: "This
scheme really demonstrates what the Cycle Rail Fund is all about -
making it easier for people to connect their journeys.</p>
<p>"This is the first West Midlands hub to be officially opened to
the public but more are already being developed which is great news
for the region's cyclists and rail users."</p>
<p>Cyclists wanting to apply for a space for their bike can
register for the scheme for free at:
www.networkwestmidlands.com.</p>
Transport Minister Baroness Kramer unveiled the first of a new generation of bespoke cycle storage hubs.
14884
0
0
Centro,London Midland,Roger Horton,Acocks Green,Network Rail,Access for All
Acocks Green station given a lift in £1.7m improvement scheme
2014-03-14T10:36:00
14774
Mark Sturgess of Network Rail, left, Cllr Roger Horton and Terry Oliver of London Midland.
<p style="text-align: left;">Work has begun on installing lifts in
a £1.7 million improvement scheme at a busy Birmingham railway
station.</p>
<p>They will be fitted on the platform and to the car park at
Acocks Green station, with work due to be completed in summer
2014.</p>
<p>The station dates from the Edwardian-era and is the busiest rail
station without step-free access in the West Midlands, with 388,592
passenger journeys in 2012/13.</p>
<p>However it has previously only had stairs to allow access to the
platform from the street and booking hall.</p>
<p>The work is being delivered by Centro, the region's transport
authority and part-funded by the Department for Transport as part
of the Access for All scheme.</p>
<p>Access for All is a Department for Transport strategy to improve
the accessibility of the UK's railway network.</p>
<p>Funding is granted to improve infrastructure at stations to
allow access for anyone for whom stairs would be a barrier,
including the disabled, parents with small children or people with
heavy luggage.</p>
<p>The Department for Transport awarded £1 million of the total
cost and the remainder is being funded by Centro.</p>
<p>Network Rail has been contracted by Centro to deliver the
project and has commissioned J.Murphy & Sons to carry out the
work.</p>
<p>The scheme involves installing lift access from the station
booking office to the car park and platforms via a new footbridge
spanning the tracks.</p>
<p>The station, which has a free 132 space park and ride facility,
is a key stop on the Birmingham Snow Hill to Leamington Spa line,
an important commuter route that also serves Solihull.</p>
<p>However, the station's main entrance and booking office is on
Yardley Road, more than 30 feet above the platforms and car
park.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "This
scheme is fantastic news for passengers, it means it will be much
easier for people to go by train from Acocks Green.</p>
<p>"A key feature is that we consulted with the local community
about what we were doing and used that feedback to ensure the
design of the new lift towers is in keeping with the rest of the
building."</p>
<p>Mark Sturgess, Infrastructure Maintenance Delivery Manager for
Network Rail said: "These vital improvements to Acocks Green
station will make life easier for everyone to use the train,
especially those with heavy luggage or reduced mobility.</p>
<p>"The new facilities at the station will play an important role
in helping us to manage the individual needs of the increasing
numbers of passengers who travel on the railway."</p>
<p>Terry Oliver, head of Snow Hill services for train operator
London Midland, said: "We are delighted that accessibility is
improving for passengers at Acocks Green station, thanks to the
partnership between the Department for Transport and Centro.</p>
<p>"It is one of the busiest suburban stations within the West
Midlands, so this is a fantastic step forward for the hundreds of
thousands of passengers that use the station each year."</p>
Work has begun on installing lifts in a £1.7 million improvement scheme at a busy Birmingham railway station.
14773
0
0
Changes to bus services in Coventry city centre
2014-03-17T12:48:00
<p>Bus passengers are being advised that services will be affected
as work starts on a major re-development of a key junction on
Coventry's ring road.</p>
<p>The Friargate works by Coventry City Council will see the
removal of bridges and remodelling of the Warwick Road island at
Junction 6 which will result in buses using the junction entering
and exiting the city centre in a different way.</p>
<p>Services 1, 8/8A, 9/9A, 11, 12, 16, 18A, 85, 87, 539, 580, 585,
U17, W1A, W1C, X17, X30, X31 and Park and Ride South (PRS) will
have changes to routes and bus stops served.</p>
<p>Services 1, 87, 539, 580 and Park and Ride South (PRS) will have
a new stop SG outside Copthall House on Station Road at Coventry
rail station and a new stop SH on Park Road.</p>
<p>All the above buses using stop SG/SH will take people into the
city centre and then onto their usual destinations.</p>
<p>There are also extensive changes to stand allocations in the
city's Pool Meadow bus station.</p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Coventry area manager for transport authority
Centro, said: "Customers will still be able to use some of their
current stops, however there will be some that buses will be unable
to use due to the route they will entering or exiting the city
centre.</p>
<p>"Because buses cannot cross to or from the station or Warwick
Road because Junction 6 is effectively closed, they will be
diverted onto different routes to get across the Ring Road, with
consequent change to stops.</p>
<p>"In some cases timetables have been subject to significant
change to try and cope with the likely extra journey time needed
and we would recommend passengers check before travelling to see
how their service may be affected."</p>
<p>Work is due to start on March 22 and is scheduled for completion
in summer 2015.</p>
<p>It will see the installation of a bridge deck that will connect
Friargate to the city centre by removing the raised roundabout and
building a 100 metre wide connection across the ring road, creating
a public boulevard linking the railway station through Greyfriars
Green directly into Bull Yard.</p>
<p>For more details about the changes go to the <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/Coventry/Coventry.aspx">Network
West Midlands</a> site or for the Friargate development visit the
<a href="http://www.coventry.gov.uk/yourcity">Coventry City
Council</a> website.</p>
Bus passengers are advised services will be affected as work starts on a major re-development of a key junction on Coventry’s ring road.
14776
0
0
Baroness Kramer,carbon,LSTF
Carbon-busting project passes midway point
2014-03-17T15:44:00
14778
Baroness Kramer addresses the conference.
<p style="text-align: left;">A £48 million project to cut
congestion along 10 of the region's busiest routes and support
economic growth is making real progress as it passes its halfway
point.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro held a conference to mark the
milestone in its government funded Smart Network, Smarter Choices
scheme and look at plans to build on the work.</p>
<p>Centro and partners identified 10 key routes to introduce a
package of measures to reduce congestion, cut carbon and connect
residents to jobs.</p>
<p>The project, which was funded following a successful bid to
government's Local Sustainable Travel Fund (LSTF), has seen
upgrades to cycling facilities, bespoke travel plans drawn up for
households, business and schools and free travel for
jobseekers.</p>
<p>Thousands of residents have also taken advantage of free cycle
training while more than 20 junctions have been improved to ease
traffic flow along some of the region's busiest routes.</p>
<p>The conference was attended by Transport Minister Baroness
Kramer, Centro chiefs and representatives from each of the region's
seven district council partners.</p>
<p>Displays were held to show the progress of the project so far in
each area and look ahead at work being finalised in the final 12
months.</p>
<p>Speaking at the event at Maple House in Birmingham on March 13,
Baroness Kramer said: "Smart Network, Smarter Choices is one of the
largest LSTF grants we delivered.</p>
<p>"We wanted to back ambitious local projects which have the
potential to make a big difference to people's lives.</p>
<p>"Every one £1 invested in this project is generating up to
another £10 for the local economy, and going forwards we want
sustainable transport to be central to how local areas are planning
their growth."</p>
<p>Since the project launched more than 4,500 jobseekers have been
helped back into work by Centro's award winning WorkWise scheme,
which provides free travel passes for people travelling to
interviews or starting new jobs.</p>
<p>Free cycle training and maintenance classes have been provided
for more than 2,500 people and 12,000 households have been given
free personalised travel advice.</p>
<p>More than 50 schools have been given specialised advice to help
teachers and pupils travel to school and 157 businesses have signed
up to the project which will benefit over 80,000 of the region's
workforce.</p>
<p>Centro is currently working with the local councils to look at
future funding options as part of further cash being made available
under the LSTF to build on the work of Smart Network, Smarter
Choices.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "Already this scheme
has had an impact on the thousands of people who have taken up free
cycle training, had bespoke travel plans drawn up or work and study
along some of our busiest routes.</p>
<p>"We know congestion is a major issue facing our region and
draining more than £2 billion from our economy each year, so
projects like this can really help support growth.</p>
<p>"We have already made some significant strides but heading into
the next 12 months we are already looking ahead to see how we can
keep cutting carbon and better connecting our residents to
jobs."</p>
<p>Over the next year new cycle routes will be finalised in
Solihull, the Black Country and Coventry linking to key employment
and education centres.</p>
<p>Improvements to existing cycle routes in south Birmingham will
be made to provide better connections to Selly Oak railway station,
the University of Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital and beyond
to the city's border at Rubery.</p>
<p>Further junction improvements will also be made over the next 12
months along the ten key transport routes to further help reduce
congestion.</p>
Transport Minister Baroness Kramer hears how a £48 million project to cut congestion is making real progress.
14779
0
0
John McNicholas,HS2,high speed rail,Sir David Higgins
Centro welcomes call by HS2 boss to accelerate building of line
2014-03-17T16:53:00
<p>A challenge to politicians by the boss of HS2 to pave the way
for a faster building of the high-speed linehas been welcomed by
West Midlands transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>HS2 chairman Sir David Higgins's report entitled HS2 Plus
proposes an accelerated timetable for the northern, phase two,
section of the project.</p>
<p>And he called for a re-think over the project's existing
proposals for a limited single track link through north London
between HS2 and the existing HS1 line to Europe.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Sir David is quite
right to throw down the gauntlet and challenge the nation to build
HS2 more quickly.</p>
<p>"Indeed, I believe HS2 cannot come quick enough if we are
serious about narrowing the economic gap between London and the
rest of the UK.</p>
<p>"HS2 will be a real catalyst for growth and jobs right across
the West Midlands and also in our northern cities.</p>
<p>"It will shrink the UK and open up new opportunities and
connections not just between Birmingham and London but, just as
importantly, between Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and
Sheffield.</p>
<p>Sir David's report echoes the views of the West Midlands in that
a reappraisal of the proposed single track link between HS1 and HS2
is needed along with an extension of the route to a major transport
hub at Crewe by 2027.</p>
<p>Centro believes the HS1/HS2 link as originally proposed would
have limited the number of direct high speed services that could be
run from Birmingham and other English cities to key continental
destinations like Paris and Brussels.</p>
<p>The transport authority is calling for a fully segregated, twin
track tunnel linking HS1/HS2 which it believes would be the best
long-term option for providing a robust and future-proofed
connection.</p>
<p>Centro is supporting ongoing market analysis and engineering
feasibility work currently being undertaken on such a link by
Transport for London.</p>
<p>In his report Sir David said the Government should "accelerate
phase two as soon as possible".</p>
<p>This would take the line 43 miles further north than planned, to
a new transport hub at Crewe in Cheshire which could be completed
by 2027, six years earlier than planned.</p>
<p>Sir David said the Crewe option was good for the area and the
north of England generally, while a "more comprehensive
redevelopment" of Euston could see the station become "an iconic
driver of local regeneration whose beneficial effects will be felt
for generations".</p>
A challenge to politicians by HS2 boss Sir David Higgins to pave the way for a faster building of the high-speed line is welcomed by Centro.
14797
0
0
Centro,Bromsgrove,Worcestershire,railway,station,Cross City line
Work starts on new £17.4 million Bromsgrove railway station
2014-03-19T11:56:00
14804
Cllr Roger Horton, left, Rod Sillence of Network Rail and Cllr Simon Geraghty get work underway at Bromsgrove station.
<p>Work has begun on a £17.4 million new railway interchange in
Bromsgrove.</p>
<p>The new station will be built about 400m south from the existing
one in Aston Fields and is being jointly funded by Worcestershire
County Council, Centro, Network Rail and the Department for
Transport.</p>
<p>It will include a station building, four platforms connected by
a footbridge and lifts, and a 350-space car park.</p>
<p>The station project will also see electrification of the line
between Barnt Green and Bromsgrove by Network Rail.</p>
<p>The electrification project is due for completion in summer 2016
and will allow increased frequency of trains between Bromsgrove and
Birmingham and a link to the Cross City line <span>allowing
three trains per hour to run to both Redditch and
Bromsgrove.</span></p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "I am
delighted that work is getting underway, this is an exciting
development for Bromsgrove which will bring great benefits to the
town.</p>
<p>"The new station, together with connection to the Cross City
line and electrification will mean better and more frequent
services for passengers."</p>
<p>Cllr Simon Geraghty, County Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet
Member for Economy, Skills and Infrastructure, said: "Improving
transport links in our county is a key priority to secure future
economic growth.</p>
<p>"The substantial investment in this important improvement
project for the new Bromsgrove Rail Station is a reflection of our
commitment to ensure the area is very much 'Open for Business'.</p>
<p>"This is an important milestone for the project and I'm looking
forward to seeing this exciting project become a reality."</p>
<p>Gavin Armstrong, Director Route Asset Management for Network
Rail said: "With more people and freight travelling by rail
than ever before, investment in our transport infrastructure is
essential if we are to meet that ever increasing demand.</p>
<p>"We are delighted to be delivering the new station here in
Bromsgrove which will prove a real asset to the town for years to
come."</p>
<p>Key features of the development are:</p>
<ul>
<li>A new station building including a staffed ticket office,
passenger waiting room, ticket/travel information and toilets.</li>
<li>New station car park providing standard parking bays, disabled
parking bays, electric vehicle charging stations, car share bays
and two bus stops.</li>
<li>An external concourse linking to new bus stops, taxi rank,
pedestrian footpaths, cycle store, disabled parking bays and car
park areas.</li>
<li>Fully accessible station concourse capable of handling 800,000
passengers per year. This will include passenger information,
automated ticketing, covered cycle storage, vending machines, and
covered access to the lift and stairs to platform.</li>
<li>A covered bridge link to platforms from concourse with stairs
and lifts to all platforms.</li>
</ul>
<p>The total project cost is estimated at £17.4m, made up of £1.9m
development costs (of which £0.8m has already been spent) and
£15.5m.</p>
<p><span>Work is scheduled for completion in summer
2015.</span></p>
Centro and Worcestershire County Council begin work on a multi-million pound new railway station in Bromsgrove.
14805
0
0
Pedal-powered boost for Solihull business park
2014-03-20T16:20:00
<p>Employees at a Solihull business park have been given a pedal
powered boost thanks to new cycle storage facilities at their
offices.<br />
<br />
Transport authority Centro has been working with Pinewood Business
Park in Marston Green to help make it easier for their staff to
travel in greener ways.<br />
<br />
The firm was awarded a grant to install new cycle parking as part
of Centro's government funded Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy and connect
residents to jobs.<br />
<br />
The sheltered unit is at the rear of the park and holds up to 20
bicycles which can be locked to hoops.<br />
<br />
Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible and
sustainable transport, said: "We worked closely with Pinewood
Business Park to find out how their employees travel to work and
look at how we could make things easier for them.<br />
<br />
"The site has 130 car parking spaces but more than three times the
number of employees so it was apparent that more sustainable forms
of travel could help a large number of people.<br />
<br />
"Our discussions showed that many of the staff would consider
cycling as a travel option if sheltered bicycle storage was in
place. That was taken on board and now the facility is open and
being used."<br />
<br />
A survey with Pinewood Business Park, which hosts more than 450
employees, found that 38 per cent of staff could be encouraged to
cycle if storage was provided.<br />
<br />
The site is one of more than 300 businesses to sign up to Smart
Network, Smarter Choices including some of the region's major
employers like Jaguar Land Rover, Npower and Touchwood shopping
centre.<br />
<br />
Each business is given bespoke travel plans to help detail the
best ways to travel to the workplace using public transport,
walking or cycling.</p>
<p>Pinewood quote: "The staff at the Business Park started using
the cycle storage almost immediately. The cycle parking is in a
visible location on-site, has a keypad locking system and is
covered, so protected from the elements.</p>
<p>"Pinewood Business Park is currently putting together a plan to
encourage cycling as an active mode of transport and to emphasise
the financial and health benefits of this mode."</p>
Employees at a Solihull business park are benefiting from new cycle storage facilities.
14721
0
0
Centro,Network West Midlands,Dorridge,Dorridge station,Dorridge railway station,Chiltern Railways
Dorridge station waiting area given historic £16,000 make-over
2014-03-24T16:15:00
14834
The plaque unveiled at Dorridge railway station
<p>A busy Solihull railway station has turned back the clock after
having its waiting area restored to its former 1930s glory as part
of a £16,000 community project.</p>
<p>Volunteer group Friends of Dorridge Station unveiled the new
facility, which recreates the station's historic waiting room and
provides space for community groups, at Dorridge station today
(Monday March 24).</p>
<p>The project, which started early last year, brought together
members of the local community, the railway industry, local
authorities, the residents association and railway heritage
organisations.</p>
<p>Funding for the scheme came from transport authority Centro's
Transport Regeneration Fund, The Railway Heritage Trust, Solihull
MBC, Dorridge and District Residents Association and the
Association of Community Rail Partnerships.</p>
<p>Contributions were also made by local businesses the Forest and
Heather's Kitchen.</p>
<p>Chairman of the Friends, David Glanfield, said "The financial
and practical support we have received from all concerned has been
outstanding and without them we could not have achieved our
aim.</p>
<p>"In addition to corporate support, most of the work on the room
has been carried out by local businesses and we are delighted to
have transformed an unused room into a warm, comfortable space
which accurately reflects its appearance in the 1930s."</p>
<p>Dorridge station, which is now owned by Network Rail and
operated by Chiltern Railways, was built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel
in 1852 when the line was opened by the Great Western Railway.</p>
<p>The upgrade will see the waiting room reflect the look of the
waiting area when the station was rebuilt in 1933.</p>
<p>The room will be open for passengers during the day and
available for small community groups to hire during the
evenings. </p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, chair of the Transport Regeneration Fund
Review Group and Centro member, said: "This project will not only
transform the waiting area at Dorridge station for commuters but
will also provide a space that local groups can take advantage
of.</p>
<p>"This is a great example of different groups working together to
create something really positive which will not only improve
facilities but also respects the unique heritage of this
station."</p>
<p>Following the success of the project Friends of Dorridge Station
and Centro are creating a 'tool kit' to help advise other groups
wanting to get involved in redeveloping their stations.</p>
<p>Sandra Harper, Regional Manager North at Chiltern Railways,
said: "This project is a great example of how businesses can work
with the community to deliver tangible improvements for passengers
who use our station.</p>
<p>"The newly restored waiting room is a bright and welcoming space
which will be a popular and useful amenity at the station."</p>
<p>For information about room hire, to join the Friends or to make
a donation, visit: http://e-voice.org.uk/fods or e-mail
fods.93@gmail.com</p>
A busy Solihull railway station has turned back the clock to have its waiting area restored to its former 1930s glory.
14835
0
0
West Midlands Police,Safer Travel,Centro,bus,Facebook,Jason Wilson,assault
Bus thug caught on CCTV battering passenger is jailed for 18 months
2014-03-25T09:40:00
14837
Jason Wilson sparked public outrage at CCTV footage of his attack on another bus passenger.
<p>A man caught subjecting a fellow bus passenger to a prolonged
beating, leaving him with a broken nose, has been jailed at
Birmingham Crown Court.</p>
<p>Jason Wilson, from Dudnill Grove in Bartley Green, Birmingham,
lashed out at his victim with a series of kicks, knees and punches
in an "over the top" reaction to being asked if he could stop his
partner's children throwing sweets.</p>
<p><span>The 35-year-old squirted lemon juice in the man's eyes,
temporarily blinding him, before launching the seven-minute attack
on the No. 24 bus in Birmingham city centre on January
11.</span></p>
<p><span>CCTV footage from top-deck cameras was released through
West Midlands Police's website and social media channels in a bid
to trace the attacker − and the footage generated a massive
response with many people naming Wilson as the
offender.</span><br />
<br />
<span>Arrest attempts were made at several addresses known to
Wilson and, as the net closed in, he handed himself in to a police
station nearly six weeks after the attack.</span><br />
<br />
<span>Sergeant Ben Westwood of the Safer Travel Team, part of the
Safer Travel Partnership said: "People were understandably
disgusted by the footage: the victim was minding his own business
when he politely asked Wilson to stop the children throwing sweets
at him...but that request prompted a barbaric, prolonged
attack.</span><br />
<br />
<span>"At one stage Wilson stood on a seat to get a better kicking
angle…the victim was lucky to escape with only a broken nose as it
could have been much worse. And what makes it even more shocking is
that he unleashed the attack in front of the children he was
travelling with.</span><br />
<br />
<span>"We are extremely grateful to all the people who shared the
footage on social media, the response was fantastic."</span><br />
<br />
<span>The 21-year-old man, from Birmingham's Woodgate area, was
travelling on the bus in Broad Street at around 5.45pm when he was
attacked; he suffered facial cuts and bruises in addition to a
broken nose.</span><br />
<br />
<span>In interview, Wilson made a full and frank admission, saying
it was an over the top reaction, but said he sprayed the victim
with lemon juice and not pepper spray.</span></p>
<p>He was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday March 24
having been previously remanded in custody <span>at an earlier
hearing </span> after admitting assault occasioning actual
bodily harm. <br />
<br />
<span>Sergeant Westwood added: "There are around 11,000 CCTV
cameras on West Midlands buses so people need to accept that if
they commit offences on board they are likely to be caught on
camera.</span><br />
<br />
<span>"These cameras provide high quality images which help police
trace offenders and provide irrefutable evidence…as Wilson has
found to his cost.</span><br />
<br />
<span>"Fortunately crime on the region's buses remains low and
incidents of this nature are rare: latest figures show that,
excluding vandalism, there is just one offence in every 147,500 bus
rides."</span></p>
<p><span>The Safer Travel Partnership comprises Centro, the
region's transport authority, West Midlands Police, British
Transport Police and travel operators and works to make public
transport in the West Midlands even safer.</span></p>
A man caught on CCTV battering a fellow bus passenger, leaving him with a broken nose, has been jailed at Birmingham Crown Court.
14838
0
0
Centro,bus,National Express,Network West Midlands,National Express West Midlands
Bus taskforce hailed a success after rise in passenger satisfaction
2014-03-26T09:32:00
<p>Bus services in the West Midlands have improved more than in any
other part of the country, according to an independent survey
published today.</p>
<p>Figures released by transport watchdog Passenger Focus show that
86 per cent of bus passengers in the West Midlands were satisfied
with their overall service in 2013 - up from 79 per cent in
2012.</p>
<p>The findings show an increase in all of the key satisfaction
indicators during 2013 with punctuality at 73 per cent (up from 64
per cent); journey time on bus 86 per cent (81 per cent);
helpfulness and attitude of bus driver 64 per cent (55 per cent)
and value for money 62 per cent (50 per cent).</p>
<p>The Bus Satisfaction Survey also shows that concern about
anti-social behaviour was down from 17 per cent in 2012 to 10 per
cent in 2013.</p>
<p>The seven per cent increase in overall satisfaction - the
biggest rise in the country - follows a decision last year by
transport authority Centro and key operators like National Express
West Midlands to set up a special taskforce in which passengers,
bus drivers and officials sat down together to find ways of
improving services.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro, said: "The 2012 Bus
Satisfaction Survey clearly showed those areas such as driver
attitudes, punctuality and anti-social behaviour where our region
needed to improve.</p>
<p>"We knew through our close partnership with operators that they
were also concerned so together we set up a passenger satisfaction
forum to address the issues.</p>
<p>"Today's results show how successful this approach has been but
we are not complacent and will continue using the forum to listen
to what passengers want and drive up standards still further."</p>
<p>Cllr Hartley said the drop in passenger concern over anti-social
behaviour was particularly encouraging and a reflection of the hard
work of the Safer Travel Partnership in tackling the issue through
its See Something Say Something campaign.</p>
<p>The scheme enables passengers who witness nuisance behaviour to
anonymously submit information about incidents through a smartphone
app and text messaging service.</p>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands, said: "These improvements show that our partnership with
Centro is delivering real results.</p>
<p>"However these results are not the end of the road for bus
improvements in the West Midlands, they just prove we are on the
right track.</p>
<p>"Over the next 12 months we will bringing over 100 new buses to
the region, expanding our mid-service cleaning teams and building
on the success of the Safer Travel Partnership."</p>
<p>David Sidebottom, Passenger Focus acting chief executive, added:
"These results are good news for bus passengers, operators and
transport authorities in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"This improvement demonstrates what can be done when bus
operators and transport authorities use the Bus Passenger Survey
results to identify improvements for their passengers."</p>
<p>Mr Sidebottom said a total of 34,000 people from 19 areas across
the country took part in what is the biggest single survey of bus
passenger views to be published in England.</p>
<p>The survey and report can be viewed at
http://www.passengerfocus.org.uk/research/bus-passenger-survey</p>
Independent survey shows bus services in the West Midlands have improved more than any other part of the country.
14840
0
0
Centro,Travel de Courcey,Coventry,Park and Ride South,Stagecoach
Extra buses and new Sunday service to start at Coventry Park and Ride South
2014-03-27T15:54:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Passengers using Coventry's Park and
Ride South bus service will see a new Sunday service, plus earlier
morning and later evening buses under changes coming in next
month.</p>
<p>Bus operator Stagecoach is to take over the service, previously
run by Travel de Courcey, from April 27.</p>
<p>It operates from War Memorial Park in Kenilworth Road, where
commuters can park their cars for free then catch a bus into
Trinity Street in Coventry city centre.</p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Coventry area manager for Centro, said that as the
region's transport authority it was obliged to get the best
possible deal for the tax-payer, which the new operator was able to
offer.</p>
<p>He said: "Previously we were paying a subsidy for Park and Ride
South to operate but Stagecoach are now able to run this service on
a commercial basis, so there is no need for us to do so.</p>
<p>"It also means services can operate on a Sunday and earlier and
later into the day, so this is good news for both passengers and
council tax payers."</p>
<p>The new services will operate every 20 minutes, Monday to
Friday, from 6.10am, with the last bus from the city at 9.25pm</p>
<p>On Saturdays the service will operate from 6.45am, last bus at
9.25pm, and on Sunday from 9.45am, last bus leaving the city at
7.30pm.</p>
<p>Mr Craddock said services would operate in the same areas as
before although in a different direction to the timetabled routes
owing to the on-going roadworks at Friargate on the city
ring-road.</p>
<p>"Stagecoach will have members of staff handing out information
leaflets at Memorial Park telling people what they need to know,"
he added.</p>
Coventry’s Park and Ride South to get Sunday service and extra buses.
14855
0
0
Centro,Birmingham,Midland Metro,HS2,Lilian Greenwood,Geoff Inskip
Shadow Transport Minister sees how West Midlands is working towards HS2
2014-03-27T16:55:00
14857
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, left, Shadow Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP and Centro Metro Programme director Paul Griffiths view the progress of the Midland Metro extension in Birmingham city centre.
<p style="text-align: left;">Shadow Transport Minister Lilian
Greenwood MP has praised Birmingham and the West Midlands for the
way it is embracing the arrival of HS2.</p>
<p>In a visit to Centro, the region's transport authority, she saw
for herself work on the Midland Metro extension in Birmingham city
centre and learned how it would eventually connect to the new
Birmingham Curzon HS2 high speed rail station.</p>
<p>She praised the Birmingham Curzon HS2 Masterplan, drawn up by
Birmingham City Council, which includes a new Metro tram route
branching off the extension currently being built through the city
centre.</p>
<p>She said: "I think it's really exciting to see the way that
Birmingham and the West Midlands are developing their transport
infrastructure.</p>
<p>"HS2 is a huge part of this and you can see how the whole region
is gearing up to maximise the benefits this major step-change in
transport infrastructure will bring in terms of jobs, regeneration
and improving transport and connectivity."</p>
<p>Ms Greenwood also praised the Centro plans for rail devolution,
describing them as "exciting, very well developed and about getting
a better deal for passengers".</p>
<p>Birmingham Curzon will be a brand new city centre station where
HS2 will terminate on its 49 minute journey from London.</p>
<p>The station will place the city at the heart of the new national
high speed network.</p>
<p>Under the HS2 Masterplan, the proposed future Metro extension
will travel down through city's Eastside district before stopping
directly underneath the Birmingham Curzon station. </p>
<p>The Masterplan would create more than 14,000 jobs, 600,000 sq
metres of new employment floorspace and 2,000 new homes in a
regeneration project that will boost the city's economy by £1.3bn
each year.</p>
<p>HS2 itself will boost the West Midlands economy by £4.1 billion
each year and create more than 51,000 new jobs while providing
extra capacity and better connections to London and the north.</p>
<p>The plans are a critical part of Birmingham's efforts to support
its burgeoning creative, learning and research sectors and the
booming professional and financial services industry.</p>
<p>Centro chairman John McNicholas said: "We were delighted to
welcome the Shadow Minister here and show her how the West Midlands
is seizing the day with HS2 and is determined to maximise all the
benefits it will bring.</p>
<p>"The Curzon HS2 Masterplan demonstrates the transformational
value of HS2, not just for rail passengers but for the communities
that the railway will serve."</p>
Shadow Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP praises Birmingham and the West Midlands for the way it is embracing the arrival of HS2.
14858
0
0
Centro,HS2,Curzon,Roger Lawrence,Hybrid Bill
HS2 petition will seek improvements for passengers
2014-03-28T12:00:00
<p>Transport authority Centro is set to petition for a number of
amendments to the parliamentary Bill for HS2 - in a bid to get the
best possible deal for high speed rail passengers in the West
Midlands. </p>
<p>The authority, a staunch supporter of the project, will be asked
on Monday (March 31) to formally approve the petition amid concerns
that the proposed legislation does not do enough to ensure
passengers will get the maximum benefits possible. </p>
<p>HS2 - worth £4 billion a year to the regional economy with more
than 50,000 new jobs created - is due to receive its second reading
in Parliament in April. </p>
<p>Councillors on the authority will be asked to give the go ahead
for Centro to lodge a formal appeal against the Bill in its current
format - standard procedure in the early stages of such
parliamentary legislation. </p>
<p>Centro wants measures inserted into the Bill giving passengers
seamless interchange between the proposed Birmingham Curzon Station
and the existing Moor Street Station. </p>
<p>It is also calling for the Government to commit to having a
fully segregated tunnel linking HS1 to HS2 to enable direct
services from Birmingham to Europe without having to change between
Euston and St Pancras. </p>
<p>The region's new Integrated Transport Authority Shadow Board -
which comprises of the leaders of the region's seven councils and
decides on transport strategy in the West Midlands - is strongly in
favour of HS2. </p>
<p>But Cllr Roger Lawrence, spokesman for the Shadow Board and
leader of Wolverhampton City Council, said Centro was using its
right to raise concerns for passengers. </p>
<p>"We believe that HS2 must be built, indeed we believe it is
vital for the future prosperity of the West Midlands," he
said. </p>
<p>"However in order to get a better deal for passengers who will
use HS2 and be able to argue our case at the Parliamentary Select
Committee we have to formally launch a petition against the Bill in
its present format. </p>
<p>"This is standard practice and will ensure we can make our case
to seek changes that are important to Centro in the development of
HS2." </p>
<p>Centro's concerns over the Bill in its present form
are: </p>
<ul>
<li>It will not deliver an efficient interchange facility between
the new Birmingham Curzon station and the existing Moor Street
station</li>
<li>It will affect plans to extend the Midland Metro in
Eastside</li>
<li>It will affect the movement of traffic and pedestrians as a
result of the closure of Park Street and the re-direction of
traffic onto Moor Street Queensway</li>
<li>The closure of Saltley Viaduct for 18 months will affect
traffic</li>
<li>A lack of integration of the existing Birmingham
International/NEC station with the proposed HS2 Interchange
station</li>
<li>A need for better bus and coach facilities at the Interchange
station</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Lawrence said Mr McLoughlin's decision last week to scrap a
proposed single track link between HS1 and HS2 would remove the
immediate prospect of direct high-speed services from the West
Midlands to Paris, Brussels and beyond for the foreseeable
future. </p>
<p>He said the Department for Transport and HS2 Ltd should make it
clear that there will be such a link and that this will be
implemented at the earliest possible opportunity. </p>
<p>"We believe there is a strong need for a permanent link with a
fully segregated, rail connection between HS1 and HS2," he
added. </p>
<p>"We would seek assurances that, at the very least, there is
passive provision for a future double track HS1 - HS2 rail link and
it will be incorporated into the design for Phase 1HS2 outlined in
the Hybrid Bill. </p>
<p>"It will maintain the ability of the West Midlands HS2 stations
to cater for international services should a rail link between HS1
and HS2 be built in future."</p>
Centro is set to petition for a number of amendments to the parliamentary Bill for HS2
14863
0
0
Centro,Cycling,Birmingham,Top cycling location
Birmingham and Solihull businesses pick up cycling award
2014-03-28T16:40:00
14866
<p>Nearly a dozen businesses, schools and colleges across
Birmingham and Solihull have been formally recognised as being
among the most bicycle friendly locations in the region.</p>
<p>Top Cycle Location status has been awarded to 11 employers and
education establishments in recognition of their dedication in
making it easier for staff or students to travel on two wheels.</p>
<p>The award scheme, a partnership between transport authority
Centro, bike experts BikeRight!, cycling and sustainable transport
charity Sustrans and Birmingham City Council's Bike North
Birmingham project, featured an event held at the Library of
Birmingham earlier this week.</p>
<p>Among the winners were household names like Jaguar Land Rover,
Npower and Solihull's Touchwood shopping centre.</p>
<p>The awards were made after each winner took part in either
Centro's Smart Network, Smarter Choices or Birmingham City
Council's Bike North Birmingham project.</p>
<p>Conrad Jones, Centro's head of sustainability, said: "These
awards recognise those organisations who have gone the extra mile
to make it easy for their employees or students to travel by
bike.</p>
<p>"We already know that congestion is costing this region billions
of pounds each year in wasted fuel and time, so cycling can help
support the economy as well as improving people's health and
fitness."</p>
<p>Yvonne Gilligan, regional director of sustainable transport
charity Sustrans, added: "We are impressed at the commitment of key
employers who are engaged in the Bike North Birmingham workplace
programme and encourage their staff to cycle to work.</p>
<p>"As we heard from one of our successful workplaces - Goodyear
Dunlop - 'supporting cycling makes good business sense and a
healthy workforce is a happy productive one'.</p>
<p>"Sustrans is now looking forward to supporting more employers on
the journey to becoming a 'Top Cycle Location' and congratulations
to all the winners."</p>
<p>Businesses were awarded gold, silver or bronze status based on
how cycle friendly their premises are.</p>
<p>Three employers based in Solihull were given the highest
accolade available including Npower, who installed cycle parking
and changing facilities.</p>
<p>The venues in Birmingham and Solihull to receive an award
were:</p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Npower</li>
<li>Solihull Sixth Form College</li>
<li>Touchwood shopping centre</li>
<li>Aero Engine Controls</li>
<li>Lydon School</li>
<li>Environment Agency, Solihull</li>
<li>Jaguar Land Rover</li>
<li>Goodyear Dunlop</li>
<li>West Midlands Police, Sutton Coldfield</li>
<li>Fort Dunlop</li>
<li>John Taylor Hospice</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro's government funded Smart Network, Smarter Choices scheme
aims to cut carbon, boost the economy and connect residents to
jobs.</p>
<p>As part of the project employers have had bespoke travel plans
drawn up to help their staff use greener transport.</p>
<p>They have also been given support in installing facilities like
bicycle storage or showers to make it easier for those wanting to
travel by pedal power.</p>
<p>The Bike North Birmingham project works with communities,
workplaces and schools to help get people into cycling</p>
<p>Liz Clarke, MD at BikeRight! comments: "BikeRight! is thrilled
to be working in partnership with leading employers across the West
Midlands and to be instrumental in developing cycling through our
advocacy, events and training courses.</p>
<p>"Well done to these Top Cycling Locations for demonstrating that
cycling can have a positive and real benefit to businesses and
staff alike."</p>
Nearly a dozen businesses, schools and colleges named among the most bicycle friendly locations in the region.
19791
0
0
Centro,London Midland,Park and Ride,railway station
Park and Ride sites to get energy efficient lighting boost
2014-03-31T11:55:00
<p>Energy-efficient lighting will be installed at some of the
regions busiest Park and Ride sites as part of a cost-saving
project.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is installing new LED
lighting at nine of its free car parks at West Midlands railway
stations.</p>
<p>The new lighting, which will replace the existing lanterns at
each site, will use less energy and cut down on the cost of
maintenance and replacements.</p>
<p>Over the average life span of a decade, the new lights will save
over £100,000 compared to conventional energy.</p>
<p>The move follows a successful trial at Blake Street Park and
Ride in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham and will see the upgrades
rolled out from the Spring.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail, said: "This
new energy efficient lighting will not just help us to cut carbon
but will also save money for the taxpayer.</p>
<p>"These lights only need to be replaced once every 10 years which
will significantly reduce the amount of money we spend on
maintenance.</p>
<p>"Park and Ride has proved a major success in the West Midlands
so it is important that we keep looking for ways to improve the
facilities we provide for passengers."</p>
<p>Upgrades will be carried out at:</p>
<p>• Selly Oak<br />
• Tame Bridge<br />
• The Hawthorns<br />
• Whitlocks End<br />
• Blake Street<br />
• Hampton-in-Arden<br />
• Yardley Wood<br />
• Northfield<br />
• Kings Norton</p>
<p>The new lights will be able to be controlled remotely, meaning
in emergencies lanterns can be turned on without someone needing to
visit the site.</p>
<p>The brightness of the lights can also be changed reducing the
cost of energy used to light the facilities.<br />
Train operator London Midland manage the stations and run the
region's local rail services.</p>
<p>Patrick Verwer, London Midland's managing director said, "London
Midland has been recognised as one of the most energy efficient
organisations in Britain's rail industry.</p>
<p>"We take our responsibility towards sustainability seriously and
I am delighted we and Centro have been able to continue that
trend."</p>
<p>Replacing the lights will also allow Centro to fit a standard
lantern style, eliminating the need to visit multiple suppliers to
replace parts.</p>
<p>The new system will also allow warning alerts to be sent to
transport bosses so that replacements can be made before lighting
fails.</p>
<p>Centro will be looking at introducing similar upgrades at other
Park and Ride sites in the future.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997 to provide more than 7,331 free
spaces at 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops across
the region.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take around three million
journeys off the region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide
emissions by more than 6,000 tonnes.</p>
Cost saving energy-efficient lighting will be installed at nine of the region's Park and Ride sites.
14868
0
0
Centro,Wolverhampton,Cycling,Wolverhampton City Council,Network West Midlands,Walking
Wolverhampton cycle route is on the right track
2014-04-02T09:50:00
<p>Work has started on a £290,000 project to convert a disused
Black Country railway line into an off-road cycle and walking
route. </p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and Wolverhampton City Council have
teamed up to create a new stretch of cycle highway along the former
line connecting Priestfield Midland Metro stop with Wolverhampton
city centre. </p>
<p>The one kilometre route has been unused by trains for more than
40 years and the new project will see a new tarmac shared use
cycle/ footpath constructed. </p>
<p>The scheme is funded by Centro's government funded Smart
Network, Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost
the economy and connect residents to jobs. </p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "This is a really inventive way to
make use of a rail line which has been unused for more than 40
years. </p>
<p>"The route was already in place so it seemed a perfect
opportunity for us to create an off-road cycle route in this part
of Wolverhampton, which will also serve as an ideal
footpath. </p>
<p>"Cycling and walking can help cut congestion on our roads as
well as having clear benefits for both people's health and the
environment and we hope this infrastructure will contribute to all
of these things." </p>
<p>The route will help link the city centre to key residential
areas as well as Monmore Green Greyhound Stadium.</p>
<p>Councillor Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet
Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity, said: "This is an
innovative way to convert a disused area into a facility that will
benefit residents. </p>
<p>"We are committed to enhancing the whole of the city's transport
infrastructure and this certainly helps provide a boost for
cyclists." </p>
<p>Residents wishing to sharpen their skills on two wheels can also
take advantage of free cycle training and maintenance
classes. </p>
<p>More than 170 people have signed up for the courses which are
available for residents living in Walsall, Wolverhampton, Sandwell
and Dudley. </p>
Work has started on a £290,000 project to convert a disused Black Country railway line into an off-road cycle and walking route.
14520
0
0
Snow Hill,Centro,Midland Metro,tram,HS2
Public to get first glimpse of new Midland Metro trams in Birmingham
2014-03-21T13:29:00
14874
The new trams are due to come into operation in summer this year.
<p style="text-align: left;">Passengers in Birmingham can see one
of the new Midland Metro trams up close for the first time and tell
transport chiefs what they think.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 tram will at the Metro platform at Snow Hill Station
in Birmingham on Saturday April 5 as part of the Your Public
Transport Matters event.</p>
<p>The new fleet will begin running on the network in the summer
and Saturday is the first time the public will be able to step on
board and view the new tram, between 10am and 3pm.</p>
<p>The Your Public Transport Matters event will be held on the
concourse by the Metro entrance at Snow Hill between 10am and 12
noon and has been organised by Centro, the region's transport
authority. Similar events are planned for Wolverhampton and
Wednesbury but dates are still to be confirmed.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail and Metro, said:
"We always want to hear the views of the travelling public on how
well we are doing and where we need to improve, which is why we
hold these events.</p>
<p>"But this event will also be the first chance people will have
to see the new trams which are an exciting new chapter for the
Midland Metro system.</p>
<p>"I would urge them to come and have a look as, together with
improvements to our local heavy rail system, the Metro can provide
the transport connections we need to regenerate the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>The tram will be brought in to Snow Hill before the start of
normal service and is one of a £40 million eventual fleet of
20.</p>
<p><span>The trams are still undergoing testing, to be followed by
a period of driver training, before entering service on the line
between Snow Hill and Wolverhampton so will not form part of
scheduled services at Saturday's event.</span></p>
<p><span>They will eventually be deployed on the Metro extension
now being constructed through Birmingham which, when completed in
2015, will see trams return to the city's streets for the first
time in more than 60 years.</span></p>
<p>Your Public Transport Matters events take place every month at
different venues around the region and enable the travelling public
to talk directly with representatives from Network West Midlands -
the region's integrated bus, rail and tram system.</p>
<p>This includes local councillors who sit on Centro plus staff
from bus and rail operators.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local
bus and rail network.</p>
Visitors to Your Public Transport Matters at Birmingham's Snow Hill station can get their first look at the new trams.
14899
0
0
Solihull,Centro,Safer Travel,football,Pulse Academy
Safer Travel score a winner with friendly against Pulse Academy
2014-04-03T15:19:00
14879
Dan Luczak, left, Shani Plumb and Sharon Cooper (kneeling with ball) from Safer Travel with Pulse Academy captain Keenan Meddings and referee Andy Sinton.
<p style="text-align: left;">A project tackling anti-social
behavior on buses by youngsters at a football academy was cemented
with a friendly game.</p>
<p>Sadly for the Safer Travel and Centro team their efforts at
parking the bus on the pitch were unsuccessful as they succumbed
8-1 to Solihull's Pulse Football Academy.</p>
<p>The match, at West Midlands Police's Tally Ho! Ground in
Birmingham was organised by officers in the Safer Travel team and
refereed by former England, Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton
Wanderers star Andy Sinton.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel team worked with Pulse after complaints that
youths attending the academy were causing problems on the S3
route.</p>
<p>Following an undercover surveillance operation on the service
officers identified and spoke to culprits.</p>
<p>They also gave a presentation to the youngsters about behavior
on the bus network earlier this year. Since then there have been no
further issues.</p>
<p>Sgt Lee Wiggan of the Safer Travel team said: "This
football match was an excellent opportunity for the
partnership to engage with typically hard-to-reach young
people.</p>
<p>"We managed to forge links with the players at Pulse and, from a
partnership point of view, have demonstrated that not all
policing problems need to be solved by making arrests
and prosecuting people. If my aching legs recover in time, I
look forward to the return match." </p>
<p>Carl Craner of Pulse Academy said: "It is good to see that the
lads have worked on their behaviour and have maintained it when
using public transport, especially the S3 bus service that provides
them with the needed transportation to and from the academy.</p>
<p>"The game has given the group a chance to show off their skills
and highlight the positives that we have witnessed since the
initial hiccup earlier in the year."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Team is part of the Safer Travel Partnership,
made up of Centro, West Midlands Police, British Transport Police
and transport operators.</p>
<p>They work to make public transport in the West Midlands even
safer through intelligence gathering to identify areas of the
network that maybe vulnerable to crime, anti social behaviour and
nuisance behaviour.</p>
<p>The Partnership uses information gathered to engage in numerous
activities to address issues including reassurance and enforcement
patrols, work with schools and colleges as well as covert
operations.</p>
<p>The Partnership, the first of its type in the country, also has
access to around 1000 CCTV cameras which are located at Bus, Rail
and Metro stations, Park and Ride sites, Bus routes and in Bus
shelters.</p>
<p>The dedicated control centre is staffed 24 hours a day to spot
and respond to incidents.</p>
A project tackling anti-social behavior on buses by youngsters at a football academy was cemented with a friendly game.
14880
0
0
Workforce to be cut to meet budget savings
2014-04-03T16:00:00
<p>The workforce at transport authority Centro is being cut by a
quarter to help save £7 million from this year's budget. </p>
<p>Staffing numbers at the authority are being reduced further than
originally planned in order to minimise the impact on front line
services for passengers. </p>
<p>A major restructure of the workforce was voted through by
councillors at a special meeting on Monday (March 31) and will see
it shrink from a previous 364 staff to 275. </p>
<p>The authority has spent the winter exploring how best to make
the £7 million of savings. It sought the views of the public on a
range of options including the scrapping of half price fares for
children and free tram and train travel for concessionary pass
holders. </p>
<p>After listening to public feedback, Centro rejected those
options in favour of increasing the amount it would save from its
own operational and staffing costs. </p>
<p> It will cut such costs by £3 million (15 per cent) in
2014/15 - which is £1 million more than originally
planned. </p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Balancing the
budget has proved extremely difficult but our priority throughout
has been to protect passengers as far as possible. </p>
<p>"However, cushioning the effect on frontline services means the
impact on our staff will be harder. </p>
<p>"It is a tough situation we find ourselves in but one that is a
direct result of the unprecedented cuts being imposed on local
government." </p>
<p>On top of the £3 million cut in operational and staffing costs
for 2014/15, a further £4 million is being found through a
streamlining of bus station and infrastructure maintenance, changes
to subsidised bus access standards, measures to reduce financing
costs and a reduction in the Ring and Ride grant. </p>
<p>The £7 million total savings for this year means that through
on-going staffing restructures and other efficiencies, Centro will
have reduced its operational and staffing costs from £27 million in
2010 to just £15 million in 2014/15 - a cut of nearly 45 per
cent.</p>
Staffing numbers are being cut by a quarter to help save £7 million
14882
0
0
Cycling,Centro,Network West Midlands,Selly Oak,Cycle Hub,London Midland
Cycle hub scoops innovation award just weeks after opening
2014-04-04T10:00:00
<p>A state-of-the-art cycle storage facility has won a prestigious
industry award just weeks after opening to the public.</p>
<p>The cycle hub at Birmingham's Selly Oak railway station, which
was officially unveiled to the public three weeks ago (March 13),
has been named winner in the innovation category at the Chartered
Institute for Highways and Transport Awards.</p>
<p>The title was presented to transport authority Centro at a
ceremony held at the Manor Hotel in Meriden.</p>
<p>Centro designed the unique swipe card activated structure to
serve as a blueprint for hubs to be rolled out at stations across
the region.</p>
<p>The hub was funded following a successful bid from local rail
operator London Midland to the Association of Train Operating
Companies' (ATOC) Cycle-Rail fund.</p>
<p>Don O'Connor, senior project manager at Centro, said: "These new
cycle hubs will make a real difference to the way people connect
rail travel with cycling and it is great that the innovative design
has been formally recognised so soon after the first one
opened.</p>
<p>"We have already started work on installing similar facilities
at Rowley Regis, Longbridge and Stourbridge Junction so even more
passengers will be benefitting from this kind of impressive
facility."</p>
<p>The hub, which holds up to 30 bicycles and protects them from
the elements, was created from unique designs drawn up by Centro
staff.</p>
<p>It is monitored by 24 hour internal and external CCTV cameras
and fitted with two-tiered racks providing individual spaces for
bicycles.</p>
<p>The facility was formally unveiled by Transport Minister
Baroness Kramer on March 13 and is now open to the public.</p>
<p>Centro is working closely with Birmingham City Council to look
at other stations where the facilities could be installed.</p>
<p>Patrick Verwer, London Midland's managing director, said: "This
is fantastic news for all the partners involved in securing the
cycle facility. The cycle hub looks superb and makes a
practical contribution to the sustainable transport agenda.
</p>
<p>"I'm delighted to see it in frequent use, which confirms what a
valuable resource this is for rail passengers in the West
Midlands." </p>
<p>Access to the hub is available for regular cyclists using the
station who sign up to the scheme.</p>
<p>Around 50 cyclists will be able to join initially and each will
be issued with a unique swipe card providing 24-hour-access.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/cycling">www.networkwestmidlands.com/cycling</a></p>
A state-of-the-art cycle storage facility has won a prestigious industry award just weeks after opening to the public.
14770
0
0
Midland Metro,Centro,Urbos 3,CAF,Snow Hill,Birmingham,tram
New Midland Metro tram makes public debut in Birmingham
2014-04-07T11:52:00
14901
The new Urbos 3, right, alongside one of the old trams at Snow Hill station.
<p>Hundreds of commuters and transport enthusiasts have been given
their first glimpse of the new trams for the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 tram was on display on the Metro platform at Snow
Hill station in Birmingham and the result was a resounding
thumbs-up from the public.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Metro Programme Director for Centro said: "They
praised it for its roominess, extra capacity and liked touches such
as green seats indicating priority seating.</p>
<p>"The one constant question was 'When are they coming into
service'?, and we were happy to tell them that it will be in the
summer."</p>
<p>The new tram, which is one of a £40 million fleet that will
eventually be 21-strong, was at Snow Hill as part of Your Public
Transport Matters, a regular event where the public can meet Centro
representatives and give their views on the network.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 vehicle is made by CAF of Spain and is a third
bigger than the Metro's existing trams, carrying around 210
passengers compared to 156 on the current T69 model.</p>
<p>This, together with a frequency of ten trams an hour, will
increase overall capacity by 40 per cent, easing the overcrowding
that sometimes occurs during peak times as a result of the Metro's
popularity.</p>
<p>The new trams are still undergoing testing, to be followed by a
period of driver training, before entering service on the line
between Snow Hill and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>They will eventually be deployed on the Metro extension from
Snow Hill to New Street now being constructed through Birmingham
which, when completed in 2015, will see trams return to the city's
streets for the first time in more than 60 years.</p>
<p>The £128 million extension joint project by Centro, the Black
Country and Birmingham City councils, is expected to create more
than 1,300 new jobs and boost the regional economy by more than £50
million a year.</p>
<p>It is also expected to increase the number of passengers using
the Metro each year from five to eight million.</p>
<p>Work is progressing on laying the on-street tracks for the
extension which will see trams run from Snow Hill through Bull
Street, Corporation Street and Stephenson Street, terminating
outside New Street station, where a £600 million rebuild is also
due for completion next year.</p>
The public gets its first look at the new Midland Metro Urbos 3 tram as it makes its public debut in Birmingham.
14902
0
0
Safer Travel,West Midlands Police,British Transport Police,Centre,Empower,sexual harrassment
New police unit to target sexual harrassment on public transport
2014-04-04T16:03:00
<p>A new police unit has been created to tackle sexual harassment
on public transport as part of a campaign urging passengers to
report unwanted advances.</p>
<p>Project Empower sees officers from West Midlands Police's Public
Protection Unit (PPU) working as part of the Safer Travel
Partnership to fast-track enquires into complaints like sexual
touching, lewd comments and indecent exposure.</p>
<p>Working from the Birmingham HQ of transport authority Centro
they'll have access to a network of CCTV cameras covering the bus
and rail network to help them swiftly identify offenders.</p>
<p>Empower will also see public transport staff - including drivers
and conductors - trained to spot the tactics used by sex offenders,
support passengers who've been targeted and report suspicious
behaviour.</p>
<p>Recent research from Transport for London revealed that 15 per
cent of female passengers had experienced unwanted sexual behaviour
whilst using public transport in the capital - but that only one in
10 had reported the matter to police.</p>
<p>Police and transport officials suspect the picture is mirrored
in the West Midlands and hope the operation will encourage victims
to speak out.</p>
<p>Sergeant Emma Holder heads up Safer Travel's new sex offences
team. She said: "Myself and two PCs will focus solely on
investigating sex offences on our public transport network, rather
than the enquiry falling to regional teams where the offence
occurred.</p>
<p>"It means we'll be able to establish potential links between
offences, identify offence hot spots or routes for concern, and
through closer links with transport providers get hold of evidence,
like CCTV downloads, much more quickly.</p>
<p>"There is comprehensive CCTV coverage across the West Midlands
bus network - including 11,000 cameras on board buses - so
offenders run a high risk of being identified, and we'll also run
undercover operations to catch culprits."</p>
<p>There has been an increase in the number of bus passengers -
mainly young women and teenagers - reporting sexual offences on
West Midlands' buses, at bus stops or stations in recent years.</p>
<p>Since last April there have been 129 reports - predominantly
inappropriate touching - compared to 115 over the same period in
2012-13. But police believe that may well only represent a fraction
of the total number of offences being committed.</p>
<p>Reports of sexual offences on the train and tram network are
less common: 25 and three, respectively, in the last 12 months.</p>
<p>West Midlands Police Sergeant Ben Westwood from Safer Travel,
said: "We want to create an environment on the transport network
that doesn't tolerate intimidation or sexual harassment of any
nature.</p>
<p>"Project Empower focuses on increasing confidence amongst the
public to report unwanted sexual behaviour, particularly low-level
offences some passengers shrug off or deem not serious enough to
report.</p>
<p>"But it's crucial they don't ignore what's happened as the
person could continue offending, and potentially with increased
seriousness, if they believe they're getting away with it.</p>
<p>"Their information could help us stop a serial offender and
protect other passengers - so speak to a staff member or call
police."</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley from Centro - which along with West Midlands
Police, BTP, National Express and London Midland make up the Safer
Travel Partnership - added: "It's important passengers report
offences as soon as possible, ideally straight after the offence,
so police and staff can take immediate action.</p>
<p>"We care about our passengers and every journey they make: we
won't tolerate unwanted sexual behaviour of any kind so if someone
has made you feel uncomfortable please report it. The information
will help police target the perpetrator and may also prevent it
happening to someone else."</p>
<p>Passengers are urged to report sexual offences immediately via
999 so that officers can be deployed to intercept the bus and
arrest offenders - but if reporting after the event people should
call the 101 number.</p>
<p>Councillor Jess Phillips, the Birmingham Victims' Champion, has
also thrown her weight behind Project Empower.</p>
<p>She said: "It's not OK for people to feel intimidated or uneasy
whilst travelling. We need to help victims gain the confidence they
need to come forward and talk to us about their experiences so that
we can help prevent future incidents and make travelling safer,
particularly for our young people.</p>
<p>"People facing harassment especially sexual harassment whilst
they go about their lives is totally unacceptable but all too often
inappropriate behaviour is overlooked, people rarely speak up and
this can normalise the behaviour.</p>
<p>"This project is about saying it is not normal and it is not ok.
I am pleased that Safer Travel is addressing these issues and I
offer my full support."</p>
<p>An on-board and in-station marketing campaign will follow to
support Project Empower's key messages and encourage immediate
reporting of unwanted advances.</p>
Passengers are encouraged to report unwanted sexual advances on public transport.
14910
0
0
National Express,Midland Metro,tram,Passenger Focus
Thumbs up from Midland Metro users in major tram passenger survey
2014-04-08T14:37:00
14908
The current Midland Metro T69 tram, which will be replaced by the Urbos 3 this summer.
<p>A major national survey of tram passengers has recorded high
satisfaction levels amongst users of the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>The first ever Tram Passenger Survey by influential transport
watchdog Passenger Focus saw 92 per cent of people using the line
between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton give the thumbs-up
in terms of overall satisfaction.</p>
<p>This compares favourably with other recent Passenger Focus
surveys which found that 88 per cent of bus and 83 per cent of rail
passengers in the Centro area were satisfied with their
journey.</p>
<p>A total of 87 per cent of Midland Metro passengers were
satisfied with the punctuality of the service, and less than one in
ten (seven per cent) experienced some delay to their journey.</p>
<p>The Midland Metro is run by Centro, the region's transport
authority and operated by National Express UK Bus.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Metro programme director for Centro, said: "It
is great to see how highly passengers rate their experience of
using Midland Metro, particularly when we are in the middle of a
major project to expand the fleet and extend the route.</p>
<p> "Our new fleet of modern trams will make a huge difference
to passengers and hopefully give even higher satisfaction by the
time of next year's survey."</p>
<p>Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express UK Bus,
said: "It is great to see that 92 per cent of our Midland Metro
customers are satisfied with our service.</p>
<p>"However these results are not the end of the road for Metro
improvements in the West Midlands, they just prove we are on the
right track.</p>
<p>"Over the next 12 months we will be improving our service
further by extending our route and bringing £40 million of new
trams into service."</p>
<p>A new £40 million fleet of Urbos 3 trams will begin running on
the Metro from this summer.</p>
<p>They are a third bigger than the Metro's existing trams,
carrying around 210 passengers compared to 156 on the current T69
model.</p>
<p>This, together with a frequency of ten trams an hour, will
increase overall capacity by 40 per cent, easing the overcrowding
that sometimes occurs during peak times as a result of the Metro's
popularity.</p>
<p>They form part of the £128 million Metro extension from Snow
Hill to New Street now being constructed through Birmingham which,
when completed in 2015, is expected to create more than 1,300 new
jobs and boost the regional economy by more than £50 million a
year.</p>
<p>The survey questioned 566 passengers on the Metro last autumn,
part of a total of 5,250 tram passengers nationally.</p>
<p>Other areas surveyed were the Blackpool tramway, Manchester
Metrolink, Nottingham Express Transit and Sheffield Supertram.</p>
<p>Across all five networks, overall satisfaction for the tram
journey was high (90 per cent).</p>
<p>This compares favourably to the same measure on the National
Rail Passenger Survey (83 per cent) and the Bus Passenger Survey
(88 per cent).</p>
<p>David Sidebottom, Passenger Focus acting chief executive, said:
"I am delighted that we are publishing this first Tram Passenger
Survey to add to our family of passenger satisfaction surveys.</p>
<p> "This will enable operators and transport authorities to
learn from the results and identify where they might make
improvements.</p>
<p>"Passengers were asked to suggest improvements for their tram
service. This included fewer delays and cheaper tickets. These
results provide focus for our conversations with the tram operators
and authorities to guide improvements."</p>
<p>The full survey and report can be viewed at the <a
href="http://www.passengerfocus.org.uk/research/tram-passenger-survey">
Passenger Focus</a> website.</p>
A major national survey of tram passengers records high satisfaction levels amongst users of the Midland Metro.
14909
0
0
Pupils sharpen their skills on cycling assault courses
2014-04-09T12:06:00
14912
Claire Postin sustainable travel officer for Centro (middle) with Ormiston Forge Academy pupils Thomas Oliver (12) and Alicia Carter (11)
<p>Hundreds of West Midlands students have been saddling up to take
part in bicycle assault courses at their schools.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has been holding Cycle Skills Loop
sessions at nine schools in Birmingham, the Black Country and
Solihull to help youngsters improve their skills on two wheels.</p>
<p>The events have seen pupils take to their bikes to tackle ramps,
balancing beams and see-saws and expert trainers provide workshops
on how to plan a cycle journey.</p>
<p>The days form part of Centro's government funded Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy
and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Schools taking part in the sessions were:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ormiston Forge Academy - Cradley Heath</li>
<li>Shireland Collegiate Academy - Smethwick</li>
<li>Moseley Park - Bilston</li>
<li>Wood Green Academy - Wednesbury</li>
<li>The High Arcal School - Dudley</li>
<li>North Birmingham Academy - Birmingham</li>
<li>Turves Green Girls - Birmingham</li>
<li>Holy Trinity - Birmingham</li>
<li>Lyndon School - Solihull</li>
</ul>
<p>Claire Postin, sustainable travel officer at Centro, said:
"These events were not just about giving pupils the chance to have
a bit of fun on two wheels but also developing their cycling skills
and confidence.</p>
<p>"Cycling can be an important mode of travel not just for
improving people's fitness but also cutting the congestion on our
roads and this is the message we hope the students take away with
them."</p>
<p>The classes were available for secondary school children and
delivered by cycle training experts BikeRight!. </p>
<p>During the events pupils took turns to pit their wits against
the obstacles over sessions taking place throughout the day.</p>
<p>Ormiston Forge Academy in Cradley Heath were also joined by
Sandwell Council's bikeability team and given a demonstration of
how to plan the best cycle routes to their school and other popular
places.</p>
<p>Dawn Benson, Head of PE at Ormiston Forge Academy, said: "The
Cycle Skills Loop is an excellent activity to get pupils inspired
to choose more active ways to travel. </p>
<p>"We want to encourage more young people to cycle to the Academy
in future and this is a great way to boost confidence on two
wheels."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>To download photos for this story click <a
href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/centro-nwm/sets/72157644221870328/"
title="Cycle Loop Photographs">here</a></strong></p>
Hundreds of West Midlands students have been saddling up to take part in bicycle assault courses at their schools.
14913
0
0
Birmingham,Solihull,bus,National Express,West Midlands
Changes to bus services in south Birmingham and Solihull
2014-04-14T14:42:00
14922
New services and improved links are introduced in south Birmingham and Solihull.
<p style="text-align: left;">Bus users in south Birmingham and
Solihull are set to benefit from more links and new services
following a major review.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Key improvements to the network
include new links to the soon-to-open Parkgate shopping development
in Shirley and the Cofton Fields housing development on the site of
the former Rover car plant at Longbridge.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Important links are also maintained,
with Solihull and Heartlands hospitals continuing to have a direct
service from the No73, and the health centre on Showell Green Lane,
Sparkhill, having a direct link from the No2.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The review comes into effect from end
of service on Sunday April 27, and has been carried out by Centro,
the region's transport authority, bus operators and Birmingham and
Solihull councils.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Part of the review, which began last
Autumn, included a major public consultation process which saw more
than 3,300 people take part including community groups, councillors
and MPs.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Jon Hayes, Centro area manager for
Birmingham and Solihull, said: "We would like to thank everyone who
took part and helped to shape the future of the network.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"The new network aims to maintain
links to hospitals, improve reliability and punctuality and
increase the overall numbers of passengers travelling - we cannot
do that without the people who actually use the buses telling us
what they think.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"Some changes have been made where
there are low numbers of passengers travelling so that we can add
more buses into areas where there are new developments or where it
is needed to improve reliability."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Bus company National Express West
Midlands has reviewed its timetables using state of the art bus
satellite tracking data.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The data shows journey times and can
help the operator to set timetables more realistically to improve
punctuality and reliability.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">New links now run:</p>
<ul>
<li>To the Parkgate shopping development in Shirley for passengers
(No1)</li>
<li>To Five Ways and Broad Street from Gospel Oak (No1)</li>
<li>From Yardley Wood and Slade Lane to Shirley and Green Business
Park (No3)</li>
<li>From Frankley to Harborne (No29)</li>
<li>To the Cofton Fields housing development at Longbridge and
Lowhill Lane from Kings Norton and Cofton Hackett, plus a new
Sunday and evening service (No45).</li>
<li>From Woodgate, Kitwell and Bartley Green to the city centre via
Selly Oak including a new all day service for Kitwell Lane
(X64).</li>
</ul>
<p>Other areas will see more buses running:</p>
<ul>
<li>On the No5 route to improve reliability</li>
<li>Between Gospel Oak and Acocks Green (No1 and No31)</li>
<li>Between Gospel Oak and Solihull (No31)</li>
<li>Off peak on service No73 to improve reliability.</li>
<li>Between Longbridge and Cotteridge (No49).</li>
<li>On the No23A for passengers on Kitwell Lane mornings (peak) and
evenings and Sundays.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: left;">There is also a new service for
Gregory Avenue in Weoley Castle (No29A).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">There will be three exhibitions where
passengers can find out more about the changes.</p>
<p>These will take place at:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday April 24, 12pm to 6pm, Exhibition Bus, Mell Square, by
Marks and Spencer, Solihull</li>
<li>Friday April 25, 11am to 2pm, Queen Elizabeth Hospital,
Birmingham</li>
<li>Saturday April 26, 9am to 3pm, Exhibition Bus, High Street,
near Marks and Spencer, Birmingham</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: left;">Full details of the review can be
found at the <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/BusReview/BusReview2.aspx">
Network West Midlands</a> website.</p>
More links and new services are introduced in south Birmingham and Solihull following a major review.
14921
0
0
Centro,Cycling,Network West Midlands,Workwise,Jobseekers
Free travel passes and cycle support for all West Midlands jobseekers
2014-04-16T10:15:00
14926
Centro’s WorkWise team (l-r) Shanara Begum, Lateef Huthman, Bosco Mugengana, Leslie Howell and Jobeda Shahed
<p>Job seekers across the entire West Midlands can now take
advantage of free travel passes and cycling support after an award
winning project was expanded.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro's WorkWise scheme, which provides
free travel passes for the unemployed travelling to interviews or
starting new jobs, has already helped more than 13,000 people back
into work.</p>
<p>Previously only jobseekers living in designated areas qualified
for WorkWise but following its success, transport bosses have made
the scheme available for all of the region's unemployed.</p>
<p>The change means people travelling to interviews can now get
free one day travel passes and those starting new jobs can get up
to eight weeks free travel.</p>
<p>A range of cycling support is also available for new starters
with choices including a free recycled bicycle, safety accessories,
route planning or maintenance sessions.</p>
<p>The boost comes as part of Centro's government funded Smart
Network, Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, support
economic growth and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Jobeda Shahed, Centro's WorkWise team leader, said: "WorkWise
has been a real success story over the last 10 years and the fact
that we have been able to expand it is fantastic news for job
seekers.</p>
<p>"Now people searching for work right across our region will be
able to take advantage of the free travel or cycling support that
our team offers.</p>
<p>"The transition from benefits to work can be a difficult
financial change and WorkWise plays a significant role in removing
any transport barriers preventing people from finding and staying
in employment."</p>
<p>Since launching, WorkWise has gained national recognition after
picking up the transport award in the 2007 Guardian Public service
Awards.</p>
<p>The following year, the scheme helped Centro scoop the award for
Accessibility in the National Transport Awards which are regarded
as the transport industry's 'Oscars'.</p>
<p>The project has already helped more than 13,000 jobseekers back
into work since launching in 2003, including 5,400 people over the
last two years after securing funding through the Smart Network,
Smarter Choices scheme.</p>
<p>Alan Potts, Central England partnership manager for the Depart
for Work and Pensions, said: "I am proud to say that I have been
involved in the Workwise project since it started 10 years ago.</p>
<p>"I am really excited that we have been able to extend the
programme as this will increase the prospects of finding work for a
wider group of claimants.</p>
<p>"Workwise has already helped a significant number of job seekers
to overcome travel barriers whilst enabling them to widen their job
search areas."</p>
<p>For more information visit:
www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise</p>
Job seekers across the entire West Midlands can now take advantage of free travel passes and cycling support.
14933
0
0
Centro,Birmingham,London Midland,Park and Ride,Yardley Wood
Free car park at Yardley Wood station to open for rail commuters
2014-04-16T14:48:00
14932
Duncan Fry, left, of Centro and Terry OIiver of London Midland at Yardley Wood station.
<p>A new £260,000 facility offering more free car parking at a
south Birmingham railway station is to open on Good Friday.</p>
<p>The extension to the existing 'Park and Ride' site at Yardley
Wood Station has been built by transport authority Centro and will
add a further 59 spaces to the 100 already available.</p>
<p>The work has been carried out to ease overcrowding at the
existing facility which has proved so popular with commuters that
it is often full before the end of the morning rush hour.</p>
<p>With 30 per cent of all journeys into Birmingham city centre now
being made by train the extra spaces will enable a further 30,000
commuter car journeys to be taken off the roads each
year. </p>
<p>Duncan Fry, senior project manager at Centro, said: "It's fair
to say that a number of our Park and Ride facilities have become a
victim of their own success and are often full to capacity.</p>
<p>"That's why Yardley Wood is just the latest in a number of
extensions we are building to make it even easier for people to use
the train for the majority of their daily commute."</p>
<p>The new Yardley Wood facility has been built on the site of a
former petrol station in Highfield Road and features low energy
lighting, a cycle shelter, CCTV cameras and help points linked to
the Network Safety and Security Centre.</p>
<p>Terry Oliver, head of Snow Hill services at train operator
London Midland, added: "I am delighted that our partnership with
Centro has enabled us to extend the free Park and Ride facilities
at Yardley Wood station. </p>
<p>"This will be a huge benefit to both commuters and leisure
travellers who use the Snow Hill lines to connect to major towns
and cities including Birmingham, Worcester and Stratford upon
Avon."</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997 to provide more than 7,331 free
spaces at 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops across
the region.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take around three million
journeys off the region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide
emissions by more than 6,000 tonnes.</p>
A £260,000 extension to the car park at Yardley Wood railway station in Birmingham is opened.
14931
0
0
Centro pledge to help keep electric buses in Coventry
2014-04-17T12:40:00
14935
Travel De Courcey's Optare Versa EVs are used on the Park and Ride South route in Coventry.
<p style="text-align: left;">Centro has pledged it will work to
help keep electric buses in Coventry following claims they are set
to leave the city.</p>
<p>The regional transport authority for the West Midlands said it
would work with operator Travel de Courcey to find an alternative
use for them once their use on the city's Park and Ride South route
comes to an end later this month.</p>
<p>The three Optare Versa EV buses came into operation in 2012 but
the tender to operate the route has now been taken over by another
operator.</p>
<p>Reports suggested that the firm would be forced to operate the
buses in Leicester because there was no longer a use for them in
Coventry.</p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Centro area manager for Coventry, said: "There is
no substance to the idea of moving the electric vehicles that
currently run the park and ride to Leicester.</p>
<p> "Travel de Courcey is an established Coventry company and
whilst they already have a depot in Birmingham they have no plans
to leave Coventry.</p>
<p>"Centro and Coventry City Council are continuing to work with
Travel de Courcey to find alternative uses for the electric buses
in Coventry."</p>
<p>Operation of the Park and Ride South service will transfer to
Stagecoach from Sunday 27<sup>th</sup> April.</p>
<p>They will operate it by diverting their existing service X17 and
new X16 services via the park and ride car park on their way to and
from the city centre.</p>
<p>New services will run operate every 20 minutes, Monday to
Friday, from 6.10am, with the last bus from the city at 9.25pm.</p>
<p>On Saturdays the service will operate from 6.45am, last bus at
9.25pm, and on Sunday from 9.45am, last bus leaving the city at
7.30pm.</p>
Centro says it will work to help keep electric buses in Coventry following claims they are set to leave the city.
14936
0
0
Centro,London Midland,Acocks Green,CCTV,Acocks Green Station
New CCTV system identifies vandal at railway station
2014-04-23T17:00:00
<p>Thanks to the installation of a new CCTV system at Acocks Green
train station, British Transport Police and London Midland have
identified an individual who was captured on camera vandalising the
station's booking office.</p>
<p>The incident, which occurred on 2 April, was carried out by a
young person from the local area.</p>
<p>London Midland worked in conjunction with Centro and British
Transport Police to develop an evidence-based prioritisation for
installing CCTV at railway stations in the West Midlands. Acocks
Green station was identified through that process, as the booking
office had previously been blighted by criminal damage.</p>
<p>Gilbert Fraser, London Midland's head of safety said, "It is
important people understand we will take steps to identify
offenders and it's even easier for us to do that now, thanks to the
quality of the new CCTV cameras.</p>
<p>"The scale of the damage caused on this occasion was thankfully
relatively low, but that will not deter us from taking action".</p>
<p>London Midland has installed CCTV at 24 stations in the West
Midlands and has also extended the provision on board its fleet of
trains.</p>
<p>Mark Babington, head of the Safer Travel partnership, said: "We
are determined to tackle anti-social behaviour on the public
transport network and this incident is an example of that.</p>
<p>"While crime on public transport is low, passenger surveys have
found nuisance behaviour leads to an unfounded fear of it.
Vandalism also creates an unsightly environment for the travelling
public, so behaviour such as this will not be tolerated."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership, made up of Centro, West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police and operators including London
Midland, works to make public transport in the West Midlands even
safer.</p>
A new CCTV system at Acocks Green station has helped British Transport Police identify a vandal.
14956
0
0
Centro,Smart Network Smarter Choices,Network West Midlands,LSTF,PTP,Travel Plan,Personalised Travel Plan
Hundreds of Sandwell families to benefit from green scheme
2014-04-23T14:00:00
<p>Hundreds of families living along one of Sandwell's busiest
routes are set to benefit from expert personalised travel advice as
part of a carbon cutting project.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, has launched a scheme to provide
free personal travel packs for hundreds of homes along sections of
the busy No. 4 bus route as part of its Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project.</p>
<p>Over the next five months, up to 5,000 households along the
route will be visited by expert travel advisers to help those
wanting to make the switch to public transport, car-sharing,
walking or cycling.</p>
<p>The first advisers will hit the streets on May 5 in the
Blackheath and Cradley Heath areas and will draw up bespoke travel
packs in a bid to tackle congestion and help residents beat rising
petrol and parking costs.</p>
<p>The project comes on the back of more than £1 million invested
by Centro and Sandwell Council in improving traffic flow along the
route, which connects Blackheath with Walsall.</p>
<p>The work has seen more changes to junctions, bus priority
measures and crossings upgraded to provide better facilities for
pedestrians.</p>
<p>Rachel Evans, Centro's education and community team leader,
said: "Helping people to make more informed decisions about the
travel options which are available to them can have a positive
impact on their lives.</p>
<p>"We have already invested into improving infrastructure in this
area to reduce the congestion that can sometimes occur and bespoke
travel advice can support this.</p>
<p>"This route is an important one in connecting residents to key
places like West Bromwich town centre and Sandwell College and our
advisors will help tailor travel packs to suit each household's
specific needs."</p>
<p>Centro will be holding an exhibition on April 24 at Cradley
Heath High Street between 12pm and 6pm to give residents the
chance to find out more about the project.</p>
<p>In addition to tailored travel packs, the advisers will provide
support including free public transport tickets, adult cycle
training and local community guides.</p>
<p>Nick Bubalo, Sandwell's director of regeneration, said: "This
scheme is an excellent way of telling residents about the benefits
of public transport. Expert advice from Centro could not only help
residents find new and cost effective ways of travelling, but cut
congestion on major routes in Sandwell."</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="http://www.mynetwork.org.uk">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a></p>
Families living along one of Sandwell’s busiest routes are set to benefit from expert personalised travel advice.
14961
0
0
Centro,Smart Network Smarter Choices,Network West Midlands,Coventry,LSTF,PTP,Travel Plan,Foleshill,Longford
North Coventry families to benefit from free travel advice
2014-04-24T11:50:00
<p><span>Hundreds of families living along one of Coventry's
busiest routes are to benefit from expert personalised travel
advice under a carbon cutting project.</span></p>
<p><span>Transport authority Centro, has launched a scheme to
provide free tailored travel packs for hundreds of homes in the
north of the city as part of its Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project.</span></p>
<p><span>Over the next five months, up to 3,000 households in the
Foleshill and Longford areas will be visited by expert travel
advisers to help those wanting to make the switch to public
transport, car-sharing, walking or cycling.</span></p>
<p><span>The first advisers will hit the streets on May 5 and will
draw up bespoke travel packs in a bid to tackle congestion and help
residents beat rising petrol and parking costs.</span></p>
<p><span>Rachel Evans, Centro's education and community team
leader, said: "We lose billions of pounds each year as a result of
road congestion and helping people make more informed decisions
about the way they travel can help to ease this
problem. </span></p>
<p><span>"This route is an important one which helps connect
residents to key places like Coventry city centre and Arena Parkand
our advisors will tailor journey plans to suit each household's
specific needs."</span></p>
<p><span>Centro will be holding an exhibition on April 27 at Arena
ParkLibrary from 10am - 4pm to give residents the chance to find
out more about the project.</span></p>
<p><span>Smart Network, Smarter Choices has also seen Centro and
Coventry City Council team up to provide the Cycle Coventry project
to help connect residents to jobs, education and training by
creating new cycle routes and providing free cycle
training.</span></p>
<p><span>As part of the scheme, residents in the Foleshill will be
able to take advantage of free cycle training sessions in Foleshill
from the start of May.</span></p>
<p><span>Richard Smith, Coventry City Council's smarter choices
coordinator, said: "Cycle Coventry is pleased to be supporting
the personal travel planning project<span>.</span></span></p>
<p><span>"</span><span>This is a great opportunity for residents to
get advice on planning local journeys by bike and taking advantage
of the support on offer.<span> </span></span></p>
<p><span>"We're making it even easier by putting on extra cycle
training sessions for children and adults in Foleshill. We're
also running Sky Ride Local guided rides at Longford
Park, Moat House and Joseph Cash School.<em>"</em></span></p>
<p><span>In addition to tailored travel plans, the advisers will
provide support including free public transport tickets, adult
cycle training and local community guides.</span></p>
<p><span>For more information visit:</span> <a
href="http://www.mynetwork.org.uk"><span>www.mynetwork.org.uk</span></a>
<span>or <a
href="http://www.coventry.gov.uk/cycling"><span>www.coventry.gov.uk/cycling</span></a></span></p>
Hundreds of families living in north Coventry are to benefit from expert personalised travel advice.
14963
0
0
Centro,Park and Ride
Centro to crackdown on bad parking at Park and Ride stations
2014-04-25T11:56:00
14965
An example of the bad parking affecting Park and Ride stations across the West Midlands.
<p>Transport bosses are to crackdown on bad parking by commuters at
railway stations across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is making the move
following increasing complaints from other motorists using the
successful Park and Ride scheme.</p>
<p>On one occasion at Cradley Heath 170 cars were blocked in for
three hours as a result of a line of vehicles parked outside of
marked bays.</p>
<p>On another occasion 80 correctly-parked vehicles were blocked in
by just one car.</p>
<p>Similar problems have occurred at car parks in Rowley Regis,
Coseley, Wolverhampton Priestfield, Wednesbury Parkway, Selly Oak
and Northfield in Birmingham, and Whitlock's End near Shirley.</p>
<p>In 2013 there were 80 recorded complaints, and in a two month
monitoring scheme in January and February this year Centro received
20 complaints.</p>
<p>A car park management company could now be introduced at Park
and Ride sites by the summer if the Integrated Transport Authority
gives its approval at a meeting on April 28.</p>
<p>Offending vehicles would be issued penalty tickets but clamping
is not being considered.</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Centro director of customer experience, said the
Park and Ride scheme, which offers free parking for rail users, was
a victim of its own success with many sites being full by 8am.</p>
<p>"We are having to do this because unfortunately it has become
increasingly common for users unable to find a space to just park
where they can, and this has to stop," he said.</p>
<p>"People have been parking on double yellow lines, footpaths and
disabled parking bay spaces - sometimes even before designated
spaces are full just because it is less far to walk to the station
- and in many cases this has caused others to be blocked in.</p>
<p>"As well as inconvenience to other motorists these incorrectly
parked cars are also a risk to public safety, with pedestrians
often forced to leave the pavement, and preventing access to the
emergency services plus railway maintenance vehicles."</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997.</p>
<p>It has more than 7,000 spaces at 54 sites serving 40 railway
stations and four Midland Metro tram stops across the region,
taking around three million journeys off the region's roads each
year, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 6,000
tonnes.</p>
<p>A further 850 additional spaces will become available throughout
2014 at six sites - Longbridge, Yardley Wood, Rowley Regis,
Stourbridge Junction, Four Oaks and Kings Norton.</p>
<p>Mr Rhodes said: "Park and Ride has been a real success story for
Centro since its introduction and we are delighted it continues to
prove so popular.</p>
<p>"But we would urge motorists who use it to plan their journeys
accordingly and get to their nearest station on time to be sure of
getting a space."</p>
Transport bosses are to crackdown on bad parking by commuters at railway stations across the West Midlands.
14966
0
0
Solihull,west midlands,Centro,bus,National Express,Birmingham
Changes to bus services in south Birmingham and Solihull
2014-04-25T10:51:00
<p>Bus users in south Birmingham and Solihull are reminded of
changes to services coming into effect this weekend.</p>
<p>They start from end of service on Sunday April 27 following a
review by Centro, the region's transport authority, bus operators
and Birmingham and Solihull councils.</p>
<p>Key improvements to the network include new links to the
soon-to-open Parkgate shopping development in Shirley and the
Cofton Fields housing development on the site of the former Rover
car plant at Longbridge.</p>
<p>Important links are also maintained, with Solihull and
Heartlands hospitals continuing to have a direct service from the
No73, and the health centre on Showell Green Lane, Sparkhill,
having a direct link from the No2.</p>
<p>New links now run:</p>
<p>• To
the Parkgate shopping development in Shirley for passengers
(No1)</p>
<p>• To
Five Ways and Broad Street from Gospel Oak (No1)</p>
<p>•
From Yardley Wood and Slade Lane to Shirley and Green Business Park
(No3)</p>
<p>•
From Frankley to Harborne (No29)</p>
<p>• To
the Cofton Fields housing development at Longbridge and Lowhill
Lane from Kings Norton and Cofton Hackett, plus a new Sunday and
evening service (No45).</p>
<p>•
From Woodgate, Kitwell and Bartley Green to the city centre via
Selly Oak including a new all day service for Kitwell Lane
(X64).</p>
<p>Other areas will see more buses running:</p>
<p>• On
the No5 route to improve reliability</p>
<p>•
Between Gospel Oak and Acocks Green (No1 and No31)</p>
<p>•
Between Gospel Oak and Solihull (No31)</p>
<p>•
Off peak on service No73 to improve reliability.</p>
<p>•
Between Longbridge and Cotteridge (No49).</p>
<p>• On
the No23A for passengers on Kitwell Lane mornings (peak) and
evenings and Sundays.</p>
<p>There is also a new service for Gregory Avenue in Weoley Castle
(No29A).</p>
<p>Full details of the review can be found at the <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/BusReview/BusReview2.aspx">
Network West Midlands</a> website.</p>
Bus users in south Birmingham and Solihull are reminded of changes to services coming into effect this weekend.
14968
0
0
Centro,HS2,high speed rail,Birmingham City Council,GBSLEP,Greater Birmingham Chambers,NEC,Birmingham Airport,Birmingham Business
HS2 vote puts region in line for multi-billion pound boost
2014-04-29T13:20:00
<p>A multi-billion pound shot-in-the-arm for the West Midlands
economy was a major step closer today after MPs voted
overwhelmingly in favour of the HS2 high speed rail project.</p>
<p>Last night's Commons vote on the High Speed Rail (London - West
Midlands Bill) has been hailed by the region's public and private
sector leaders as an emphatic endorsement of the project's ability
to help rebalance the UK economy and provide badly needed rail
capacity.</p>
<p>Go-HS2, a pro-high speed rail consortium in the West Midlands,
said the size of the majority in favour - 452 to 41 - showed how
the significant benefits of HS2 were widely recognised and
understood.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, Chairman of transport authority Centro,
said: "The West Midlands alone can secure a £4 billion a year
economic boost and more than 50,000 new jobs.</p>
<p>"Last night's vote brings HS2 a significant step closer but we
now need to press on as a region and put in place the
infrastructure we need locally to realise and maximise those
benefits."</p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, Greater Birmingham Chambers Chief Executive,
added: "HS2 has real potential to both solve the impending capacity
problem on our existing rail network and provide an enormous boost
to regeneration throughout the region.</p>
<p>"When we survey our members on HS2, the Chamber consistently
finds that an overwhelming number of businesses believe the project
will have a positive economic impact on the region."</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, also
welcomed the vote.</p>
<p>"We have passed a major milestone and can now look forward to
getting the project started as soon as possible," he said.</p>
<p>"It is particularly good to see the cross-party support for the
project, with only 41 MPs voting against and 452 in favour. The
argument for the scheme is now won and I hope that the remaining
stages of legislation can be taken forward quickly."</p>
<p>In the main second reading vote on the bill, MPs voted to back
the principle of the £50 billion HS2 project.</p>
<p>The bill would authorise the first phase of the project linking
the West Midlands with London with work due to start in 2017.</p>
<p>A separate bill will be brought in later by the Government to
allow the second phase - north of Birmingham to Leeds and
Manchester - to go ahead.</p>
<p>Andrew Cleaves, Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise
Partnership Board Director with responsibility for transport, said:
"Our recently submitted Strategic Economic Plan detailed to
Government how we intend to maximise and enhance the opportunities
of having two HS2 stations and being at the heart of the
network.</p>
<p>"This includes our ambitions to be the base for the proposed HS2
College, becoming a world-leader for high speed rail
technologies.</p>
<p>"Quite simply, we will work to provide the best economic outcome
for Greater Birmingham."</p>
<p>Paul Thandi, CEO, NEC Group, added; 'This vote is excellent news
as the economic benefits of HS2 will be felt not just in this
region, but across the whole of the country.</p>
<p>"I therefore maintain that it is imperative that a project as
important as this be delivered sooner rather than later so that
these economic benefits can be realised."</p>
<p>Go-HS2 includes Centro, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham
Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham Airport, the NEC Group, the Greater
Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, Birmingham
Future and Business Birmingham.</p>
Public and private sector leaders welcome MPs decision on high speed rail
14976
0
0
Centro,bus,National Express,Network West Midlands,National Express West Midlands,Catch the bus week
Passengers urged to take part in Catch the Bus Week
2014-04-30T12:00:00
<p>Transport bosses are urging residents to take advantage of major
investment into the network during a national campaign to boost bus
travel.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and bus operators across the region,
including National Express West Midlands, are backing Catch the Bus
Week (April 28 - May 4), which aims to cut carbon and boost
economic growth by reducing congestion on our streets.</p>
<p>The campaign, organised by bus and coach advocates Greener
Journeys, asks people to switch to the bus from other forms of
travel during the week.</p>
<p>Passengers interested in taking part are being reminded of
millions of pounds which has been spent on improving the bus
network over the last four years.</p>
<p>The investment has already seen new buses hit the streets -
including the region's first hybrid models, on bus cleaners
introduced on key services and upgrades in real time
information.</p>
<p>A further £81 million is already being invested under a
partnership deal between Centro and National Express West Midlands
which will see a range of improvements including 300 new buses and
350 new shelters introduced.</p>
<p>Pete Bond, Centro's head of transforming bus travel, said: "This
week is all about getting people out and about and making use of
the really comprehensive bus network we are lucky to have here in
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"Over the last four years we have secured more than £100 million
of investment into our region's bus network so it really is the
perfect time for passengers or people who don't normally use the
bus to get on board."</p>
<p>The latest partnership between Centro and National Express West
Midlands, which operates more than 75 per cent of the region's
buses, was signed in summer 2013.</p>
<p>Further benefits under the scheme include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ten new gold bus corridors. Benefitting from new buses, real
time information and increased bus priority</li>
<li>Swift smartcard ticketing</li>
<li>New shelters and information provision for Wolverhampton and
Coventry city centres</li>
<li>Expansion of the successful on-bus cleaning scheme</li>
<li>More bus priority to make journeys across the region
quicker</li>
<li>More 'talking buses' featuring audio visual equipment informing
passengers of their next stop</li>
</ul>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands, said: "Travelling to work, school or college is good
value, safe and quick. Many of our services get in to city
centres as quickly as private car journeys, cost less and drop you
right outside your destination. </p>
<p>"We urge people to make a change this week and catch the bus to
see how much money and time they save."</p>
<p>Pete Bond added: "If everyone replaced one car journey a month
with a trip on the bus we'd have a billion fewer car journeys each
year.</p>
<p>"Congestion is a problem which costs us billions of pounds each
year and that small change could have a big impact on our
economy."</p>
<p>Satisfaction amongst users of bus services in the West Midlands
was recently scored at 86 per cent in an independent survey by
national bus watchdog Passenger Focus.</p>
Transport bosses are urging residents to take advantage of major investment during a national campaign to boost bus travel.
14978
0
0
west midlands,Centro,bus,National Express,Nigeria
Centro welcomes visitors from Nigerian bus industry
2014-04-29T00:00:00
14985
The Nigerian delegation with officers during the visit to Centro House.
<p>Centro hosted a VIP delegation out of Africa and in the UK as
part of a study into the British way of doing things.</p>
<p>The group from Nigeria was here studying the British bus
industry as a model for developing a national strategy for their
country.</p>
<p>Centro officers gave presentations on ticketing, the
Transforming Bus Travel initiative with operator National Express
West Midlands (NXWM), and the UK bus market in general plus a tour
of the control centre and Birmingham city centre
infrastructure.</p>
<p>NXWM provided a bus and a visit to their Bordesley depot in
Birmingham for a tour of their control centre and also gave a
presentation about its partnership with Centro.</p>
<p>Nigeria, one of the biggest and wealthiest countries in Africa,
urgently needs to develop its network for it to keep pace with
economic growth.</p>
<p>It has a population of 160 million people and while the Bus
Rapid Transit system in the capital Lagos is well known it only
operates on four corridors in a city with a population of 19
million.</p>
<p>Dr Aminu Yusuf, Director General of the Nigerian Institute of
Transport and Technology, said that in Lagos many stops at peak
times can see more than 1,000 people waiting for buses to turn
up.</p>
<p>"At the moment we simply don't have the capacity to meet demand
as more people have jobs and need to travel on a daily basis, but
the bus market has remained fragmented with limited coordination,
intervention and investment," he said.</p>
<p>"The UK is one of the best places in the world for us to
learn."</p>
<p>The group had already visited TfL in London and the Intelligent
Transport Solutions conference earlier in the week, and came to
Centro as part of a seven day UK tour.</p>
<p>Pete Bond, head of Transforming Bus Travel at Centro, said:
"Feedback from the trip has been excellent, with the control
centres here at Centro House and National Express being described
as amazing.</p>
<p>"The group intends to keep in touch with Centro and National
Express as their ideas for policy develop.</p>
<p>"The organisers have already told us they would like others from
the Nigerian bus market to see the West Midlands and the level of
customer focus given by the bus sector."</p>
Centro hosted a VIP delegation out of Africa and in the UK as part of a study into the British way of doing things.
14986
0
0
Centro,Network West Midlands,London Midland,Cross City line,train,rail performance
Cross City rail performance on the up
2014-05-12T13:51:00
<p>Passengers using the region's busiest local rail route have
just seen the highest level of performance for more than 12
months.</p>
<p>The latest four week performance figures for the Cross City
service show that 89.9 per cent of trains arrived within five
minutes of their advertised time. </p>
<p>The service, which is run by operator London Midland between
Redditch, Birmingham New Street, and on to Lichfield, carries more
than 32,000 passenger journeys a day with six trains an hour
passing through the centre of Birmingham in each direction.</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Director of Customer Experience at transport
authority Centro, said: "This is good news for the thousands of
passengers using this vital route each day.</p>
<p>"It is a reflection of the work London Midland has done to
improve punctuality and the challenge now is to build on this and
drive up performance still further."</p>
<p>Mark Goodall, London Midland's head of Cross City Services
added," I am delighted that the measures we have put in place to
drive performance and reliability are beginning to have an
impact. </p>
<p>"London Midland has invested heavily in modifying and
maintaining its fleet of trains which operate on the route, and
this has without doubt contributed to the upturn we have seen.</p>
<p>"We will continue to scrutinise all areas of operational
activity and remain committed to improving the overall journey
experience for Cross City passengers."</p>
<p>Mr Goodall said the time and expenditure that Network Rail had
committed to improving signalling and point equipment at New Street
station had also paid dividends. </p>
<p>Cross City commuters travelling into Birmingham from Redditch,
Alvechurch and Barnt Green will see further improvements at the end
of the year when the service increases from two to three trains per
hour. The planned programme of work, part of a £24 million
improvement scheme, will see additional rails installed alongside
the existing single track, creating a more flexible
infrastructure.</p>
Passengers on the region's busiest local rail route see best punctuality in 12 months
15328
0
0
Groundbreaking step brings public transport information to Google
2014-05-14T09:45:00
15334
Google Maps plotting public transport routes from the Ricoh Arena to Coventry railway station
<p>A groundbreaking step in public transport information across the
country means passengers in the West Midlands and beyond can
now plan their journeys using Google Maps.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has made information
on buses, trains and trams available to Google, meaning passengers
can now use its website or Smartphone applications to plot their
trips.</p>
<p>Previously Google Maps only provided walking and driving
directions for the West Midlands, but people are now able to use it
to choose public transport as their preferred form of travel.</p>
<p>Centro joins other authorities across the country in taking the
step, which means the whole of Great Britain's public transport
network is now mapped by Google.</p>
<p>The planner shows the route between two places or postcodes
using bus, train or tram and allows users to schedule the preferred
time and date of their journey.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "Many people already
use Google Maps to plan their journeys by car or on foot but being
able to include public transport information is a major step
forward for us.</p>
<p>"Our mobile phone apps have already proven extremely popular
with passengers but this means people coming into the West Midlands
for the first time can find out how to get to their destination
without having the expense of paying for a taxi.</p>
<p>"Now people travelling in and out of our region can easily and
efficiently connect their journeys with the rest of the
country."</p>
<p>The planner allows users to select if they want to travel on
bus, train or tram or choose from all forms of public transport
available.</p>
<p>Once a journey is planned details are also given on which
transport operator will provide the service meaning passengers know
which operator to expect.</p>
<p>David Tattersall, Product Manager for Public Transport in Google
Maps, said: "Today every available train, bus, tube, tram and
ferry in Great Britain are joined up by Google Maps to make a
comprehensive one-stop-shop for public transport.</p>
<p>"Centro has played a key role in making that happen so that
anyone can make any journey across the country using their mobile
devices."</p>
<p>Those using the mobile app are provided with a Google Maps
street view once they arrive at their destination to help
familiarise themselves with the area.</p>
<p>Real time information details will be added to Google as part of
future developments over the coming year. </p>
Passengers travelling in the West Midlands and beyond can now plan their journeys on Google Maps.
15335
0
0
Centro,HS2,high speed rail,Birmingham City Council,Birmingham Airport,National Exhibition Centre,Birmingham Chamber of Commerce,Birmingham Curzon,Curzon Masterplan,Metro tram
Petitions seek maximum benefits from HS2
2014-05-16T10:27:00
<p>Key public and private sector organisations have today (Friday
May 16) formally submitted petitions to the HS2 Bill in a bid to
win an even better deal for the West Midlands. </p>
<p>Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Airport, the National
Exhibition Centre, transport authority Centro and other key
regional stakeholders have submitted petitions while remaining
staunch supporters of the high speed rail project. </p>
<p>They believe the Bill can go further in ensuring the region wins
the maximum benefits possible both for passengers and the local
economy. </p>
<p>Independent research has found that the West Midlands can secure
a £4 billion a year economic boost and more than 50,000 new jobs by
making sure the region's two high speed rail stations are well
connected to existing transport links and good use is made of the
additional rail capacity released by HS2. </p>
<p>The organisations have now used the petition process, which is
agreed Parliamentary procedure, to formally ask for the Bill to be
amended to reflect the full potential benefits of the project and
the measures needed to achieve them. </p>
<p>These include the need for high quality interchange facilities
between the region's existing rail stations and the two HS2
stations - one in Birmingham city centre (Birmingham Curzon) and
one on land close to the airport/NEC site (HS2
Interchange). </p>
<p>Speaking on behalf of the petitioners, Sir Albert Bore, leader
of Birmingham City Council and Chairman of the West Midlands HS2
Strategic Board, said: "HS2 can play a key role in securing the
future economic prosperity of the West Midlands and we back the
project 100 per cent. </p>
<p>"However, if we are to secure the maximum benefits possible from
HS2 we need to make sure the project's design best meets the needs
of our region. </p>
<p>"Submitting these petitions does not weaken our support for HS2,
it's simply accepted practice to enable us to formally seek those
changes to the Bill that are important to the West
Midlands." </p>
<p>Among the assurances being sought by the petitions is the need
for imaginative and high quality designs for the two HS2 stations
and their close integration with the Curzon and UK Central
masterplans - blueprints for the regeneration and development of
land surrounding the stations. </p>
<p>Birmingham City Council and Centro are also seeking provision
for a future link between HS2 and the existing HS1 high speed line
to the Channel Tunnel. </p>
<p>This would enable direct services between the West Midlands and
Europe without the need to change between London's Euston and St
Pancras stations. </p>
<p>Also highlighted in the petitions is the need to fully plug HS2
into the local transport network by way of a common concourse
between the Curzon and Moor Street Stations, a tram extension to
Curzon and an improved alignment of the proposed people-mover
linking the HS2 Interchange with the airport, NEC and Birmingham
International rail station. </p>
<p>Other assurances being sought include better mitigation measures
during proposed improvement works to the M42 Junction 6 and
provision to maximise employment at the proposed HS2 depot facility
at Washwood Heath.</p>
<p> </p>
Key organisations have petitioned the HS2 Bill in a bid to win an even better deal for the West Midlands
15337
0
0
Centro,Safer Travel,British Transport Police,railway,trespass
Safer Travel plea to parents over railway track trespass by youngsters
2014-05-22T22:00:00
<p>Children as young as four or five have been seen trespassing on
railway lines, say police.</p>
<p>With the school half term next week (May 26-30) and the summer
holidays looming officers from the Safer Travel Partnership are
urging parents to warn their children of the dangers of train
tracks and to keep tabs on their whereabouts.</p>
<p>It comes as figures show that April to August sees a peak in
incidents such as trespass on lines, criminal damage and
anti-social behaviour near stations.</p>
<p>Inspector Lee Gordon of the Partnership's Safer Travel Team
said: "The question we would like parents to ask themselves is 'Do
I know where my children are?'.</p>
<p>"Sometimes young people can be drawn into messing about on or
near railway lines but they need to understand the dangers and
consequences of doing so and parents have an important role to play
in that."</p>
<p>Insp Gordon said the report of the four or five-year-olds on the
track was on May 5 when they were seen by train staff on the
Birmingham-Stratford line at Olton, near Solihull. The youngsters
were never traced.</p>
<p>In another incident, between Aston signal box and Proof House
Junction in Vauxhall, Birmingham, on May 21, a train driver saw a
boy and a girl aged around eight at the side of the line who had
had climbed a tree over a fence to retrieve a ball.</p>
<p>Other incidents include youths standing on the edge of the
parapet of Stockfield Road bridge over the line in Tyseley,
Birmingham, on April 28, and stones being thrown at trains.</p>
<p>In one such incident, at Small Heath in Birmingham on April 16,
the driver of a train was unable to continue after his
windscreen was hit by a stone. Passengers had to evacuate the
train, bringing the line to a standstill.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said: "Safer
Travel officers work with schools and youth organisations to
educate young people about the dangers of such behaviour.</p>
<p>"What can seem like a bit of fun or messing about can have
potentially fatal consequences either for them or someone else.</p>
<p>"With the school holidays getting closer our message to anyone
thinking about playing around on or near railway lines is
'Don't'."</p>
<p>Terry Oliver, London Midland's head of Snow Hill services, said:
"The Safer Travel Partnership team is doing an excellent job
educating youngsters about the dangers of playing on the
railway. </p>
<p>"We run hundreds of services every day throughout the West
Midlands carrying thousands of passengers. </p>
<p>"For the safety of our customers, employees and the public, I
urge parents to keep a close check on their children's whereabouts
and reinforce the message that the railway is not a play area."</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership comprises Centro, the region's
transport authority, British Transport Police, West Midlands
Police, London Midland, and National Express West Midlands working
together to make public transport in the West Midlands even
safer.</p>
Parents are urged to keep tabs as children as young as four are seen playing by railway lines.
17213
0
0
Centro,Network West Midlands,London Midland,ticket machine,University of Birmingham,train tickets,University Station
Rail investment is just the ticket for University of Birmingham
2014-05-29T14:24:00
15474
2 (l-r) Student Trinidad Donoso, aged 22, Cllr Roger Horton of Centro, student Lauren Bersie, 20, James Elliot of London Midland and Caroline Radnor of University of Birmingham
<p>An unusual decision to install a train ticket machine more than
a third of mile from the nearest station is proving a big hit with
thousands of University of Birmingham students. </p>
<p>More than 3,000 tickets have been issued since the machine was
installed at the beginning of March on the University's campus in
Edgbaston. </p>
<p>Train operator London Midland and transport authority Centro
decided to locate it on campus to ease pressure on the ticket
office and two automatic machines at the nearby University
Station. </p>
<p>The station is one of the busiest on the local network with 2.6
million passengers using it each year - more than the number who
use Crewe station. </p>
<p>As a result, long queues could often build up at the ticket
office and machines during peak times. </p>
<p>Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, Cllr Roger Horton,
said: "This is the only machine in the West Midlands that is not
located at a rail station but installing it on the campus is
already proving a smart move. </p>
<p>"It means students, lecturers, staff and visitors can buy a
ticket or pick up pre-paid tickets at their leisure. It's another
example of how we are working to make train travel even more
convenient and attractive." </p>
<p>The new campus machine, which is located near to Cafe Go and the
Spa supermarket in the University Centre building, is one of eight
that have recently been installed by London Midland and Centro at
Four Oaks, Redditch, Bournville, Northfield, Selly Oak, Bloxwich
and Rugeley Town stations. </p>
<p>London Midland's Customer Service Manager, James Elliot, said:
"We're committed to improving the overall journey experience for
our passengers and making it easier to buy a ticket is part of that
process. </p>
<p>"We listened to our customers and through effective partnership
working with Centro and the University of Birmingham have delivered
an innovative solution which makes travelling by train even
easier." </p>
<p>Caroline Radnor, University of Birmingham's Sustainable Travel
Coordinator, added: "This is a great asset to the university and
will save staff and students a lot of time queuing at the station.
It's made buying tickets far easier and we've had a lot of positive
feedback and thanks as a result." </p>
<p>London Midland and Centro are spending more than £400,000 on
ticket machines this year with five more due to go in at Rowley
Regis, Bloxwich North, Landywood, Alvechurch and Stourbridge
Junction. </p>
<p>That will see ticket buying facilities at every station on the
Birmingham - Walsall - Rugeley line and Cross City line.</p>
Campus ticket machine proves a convenient hit with students, staff and visitors.
15475
0
0
Centro,markets,Birmingham,Kath Hartley,West Midlands Special Needs Transport,WMSNT,Des Rogers
Discount bus fare to Birmingham markets makes shopping child's play
2014-06-03T16:17:00
15489
Cllr Kath Hartley, left, and Des Rogers of WMSNT launch the discounted ticket scheme to Birmingham markets on the 10H bus.
<p style="text-align: left;">Shoppers in Birmingham's historic
outdoor market can take a bite out of their travel costs with a
discounted bus ticket scheme.</p>
<p>Every Saturday in June passengers using the 10H service will
only have to pay a child's off peak fare of 60p instead of the
usual £2.10, a saving of £1.50 or £3.00 for a round trip.</p>
<p>The deal has been launched by operator West Midlands Special
Needs Travel (WMSNT) following talks with transport authority
Centro.</p>
<p>The 10H runs from Ridgeacre Road in Quinton to the markets via
Harborne.</p>
<p>WMSNT recently extended the route from its former stopping place
by Birmingham Town Hall to cover Colmore Row via the markets and
Smallbrook Queensway following feedback to Centro from
passengers.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro, said: "People told us
they wanted the service to run direct to the markets and we
listened to what they said.</p>
<p>"Hopefully this will now encourage passengers who have not been
to the markets or the Bull Ring for several years to go again in
future."</p>
<p>WMSNT is a community not-for-profit bus service operator that
also operates the very popular Ring and Ride service.</p>
<p>The 10H is operated by WMSNT as a community bus route, which is
a non-commercial yet socially necessary service.</p>
<p>Des Rogers, operations manager for WMSNT, said: "We know many
people living on the south of the city and in Ladywood find it
difficult to access public transport to the markets area so we
decided to give it a go.</p>
<p>"Saturday is a day when parents and their children may wish to
visit the city but have until now felt it would be too expensive,
so by dropping the fare in such a big way we hope to show them what
they are missing.</p>
<p>"Two adults and two children will throughout June on Saturday
travel there and back for a total of £4.80, a day out at a fraction
of the normal fare of £12.60 for the same family group."</p>
<p>For more details about services and timetables go to <a
href="http://www.wmsntbusservices.org/">www.wmsntbusservices.org</a>
or <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
Shoppers in Birmingham’s historic outdoor market can take a bite out of their travel costs with a discounted bus ticket scheme.
15490
0
0
Centro,Network West Midlands,London Midland,Dudley Port,rail stations
'Tired' Black Country rail station gets £40k revamp
2014-06-04T10:18:00
<p>A Black Country rail station once considered one of the least
attractive for passengers anywhere in the region has been given a
fresh new look.</p>
<p>More than £40,000 has been spent refurbishing the station's
shabby subway and tired-looking waiting shelters as part of joint
project by transport authority Centro and train operator London
Midland.</p>
<p>The work, carried out under the Transforming Rail Travel
partnership, has also seen new and brighter lighting installed and
overgrown vegetation cut back along the path between the new park
and ride facility and the station itself.</p>
<p>Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, Cllr Roger Horton,
said: "Dudley Port was one of the worst in the region in terms of
visual appearance and passenger facilities.</p>
<p>"Yet for a relatively small amount of money we have been able to
make it cleaner, brighter and more comfortable, creating the sort
of environment that can encourage more people to use public
transport."</p>
<p>The facelift has also tackled the waiting shelters' old and
'foggy' polycarbonate windows, which suffered from graffiti and
etchings. </p>
<p>These have been replaced with innovative mesh-style panels that
are less vulnerable to vandalism and easier to see through.</p>
<p>David Whitley, head of regional services at London Midland,
added; "We believe the run down appearance of the station
contributed towards some passengers feeling unsafe.</p>
<p>"It may also have had a 'broken-window' effect, where one piece
of graffiti or window etching can lead to further and more serious
vandalism.</p>
<p>"The work we have carried out will help passengers feel safer
and more comfortable and is another good example of how Centro and
London Midland are working together for the benefit of rail
users."</p>
Passengers benefit from a fresh new look for Dudley Port's shelters and subway.
15494
0
0
Birmingham and Solihull route gets Real Time Information boost
2014-06-05T17:00:00
<p>Passengers along a busy route linking Birmingham with Solihull
are benefitting from new up-to-the-minute information on bus
arrivals.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is installing 25 Real
Time Information screens at bus stops along the Warwick Road.</p>
<p>The first of the screens, which display a countdown to when the
next bus will arrive, have been installed in the Acocks Green area
with more set to be added in Olton and Solihull.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Real Time Information is
something we know our passengers want and being able to put these
new screens in place will really help bus users along this
route.</p>
<p>"Along with our smartphone applications the addition of this
information at bus stops gives people even more ways to stay
up-to-date on their bus arrivals."</p>
<p>The change comes as a boost for passengers using the popular 37
bus route which connects Birmingham city centre with Solihull town
centre.</p>
<p>Each unit has a high quality 28 inch colour TFT display, an
upgrade on the LCD screens formerly used for real time
information.</p>
<p>Screens are also able to display key information, to update
passengers on forthcoming changes to the bus network.</p>
<p>The roll-out is the first in a wider project which will see
nearly 100 further displays introduced in the Black Country over
the next few months.</p>
<p>The work forms part of Centro's government funded Smart Network,
Smarter Choices project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy
and connect residents to jobs.</p>
Passengers along the busy Warwick Road are benefitting from new up-to-the-minute information on bus arrivals.
15500
0
0
European transport chiefs discuss links to i54
2014-05-19T13:22:00
<p>Transport chiefs from across Europe have gathered to see plans
which will link passengers to one of the Black Country's biggest
future employment sites.</p>
<p>Bosses from Centro, the region's transport authority, were
joined by counterparts from across the continent to look at how
public transport will be used to connect the region's workers and
jobseekers with the i54 South Staffordshire.</p>
<p>Centro were visited by representatives from as far as Germany
and Lithuania to see how transport services and infrastructure have
been put in place to serve the venue.<br />
<br />
Representatives also shared how transport infrastructure was put
in place to prepare for the opening of similar large scale business
sites in Europe.<br />
<br />
The £67 million i54 is expected to create up to 6,000 jobs by
2020, with car manufacturing giants Jaguar Land Rover and aerospace
company Moog among those who have already taken up residence at the
226 acre site.<br />
<br />
Visitors were told how fast new bus links had been launched
earlier this year and, where possible, had been tailored to fit in
with shift patterns at the venue.<br />
<br />
They were also shown how £1.4 million will be spent by Centro and
Wolverhampton City Council on upgrading the A449 Stafford Road
nearby.<br />
<br />
The upgrade will see the introduction of new bus shelters, real
time information, additional cycling infrastructure, a refurbished
Park and Ride site and bus priority measures at traffic
junctions.<br />
<br />
Rafael Cuesta, Centro's head of strategic development, said: "Once
open, the i54 will house thousands of workers from our region so it
is important that we ensure the site has the best possible
transport links in place.<br />
<br />
"We have already seen new bus services introduced and improvements
along the Stafford Road will also be made in preparation for the
opening of the site.<br />
<br />
"This was a great opportunity for us to discuss with others how we
can maximise transport connections to a venue that will have a
major impact on jobs and economic growth in our region."<br />
<br />
The event was attended by 40 delegates from five countries to
discuss transport plans already in place and visit the i54 to see
how work is progressing on the 235,0002 metre site.<br />
<br />
The visit forms part of the INVOLVE project which sees transport
representatives from across Europe share ideas on improving
connections and infrastructure in key locations.<br />
<br />
Improved bus services to the venue were launched in January and
bosses are working with the i54 Enterprise Zone Travel Plan
Steering Group to make sure even more public transport, walking and
cycling connections are in place ahead of the opening.<br />
<br />
The event is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund
and made possible by the INTERREG North-West Europe (NWE) Programme
of the European Union.</p>
Bosses from the continent shown plans which will link passengers to one of the Black Country’s biggest future employment sites.
15503
0
0
Centro,Roger Horton,Park and Ride,railway,bad parking
£60 fines approved to tackle selfish motorists abusing Park and Ride
2014-06-09T12:15:00
15506
The £60 penalty scheme is scheduled to start in late September.
<p>Commuters who park badly at railway stations across the West
Midlands are to receive £60 fines.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is to introduce the
penalties from September at all 54 of its free to use Park and Ride
sites.</p>
<p>The crackdown follows a spate of incidents that have left scores
of motorists blocked in.</p>
<p>Offenders will have 28 days to pay the fine or see it double to
£120, but will have the right to appeal.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail, said the move
was not a money-making measure.</p>
<p>He said: "It is being done to tackle a serious problem - some of
the parking we have seen has been, quite frankly, atrocious.</p>
<p>"The actions of a selfish few cause great inconvenience for the
many passengers who park responsibly.</p>
<p>"Park and Ride has been a real success story in encouraging
people to use public transport and a minority of people can't be
allowed to detract from it."</p>
<p>The clampdown on inconsiderate motorists will see two parking
officers working for a private company patrol park and ride sites
using handheld ticket machines.</p>
<p>All money raised from parking tickets will go towards the costs
of the running the enforcement scheme.</p>
<p>The Park and Ride sites have proved so popular many of them are
full before 8am on working days.</p>
<p>This has led to repeated incidents of people parking on grass
verges, pavements, double yellow lines or in disabled bays because
there were no spaces available.</p>
<p>On one occasion at Cradley Heath 170 cars were blocked in for
three hours as a result of a line of vehicles parked outside of
marked bays. On another, 80 correctly-parked vehicles were blocked
in by just one car.</p>
<p>Similar problems have occurred at car parks in Rowley Regis,
Coseley, Wolverhampton Priestfield, Wednesbury Parkway, Selly Oak
and Northfield in Birmingham, and Whitlock's End near Shirley.</p>
<p>In 2013 there were 80 recorded complaints, and in a two month
monitoring scheme in January and February this year Centro received
20 complaints.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
expanding and managing Park and Ride facilities since 1997.</p>
<p>It has more than 7,000 spaces at 54 sites serving 40 railway
stations and four Midland Metro tram stops across the region,
taking around three million journeys off the region's roads each
year, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 6,000
tonnes.</p>
<p>Cllr Horton said: "Of course it is frustrating when you can't
find a parking space but people just cannot be allowed to park
where they like.</p>
<p>"If motorists are going to use Park and Ride we would urge them
to plan their journeys accordingly."</p>
Commuters who park badly at railway stations across the West Midlands are to receive £60 fines
15507
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Walsall
Walsall passengers to have their say on public transport
2014-06-10T14:49:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Passengers in Walsall are being
offered the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the
area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 10am and 12 noon on Saturday June 14 on
the Network West Midlands exhibition bus in Park Street, has been
organised by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Walsall on the
authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local
bus and rail network.</p>
<p>People can also learn more about becoming a Passenger Champion.
These are members of the public who provide regular feedback to
Centro on their experiences of public transport.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "This
event is the ideal opportunity to really understand the needs
of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Park Street we hope to hear from as many people as possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs." </p>
Passengers in Walsall get the chance to meet bosses and have their say on public transport.
15509
0
0
Centro,Midland Metro,CAF,new trams
New tram to go on show in Wolverhampton
2014-06-11T11:16:00
15511
Getting ready for action, the new Midland Metro trams
<p>The public will get the chance to climb aboard and look around
one of the new Midland Metro trams during an exhibition in
Wolverhampton this Saturday (June 14). </p>
<p>The sleek Urbos 3 tram will go on display at the St George's
stop in Wolverhampton between 9am and 3pm and offer commuters and
transport enthusiasts a taste of things to come. </p>
<p>The first of the new, Spanish-built trams will start going into
service between Wolverhampton and Birmingham Snow Hill later this
summer. Over the following months transport authority Centro will
steadily replace all the existing trams with the new £40 million,
21-strong fleet. </p>
<p>Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, Cllr Roger Horton,
said: "The existing Metro service is already very good but these
new trams, with their 21<sup>st</sup> century technology and
modern, spacious design, will improve things still
further. </p>
<p>"They are quieter, smoother and generally more comfortable than
the existing trams but this Saturday's event will give people a
chance to come and see for themselves." </p>
<p>The Urbos 3 vehicle is made by Zaragoza-based CAF and is a third
bigger than the Metro's existing trams, carrying around 210
passengers compared to 156 on the current T69 model. </p>
<p>This, together with an increased frequency of every six minutes
throughout the day, will boost the system's overall capacity by 40
per cent. This will help ease the overcrowding that can sometimes
occur during peak times as a result of the Metro's
popularity. </p>
<p>The new trams will also be deployed on the Metro extension from
now being constructed between Birmingham's Snow Hill and New Street
stations which, when completed next year, will see trams return to
the city's streets for the first time in more than 60
years. </p>
<p>The extension, a joint project by Centro and the Black Country
and Birmingham City councils, is expected to create more than 1,300
new jobs and boost the regional economy by more than £50 million a
year. </p>
<p>It is also expected to help increase the number of passengers
using the Metro from five million a year to eight.</p>
<p> </p>
Public get chance to climb aboard and look around one of the new £40 million fleet.
15512
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Birmingham City Council,Amey,tunnels
Tickets schemes during Birmingham Queensway tunnel closure
2014-06-13T15:05:00
15516
More than 200,000 additional journeys were made on public transport when the tunnels were closed last year.
<p style="text-align: left;">Commuters planning ahead for the
upcoming A38 tunnels closures through Birmingham city centre have a
solution at hand thanks to a range of public transport special
offers.</p>
<p>Ticket schemes are being put in place by public transport
authority Centro and bus, tram and train operators to help tackle
congestion when the St Chad's and Queensway tunnels close on July
18 for six weeks.</p>
<p>The nBus Tunnel Special will cost £90 and will cover all bus
travel throughout the region during the closure period, while the
nNetwork Tunnel Special will cost £150 and will cover all bus, tram
and rail travel.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "Last year's
closures saw more than 200,000 additional journeys made by public
transport and the network coped well.</p>
<p>"This year we would urge people to think about using it again.
Public transport is an excellent alternative to the car for city
centre workers, and the more people use it the more they will see
just how good the system is."</p>
<p>The tickets will be valid for the period July 19 - August 31.
They will be available for purchase online at <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>
from July 3.</p>
<p>Tunnels ticket offers are also be available from National
Express West Midlands while Virgin Trains have a Park and Ride
offer available from their stations in Coventry, Wolverhampton and
at Birmingham International. Details of these can be found on their
websites.</p>
<p> Longer term, people and businesses are being encouraged to
sign up to a public transport corporate travel scheme. This offers
discounted travel on the bus, rail and Midland Metro network in the
West Midlands. With a corporate travel scheme employees can save
more than £100 a year on an annual travel pass.</p>
<p> Cllr McNicholas said: "Corporate travel schemes are
perfect because everyone benefits.</p>
<p> "Employers can offer a staff benefit at no real cost,
alleviating over-stretched car parking facilities and traffic
congestion near business premises while demonstrating a commitment
to green travel initiatives."</p>
<p>The A38 St Chad's and Queensway tunnels, which carry up to
85,000 vehicles a day through the heart of the city, will be closed
to all traffic from 10pm on Friday July 18 until 6am on Monday
September 1.</p>
<p>The final stage of the refurbishment will also include overnight
closures, from 10pm to 6am, two weeks before and up to four weeks
after the block closure.</p>
<p> The 40-year-old tunnels were closed last summer while the
first phase of works was carried out to bring them up to modern
safety standards.</p>
<p>The second phase will complete the upgrade by renewing the
ventilation system, installing new security and communications
systems, replacing electrical systems and refurbishing pumping
stations and plant rooms.</p>
<p>Amey, who are working in partnership with Birmingham City
Council on the tunnels project, will join representatives from
Centro, National Express, Virgin Trains, London Midland and
sustainable transport groups to promote walking and cycling
initiatives during the closure, where more information on ticket
offers will be available.</p>
<p>They take place on:</p>
<p>• Tuesday June 17 - Victoria Square </p>
<p>• Thursday June 19 - Birmingham Children's Hospital </p>
<p>• Friday June 20 - Brindleyplace </p>
<p>• Tuesday June 24 - Cathedral Square Colmore Row </p>
<p>• Wednesday July 2 - Centenary Square </p>
<p>• Monday July 14 - Victoria Square</p>
<p>For more details on the ticket schemes and public transport go
to <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>For more details on the tunnels closure go to <a
href="http://www.brumtunnels.co.uk/">www.brumtunnels.co.uk</a></p>
Commuters planning for the A38 tunnels closures in Birmingham city centre can benefit from a range of public transport special offers.
15517
0
0
Free railway station events to be held during Bike Week
2014-06-12T16:20:00
<p>Cyclists visiting some of the region's busiest railway stations
can take advantage of free advice sessions making it easier for
people travelling by pedal power and train track.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro will be running the Love Your Bike
events at three major West Midlands stations during Bike Week (June
14 - 22).</p>
<p>Sessions will be held at Birmingham New Street, Coventry and
Wolverhampton stations during the week.</p>
<p>The events will feature free cycle safety checks, police bike
security marking, discounted 'D' locks and the chance to sign up
for free cycle training or maintenance classes.</p>
<p>Refreshment vouchers will also be available to people who bring
their bike to be checked or marked.</p>
<p>The sessions will be held from 4pm to 6pm at:</p>
<ul>
<li>Birmingham New Street - Monday June 16</li>
<li>Coventry - Tuesday June 17</li>
<li>Wolverhampton - Wednesday June 18</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "It looks like summer has finally
arrived and this is the perfect time for people to get out and
about on two wheels.</p>
<p>"Bike Week is all about getting more people cycling and we want
to help them make that switch because there are clear benefits for
the environment, the economy and people's health."</p>
<p>Bike Week is the biggest nationwide cycling event in the UK and
aims to help boost the number of journeys made by bicycle.</p>
<p>The Love Your Bike sessions form part of Centro's government
funded Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which aims to cut
carbon, boost the economy and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Events which took place last year were shortlisted at the 2013
Cycle Rail Awards after more than 250 free bike checks were carried
out.</p>
Cyclists visiting some of the region’s busiest railway stations can take part in free advice sessions.
14913
0
0
rail,Centro,Roger Horton,Park and Ride,Rowley Regis
Expansion work starts at Rowley Regis Park and Ride
2014-06-25T15:25:00
<p>Commuters using a busy Black Country rail station are to get
more free parking thanks to a £1.1 million Park and Ride
extension.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has started work on
nearly doubling the size of the car park at Rowley Regis, adding a
further 360 spaces to the existing 382.</p>
<p>The extension is being carried out to ease overcrowding at the
Park and Ride facility which has proved so popular with commuters
that it is often full before the end of the morning rush hour.</p>
<p>The extra spaces will also help combat congestion and carbon
emissions by taking a further 30,000 commuter car journeys off
local roads each year.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro,
said: "It's fair to say that the free Park and Ride site at Rowley
Regis, like those at many other stations, has become a victim of
its own success and becomes full very quickly each day.</p>
<p>"But the convenience offered by 'Park and Ride' can play a key
role in attracting thousands of motorists to make the bulk of their
daily commute by train. That's why Centro has been investing so
heavily in expanding such facilities in recent years."</p>
<p>The Park and Ride extension will feature low energy lighting,
electric vehicle charging points and CCTV cameras and help points
linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997 to provide more than 7,331 free
spaces at 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops across
the region.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take around three million
journeys off the region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide
emissions by more than 6,000 tonnes.</p>
Commuters are to get more free parking spaces thanks to a £1.1 million extension at the popular station.
17213
0
0
World Cup themed competition kicks off
2014-06-17T15:35:00
15658
Phoebe, Theo and Sam, characters designed by previous competition winning school children
<p>School children across the region are being given the chance to
score a prize by taking part in a World Cup themed competition.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is running
competitions for Key Stage One and Key Stage Two children to mark
the start of the summer's showpiece event.</p>
<p>Pupils aged five to seven will be given a shot at designing a
character which reflects the active and sporting fever currently
sweeping the nation.</p>
<p>Children aged seven to 11 will also get the opportunity to bring
samba-style to life by creating their own comic strip based around
the 64-match tournament.</p>
<p>The competition kicked off this month and children have until
July 4 to tackle the tasks with the winner of each category netting
a sports coaching session for their class.</p>
<p>Winning entries will also be put on the spot with the creations
featuring on Centro's education and travel website
www.letzgogreen.org.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Millions of people will be swept
up in World Cup fever at the moment and we wanted to give school
children the chance to make their own slice of history during the
tournament.</p>
<p>"There might be 32 teams fighting for the top prize this summer
but pupils can still be winners by entering these competitions.</p>
<p>"Keeping fit and healthy can have a really positive impact on
people's lives and hopefully this competition will serve as a
reminder that exercise can also be fun."</p>
<p>As well as featuring on the website, the successful designs will
also be printed and presented to the winners as a memento before
the end of the school year.</p>
<p>The Letzgogreen website offers free downloadable tools and
interactive games for teachers to assist their lesson plans.</p>
<p>The site has had more than one million visitors since launching
in 2008.</p>
<p>For more information visit: www.letzgogreen.org</p>
School children across the region are being given the chance to score a prize by taking part in a World Cup themed competition.
15659
0
0
rail,west midlands,bus,HS2,Roger Lawrence,Midlands Connect
Midlands Connect to speak for the region with one voice
2014-06-26T15:49:00
<p>A new group is to champion strategic transport investment across
the entire Midlands region.</p>
<p>Midlands Connect is a collaboration of Midlands-wide local
enterprise partnerships (LEPs), Network Rail, the Highways Agency,
local authorities and the business community.</p>
<p>At a breakfast meeting at Birmingham Airport today (Thursday
June 26) business leaders from across the region came together to
discuss the way ahead.</p>
<p>A major economic study, the first phase of Midlands Connect, is
examining and assessing where connectivity improvements are likely
to have the greatest long-term impact on employment and the
economy.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Lawrence, chairman of the West Midlands Integrated
Transport Authority which formally approved the launch of Midlands
Connect, said working as one body in identifying areas for
investment to then maximise growth potential would be key.</p>
<p>"It is only with a clear and unified voice that the Midlands can
really punch its weight and realise its true potential," he
said.</p>
<p>"By talking to businesses and pulling together growth plans from
the local enterprise partnerships we can create an integrated
scheme that serves economic need and is supported by good
transport.</p>
<p> "HS2 may be some years away but it is going to be a
game-changer for this region. We have to get connectivity to it
planned in advance so that we can maximise economic growth and our
ability to move around."</p>
<p>The economic study launched by Midlands Connect is due to
conclude in July and the group has already begun to seek funding
from the government and other sources.</p>
<p>Once up and running it will then focus on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Developing an integrated plan for improved connectivity to
HS2</li>
<li>Addressing east-west Midlands connections</li>
<li>Addressing capacity for freight movements</li>
<li>Improving connectivity to international markets via the
region's airports</li>
</ul>
<p>Links have already been established by West Midlands LEPs and
chambers of commerce with their counterparts in the east Midlands.
The East Midlands councils have also expressed support.</p>
<p>Andrew Cleaves, chairman of the West Midlands Cross-Local
Enterprises Transport Group said: "These are early days but already
there is a consensus across the entire region that working together
on improving our transport infrastructure is far more effective
than as individual bodies.</p>
<p>"Economic progress is not governed by municipal boundaries -
developments at somewhere like Birmingham Airport or on the M1 can
have an impact all over the Midlands, so we need to capture that
and use it to our advantage."</p>
A new group speaking for the entire Midlands region in winning transport infrastructure funding gets to work.
19763
0
0
Thousands of children to be given specialised travel advice
2014-06-23T15:14:00
<p>More than 3,000 pupils starting secondary school this autumn are
being given specialised advice on travelling to their new
schools.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is providing 120
workshops at West Midlands schools to help youngsters prepare for
the move from primary to secondary education.</p>
<p>A total of 70 schools in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell,
Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton will be visited before the end
of the school year.</p>
<p>The 'Letzgo Next Steps' sessions take place during a school
lesson with students given journey planning tips on using the bus,
train, tram, walking or cycling to get to secondary schools in the
area.</p>
<p>Workshops began this month and 3,402 children are set to receive
support and advice before the project ends on July 10.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Moving to secondary school is a
big step for a lot of children and it may be the first time they've
needed to use public transport without a parent.</p>
<p>"These sessions are designed to give students the knowledge and
confidence to be comfortable making that transition and allow them
to focus their efforts on settling in at their new school."</p>
<p>The schools which will be visited include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rounds Green Primary - Oldbury</li>
<li>Wodensfield Primary - Wolverhampton</li>
<li>St George and St Teresa Primary - Solihull</li>
<li>Springfield Primary - Birmingham</li>
<li>St Thomas Moore Primary - Coventry</li>
<li>Limbrick Wood Primary - Coventry</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro has been running workshops for eight years and more than
3,500 students were visited last year before beginning secondary
school.</p>
<p>The workshops will be provided by Centro's education team which
works closely with the region's schools to provide travel
information and support to teachers.</p>
<p>During sessions pupils will be given advice on using interactive
games and puzzles on Centro's Letzgogreen website.</p>
<p>The award-winning site also provides free resources and lesson
planning tools for teachers.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="http://www.letzgogreen.org/workshops/">www.letzgogreen.org/workshops/</a></p>
More than 3,000 pupils starting secondary school this autumn are being given personalised advice on travelling to their new schools.
14665
0
0
Travel plans spark fewer car journeys by power firm staff
2014-06-30T16:00:00
<p>One of Solihull's biggest employers has taken giant strides
towards cutting its carbon footprint by slashing the number of car
journeys made to the site.</p>
<p>npower, which has an office near Solihull town centre, has been
working with Centro, the region's transport authority, to help its
staff travel to work in greener ways.</p>
<p>Since having specialised travel plans drawn up 12 months ago the
energy supplier have cut the number of solo drivers travelling to
the site by nearly 20 per cent - already exceeding targets set for
2018.</p>
<p>The offices in Princes Way currently house more than 1,000
employees after incorporating 300 staff from its Worcester
site.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Working with an organisation like
npower gives us the opportunity to help the hundreds of workers
that head to their offices everyday make informed choices about the
way they travel.</p>
<p>"We sat down with staff and drew up plans which set out the
public transport, walking and cycling options available to
employees.</p>
<p>"The fact that in just 12 months their five year targets have
been met and exceeded shows how important having the right
information can be when making decisions about the way we
travel."</p>
<p>Last year npower became one of more than 160 employers to sign
up to Centro's Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which aims to
cut carbon, boost the economy and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Bosses at npower had targeted cutting the 61 per cent of
employees travelling to work as solo drivers to 57 per cent as part
of a five year plan introduced last summer.</p>
<p>However a survey carried out by travel experts revealed that
already only 44 per cent of employees now drive to work alone, a
fall of 18 per cent since last year.</p>
<p>The number of employees travelling by train increased nine per
cent, and those sharing a car to work rose six per cent.</p>
<p>While bus use and walking increased two per cent and one per
cent of workers now used Centro's Park and Ride facilities at their
local rail stations.</p>
<p>Dave Horton, sustainability manager at npower, said: "Working
closely with Centro has given us the information and the tools
needed to really make an impact on single occupancy commuting to
our Solihull office.</p>
<p>"We have been overwhelmed by the response from employees who
have embraced cycling and car sharing in a big way thanks to giving
small incentives and a range of information and support.</p>
<p>"It is down to the great relationship we have with Centro that
has allowed us to do this."</p>
One of Solihull’s biggest employers has taken giant strides towards cutting its carbon footprint.
17277
0
0
Centro,Birmingham,Kath Hartley,One Stop,Perry Barr
Meet the Centro Youth Forum Team at Your Public Transport Matters
2014-07-02T10:43:00
<p>Passengers in Birmingham are being offered the chance to give
transport chiefs their views about the area's network and also
learn about how young people can get involved and make a difference
to it.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>Representatives from the Centro Youth Forum will also be at the
event to talk about their role in ensuring the voices of young
people are heard in the development of future transport policies
and delivery of services, ticketing and safety.</p>
<p>The event, between 4pm and 6pm on Wednesday July 9 at the
One Stop complex in Walsall Road, Perry Barr, has been organised by
Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Birmingham on
the authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local
bus and rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, the vice-chair of Centro and who represents
Ladywood in Birmingham, said: "This event is the ideal
opportunity to really understand the needs of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
One Stop we hope to hear from as many people as possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs."</p>
<p>For more information about the Centro Youth Forum visit <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/sustainable/education/young_people/youth_forum.aspx">
www.networkwestmidlands.com/sustainable/education/young_people/youth_forum.aspx</a></p>
Passengers in Birmingham can give their views on public transport and learn how young people can help shape it.
17213
0
0
Heat turned up for school children in Dragon’s Den style competition
2014-07-03T14:45:00
17258
The four teams which entered the competition
<p>School children felt the heat when they took part in a Dragon's
Den style challenge to devise a campaign to promote green travel to
classmates.</p>
<p>Pupils from schools across the region have been working with
transport authority Centro and consultants Mott MacDonald.</p>
<p>In the competition, known as the Student Travel Plan Company,
saw the secondary school contestants lock horns yesterday (July 2)
in a bid to win the glass trophy recognising the most innovative
campaign.</p>
<p>Their creations were unveiled in front of a panel of expert
judges including Pauline Reeves, the Department for Transport's
deputy director for sustainable, accessible transport, Centro head
of sustainability Conrad Jones and Mott MacDonald divisional
director Liz King.</p>
<p>Also on the panel were Kimberley-Jane, director of
Kimberley-Jane Designs Ltd and Christine Herd, site strategy and
transformation manager at Aero-Engine Controls.</p>
<p>Students from the High Arcal School in Dudley, Barr's Hill in
Coventry, Perry Beeches in Birmingham and Shireland Collegiate
Academy in Smethwick were given 15 minutes to showcase their ideas
at Centro's Birmingham headquarters.</p>
<p>A total of 23 students attended the event with innovative ideas
ranging from creating new websites and social media accounts and
holding events held for the public to putting on a cycling themed
fashion show.</p>
<p>After tackling the Dragons, the team from Shireland Collegiate
Academy were crowned winners after presenting a rap about the
benefits of public transport, walking and cycling.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Working with schools is a big
part of Centro's work and it is important that we keep looking for
ways to engage with younger public transport users.</p>
<p>"Getting more people using public transport, walking or cycling
is of great benefit to our environment and economy and it is
brilliant that the students have already recognised this."</p>
<p>Students will now continue their campaigns to encourage school
children to travel by bus, train, tram, walking and cycling.</p>
<p>The project has been running for since February and has seen
students attend a series of workshops to give them the skills to
deliver a campaign.</p>
<p>While forming their presentations the students were visited by
expert advisors from Centro to discuss the best ways to get their
unique ideas across during their presentations.</p>
<p>Centro head of sustainability Conrad Jones said: "This project
has been all about giving students the opportunity to come up with
some really inventive ideas to promote sustainable travel and that
is certainly what we have all seen today.</p>
<p>"This is the age group which will form the next generation of
commuters so they are the perfect people to highlight the benefits
of public transport, walking and cycling to their peers."</p>
<p>Julie James, project manager at Mott MacDonald, said:"The
Student Travel Plan Company has given the students a taste of the
world of work whilst at the same time reduced their school's
carbon footprint and encouraged their fellow students to be more
active. </p>
<p>"The students were given the freedom to deliver their own
campaigns and have demonstrated creativity and shown their
entrepreneurial skills to influence how their peers travel to
school." </p>
School children challenged to devise a campaign to promote green travel to classmates.
17259
0
0
Midland Metro,tram,Geoff Inskip,UK Tram,Ansaldo,Urbos
Midland Metro trams start new journey at research centre
2014-07-04T14:21:00
17261
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin MP, right, with David Clarke, left and Geoff Inskip at the launch of the Light Vehicle Test Fleet at the Rail Live event at Long Marston.
<p>As the Midland Metro prepares for the introduction of its new
fleet of Urbos 3 trams a home has already been found for two of
their predecessors.</p>
<p>The T69 Ansaldo trams have been loaned to the Light Rail Vehicle
Test Fleet at Long Marston in Warwickshire by Centro, the Midlands'
transport authority for research and innovation purposes.</p>
<p>The test fleet has been established under an agreement between
UK Tram and Future Railway and two further trams will be provided
by Transport for Greater Manchester at the Network Rail test
facility at Old Dalby in Leicestershire.</p>
<p>UK Tram and FutureRailway have joined forces to help the future
development of tramways in the UK through research and
innovation.</p>
<p>Under the scheme the vehicles will be used to test new products
and innovations for the tram industry. </p>
<p>It was launched at the recent Rail Alliance 'Rail Live' event at
Long Marston by Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin
MP.</p>
<p>He was joined by David Clarke, the director of Future Railway
and Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro and chairman of UK
Tram.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said: "The old Midland Metro trams have given sterling
service, but as they are now going to be replaced it is good to see
two of them being put to good use.</p>
<p>"They will play a valuable role in helping develop new and
innovative ideas that will help advance the tram industry in this
country."</p>
<p>The £40 million Urbos 3 tram fleet is due to come into service
on the Midland Metro line this summer.</p>
<p>The T69s, which have operated on the Midland Metro since 1999,
will be put into long-term storage at Long Marston.</p>
Two former Midland Metro trams are put to work in a research centre for the light rail industry.
19765
0
0
Birmingham and Solihull given £3 million carbon cutting boost
2014-07-11T07:30:00
<p>A £3 million package of Birmingham and Solihull transport
schemes to boost economic growth and cut carbon has been given the
green light.</p>
<p>The money, from the Government's Local Sustainable Transport
Fund, will pay for a range of cycling, walking and other public
transport initiatives designed to connect people to work,
education, training and leisure.</p>
<p>The £2,959,000 funding, which has been awarded to the Greater
Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area,
will be used by transport authority Centro and Birmingham and
Solihull councils to provide;</p>
<ul>
<li>Free travel passes and cycling support for jobseekers</li>
<li>New cycle storage facilities at railway stations</li>
<li>Personalised travel support for students, parents and staff at
schools</li>
<li> Bespoke travel support for households and businesses</li>
<li>Free adult cycle training</li>
<li>Bus and HGV driver training focussed on vulnerable road users
including cyclists</li>
</ul>
<p>The initiatives will be delivered during 2015-16 and build on
Centro's £50 million, three-year Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project which runs until March 2015.</p>
<p>The project involves the creation of new cycle routes, upgrades
to traffic junctions and free travel advice for residents.</p>
<p>Schemes will be supported by initiatives announced under
Government's Local Growth Fund earlier this week.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro's vice chair, said: "Our Smart
Network, Smarter Choices project has given us a strong foundation
but we need to make sure we build on this work and keep supporting
Birmingham and Solihull residents in the way they travel.</p>
<p>"This new funding will allow us to continue these schemes which
reduce the congestion costing our region more than £2 billion a
year, as well as making sure our residents are well connected to
jobs, education and training."</p>
<p>The renewed schemes aim to produce more than 6,000 new cyclists
and cut the number of kilometres driven by car by nearly 20 million
a year.</p>
<p>The schemes are the result of close collaboration between
Centro, Birmingham and Solihull councils and the LEP, which
includes local business people and politicians and is tasked with
drawing up initiatives that can bring about economic growth and job
creation.</p>
<p>The Black Country LEP area also received a £3 million boost as
part of the announcement made this afternoon.</p>
<p>Andrew Cleaves, GBSLEP Board Director with responsibility for
transport, said: "This has been a good week for sustainable
transport in Greater Birmingham and Solihull, with the Growth Deal
providing substantial funding for a range of projects.<br />
<br />
"These projects - for example the extensions to the Midland Metro
and the second phase of the Birmingham Cycle Revolution - will not
only transform sustainable transport in the LEP but have a real
economic benefit.<br />
<br />
"This latest announcement further demonstrates how the
co-operation between Centro and the local authorities is helping us
to access funding to do even more to improve connectivity, reduce
congestion and boost our economy."</p>
<p>Smart Network, Smarter Choices was officially launched at
Sandwell Council House last year.</p>
<p>Since launching more than 2,500 people have taken part in
free cycling activities, more than 7,000 free travel passes have
been issued for jobseekers and more than 80,000 of the region's
workforce are benefitting from bespoke travel support. </p>
A £3 million package of Birmingham and Solihull transport schemes to cut carbon and boost the economy has been given the green light.
14961
0
0
Black Country secures £3 million cash injection
2014-07-11T09:00:00
<p>A £3 million package of Black Country transport schemes to boost
economic growth and cut carbon was given the green light today
(July 10).</p>
<p>The money, from the Government's Local Sustainable Transport
Fund, will pay for a range of cycling, walking and other public
transport initiatives designed to connect people to work,
education, training and leisure.</p>
<p>The £3,057,000 funding, which has been awarded to the Black
Country Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area, will be used by
transport authority Centro and Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and
Wolverhampton councils to provide;</p>
<ul>
<li>Free travel passes and cycling support for jobseekers</li>
<li>Travel advice for school leavers starting education, training
or new jobs</li>
<li>Personalised travel support for students and staff at secondary
schools, colleges and universities</li>
<li>Bespoke travel support for households and businesses</li>
<li>Free adult cycle training</li>
<li>Bus and HGV driver training focussed on vulnerable road users
including cyclists</li>
</ul>
<p>The initiatives will be delivered during 2015-16 and build on
Centro's £50 million, three-year Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project which runs until March 2015.</p>
<p>The project involves the creation of new cycle routes, upgrades
to traffic junctions and free travel advice for residents.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Our Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project has given us a strong foundation but we need to
make sure we build on this work and keep supporting our residents
in the way they travel.</p>
<p>"This new funding will allow us to continue these schemes which
reduce the congestion costing our region more than £2 billion a
year, as well as making sure our residents are well connected to
jobs, education and training."</p>
<p>The renewed schemes aim to produce more than 6,000 new cyclists,
add an extra 5.5 million public transport trips each year and cut
the number of kilometres driven by car by 22.9 million a year.</p>
<p>The schemes are the result of close collaboration between
Centro, the four Black Country councils and the LEP, which includes
local business people and politicians and is tasked with drawing up
initiatives that can bring about economic growth and job
creation.</p>
<p>Members of the LEP include the leaders of the four Black Country
councils, Cllr Darren Cooper (Sandwell), Cllr David Sparks
(Dudley), Cllr Mike Bird (Walsall) and Cllr Roger Lawrence
(Wolverhampton).</p>
<p>The Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP area also received a £3
million boost as part of the announcement made this afternoon.</p>
<p>Ninder Johal, Black Country LEP Board Member said: "This Local
Sustainable Transport funding is great news for residents and
businesses of the Black Country, making it easier to connect people
to jobs, culture and leisure."</p>
<p>Smart Network, Smarter Choices was officially launched at
Sandwell Council House last year.</p>
<p>Since launching more than 2,500 people have taken part in
free cycling activities, more than 7,000 free travel passes have
been issued for jobseekers and more than 80,000 of the region's
workforce are benefitting from bespoke travel support. </p>
Schemes aimed at cutting carbon and supporting economic growth are given the go-ahead.
14520
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Merry Hill,Dudley Council,Kurshid Ahmed
£1.2 million road improvements through Better Bus Area Fund
2014-07-14T15:17:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Work has begun on a £1.2 million bus
priority and road improvement scheme in the Black Country.</p>
<p>It will see a new crossing facility on the A4036 Pedmore Road
and some bus priority measures on The Boulevard, the main
connecting road between Merry Hill Shopping Centre and Brierley
Hill High Street. </p>
<p>The scheme starts on Monday (July 14) and is scheduled to finish
by December.</p>
<p>It is being carried out by Dudley Borough Council on behalf of
Centro, the region's transport authority, thanks to a multi-million
pound grant from the Government's Better Bus Area Fund.</p>
<p>Centro received £5 million - the maximum award possible - and
this has been supplemented by £5 million from local sources.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "The money
we have received from the fund will result in many newer, more
modern buses coming into operation in the Brierley Hill area.</p>
<p>"The highway improvements we are making will help ensure better
journey times and increased reliability for bus services."</p>
<p>The new crossing will provide a safe link for the neighbouring
Quarry Bank housing estate to the Merry Hill centre.</p>
<p>The bus priority system will come into effect at the Mill Street
end of The Boulevard.</p>
<p>Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, Dudley Council cabinet member for
transport, said: "I'm delighted that Centro was successful in its
bid for this funding which will facilitate improvements to the
highway.</p>
<p> "This work will make it easier for people to access public
transport and Merry Hill Shopping Centre, which I am sure will be a
boost for the local economy and for shoppers."</p>
<p>The Department for Transport's Better Bus Area Fund allows
transport authorities to bid for up to £5 million to encourage bus
travel through schemes that improve accessibility to jobs,
education, training, leisure and health services, and reduce
congestion.</p>
<p>Each award has to be matched by locally sourced funding - the
West Midlands was the only region to receive the full amount of £5
million, awarded in spring 2012, and resulting in a total pot of
£10 million.</p>
<p>The Brierley Hill scheme will see:</p>
<ul>
<li>£3.3 million invested in new buses by operators</li>
<li>£1.9 million new bus and rail interchange at Cradley Heath to
provide enhanced links from the rail network to Brierley Hill</li>
<li>£1.2 million in highways improvements on The Boulevard and
Pedmore Road</li>
<li>£1 million of shelter and information improvements on eight key
routes into Brierley Hill</li>
<li>£700,000 towards the Black Country Swift smartcard scheme in
Dudley</li>
<li>£200,000 WorkWise scheme for Dudley</li>
</ul>
Work starts on a £1.2 million bus priority and road improvement scheme in Merry Hill.
17213
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Cadbury,Thinktank,Black Country Museum
Families offered cut price entry to region’s top attractions
2014-07-28T11:00:00
17300
Families can make big savings by using public transport for a day out.
<p>Parents looking to keep the kids amused over the school summer
holidays are being offered cut price entry into some of the
region's top attractions if they go by bus, train or tram.</p>
<p>Public transport co-ordinator Centro has joined forces with six
top destinations to provide discounted days out for families across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Offers include 30 per cent off the entry price at Cadbury World,
40 per cent off at the National Sea Life Centre, two for one
admission at the Black Country Living Museum, 30 per cent off at
Thinktank and 25 per cent off at the Giant Screen Cinema.</p>
<p>Families also get a buy-one get-one free offer on a full price
attraction ticket at the Quest at Merry Hill adventure play
zone.</p>
<p>The 'Unlock Adventure' offers, which start today (Monday July
28) and lasts throughout the summer holidays, are available to
families who travel to the attractions using an 'n'bus one day,
'n'network daytripper or family 'n'network daytripper ticket.</p>
<p>To claim the discounts families simply need to show their travel
ticket along with a voucher which can be downloaded from <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/summer">www.networkwestmidlands.com/summer</a></p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "Every parent knows
how difficult it can be to keep youngsters occupied over the six
week summer break.</p>
<p>"But by using public transport families can not only save money
on entrance fees, petrol and parking but also do their bit for the
environment and enjoy a great day out in the process."</p>
<p>Apart from discounted entry to the attractions, the 'n'network
range of daytripper tickets also offer families lower bus, train
and tram fares.</p>
<p>The family 'n'network daytripper ticket, costing just £10.60,
gives up to two adults and four children unlimited travel on
bus, train or tram after 9:30am on weekdays and all day on weekends
and Bank Holidays.</p>
<p>Meanwhile parents looking for ways to entertain their children
at home over the holidays can visit Centro's <a
href="http://www.letzgogreen.org">www.letzgogreen.org</a> where
youngsters can find out about public transport through interactive
stories, games and puzzles.</p>
Families are being offered cheap entry into some of the region's top attractions if they go by bus, train or tram.
19764
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Metro,Geoff Inskip,Sprint,Broad Street,Hagley Road,Quinton,Five Ways
Sprint plan unveiled between Birmingham and Quinton
2014-07-30T14:00:00
17304
A Sprint-style bus rapid-transit vehicle on the streets of Metz in France.
<p>The Midlands' first bus-based rapid transit system, featuring
vehicles that look and operate like a tram but without tracks or
overhead cables, could be running by 2016.</p>
<p>Sprint is being launched by public transport co-ordinator
Centro, working with Birmingham City Council.</p>
<p>Sprint combines the capacity and speed of a tram system but with
the flexibility, lower cost and simplicity of a bus.</p>
<p>It will follow the No 9 bus route from Birmingham to Quinton,
serving Birmingham's entertainment quarter in Broad Street then
along Hagley Road.</p>
<p>The scheme will be the first in the UK to have bespoke
rapid-transit vehicles.</p>
<p>Other UK cities such as Cambridge and York operate bus-rapid
transit systems but using conventional buses.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "This is a
completely new form of public transport in the West Midlands and we
want to know what people think about the idea.</p>
<p>"It is a proven concept in other European cities and measures
such as dedicated lanes, traffic light priority and limited stops
will make Sprint journeys a fast and reliable alternative to the
car."</p>
<p>Sprint will be a fleet of up to nine diesel/electric vehicles
whose features will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>On-board real time information and 'next stop'
announcements</li>
<li>Low-level flooring and multi-door boarding for easy access</li>
<li>Onboard Wifi</li>
</ul>
<p>The scheme will cost £15 million and is funded through Centro
and by the government via Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP.</p>
<p>If approved this year construction could start in 2015, with
Sprint going live 18 months later.</p>
<p>£50 million has also been earmarked to implement a Sprint route
to the airport by 2021. </p>
<p>This second route will link Birmingham City Centre and the
airport (via Coventry Road), serving the proposed HS2 Interchange
and Birmingham International station.</p>
<p>Numerous routes across the Midlands were studied by Centro for
the pilot.</p>
<p>Broad Street/Hagley Road was chosen because currently there are
only two means of transport to Quinton from Birmingham - the bus
and the car. Sprint would integrate with the existing bus
network.</p>
<p>Other factors were:</p>
<ul>
<li>Expected passenger demand</li>
<li>Deliverability</li>
<li>Potential for economic development</li>
<li>Less impact on the environment</li>
</ul>
<p>The proposal includes 16 new stops along the route from Colmore
Row in Birmingham to Ridgeway Avenue/Hagley Road West in
Quinton.</p>
<p>It would also see road widening and a new bus lane installed in
Hagley Road, and traffic light reconfiguration to give priority to
Sprint vehicles. </p>
<p>Following consultation and funding approval Centro will tender
for the build of the Sprint vehicles, and for an operator to run
them on Centro's behalf.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "Sprint is part of the
vision we have for a world-class public transport system in the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>"By offering a fast and reliable alternative to the car we
believe we can get more people on to public transport, thus
reducing traffic congestion that costs this region's economy £2.3
billion a year."</p>
<p>People can give their views on Sprint by filling in a
questionnaire online at <a href="/">www.centro.org.uk</a> by
September 21.</p>
<p>There will also two public exhibitions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday August 12, 12 noon-6pm, Victoria Square, Birmingham
city centre</li>
<li>Saturday September 6, 9am-3pm, outside Marks & Spencer,
High Street, Birmingham city centre</li>
</ul>
The Midlands’ first bus-based rapid transit system could be running along Broad Street and Hagley Road by 2016.
19766
0
0
Centro,Roger Horton,Midland Metro
Youngsters on track with tour of Midland Metro works
2014-07-31T11:30:00
17321
Youth Forum members at the depot to see the Midland Metro extension.
<p>A group of youngsters had a taste of the future when they were
given a tour of the £138 million project to extend the Midland
Metro in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>Bosses from public transport coordinator Centro, showed the
group the latest developments in the scheme which will see trams
return to the city's streets for the first time in more than 60
years.</p>
<p>The 15 youths, part of Centro's Youth Forum, saw the ongoing
work to install the on-street rails which will connect the city's
Snow Hill and New Street railway stations next year.</p>
<p>They also visited the Midland Metro depot in Wednesbury to get
an up-close look at the new fleet of 20 state-of-the-art trams
which will start running on the network later this year.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail, said:
"Listening to the views of the younger generation of passengers can
help shape the way we work but it is equally important that we keep
them informed of our ongoing projects.</p>
<p>"Extending the Midland Metro through Birmingham city centre will
bring long lasting benefits to the region and this was a great
opportunity to not only show what we are doing, but also explain
how this will support our economy."</p>
<p>The Youth Forum was created to ensure the voices of young people
are heard in the development of future transport policies and
delivery of services, ticketing and safety. </p>
<p>They meet every three months to give their views on key
transport issues affecting younger travellers. </p>
<p>The Metro extension, a joint project by Centro and the Black
Country and Birmingham City councils, is expected to create more
than 1,300 new jobs and boost the regional economy by more than £50
million a year. </p>
<p>Funding for the extension includes the arrival of the £40
million fleet of new Urbos 3 trams made by Zaragoza-based CAF which
are a third bigger than the Metro's existing trams, carrying around
210 passengers compared to 156 on the current T69 model. </p>
<p>This, together with an increased frequency of every six minutes
throughout the day, will boost the system's overall capacity by 40
per cent. This will help ease the overcrowding that can sometimes
occur during peak times as a result of the Metro's
popularity. </p>
<p>For more information on the Youth Forum email <a
href="mailto:youthforum@centro.org.uk">youthforum@centro.org.uk</a></p>
Youngsters had a taste of the future when they were given a tour of the £138 million project to extend the Midland Metro in Birmingham city centre.
19767
0
0
Centro,West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust,British Heart Foundation,bus stations,Centro House,defibrillators
Defibrillator kits installed at bus stations
2014-08-05T12:29:00
19793
Centro’s health and safety manager Dave Hadley (centre) with community defibrillator facilitator Stuart Grainger, left, and community response manager Andy Jeynes, both of West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
<p>Potentially life-saving defibrillators, which are used to treat
heart attack victims, are now available at every staffed bus
station in the West Midlands. </p>
<p>Public transport co-ordinator Centro has obtained the machines
through the British Heart Foundation with bus station staff trained
in their use by West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation
Trust. </p>
<p>Centro's health and safety manager, Dave Hadley, said: "The
defibrillators are a welcome addition to the first aid service we
already provide at our bus stations and while we hope they will
never need to be used it should be reassuring to both our own
employees and the travelling public that we have the equipment and
skills needed to help." </p>
<p>Andy Jeynes, the Trust's community response manager, said: "With
the number of people that pass through bus stations each day, it
makes perfect sense to have defibrillators on hand in case someone
suffers a cardiac arrest. The quicker we can start CPR the better
the chances of survival." </p>
<p>Defibrillators have also been installed at Centro's headquarters
in Summer Lane, Birmingham where nominated first aiders and daytime
security staff have also been trained to use them.</p>
Equipment used to treat heart attack victims now available at all staffed stations in the West Midlands
19768
0
0
Centro,Safer Travel,London Midland,British Transport Police,rail trespass
Youngsters warned 'Get off the track - stay off the track'
2014-08-07T10:25:00
17335
Safer Travel police officers will be patrolling rail trespassing hotspots
<p>Hundreds of children and young adults in the West Midlands are
risking their lives, and those of rail passengers and staff, by
trespassing on the railway, latest figures have revealed. </p>
<p>A total of 145 trespassing incidents were recorded in the region
between April and July 2014, with British Transport Police (BTP)
confirming that more than half of all incidents were carried out by
young people aged between 14 and 25. </p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership (STP), which includes Centro and is
tasked with combating crime on the West Midlands public transport
system, found that trespasing was also higher during the summer
months. </p>
<p>In the coming weeks, under the banner of Operation Intruder, BTP
and Safer Travel officers will target trespassers at problematic
locations around the region. Officers will carry out increased
patrols in a bid to try to ward off would-be trespassers who either
think the track is a place to hang out or commit
vandalism. </p>
<p>In the West Midlands region, effective partnership working
between BTP, Safer Travel Partnership officers and London Midland
is proving effective. As well as tackling the danger to life
that trespassing can pose, STP officers will also report any damage
to railway property, such as broken fences, so they may be repaired
and help to stop people gaining access to the track. </p>
<p>Inspector Lee Gordon from the Safer Travel Partnership said:
"Children and young adults need to understand the dangers of the
railway and the risk this poses, not just to their lives, but to
others working and travelling on the rail network. </p>
<p>"We monitor all offences carefully, and there's a sizeable
increase in the number of incidents we see during the lighter
nights". </p>
<p>Over the last three months, in addition to trespass incidents,
BTP Officers have also recorded: </p>
<ul>
<li>19 incidents of stone throwing on the railway;</li>
<li>18 cases of malicious obstruction;</li>
<li>eight cases of criminal damage; and</li>
<li>four endangering safety offences. </li>
</ul>
<p>Mark Goodall, London Midland's head of route for Cross City
services - the busiest commuter route in the West Midlands - said:
"The statistics show that we are currently experiencing around 50
trespassing incidents a month and it's frightening to think what
the consequences of this may be."</p>
Hundreds of young people are risking their lives by trespassing on railway tracks, latest figures have shown
19763
0
0
New, improved timetable welcomed for No 33 bus service
2014-08-08T10:15:00
<p>The introduction of a new, improved timetable for a key Black
Country bus service has been welcomed by local councillors and
transport chiefs at Centro.</p>
<p>Operator Arriva Midlands has launched the new timetable for
service 33 after concerns were raised by local councillors and
passengers about its reliability and frequency.</p>
<p>The service, which operates between Walsall and Rugeley via
Pelsall, Clayhangar, Brownhills, Norton Canes, Cannock and
Hednesford, originally ran every half an hour.</p>
<p>Now, in a move to help ensure the 33 runs reliably, the
frequency has been increased to run up to every 20 minutes daytime
Monday to Saturday. There are also evening buses.</p>
<p>Cllr Barbara Cassidy, who represents the Brownhills area on
Walsall Council, said: "Both Cllr Steve Wade and I are really
pleased that Arriva Midlands has responded to the concerns we
raised on behalf of many Brownhills residents.</p>
<p>"There were clearly problems with the reliability of the
previous service with buses running late or not turning up so we
are hopeful that the increase in frequency will now have a
beneficial effect for bus users across the whole of the Brownhills
area."</p>
<p>Dan Flanagan, Arriva Midlands local manager at the Cannock
depot, said: "Feedback from our customers has highlighted the need
to make changes to service 33.</p>
<p>"We're pleased to introduce the improved timetable which will
ensure we provide a regular, punctual and robust service that our
customers expect and deserve."</p>
<p>Cllr Richard Worrall, who represents Walsall on public transport
co-ordinator Centro, added: "It's a much-needed improvement to the
service and Arriva Midlands deserves credit for listening to what
people were saying about how they felt the service could be
improved."</p>
Local councillors and transport chiefs at Centro welcome new timetable for a key Black Country bus service.
19769
0
0
Midland Metro,tram,Roger Lawrence,Urbos 3,CAF,West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority
New Midland Metro trams go into service
2014-08-14T14:00:00
17474
One of the new Urbos 3 trams set to go into service on September 5
<p>The first of a £40 million fleet of new Midland Metro trams will
start running between Wolverhampton and Birmingham on Friday
September 5, it was announced today (Aug 14). </p>
<p>The four new trams, which are bigger and offer a smoother,
quieter ride than the existing models, are part of a 20-strong
fleet coming into service over the next few months. </p>
<p>The deployment of the sleek, Urbos 3 trams also marks the start
of a bright new chapter for the Metro with construction due for
completion next year of an extension through Birmingham city centre
linking the Snow Hill and New Street stations. </p>
<p>Preliminary ground works have also started on a second extension
from New Street Station to Centenary Square while the Government
earmarked more than £90 million last month towards two further
routes along Broad Street to Edgbaston, just west of Five
Ways, and to the planned high speed rail station in the city's
Eastside district. </p>
<p>The business case for the Wolverhampton Interchange project,
which includes a Metro extension to the city's bus and rail
stations, was also submitted earlier this month. </p>
<p>Cllr Roger Lawrence, chairman of the West Midlands Integrated
Transport Authority, said: "The Midland Metro has a key role to
play in providing the transport connections we need to help our
region grow and prosper. </p>
<p>"That's why the introduction of these new trams and the
forthcoming extensions are such good news for the economy as well
as for passengers who can now look forward to a more frequent and
comfortable service." </p>
<p>Each new tram, built by Spanish manufacturer CAF, is a third
bigger than the existing 16-strong fleet of Ansaldo Trasporti
models, carrying 210 passengers compared to 156. </p>
<p>As the number of new trams being deployed increases it will also
be possible for public transport co-ordinator Centro to step
up the frequency of the Metro to every six minutes throughout the
day. </p>
<p>This will boost overall capacity by 40 per cent, easing the
overcrowding that can sometimes occur at peak times due to the
Metro's popularity. </p>
<p>Meanwhile at least one new tram is arriving each month at the
Midland Metro depot in Wednesbury from CAF's factory in Zaragoza.
The trams then undergo extensive testing and commissioning before
they can be put into service. </p>
<p>As the further Metro extensions are built the tram fleet will
need to be expanded further. The current agreement with CAF allows
Centro to order up to 25 new trams in total. </p>
The first of a £40 million fleet of new Midland Metro trams will take to the tracks on September 5
19767
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,bus,Peter Coates,National Express West Midlands,Darren Cooper
New fleet of buses for Sandwell under Partnership Plus
2014-08-15T15:52:00
17477
Cllr Darren Cooper of Sandwell Council, left, Peter Coates of NXWM and Cllr John McNicholas at the unveiling of the new buses.
<p><span>A £9 million fleet of more than 50 brand new buses is to
hit the road in Sandwell.</span></p>
<p><span>The buses have been unveiled by National Express West
Midlands (NXWM), working in partnership with Centro, the West
Midlands public transport co-ordinator.</span></p>
<p><span>They will operate across the borough from the bus depot at
West Bromwich and will be a mixture of double and single-decker
vehicles.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr John McNicholas, chairman of Centro, the region's
public transport co-ordinator, said: "This investment is great news
for Sandwell passengers.</span></p>
<p><span>"It is yet another example of the very real benefits that
Centro's partnership with NXWM is bringing to bus users across the
region.</span></p>
<p><span>Peter Coates, managing director of NXWM, added: "The new
midi buses will also help us to provide better bus services to
housing estates."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Darren Cooper, the leader of Sandwell Borough
Council, said: "It's great news for Sandwell, especially as we're
getting the region's biggest investment in new buses this
year.</span></p>
<p><span>"It's a major investment from National Express and Centro
and really good news for public transport in Sandwell."</span></p>
<p><span>The British-made buses have been introduced as part of the
Partnership Plus deal between Centro and NXWM to transform bus
travel in the region.</span></p>
<p><span>They will have the latest environmentally-friendly engines
for lower emissions and will have CCTV systems with pictures being
displayed on screens in the vehicles.</span></p>
<p><span>Partnership Plus was signed in 2013 and will see a string
of investments and innovations delivered by 2015 when it comes up
for review.</span></p>
<p><span>It will include more than 300 new buses on the region's
roads and new bus shelters and real time information.</span></p>
National Express West Midlands and Centro unveil new buses worth £9m in Sandwell.
19770
0
0
Birmingham based business named Top Cycling and Walking Location
2014-08-11T10:50:00
<p>A Birmingham business has been commended for its commitment to
helping staff travel in greener ways.</p>
<p>Tyseley-based lens manufacturer BBGR has been awarded both Top
Cycling and Top Walking Location status by public transport
co-ordinator Centro.</p>
<p>Earlier this year the company signed up to Centro's Smart
Network, Smarter Choices (SNSC) project which aims to cut carbon,
boost the economy and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Staff were visited by expert travel advisers who helped draw up
bespoke plans highlighting the public transport, walking and
cycling options available to those travelling to the site.</p>
<p>They also attended cycle maintenance sessions at their offices,
equipped staff with cycling and walking starter kits and installed
new bicycle storage for staff using a grant from the SNSC
project.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "These awards are to commend those
companies which go the extra mile in making it easier for people to
cycle or walk to work.</p>
<p>"Reducing the congestion on our roads can play a key role in
keeping our economy moving and BBGR have rightly been recognised
for their commitment to this."</p>
<p>BBGR's Birmingham headquarters houses more than 150 workers.</p>
<p>The company becomes the first business to be named as both a Top
Cycling Location and Top Walking Location.</p>
<p>Across the West Midlands over 30 businesses and education
establishments who have become Top Locations, as part of the Smart
Network, Smarter Choices, Bike North Birmingham and Birmingham
Cycle Revolution projects.</p>
<p>Janna Bates, head of human resources at BBGR, said: "We are
really pleased to be involved with the scheme, we have raised
awareness of sustainable travel and health and wellbeing with our
employees.</p>
<p>"We have had a fantastic response from employees to the events
that we have organised, and to encouraging sustainable travel.</p>
<p>"We are really pleased to be the first business to be awarded
top Cycling and Walking location."</p>
Business commended for its commitment to supporting green travel.
17342
0
0
State-of-the-art cycle storage facility opens in Stourbridge
2014-08-19T10:40:00
17480
Conrad Jones, Centro’s head of sustainability, Cllr Roger Horton, Centro’s lead member for rail and Brenda Lawrence, London Midland’s head of route for Snow Hill lines cut the ribbon to open the Cycle Hub
<p>The latest in a new generation of state-of-the-art cycle storage
facilities has been unveiled at a Black Country railway
station.</p>
<p>The 'Cycle Hub' at Stourbridge Junction is the result of a
one-off bespoke design by public transport co-ordinator Centro and
becomes the second of several being installed at stations across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The sleek, glass and steel structure provides weather-proof
storage for up to 30 bicycles, is accessible 24 hours a day and
features a swipe card activated door along with internal and
external CCTV cameras to help keep bikes secure.</p>
<p>The project has been part funded by £30,000 secured by local
train operator London Midland from the Association of Train
Operating Companies' (ATOC) Cycle-Rail fund.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail, said:
"Facilities like these are much needed if we are to make it easier
for people to connect their rail journeys with cycling trips.</p>
<p>"We all know that the roads in the West Midlands can be very
congested and it is projects like this that can give people genuine
options about the way they travel."</p>
<p>Selly Oak Cycle Hub, opened in March by Transport Minister
Baroness Kramer, was the first to be installed in the region and
picked up two industry awards within weeks of opening</p>
<p>Work is already underway to install further hubs at Rowley Regis
and Longbridge stations.</p>
<p>Centro is also working with Birmingham City Council to identify
other possible venues in the city as part of the council's Cycle
Revolution project.</p>
<p>Brenda Lawrence, London Midland's head of route for Snow Hill
lines said: "This is a fantastic facility and I'm really pleased we
were able to secure funding towards its development. </p>
<p>"We are committed to working with Centro to improve cycle
facilities at our stations to make leisure travel and commuting
even easier."</p>
<p>The design was created to be low-maintenance and as adaptable as
possible, allowing it to be installed at various stations across
the region where cycling is a popular mode of travel.</p>
<p>The bespoke design was built in the Midlands by Stoke-on-Trent
based construction firm Broxap Ltd and stands at three and a half
metres tall with a distinctive wave style roof.</p>
<p>Conrad Haigh, ATOC's head of integrated transport, said: "This
is just one of more than 350 cycle improvements at station being
funded via the Cycle Rail Working Group, making it more convenient
to make cycle-rail journeys.</p>
<p>"By the end of 2016 it is the ambition of the Cycle Rail Working
Group to treble cycle parking facilities at stations from its
2009/10 level to more than 75,000 spaces. This is the first of the
Cycle Hubs to be built in the Black Country which is great news for
passengers coming in and out of the region."</p>
<p>Cyclists wishing to use the new Cycle Hub can register to become
a member at <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>.
Each member will be issued with a unique swipe card providing
24 hour access.</p>
<p>Members will be asked to provide a £20 deposit on registering
which will be returned in full if they choose to leave the
scheme. </p>
The latest in a new generation of cycle storage units has been unveiled at Stourbridge Junction railway station.
19771
0
0
Coventry city centre set for changes to bus stops
2014-08-22T12:50:00
<p>Bus passengers in Coventry are being advised of changes to stops
and shelters while work to create a key walking route in the city
centre is carried out.</p>
<p>The work by Coventry City Council will see a new walkway created
underneath Warwick Road to improve pedestrian access to the city's
railway station, the Central6 retail park and the Friargate
development.</p>
<p>Construction will run from Tuesday August 26 until next Spring,
and for the majority of the works the steps connecting the station
with bus stops on Warwick Road will be closed.</p>
<p>To help passengers during the works, bosses from public
transport co-ordinator Centro are introducing changes including
additional stops for some services.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said: "Creating this new
walkway will be a great benefit to our city and go a long way to
improving pedestrian access to busy sites like Coventry station and
Central6.</p>
<p>"We know that passengers often use the steps near the station to
get to bus stops on Warwick Road, so while the construction is
ongoing we are introducing some changes to make it easier for
people who will be affected by the closure."</p>
<p>During the works services 1,11 and 12 will serve the railway
station in both directions. The buses will stop at stand SB for
passengers travelling to Earlsdon, Chapelfield and the University
of Warwick.</p>
<p>Those using services X16, X17, U17 and 87 to travel to
Stratford-upon, Warwick, Park and Ride, Westwood Heath and Balsall
Common should use stop SE on Warwick Road near Michaelmas Road.</p>
<p>Cllr McNicholas added: "The changes come into effect after the
Bank Holiday so we would urge people to take the time to
familiarise themselves with the changes before they travel."</p>
<p>For more information on the bus stop changes visit: <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/coventry">www.networkwestmidlands.com/coventry</a>,
or for information on the works taking place visit: <a
href="http://www.coventry.gov.uk/yourcity">http://www.coventry.gov.uk/yourcity</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
Passengers advised of changes to stops and shelters while work to create a key walking route is carried out.
14855
0
0
Wolverhampton,Midland Metro,tram tracks,Priestfields,The Royal,St George's
Work to start on £4.5 million tram track upgrade
2014-08-22T14:00:00
<p>The work, which is scheduled to begin on Saturday September 6
and take around 12 weeks to complete, will see the badly worn
tracks in Bilston Road taken out and replaced.</p>
<p>The upgrade by public transport co-ordinator Centro will help
the Metro maintain its 99 per cent reliability while offering
passengers a much quieter, smoother ride.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Centro's Metro and Sprint programme director,
said: "This tram line plays a key role in supporting the local
economy by providing a quick and reliable link to areas of
employment, education and leisure.</p>
<p>"That's why it's so important we replace the tracks in Bilston
Road which are now 15-years-old and in places only have a few
months of life left in them.</p>
<p>"Not only will the upgrade safeguard the Metro's reliability but
it will offer a much more comfortable ride while helping to prepare
for the future Wolverhampton city centre extension."</p>
<p>The replacement of worn rail and 'crossovers', which allow trams
to change tracks, will use a different type of steel which is much
harder wearing than the original tracks.</p>
<p>To allow contractors to start on site, the Metro line between
Priestfield and St George's will be closed after the last tram on
Friday September 5.</p>
<p>The initial phase of works will require trams to terminate at
Priestfield. However, once a new crossover is installed, the tram
service will be extended to The Royal whilst the remainder of the
work is completed.</p>
<p>A replacement bus service accepting Metro tickets and passes
will be provided in addition to the existing bus services along the
route. Traffic diversions will be in place while the work is
carried out and details of these will be announced in the near
future.</p>
<p>Mr Griffiths added: "There will be a degree of disruption but we
are liaising closely with Wolverhampton City Council and the bus
companies to co-ordinate this work and minimise the impact on road
users and passengers."</p>
<p>Further information about the track replacement project and
alternative travel arrangements are available at <a
href="http://networkwestmidlands.com/wolverhampton/WolverhamptonChangesMetro.aspx">
http://networkwestmidlands.com/wolverhampton/WolverhamptonChangesMetro.aspx</a></p>
Upgrade of badly worn tracks through Wolverhampton will offer smoother, quieter ride
19765
0
<p>A £4.5 million project to upgrade the on-street Midland Metro
tram tracks through Wolverhampton will start next month, it was
announced today (August 22).</p>
<p> </p>
/media/313493/8stgeorges.jpg
1280
1024
232440
jpg
Trams at the St George's stop where the worn rails are to be replaced
0
Centro,Wolverhampton,bus,National Express West Midlands
Bus service changes for Wolverhampton city centre
2014-08-26T10:18:00
<p><span>Passengers in Wolverhampton are being advised of changes
to several city centre bus stops and services.</span></p>
<p>The changes, which include the relocation of bus stops, are part
of the city council's work to improve the pedestrian and shopping
environment in the city centre.</p>
<p>The £1.6 million city centre transport and movement project will
see Princess Street pedestrianised and changes made to the traffic
flow on Queen Street, Market Street and Garrick Street.</p>
<p>On Saturday August 30, Queen Street, Market Street and Princess
Street will be closed to all traffic to allow Wolverhampton City
Council to undertake the highways works necessary for the project.
There will therefore be temporary bus diversions on this day.</p>
<p>On Sunday August 31 the permanent changes to traffic flows will
come into effect and so passengers currently using bus services on
Garrick Street, Princess Street, Market Street and Queen Street
will see permanent changes to their bus routes and stops.</p>
<p>A number of services will also move stands within the city's bus
station, with services 69 and 89 also moved into the station.</p>
<p>The changes are being co-ordinated by Centro, bus operators and
the city council, which has timed its works to coincide with the
August bus service change date and the end of school holidays to
minimise disruption.</p>
<p>Information about the changes is being posted at city centre bus
stops and at other key locations in the run up to the changes.
There are also notices on buses and a new City Centre public
transport map and guide.</p>
<p>Marshalls in high visibility clothing will be deployed on-street
between Friday August 29 and Tuesday September 2 to provide
assistance and information for passengers.</p>
<p>Babs Coombes, Centro's Black Country area manager, said: "We've
been working very closely with Wolverhampton City Council on their
scheme to regenerate the city centre and support local retail.</p>
<p>"This has included coordinating with public transport operators
to minimise disruption for passengers wherever possible as well as
helping to communicate the changes.</p>
<p>"We would urge passengers to take time to look at the service
change information and familiarise themselves with the new
arrangements before they come into effect."</p>
<p>Full details of the changes are available at <a
href="http://networkwestmidlands.com/wolverhampton/WolverhamptonChangesBus.aspx">
http://networkwestmidlands.com/wolverhampton/WolverhamptonCha</a>
<a
href="http://networkwestmidlands.com/wolverhampton/WolverhamptonChangesBus.aspx">
ngesBus.aspx</a></p>
Passengers in Wolverhampton are being advised of changes to several city centre bus stops and services.
19772
0
<p style="text-align: left;">Passengers in Wolverhampton are being
advised of changes to several city centre bus stops and
services.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
0
Folding bike rental scheme arrives at Moor Street station
2014-08-27T12:00:00
17518
The dock at Birmingham Moor Street station
<p>"This will add to the ongoing work we are doing alongside
Birmingham City Council to improve cycling facilities across the
city.</p>
<p>"With millions being invested in transport infrastructure in the
city centre, these docks will be able to complement the major
improvements which are being carried out right now."</p>
<p>A dock will be installed along Colmore Row near Snow Hill
station in the coming months with a further facility also set to
arrive close to New Street station.</p>
<p>Users register online and after selecting which the date,
location and time they wish to hire a bike will be sent a unique
PIN code direct to their mobile phone which allows them to access
one of the British-built cycles.</p>
<p>Bikes can be kept for as long as needed, with a daily charge
applied to the account holder's credit or debit card.</p>
<p>The scheme allows the bicycles to be returned to any of the
docks around the country including cities like London, Bristol and
Manchester.</p>
<p>Cllr Lisa Trickett, Cabinet Member for a Green, Smart and
Sustainable City at Birmingham City Council, said: "The arrival of
the Brompton Docks to Birmingham underlines the importance we are
now placing on cycling being a key part of the transport mix in the
city.</p>
<p> "Through the Birmingham Mobility Action Plan, we want to
make access to all types of sustainable transport as simple as
possible.</p>
<p>"This development is one of the building blocks as we progress
towards that goal - making easier than ever to cycle in the city
centre."</p>
<p>The docks are manufactured locally in Dudley and have their
electronics and power systems fitted at a Birmingham based
plant.</p>
<p>The facility at Moor Street is the first in the West Midlands
and builds on the wider investment being made by Centro and
Birmingham City Council in improving cycling facilities across the
city.</p>
<p>Rentals will cost £2.50 per day for people registered as
frequent users and £5.00 for those signing up as occasional
users. </p>
<p>Ged Burgess, Partnerships Manager at London Midland, said: "This
integrated cycle hire scheme provides another option for commuters
in the city and complements all the other cycle infrastructure
works going on across the West Midlands. </p>
<p>"This is a fantastic resource for the city and one which I'm
sure will be welcomed"</p>
<p>Further investment into connecting cycling and rail travel is
taking place across the region with the installation of
state-of-the-art cycle storage facilities at key stations.</p>
<p>The Cycle Hubs, which feature swipe card access for members and
internal and external CCTV, have already been opened at Selly Oak
and Stourbridge Junction stations with several further planned at
stations including Rowley Regis and Longbridge.</p>
<p>Jenny Payne, Customer Service Director at Chiltern Railways
said: "Cycling has grown in popularity with many passengers
accessing our stations by bike.</p>
<p>"This initiative is a great example of how to promote a healthy
and environmentally friendly way to travel around the city."</p>
<p>For more information about the scheme visit: <a
href="http://www.bromptondock.co.uk">www.bromptondock.co.uk</a></p>
State-of-the-art facility which allows people to hire folding bicycles has been unveiled to the public.
17510
0
<p><span>The first of three state-of-the-art facilities which allow
residents, rail passengers and visitors to Birmingham city centre
to hire folding bicycles has been unveiled to the
public.</span></p>
<p>The scheme has been funded by £90,000 secured by London Midland
through the Department for Transport's Cycle-Rail Fund, with
Birmingham City Council contributing the rest of the money.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail, said: "In the
modern day people are becoming more and more environmentally aware
and these docks will provide another option which can help clear
the congestion on our roads.</p>
/media/314070/brompton-3.jpg
3189
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1351561
jpg
The Brompton Dock at Moor Street Station
0
west midlands,Centro,National Express West Midlands,Safer Travel,West Midlands Police,Kath Hartley,Briths Transport Police,Green Bus
Youngsters learn about safer travel on the bus with Operation Hay
2014-09-04T10:06:00
<p>Operation Hay is a Safer Travel Partnership operation which is
run at the start of the new school year and after the Christmas
holiday.</p>
<p>In September it focuses on bus routes running near high schools,
where youngsters are taught about what constitutes anti-social
behaviour (ASB) on and off the bus.</p>
<p>Police officers and ASB workers from the partnership are
visiting six schools in Birmingham and Solihull and plan to speak
to more than 1,300 Year 7 and 8 pupils throughout the first two
weeks of September.</p>
<p>Reg New, Anti Social Behaviour co-ordinator for Safer Travel,
said: "Very often anti-social behaviour can just be a result of
natural high-spirits.</p>
<p>"Youngsters may not realise they are upsetting other passengers
so the role-play scenarios help them understand this.</p>
<p>"They also show how more blatant forms of ASB such as rowdy
behaviour, swearing, smoking and graffiti disrupt and affect the
safety of other passengers and the bus driver."</p>
<p> Operation Hay plans to visit the following schools:</p>
<ul>
<li>John Wilmott School, Sutton Coldfield</li>
<li>Archbishop Ilsley School, Acocks Green, Birmingham</li>
<li>The International School, Tile Cross, Birmingham</li>
<li>St Thomas Aquinas RC School, Kings Norton, Birmingham</li>
<li>St Peter's RC School, Solihull</li>
<li>Fairfax School, Sutton Coldfield</li>
</ul>
<p> As well as ASB, Operation Hay sees pupils advised over
personal safety and encouraged to register electronic items such as
mobile phones.</p>
<p>They are also informed about the Youth See Something Say
Something service, which provides resources to West Midlands
schools and encourages pupils to report anti-social behaviour
anonymously to the Partnership.</p>
<p>The information sent helps police pinpoint nuisance behaviour
hotspots and take appropriate action including undercover
operations.</p>
<p>Where perpetrators are identified ASB Officers take appropriate
action, often in conjunction with the school</p>
<p>Passengers can also use the See Something Say Something service
by texting 'bus', 'metro' or 'rail' followed by a space and then
details of the incident including time, date, location and route
number to 83010.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership is comprised of Centro, the
region's public transport co-ordinator, West Midlands Police,
British Transport Police and transport operators.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro and chair of its Putting
Passengers First committee, said: "It is great to see children
learning how they can play their part in keeping public transport
safe and pleasant for all.</p>
<p>"For some passengers anti-social behaviour is simply annoying
but for others it can lead to an unfounded fear of crime.</p>
<p>"We need to create an environment in which all passengers feel
safe and in doing so we will encourage more people on to public
transport."</p>
School children have been getting extra lessons about safe and considerate travel on the buses.
19773
0
<p><span>School children have been getting extra lessons about safe
and considerate travel on the buses.</span></p>
<p>Using a double decker bus provided by the Green Bus company,
which operates many school services around the West Midlands, Year
7 pupils were put through a variety of role-play scenarios where
they had to identify what they thought could be classed as ASB and
the effects it had on them, other passengers.</p>
<p>They also met National Express West Midlands bus driver Pete
Rivers, who talked to them about his job and what it is like to be
on the receiving end of abusive behaviour from unruly
passengers.</p>
/media/314453/safertravel9.jpg
3189
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1569176
jpg
Year 7 pupils Paige Doyle, left, Luke Thrupp, and Dejanique Clarke, all aged 11, of John Wilmott School in Sutton Coldfield, with PCSO Terry Court of the Safer Travel Team.
0
Journey tracking tool calculates cash, calorie and carbon savings
2014-09-04T16:05:00
<p>An innovative online and mobile tool which allows users to
calculate calories burned and money saved based on how they travel
has been launched.</p>
<p>Public transport co-ordinator Centro has developed the My Trip
Tracker tool which automatically gives details on cash, calorie and
carbon savings made for each journey.</p>
<p>The tool, which can be used at triptracker.mynetwork.org.uk,
allows people to enter details of their journey and their mode of
travel before calculating miles travelled, numbers of calories
burned and how much carbon and cash has been saved compared to
travelling by car.</p>
<p>The site is also optimised for users wanting to track their
journeys using smartphones.</p>
<p>The launch follows a report from scientists at the BMJ last
month which found that people who regularly travelled by public
transport walking or cycling were almost half a stone lighter than
regular motorists.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable travel, said: "This innovative tool is a great way
for people to see exactly how their travel choices can impact on
their health, their wealth and the environment.</p>
<p>"More than £2 billion is lost in the West Midlands each year as
a result of road congestion so it is important that people are able
to see that there are real tangible benefits to taking public
transport, walking or cycling."</p>
<p>The tool can be used by individuals, community groups and
businesses by registering at the site.</p>
<p>Once journeys have been logged the site automatically generates
graphs detailing results from individual journeys as well as
overall totals.</p>
<p>Calculations can be easily shared on social media at the click
of a button.</p>
<p>Businesses will be able to see the individual highest ranked
individuals as well as savings made across the whole organisation
and compare them with other companies signed up.</p>
<p>The project has been funded by the Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project (SNSC) which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy
and connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>SNSC is a three-year £50 million scheme being delivered in
partnership between Centro and the region's seven local
authorities.</p>
<p>For more information visit: triptracker.mynetwork.org.uk</p>
New tool allows users to calculate calories burned and money saved based on how they travel has been launched.
14520
0
0
Centro,Midland Metro,Urbos 3,CAF,new trams,Darren Cooper,Sir Albert Bore
New Midland Metro trams are launched into service
2014-09-05T13:00:00
<p>The deployment of the Urbos 3 trams marks the start of a bright
new chapter for the Metro with construction already well underway
of an extension through Birmingham city centre linking Snow Hill
with a redeveloped New Street Station. </p>
<p>Preliminary ground works have also started on a further
extension from New Street Station to Centenary Square and the
Government has earmarked more than £90 million for two more routes
- along Broad Street to just west of Five Ways in Edgbaston and to
the planned high speed rail station in the city's Eastside
district.</p>
<p>The business case for the Wolverhampton Interchange project,
which includes a Metro extension to the city's bus and rail
stations, has also recently been submitted. </p>
<p>Sir Albert, who is also a member of the West Midlands Integrated
Transport Authority, said: "Good transport links are vital for the
West Midlands to compete globally and attract the inward investment
needed to help secure economic growth and jobs. </p>
<p>"We also need to properly connect and feed into HS2 so we can
secure the maximum economic benefits possible. The extension of the
tram service, now agreed, will connect Wolverhampton and Sandwell,
through Birmingham into the Curzon HS2 station. </p>
<p>"That's why these new trams and the forthcoming Metro extensions
are such good news, not just for passengers but for our regional
economy as a whole." </p>
<p>The new trams, built by Spanish manufacturer CAF, are a third
bigger than the existing 16-strong fleet of Ansaldo Trasporti
models, carrying 210 passengers compared to 156. </p>
<p>As the number of new trams being deployed increases, it will
also be possible for public transport co-ordinator Centro to
step up the frequency of the Metro service to every six minutes
throughout the day. </p>
<p>This will boost overall capacity by 40 per cent, easing the
overcrowding that can sometimes occur at peak times due to the
Metro's popularity. </p>
<p>Centro chief executive, Geoff Inskip, said: "Not only will these
new trams bring immediate benefits for passengers they will also
transform the Metro's profile when they become a common sight on
the streets of Birmingham city centre. </p>
<p>"This is an important development for our region because the
Metro can serve as a catalyst for economic growth, helping to
unlock new areas of land for development, especially around the HS2
station in Eastside and the bus and rail stations in
Wolverhampton. </p>
<p>"The extension between Snow Hill and New Street Station alone
will boost the region's economy by more than £50 million a year and
create 1,300 new jobs. The future extensions in Wolverhampton and
Birmingham will build on that still further." </p>
<p>At least one new tram is arriving each month at the Midland
Metro depot in Wednesbury from CAF's factory in Zaragoza. </p>
<p>The vehicles then undergo extensive testing and commissioning
before being put into service by National Express which operates
the Midland Metro on behalf of Centro. </p>
<p>By early next year every tram running on the system will be a
new Urbos 3.</p>
The first of a £40 million fleet of state-of-the-art vehicles start running between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton.
19774
0
<p>The first of a £40 million fleet of new Midland Metro trams went
into service today (Friday September 5) marking the start a major
expansion programme for the light rail system. </p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council and Cllr
Darren Cooper, Leader of Sandwell Council, officially launched the
new trams by cutting a ribbon at Snow Hill Station in
Birmingham. </p>
<p>The four new trams, which are bigger and offer a smoother,
quieter ride than the existing models, are part of a 20-strong
fleet coming into service over the next few months on the route
between Snow Hill and Wolverhampton. </p>
<p> </p>
/media/314456/new-trams-4.jpg
1231
876
1047437
jpg
(left to right) Antonio Campos, Western Area Director for CAF, Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, Cllr Darren Cooper, Leader of Sandwell Council, Geoff Inskip, Centro Chief Executive and Cllr John McNicholas, Chairman of Centro launch the new trams at Snow Hill Station in Birmingham
0
Centro,bus,National Express West Midlands,Passenger Focus
Passenger satisfaction rises on buses in the West Midlands
2014-09-09T12:00:00
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, vice chair of Centro, said the improved
results were a triumph for Partnership Plus, a groundbreaking
agreement between Centro and bus operator National Express West
Midlands (NXWM), which operates 75 per cent of local services.</p>
<p>Signed in 2013, it is a two year agreement that will see a range
of passenger benefits introduced by both parties to the bus
network, including new buses, improved information, cleaning,
ticketing and easy to understand networks.</p>
<p>The findings will be discussed by Centro and National Express at
the next meeting of the Putting Passengers First committee on
September 15, which is chaired by Cllr Hartley.</p>
<p>She said: "The Spring Wave 2014 Bus Satisfaction Survey
shows that the hard work undertaken by ourselves and NXWM under
Partnership Plus is having an effect.</p>
<p>"I am delighted that passengers have voiced their satisfaction.
While there is always room for improvement these findings show we
are heading in the right direction."</p>
<p>The Spring Wave is based up 2,000 respondents who represent the
typical bus user market in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>This year's survey indicates a 4% increase in overall
satisfaction with the bus journey (up from 84% to 88%).</p>
<p> Other findings were:</p>
<ul>
<li>Personal security at stop (79%) and on bus (81%) were improved
(both attributes attained a 73% satisfaction score in Spring
2013)</li>
<li>80% were satisfied with the bus stop overall (78% Spring
2013).</li>
<li>80% were satisfied with the length of time they waited before
their bus arrived (compared with just 73% in 2013).</li>
<li>76% were satisfied with the amount of information available at
stop - an increase on the 73% reported a year ago.</li>
<li>There were significant improvements reported in terms of the
driver's appearance (87% satisfied 2014 v 84% 2013), their
greeting/welcome (65% satisfied 2014 v 52% 2013) and their
helpfulness/attitude (67% 2014 v 59% 2013).</li>
</ul>
<p>Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West
Midlands, said the improvements showed Partnership Plus was
delivering real results.</p>
<p>"Earlier this year West Midlands buses were named as the
country's most improved so to see a further increase in customer
satisfaction is great," he said.</p>
<p>"However these results are not the end of the road for bus
improvements in the West Midlands, they just prove we are on the
right track.</p>
<p>"Over the next 12 months we will be investing in hundreds of new
buses, expanding our successful mid-route cleaning programme and
building on our successful Safer Travel Partnership."</p>
<p>David Sidebottom, Passenger Director of Passenger Focus, said:
"Centro and NXWM have listened to what bus passengers say needs
improving and are working together to implement these.</p>
<p>"Our Bus Passenger Survey asks passengers to rate the things
that are most important to them and the real value of this work is
its ability to drive change for passengers through being able to
benchmark and compare services over time."</p>
<p>The full report can be found <a
href="http://www.passengerfocus.org.uk/research/publications/bus-passenger-survey-bps-centro-area-result-in-spring-2014">
here</a>.</p>
An independent survey has shown a rise in passenger satisfaction by bus users in the West Midlands.
19775
0
<p>An independent survey has shown a rise in passenger satisfaction
by bus users in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Figures released by transport watchdog Passenger Focus say 88
per cent of people spoken to over Spring 2014 were 'satisfied' by
services in the region, a four per cent rise on the same time last
year.</p>
<p>Other key findings include increased satisfaction with waiting
times (80 per cent, up by three per cent), information at bus stops
(77 per cent, up by four per cent) while 77 per cent were happy
with the cleanliness and condition on board the bus (up by nine per
cent).</p>
/media/315993/new-nat-ex-bus.jpg
2362
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967798
jpg
There were 276.5 million bus journeys made in the West Midlands in 2013.
0
Birmingham,HS2,Baroness Kramer,David Brown,Waheed Nazir,Albert Bore
Birmingham to host national HS2 conference
2014-09-09T16:24:00
<p>The conference will examine ways to maximise the opportunities
and connectivity of High Speed Rail, concentrating on three key
themes;</p>
<ul>
<li> HS2's role in enabling growth</li>
<li> Connecting our regions to HS2</li>
<li> Innovative ways of enabling national and international
connectivity </li>
</ul>
<p>The event will also look at Lord Deighton's HS2 Growth Task
Force's report 'High Speed 2: Get Ready', which examines how HS2
stations can be connected to existing local transport
infrastructure.</p>
<p>Baroness Kramer said: "The West Midlands will be at the heart of
the high speed rail network and HS2 will play a big part in the
region's future economic prosperity.</p>
<p>"That's why I welcome the work the West Midlands HS2 Strategic
Board and Pteg are putting in to ensure the region maximises the
benefits of HS2.</p>
<p>"This new north/south railway will boost capacity, cut journey
times and free space on the existing network for commuters,
regional rail and freight. It is absolutely essential if we are
going to successfully rebalance the economy."</p>
<p>Delegates attending the event include a range of infrastructure,
property, government and finance experts from across the UK and
Europe.</p>
<p class="Default">Chairing the conference will be Chris Choa, Vice
President at AECOM and Chair of the ULI UK Infrastructure
Council.</p>
<p class="Default">Key speakers include Baroness Kramer, David
Brown, Waheed Nazir Alain Flausch, Secretary General of the
International Association of Public Transport, Steve Gooding -
Director General for Highways, Roads and Local Group and Professor
Katherine Moore.</p>
<p>Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council and member of
the West Midlands HS2 Strategic Board, said: "Vibrant, successful
cities and their wider economic areas need high quality
connectivity to support economic growth and HS2 is key to ensuring
this connectivity for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"During the last two years and through the work of the West
Midlands HS2 Strategic Board, we have been working hard to ensure
the region is well placed to maximise the economic benefits of the
new railway. </p>
<p>"As the first region to benefit from high speed rail this
conference will provide a great opportunity to share our ambitious
plans for HS2 and facilitate the exchange of information and good
practice in the UK and across the globe."</p>
<p>Mr Choa, added: "Every successful economy is defined by its
ability to trade and exchange. </p>
<p>"We are in an age of accelerating globalization, where economic
vitality rests increasingly with smooth exchange between
well-connected cities.</p>
<p>"We recognise the vital importance of strengthening links
between cities and between core infrastructure and specialised
urban development."</p>
<p class="Default">Phase One of HS2, from London to Birmingham, is
forecast to create 9,000 construction jobs, 1,500 permanent jobs
and 30,000 jobs in station redevelopment areas around Euston, Old
Oak Common, Birmingham Interchange and Birmingham Curzon
Street.</p>
<p class="Default">Independent research has also shown that by
developing the right local transport links to best connect and feed
into HS2 the West Midlands can more than double the economic
benefits securing 51,000 new jobs for the region and a £4 billion a
year boost in its economic activity.</p>
<p>Mr Brown added: "HS2 will help address one of the biggest
problems of infrastructure and connectivity which is needed for a
successful business environment and will make the Midlands and the
North an integrated part of the UK. This will allow us to be better
connected within the UK and unlock our city regions to their full
potential. </p>
<p>"The conference will explore ways our cities and towns can start
planning for the future and fully prepare for this significant
piece of infrastructure. It will also highlight ways we can
start to market our areas now, in terms of inward
investment." </p>
<p class="Default">Please visit the <a
href="http://europe.uli.org/event/uli-uk-growth-connectivity-conference/">
ULI UK website</a> to find out more about the conference and how to
register.</p>
<p> </p>
A national conference to explore ways of maximising the economic and transport benefits of HS2 is to be staged in Birmingham.
14746
0
<p><span>A national conference to explore ways of maximising the
economic and transport benefits of HS2 is to be staged in
Birmingham this Friday (September 12).</span></p>
<p>The HS2 Growth and Connectivity Conference will feature a range
of leading political and industry figures including Minister of
State for Transport Baroness Kramer, Chair of PTEG (Passenger
Transport Executive Group) David Brown and Birmingham City
Council's Director of Regeneration Waheed Nazir.</p>
<p>The one-day event, organised by the West Midlands HS2 Strategic
Board in partnership with Pteg and ULI UK (the Urban Land
Institute), will take place at Think Tank, Millennium Point.</p>
/media/315997/3d-new-canal-street.jpg
2362
1329
1238615
jpg
The proposed Birmingham Curzon HS2 station - independent research has calculated that with the right local transport links to best connect and feed into it, HS2 will generate 51,000 new jobs and boost the regional economy by £4 billion a year.
0
Darren Cooper,Jodie Stimpson,Chinu,Jaswant Shergill,Mikail Huggins,Goldbury
Goldbury salutes Commonwealth Games heroes
2014-09-16T16:07:00
<p>Oldbury-born Jodie, who took the Glasgow 2014 games by storm by
winning two gold medals, met fans young and old as well as civic
leaders during the day.</p>
<p>Joining Jodie were gold medal winning guide runner Mikail
Huggins, bronze medal winning wrestler Chinu and weightlifter
Jaswant Shergill.</p>
<p>During the day Goldbury became a sports arena and hosted a
mini-triathlon for enthusiastic sports fans featuring a running
track, exercise bikes and rowing machines.</p>
<p>Jodie, a former Oldbury Swimming and Triathlon Club (STC) member
won gold medals in the solo and mixed triathlon this summer.</p>
<p>She said: "I couldn't believe so many people turned out to
celebrate mine and the other athletes' success. It meant such a lot
and I was very humbled by it.</p>
<p>"I hope all of us who took part in the Commonwealth Games have
gone on to inspire a new generation of athletes and that there will
be lots of young Sandwell stars among them."</p>
<p>Leader of Sandwell Council and West Midlands Integrated
Transport Authority member Councillor Darren Cooper, added: "It was
an honour to celebrate our athletes' success and turn Oldbury into
Goldbury for the day.</p>
<p>"It goes to show how hard work and dedication can pay off and I
wish all four athletes continued success."</p>
<p>Councillor John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "We
thought it would be a fitting gesture to mark the magnificent
achievement of these athletes and support the Sandwell Council
civic reception by spraying the bus shelter gold.</p>
<p>"I am delighted that we have been able to join the council in
honouring a group of people who have done Sandwell and the country
proud."</p>
<p>The 'Goldbury' bus shelter was dressed by Clear Channel with a
message saying 'Celebrating Oldbury's Commonwealth Games
heroes.</p>
<p>Both Sandwell Leisure Trust and Places for People provided
sports activities on the day. Free Radio were also on hand to
entertain the crowds and interview the athletes throughout the
day.</p>
Oldbury turned Goldbury for the day when hundreds turned out to celebrate and cheer on Sandwell’s Commonwealth Games stars.
17582
0
<p><span>Oldbury turned Goldbury for the day when hundreds of
people turned out to celebrate and cheer on Sandwell's Commonwealth
Games stars.</span></p>
<p>The town hosted the special day which saw a bus stop sprayed
gold by Centro, road signs renamed Goldbury and the town centre
turned into a mini sports arena.</p>
<p>Sandwell's mayor, Councillor Derek Rowley hosted a civic
reception honouring the borough's sports heroes including triathlon
golden-girl Jodie Stimpson.</p>
<p> </p>
/media/316843/goldbury.jpg
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Chinu, Jaswant Shergill, Mikail Huggins, Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Derek Rowley, Jodie Stimpson and Leader of Sandwell Council Councillor Darren Cooper.
0
Centro,Network West Midlands,public transport,students,travel pass
Cut price travel offer for students
2014-09-18T14:00:00
<p class="xmsonormal">Thousands of students starting academic life
at the region's universities and colleges are being offered a
special travel pass to cushion the cost of getting out and
about.</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">Staff from public transport co-ordinator
Centro are attending Freshers' Fayres across the West Midlands to
provide information about the nNetwork Student Ticket.</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">There are two versions of the pass for
full-time students. The first, costing £202, offers unlimited bus
travel anywhere in the West Midlands and unlimited train travel in
rail zones 1 and 2.</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">The second pass, costing £250, allows
unlimited bus, train and tram travel anywhere in the West Midlands.
Both passes are valid for one academic term (four months).</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro's lead member for
Putting Passengers First, said: "Paying for travel is often a big
expense for students but these passes offer great value for money
and can help save hundreds of pounds a year.</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">"Many students starting at our universities
and colleges are from outside the West Midlands and may not be
aware of these passes.</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">"That's why we will be attending the
forthcoming Freshers' Fayres so we can provide face-to-face travel
advice and details of how to apply for the nNetwork Student Ticket
student pass."</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">Centro will have a Network West Midlands
stall at the following Fayres:</p>
<p class="xmsolistparagraph">
· University
of Birmingham - September 22 and 23</p>
<p class="xmsolistparagraph">
· Birmingham
City University - September 24</p>
<p class="xmsolistparagraph">
· Coventry
University - September 25 and 26</p>
<p class="xmsolistparagraph">
· Aston
University - October 5</p>
<p class="xmsolistparagraph">
· Wolverhampton
University - October 9</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">nNetwork Student Tickets are also available
by post and at any staffed rail station in the Network West
Midlands area as well as at major bus stations and other ticket
outlets.</p>
<p class="xmsonormal">For further details and how and where to get
a nNetwork Student Pass log on to<a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/student/Student.aspx">http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/student/Student.aspx</a></p>
Special pass for students will cushion the cost of getting out and about.
19776
0
0
Centro,Roger Horton,Park and Ride,parking
£100 penalties to be introduced at Park and Ride sites
2014-09-18T14:55:00
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail and Metro, said
it was being introduced because innocent motorists parking
correctly were suffering at the hands of a selfish few whose lack
of consideration was also putting pedestrians at risk.</p>
<p>He said: "Incorrectly parked vehicles have seen other motorists
blocked in for hours at a time, while pedestrians are endangered by
cars parked on pavements.</p>
<p>"Then there are emergency service vehicles that may need to
access the station being obstructed by badly parked cars. This
cannot be allowed to continue.</p>
<p>"Park and Ride has been a real success story in the West
Midlands. We want that to continue and a selfish or thoughtless
minority cannot be allowed to undermine it."</p>
<p>The scheme will see parking officers working for a private
company patrol Park and Ride sites issuing notices to any
vehicle:</p>
<ul>
<li>Not in a marked bay</li>
<li>On double yellow lines</li>
<li>Parked in such a way as to obstruct emergency services, other
users or create a hazard</li>
<li>Parked in a designated disabled parking bay without properly
displaying a valid Blue Badge permit</li>
<li>Using the car park for purposes other than Park and Ride</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="color: #444444;">All money raised from parking
tickets will go towards the costs of the running the enforcement
scheme.</span></p>
<p>Park and Ride sites have proved so popular many of them are full
before 8am on working days.</p>
<p>This has led to repeated incidents of people parking on grass
verges, pavements, double yellow lines or in disabled bays because
there were no spaces available.</p>
<p>On one occasion at Cradley Heath 170 cars were blocked in for
three hours as a result of a line of vehicles parked outside of
marked bays. On another, 80 correctly-parked vehicles were blocked
in by just one car.</p>
<p>Similar problems have occurred at car parks in Rowley Regis,
Coseley, Wolverhampton Priestfield, Wednesbury Parkway, Selly Oak
and Northfield in Birmingham, and Whitlock's End near Shirley.</p>
<p>In 2013 there were 80 recorded complaints, and in a two month
monitoring scheme in January and February this year Centro received
20 complaints.</p>
<p>Cllr Horton said that since 1997 had invested more than £15
million in Park and Ride facilities to provide more than 7,331 free
spaces at the 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops
across the region</p>
<p>But he said: "Funding and land cannot keep pace with demand and
we have an obligation to all of our customers to manage the sites
safely.</p>
<p>"We understand it is frustrating when you can't find a parking
space but people just cannot be allowed to park where they
like."</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Centro's director of operations said a further
713 spaces were being provided in 2014 and 2015 through extensions
at Rowley Regis, Kings Norton, Stourbridge and Four Oaks.</p>
<p>"Also, nearly 250 extra spaces have been created through
optimising existing layouts ahead of the introduction of the
enforcement scheme," he said.</p>
<p>"However a large proportion of people that park at stations live
within 800m away from them but still choose to drive when there are
good alternatives such as cycling, walking or the bus, and we would
encourage them to perhaps consider using one of those."</p>
Commuters who park badly at railway station and Midland Metro car parks across the West Midlands will receive a £100 penalty charge.
17593
0
<p>Commuters who park badly at railway station and Midland Metro
car parks across the West Midlands will receive a £100 penalty
charge from September 29.</p>
<p>The sum will be reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days, but
further charges will be incurred if it is not paid within 28 days.
Motorists will have the right of appeal.</p>
<p>Warning notices about the scheme are being put up and more than
20,000 leaflets distributed to users <span>at all 57 free-to-use
Park and Ride sites at railway and Midland Metro stops in the
region by </span> Centro, the region's public transport
co-ordinator.</p>
/media/317565/replacement-rail-service-co.jpg
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A coach brought in as a rail replacement service for a broken-down train on 2nd September 2014 at Stourbridge Junction could not manoeuvre because of incorrectly parked vehicles.
0
Businesses, schools and colleges scoop cycling and walking awards
2014-09-19T11:20:00
<p>Among the latest winners unveiled this week were high profile
local employers like Severn Trent Water, Jaguar Land Rover, Warwick
University, Sandwell Council and Birmingham University.</p>
<p>The awards were presented at an event held at Birmingham's Old
Library in Digbeth after each organisation took part in Centro's
Smart Network, Smarter Choices project or Birmingham City Council's
Cycle Revolution scheme.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Over the last two years we have
worked closely with a lot of schools, colleges and businesses to
try and make it easier for people to travel there on foot or by
bike.</p>
<p>"Those that are receiving awards here today are the venues that
have really gone the extra mile in making sure their sites are
cycling and walking friendly for staff or students."</p>
<p>Each business or education site was handed gold, silver or
bronze status based on how easy it is to cycle or walk to and from
the venue.</p>
<p>All took part in detailed travel planning to help advise them on
the transport options available for them including walking and
cycling with most taking measures to further improve their
facilities.</p>
<p>Actions taken include the creation of new footpaths and the
installation of new cycle storage facilities, showers and
lockers.</p>
<p>Cllr Lisa Trickett, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for
a green, smart and sustainable City, said: "Cycling and walking are
important modes of sustainable travel, so it is hugely encouraging
that so many businesses and other organisations are looking at how
they can embrace these modes of transport.</p>
<p>"I hope that by setting such a high standard, they act as an
inspiration to others to get involved and develop their own plans
and initiatives."</p>
<p>The three-year Smart Network, Smarter Choices project is a £50
million scheme being delivered by Centro in partnership with the
region's seven local authorities, which aims to cut carbon and
connect residents to jobs.</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council's Cycle Revolution aims to boost the
number of cyclists in the city by providing improved infrastructure
and facilities to make it easier for residents to travel by pedal
power. </p>
Thirty venues formally recognised as being among the region’s most bicycle and walking friendly locations.
17601
0
<p>Businesses, schools and colleges across the West Midlands have
been formally recognised as being among the region's most bicycle
and walking friendly locations.</p>
<p>Top Cycling and Walking Location status has been awarded to
employers and education establishments in recognition of their
dedication to making it easier for staff or students to travel by
foot or on two wheels.</p>
<p>The award scheme, a partnership between public transport
co-ordinator Centro, bike experts BikeRight!, the Health Exchange
and Birmingham City Council, has seen 30 venues handed the
awards.</p>
/media/317567/top-location.jpg
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The businesses, schools and colleges which scooped the awards at Birmingham’s Old Library
0
UN seen nothing yet: Centro evidence showcased at Climate Summit
2014-09-22T14:00:00
<p>United Nations chiefs will hear how West Midlands transport
bosses are tackling climate change at one of the world's leading
environmental events tomorrow (Tuesday September 23).</p>
<p>Evidence from public transport co-ordinator Centro will be used
to help form part of ambitious international plans to cut rises in
the Earth's temperature being discussed at the UN's Climate Summit
in New York.</p>
<p>Organisations from the public and private sectors were asked to
submit evidence of carbon cutting measures to help devise a global
agreement to keep climate change high on the political agenda.</p>
<p>The event, set to be opened by Hollywood star and UN
representative Leonardo Di Caprio, will showcase input from an
array of experts from across the globe including green schemes
being carried out by Centro.</p>
<p>The report submitted by Centro contains details of plans to cut
carbon at its Birmingham based headquarters (Centro House) and the
three-year Smart Network, Smarter Choices project which aims to cut
congestion in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Smart Network, Smarter Choices is a partnership between Centro
and the region's seven local authorities and targets cutting carbon
by 10,000 by the end of the project.</p>
<p>Evidence included:</p>
<ul>
<li>Plans to create a carbon neutral site at Centro House</li>
<li>Introducing low and zero carbon technology at Centro House</li>
<li>Working with businesses, schools, colleges and universities to
make it easier for staff and students to take public transport,
walk or cycle</li>
<li>Free cycle training for residents</li>
<li>New or improved walking and cycling routes</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Having the opportunity to
contribute to this important global conversation means we can help
shape the future of the planet for generations to come.</p>
<p>"Making it easier for people to take public transport, walk and
cycle are all big contributors to helping reduce climate change in
our region but we have also taken measures to cut or own
emissions.</p>
<p>"By showcasing work from around the world at such a high profile
event the UN are proving just how important the fight against
climate change is."</p>
<p>The Summit targets a commitment from politicians across the
globe to put in place measures to a limit rises in the Earth's
temperature to 2C.</p>
<p>It will be attended by representatives from all UN Member
States, as well as finance, business, civil society and local
leaders.</p>
<p>Centro has already been recognised for its work on carbon
reduction having twice picked up the nationally recognised Carbon
Trust Standard for measures taken at Centro House.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="http://www.un.org/climatechange/summit/">http://www.un.org/climatechange/summit/</a></p>
United Nations chiefs hear how region's transport bosses are tackling climate change at one of the world’s leading environmental events.
17621
0
0
Region’s council leaders sign landmark vision to boost cycling levels
2014-09-23T14:45:00
<p>The Charter, drawn up by the West Midlands' councils and public
transport co-ordinator Centro, will set out a joined-up approach to
boosting cycling in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell,
Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>The vision includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>Improving and creating cycle routes across the West
Midlands</li>
<li>Making roads safer for cyclists including training for road
users such as HGV drivers</li>
<li>Improved facilities to connect cycling with public
transport</li>
<li>Free cycle training for adults and children</li>
<li>Promoting an extension of 20mph zones in urban areas</li>
<li>Ensuring cycle journeys are considered when improving roads or
building new homes, schools, hospitals and employment sites</li>
<li>Seeking funding sources to improve infrastructure</li>
</ul>
<p>Speaking on behalf of the leaders Cllr Roger Lawrence, Leader of
Wolverhampton City Council, said: "If we are to get more people
cycling, there needs to be a consistent message across the region
that shows cycling is taken seriously as a mode of transport.</p>
<p>"We know that eighty per cent of journeys under five miles in
the West Midlands are made by car, so we need to make sure people
have the skills and the confidence which make cycling a real
alternative for these kind of trips.</p>
<p>"The fact that myself and the region's other council leaders
have signed this charter demonstrates just how serious we are about
working together to make sure cycling plays a central role in the
future of our transport."</p>
<p>The document sets out a long term ambition to increase cycling
by building on investment already taking place in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>This includes Birmingham City Council's Cycle Revolution, the
Black Country's Smart Network, Smarter Choices project and the
Cycle Coventry scheme.</p>
<p>These projects have already seen the creation of new cycle
routes, state-of-the-art bicycle storage facilities installed at
railway stations and the launch of bike rental schemes.</p>
<p>Over the next few years these schemes will continue to deliver
improvements to cycling in line with the aims of the Charter.</p>
<p>The Charter was developed to build on the findings of the All
Party Parliamentary Cycling Group report 'Get Britain Cycling'.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas, who officially presented
the Charter to the leaders, said: "Cycling has an important role to
play in helping people lead healthy lifestyles and in reducing the
traffic congestion that is costing the West Midlands economy more
than £2 billion a year.</p>
<p>"We have worked closely with the councils to get this Charter
drawn up and it is great to see all of the leaders pledge their
support to its principles."</p>
The region’s political chiefs have officially backed an ambitious vision to get thousands more people cycling in the West Midlands.
18819
0
<p>The region's political chiefs have officially backed an
ambitious vision to get thousands more people cycling in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>The leaders of the region's seven local authorities have signed
up to the West Midlands Cycle Charter which aims to make bicycle
travel easier.</p>
<p>At the moment around one per cent of all trips made in the
region are by bike. The 14 point strategy seeks to increase this to
five per cent of all journeys within 10 years. </p>
/media/319091/cycle-charter.jpg
3348
2511
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Cllr Sean Coughlan, leader of Walsall Council, Cllr Darren Cooper, leader of Sandwell Council, Cllr Sir Albert Bore leader of Birmingham Council, Cllr John McNicholas, Centro chairman, Cllr David Sparks, leader of Dudley Council, Cllr Bob Sleigh leader of Solihull Council, Cllr Ann Lucas, leader of Coventry Council and Cllr Roger Lawrence, leader of Wolverhampton Council.
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Better Bus,Cradley Heath
Work begins on £1.9 million bus and rail interchange at Cradley Heath
2014-09-24T10:30:00
<p>Temporary bus stops will be in operation nearby while the
adjoining railway station will continue to operate as normal.</p>
<p>The new interchange will consist of six bus stands, four within
the main building and two on a newly-constructed island stand.</p>
<p>Each stand will have automatic doors that only open when the bus
arrives.</p>
<p>The new main building will feature a bright and inviting waiting
area for bus and rail passengers who can use facilities such
as:</p>
<ul>
<li>New toilets with parent and child provision</li>
<li>Electronic passenger information for bus and rail</li>
<li>Enhanced safety and security, with CCTV and Help Points</li>
<li>Tactile information at each stand</li>
<li>Talking totems that will give audio passenger information when
a special key fob is used</li>
</ul>
<p>The funding is made up of contributions from the Department for
Transport, bus operators, Sandwell Council and Dudley Council and
Centro, the public transport co-ordinator for the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said that with 330
bus departures a day the current station no longer met the needs of
a modern interchange.</p>
<p>"This is an exciting development for public transport in Cradley
Heath," he said.</p>
<p>"Once completed the new interchange will offer the world class
public transport facility our passengers deserve and have come to
expect."</p>
<p>Cradley Heath railway station and Park and Ride will remain open
and passengers will still be able to use the ticket office during
opening hours.</p>
<p>However a new night gate will be developed to the side of the
ticket office along with a ramped access to the platform.</p>
<p>The Better Bus Area Fund allows transport authorities to bid for
up to £5 million to encourage bus travel through schemes that
improve accessibility to jobs, education, training, leisure and
health services, and reduce congestion.</p>
<p>Each award has to be matched by locally sourced funding - the
West Midlands was the only region to receive the full amount of £5
million, awarded in spring 2012, and resulting in a total pot of
£10 million.</p>
<p>As part of the scheme work is already underway on a £1.2 million
bus priority and road improvement scheme in nearby Merry Hill.</p>
<p>It will see a new crossing facility on the A4036 Pedmore Road
and some bus priority measures on The Boulevard, the main
connecting road between Merry Hill Shopping Centre and Brierley
Hill High Street. </p>
<p>This work is scheduled to finish by December.</p>
<p>For more information go to <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
Cutting edge passenger information and improved waiting facilities will transform the station.
19777
0
<p>Cutting edge passenger information and improved waiting
facilities will form part of a £1.9 million scheme to transform
Cradley Heath bus and rail interchange.</p>
<p>The work is being paid for through the Better Bus Area Fund, a
£10 million pot to improve public transport in Brierley Hill, Merry
Hill and Cradley Heath.</p>
<p>The site, in Forge Lane, will close on September 28 for work to
begin and which is scheduled for completion in the New Year.</p>
/media/319093/cradley-heath-from-main-entrance-copy-2-.jpg
1596
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891622
jpg
An artist's impression of the new bus and rail interchange.
0
West Midlands submits bid for more responsibility for local rail
2014-09-26T10:00:00
<p><span>The authorities believe devolving powers from central
Government to the West Midlands would create a better railway not
just for passengers but also for the region's economy, helping to
drive growth and jobs.</span></p>
<p><span>Today's event also marked the launch of West Midlands
Rail, a consortium involving 14 authorities - Birmingham, Coventry,
Dudley, Herefordshire, Northamptonshire, Sandwell, Shropshire,
Solihull, Staffordshire, Telford and Wrekin, Walsall, Warwickshire,
Wolverhampton and Worcestershire.</span></p>
<p><span>If the Government agrees to the rail devolution
proposition then West Midlands Rail will be the public body
responsible for overseeing local rail services once the existing
London Midland franchise ends in 2017.</span></p>
<p><span>The submission follows an approach last year by the
Department for Transport which asked English regions for their
thoughts on taking over the commissioning and management of local
rail services.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Roger Lawrence, leader of Wolverhampton City Council
and chairman of West Midlands Rail (WMR), said: "The submission of
this proposition is a major step towards securing local management
and ultimately delivering better rail services focussed on the real
needs of West Midlands passengers.</span></p>
<p><span>"The local rail network has a key role to play in
supporting the region's economy and holding more responsibility
here in the West Midlands will help make sure that new investment
is best targeted to create growth and jobs.</span></p>
<p><span>"It would also help ensure the local rail network fully
connects and feeds into the forthcoming high speed rail line,
thereby maximising the significant economic benefits offered by
HS2."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Mark Winnington, Staffordshire County Council's
cabinet member for economy, environment and transport and vice
chairman of WMR, added: "We believe that a local partnership better
understands what local people and the economy needs from its
railway.</span></p>
<p><span>"Local responsibility would be good for passengers and
good for business, enabling people to reach the shopping,
commercial and tourist centres in our towns and cities. We believe
it would be more accountable and responsive and better value for
taxpayers."</span></p>
<p><span>Transferring more responsibility for the franchise from
the Department for Transport would enable the West Midlands to use
its local knowledge to lay down minimum standards of service,
including punctuality and reliability and have the power to hold
the train operator to account.</span></p>
<p><span>Devolution could also provide an opportunity to set fares
locally, offering fairer pricing for passengers, while locally
managed stations could mean improved passenger information, better
security and staffing and upgraded facilities such as more cycle
parking.</span></p>
<p><span>The move could also mean more frequent trains and better
integration with bus and tram services while easing the way for a
network-wide smartcard that can be used on all modes of public
transport.</span></p>
<p><span>Only two areas of the UK presently have locally managed
rail networks - Merseyside and London. Both have been highly
successful in terms of passenger satisfaction, passenger growth and
punctuality<span>.</span></span></p>
Region's councils approve formal proposition to Government to put more responsibility for the region’s rail services in local hands.
19778
0
<p><span>Councils from across the West Midlands today (September
25) approved a formal proposition to Government to put more
responsibility for the region's rail services in local
hands.</span></p>
<p><span>Metropolitan, shire and unitary authorities from across
the West Midlands met at the County Buildings in Stafford to
endorse the submission document - 'West Midlands Rail Proposition
2014'.</span></p>
<p><span>The proposition will now be formally submitted to
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.</span></p>
/media/348632/250914rail_02.jpg
3543
2318
966465
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The leaders of the region's 14 local authorities with a copy of the submission sent to central Government
0
Residents can put best foot forward at walking events
2014-10-03T11:30:00
2014-10-03T00:00:00
<p>Residents are being invited to put best foot forward and take
part in walking events during a national campaign for the visually
impaired.</p>
<p>On Wednesday October 8 people are being asked to 'Glow for Guide
Dogs' by wearing bright clothes on the walks taking place across
the region.</p>
<p>The events, organised by public transport co-ordinator Centro
and national charity Guide Dogs form part of activities taking
place during Guide Dogs Week (October 4 - 12).</p>
<p>Walks will be led by staff from the Health Exchange and Coventry
Healthy Walks team and be attended by local Guide Dogs users.</p>
<p>The walks will be held at: </p>
<ul>
<li>Birmingham, 3pm from Thomas Pocklington Trust, Chatham Road,
Northfield</li>
<li>Solihull, 3.45pm from Solihull railway station or Tudor Grange
Leisure Centre</li>
<li>Coventry, 4pm from Moat House, Winston Avenue</li>
<li>Dudley, 5pm from Dudley Leisure Centre, Wellington Road</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "Walking can be a great way for
people to get active and see some of the local area that they
wouldn't normally see if they are travelling by car.</p>
<p>"Holding these walks gives us a chance to help residents get out
and about and also take part in the national Guide Dogs week."</p>
<p>Each short walk will pass through some of the region's local
green spaces.</p>
<p>Guide Dogs week is an annual event which aims to raise awareness
for the charity which provides supports visually impaired
people.</p>
<p>Alison Selby of Guide Dogs said: "We'd like to encourage as many
people as possible to come along and Glow for Guide Dogs.</p>
<p>"It should be a fun event and an opportunity for us to raise
awareness of how important Guide Dogs are in enabling people with
the loss of sight to lead active lives."</p>
<p>The events form part of Centro's Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project which aims to cut carbon, boost the economy and connect
residents to jobs.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="http://www.guidedogs.org.uk">www.guidedogs.org.uk</a> or <a
href="http://www.mynetwork.org.uk">www.mynetwork.org.uk</a></p>
Residents invited to take part in walking events during a national campaign for the visually impaired.
18923
0
0
Midland Metro,Centro,Light Rail
Hat trick success for Midland Metro at Light Rail awards
2014-10-03T16:00:00
<p>Supplier of the Year was awarded to CAF, the
Spanish-manufacturers of the new Urbos 3 tram fleet which began
running on the Metro this autumn.</p>
<p>Project of the Year was awarded to Centro for the way it
introduced the new trams into service on the Metro line.</p>
<p>The awards were presented to representatives from Centro and
National Express West Midlands by Transport Minister Baroness
Kramer and TV newscaster Nicholas Owen at the Honourable Artillery
Company headquarters in the City of London.</p>
<p>Paul Griffiths, Metro programme director for Centro, said:
"Everyone is absolutely delighted, to win just one award would have
been fantastic but to win three is unbelievable.</p>
<p>"These really are the Oscars of the light rail world and the
fact that we have done so well shows that the industry recognises
what superb work is being done on the Midland Metro."</p>
<p>Peter Coates managing director of Midland Metro operator
National Express West Midlands said: "To win this award alongside
delivering a major extension is a great result and a credit to the
hard work of all our staff who ensure our trams are clean, reliable
and safe.</p>
<p>"This award is proof we are on the right track and we will be
working with passenger groups, Centro and local councillors to help
deliver further improvements."</p>
<p>The Midland Metro runs between Wolverhampton city centre and
Snow Hill station in Birmingham.</p>
<p>Work is underway on underway of an extension through Birmingham
city centre linking Snow Hill with a redeveloped New Street
Station, scheduled for completion next year.</p>
<p>Preliminary ground works have also started on a further
extension from New Street Station to Centenary Square and the
Government has earmarked more than £90 million for two more routes
- along Broad Street to just west of Five Ways in Edgbaston and to
the planned high speed rail station in the city's Eastside
district.</p>
<p>The Urbos 3 trams built by CAF are a third bigger than the
existing 16-strong fleet of Ansaldo Trasporti models.</p>
<p>They carry 210 passengers compared to 156 in the old trams, and
a fleet of 21 is being phased in.</p>
The Midland Metro tram system win three categories at the prestigious UK Light Rail awards.
18935
0
<p>The Midland Metro is celebrating a triple whammy of success
after scooping three industry 'Oscars' at a prestigious awards
ceremony.</p>
<p>It won awards for Operator of the Year, Supplier of the Year and
Project of the Year at the Light Rail awards in London.</p>
<p>Operator of the Year was awarded to National Express West
Midlands, which runs the Metro on behalf of Centro, the region's
public transport co-ordinator.</p>
/media/350766/lra14-midland-metro-winners.jpg
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1323
978218
jpg
The successful NXWM, CAF and Centro teams with Baroness Kramer at the Light Rail awards.
0
Centro,Roger Horton,Park and Ride,Longbridge,Rover,Austin,cars
Pupils go batty for Longbridge Park and Ride mural project
2014-10-06T12:01:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Working under the guidance of
Kidderminster artist Mark Renn of <a
href="http://rennassociates.co.uk/">Mark Renn Associates</a>, they
provided a design in the outline shape of a bat which told the
story of Longbridge.</p>
<p>The design was applied to sheets of metal which cover the front
of the wall.</p>
<p>Mark said: "It was a challenging project but the girls'
enthusiasm and hard work meant it turned out very well.</p>
<p>"It wasn't just about bats, it was about capturing the heritage
of the whole area and the way the girls rose to the challenge was
fantastic."</p>
<p>Sarah Barton, head of art at Turves Green, said the project had
been a hit at the school.</p>
<p>"The project was a great opportunity for those girls who had
opted for GCSE Art to work on a live public art brief alongside
professional artists," she said.</p>
<p>"It was very popular even amongst students who had not opted for
GCSE Art and so we invited them to apply to take part as well."</p>
<p>The work has now been formally unveiled in a ceremony on
September 25, with the girls signing their names on the mural.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail and Metro, said:
"This is a superb piece of work and I congratulate the girls and
the artist on their imagination and hard work.</p>
<p>"Longbridge was world famous for more than a century for its the
cars. Sadly Rover is no longer with us but the mural provides a
reminder to everyone using the car park about what was once
here."</p>
A new Park and Ride mural telling the history of car-making in Longbridge also provides a home for a colony of bats.
18938
0
<p style="text-align: left;">A new car park in Longbridge has a
permanent reminder of the area's once mighty car industry thanks to
a local school which went bats for the project.</p>
<p>The Park and Ride site in Longbridge Lane has a mural designed
by students at nearby Turves Green Girls School.</p>
<p>As well as giving a visual record of the area's history the
wall-mounted mural also provides a home for a colony of bats that
had been living in derelict houses which previously occupied the
site.</p>
/media/351670/batmural2.jpg
6528
4352
1456000
jpg
The girls from Turves Green School with Mark Renn, left, Cllr Roger Horton, Centro project manager Duncan Fry and Sarah Barton of Turves Green School.
0
Centro,Bermuda Park,Coventry City Council,Warwickshire County Council,new station
Work begins on Bermuda Park rail station
2014-10-08T14:00:00
<p><span>"It is so great to see this long awaited project finally
get going, " the Minister said.</span></p>
<p><span>"Bermuda Park is seeing major redevelopment and the new
station is crucial part of this, providing easy public
transport access to tens of thousands of jobs in the nearby
area.</span></p>
<p><span>"The scheme will also mean upgrades for the
Coventry-Nuneaton railway line providing job opportunities for many
people. This investment shows the government is serious about
funding the infrastructure needed to boost the economy and deliver
jobs and growth."</span></p>
<p>The new station will enable people and businesses in and around
the south of Nuneaton to gain quick and easy access to local,
regional and national rail networks.</p>
<p>It will also improve access to job opportunities in the Nuneaton
- Coventry corridor, including at Bermuda Park industrial estate
and the <span>Friargate business district, next to Coventry railway
station</span>.</p>
<p>The over all project will see another new station built at
Coventry Arena and exztended platforms Bedworth Station, boosting
local people's access to the rail route.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, said: "This new station
will, for the first time, give many people in the area or working
at Bermuda Park the option to travel by train.</p>
<p>"That's great news for the environment and for the economy. Not
only does it help connect people to jobs but also helps cut the
road congestion that is costing West Midlands businesses more than
£2 billion a year."</p>
‘Spade in ground’ event marks start of work on new rail station near Coventry
14805
0
<p><span>A 'spade in the ground' event has marked the start of work
on a new train station as part of a £13.6 million upgrade for the
Coventry to Nuneaton rail line.</span></p>
<p><span>The event, which saw construction get
underway on the Bermuda Park rail station in Nuneaton, was
attended by Claire Perry MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary for
Transport.</span></p>
<p><span>The Department for Transport are funding up to £4.75
million of the scheme, with public transport co-ordinator Centro,
the European Regional Development Fund, Warwickshire County Council
and Coventry City Council funding the rest of the cost</span></p>
/media/351676/bermuda-park-landscape.jpg
3893
2640
1559373
jpg
(L to R): Cllr Peter Butlin of Warks County Council, Cllr Martin Heatley of Warks County Council, Monica Fogarty of Warks County Council, Marcus Jones MP, Rail Minister Clare Perry MP.
/media/351673/bermuda-park-1.jpg
2796
2664
1849878
jpg
(L to R): Councillor Peter Butlin (Portfolio Holder for Transport & Planning, Warwickshire County Council), Councillor Martin Heatley (Warwickshire County Councillor for Nuneaton Whitestone), Monica Fogarty (Strategic Director, Communities, Warwickshire County Council), Marcus Jones MP, Rail Minister Clare Perry MP.
0
Centro,Safer Travel,Safeside,West Midlands Fire Service
Youngsters get the safer travel message at Safeside
2014-10-08T15:11:00
<p>"By encouraging walking, cycling, public transport and car
sharing, not only can children become more autonomous, they can
also make their journeys greener," said Safeside manager Rob
Hattersley.</p>
<p>"The scenario will eventually make use of electronic tablets on
which pupils will plan a journey from Safeside to other Birmingham
attractions, using various online tools, maps and apps.</p>
<p>"They'll compare the different travel options by time, distance,
price and CO2 emissions. But, because it takes place in a realistic
travel centre with maps and leaflets - just like the one at New
Street - children will also learn the value of paper-based
materials."</p>
<p>Laura Graham of Safer Travel added "This resource is a great
addition to an already fantastic centre. Children can learn exactly
what they need to know about using public transport, and the more
confident children feel in preparing to travel and the safer they
feel when using the bus the more they will be encouraged about
using it."</p>
<p>Linked to the new travel scenario is a new interactive workshop,
based on a National Express West Midlands double decker bus which
is parked on Safeside's indoor street.</p>
<p>The session will focus on the benefits of using public transport
and the skills and awareness children need to do so safely.</p>
<p>Pupils will see themselves on CCTV, deal with a suspicious
character, and watch and discuss a video about the consequences of
travel crime and what to do about it. They will be presented with
several real-life travel dilemmas, including what to do if they
forget their fare or miss their stop.</p>
<p>Safeside is currently taking 2014-15 bookings for primary
schools. Book online at <span><a
href="http://www.safeside.org.uk/juniorcitizen"
target="_blank">www.safeside.org.uk/juniorcitizen</a></span>.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership is comprised of Centro, the
region's public transport co-ordinator, West Midlands Police,
British Transport Police and transport operators.</p>
Thousands of West Midlands school children are set to benefit from a brand new travel information centre designed and built just for them.
18950
0
<p>Thousands of West Midlands school children are set to benefit
from a brand new travel information centre designed and built just
for them.</p>
<p>The facility at West Midlands Fire Service's flagship Safeside
safety venue has been funded by Centro and is part of a continuing
partnership between the West Midlands Safer Travel Partnership Anti
Social Behaviour Team, Centro's Education Team and Safeside.</p>
<p><span>Young visitors to the centre on Vauxhall Road in Nechells,
Birmingham will learn important skills in journey planning, with an
emphasis on them developing greater independence as they move
towards secondary school.</span></p>
/media/351678/img_7678.jpg
2192
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Ornela Muslimovic, left front, Neha Akhtar, Sharmin Akhtar and Kadeeza Khanom. Safeside manager Rob Hattersley, rear left, and Laura Graham of the Safer Travel Partnership Anti Social Behaviour team.
0
Centro,Midland Metro,Eastside,Birmingham City Council,Eastside Metro extension
Public to have their say on Midland Metro extension
2014-10-09T06:45:00
A computer generated image of how the Metro trams would look in High Street Deritend
<p>The scheme, which includes construction of the extension and
additional new trams, could cost up to £130 million depending on
which route through Digbeth is chosen.</p>
<p>The plans have been drawn up by Centro, the region's transport
co-ordinator, and Birmingham City Council, and include two options
to link New Canal Street with a proposed terminus and multi-storey
car park at Adderley Street.</p>
<ul>
<li>Option 1 - is the shortest at just over 1km and follows Fazeley
Street before turning onto Liverpool Street. There would be a stop
close to the junction with Great Barr Street and Heath Mill Lane.
Trams would then continue along Liverpool Street before turning
into Adderley Street.</li>
<li>Option 2 - is just under 1.5km long and runs along New Canal
Street and Meriden Street before turning left on to High Street
Deritend. It would then run along the centre of the carriageway
with a stop close to the junction of Milk Street to serve Digbeth
Coach Station and the Custard Factory. It would then turn left into
Adderley Street.</li>
</ul>
<p>Both options have been designed to support the continued
regeneration of Birmingham, improving public transport connections
across the city centre and wider region and to national and
international links offered by the HS2 station at Curzon
Street.</p>
<p>Depending on the timing of Government approval for a Transport
and Works Act Order to allow Centro to construct and operate the
route, the extension could be open by 2023. This would help support
and stimulate further economic growth and new jobs in the Eastside
district ahead of the scheduled opening of HS2 in 2026.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr John McNicholas, said: "The Eastside
extension will provide a direct link to HS2 and its regional,
national and international connection for tens of thousands of
people in the Black Country and Birmingham who already have access
to the Metro.</p>
<p>"It will help cater for the movement of the 12,000 West Midlands
people expected to arrive at the HS2 station every hour and provide
fast and convenient public transport options for people to the east
of the city.</p>
<p>"This project will help shape the future of our region and the
views of the public are an important part of the process. It helps
us understand the pros and cons of a scheme from their perspective
and I would urge people to take this opportunity to have their
say."</p>
<p>The tram extension is a key part of the wider Birmingham Curzon
HS2 Master Plan which has been drawn up by the city council and
Centro to lay down a blueprint for the redevelopment of 350 acres
of land around the HS2 station.</p>
<p>The scheme includes shops, 350,000 square metres of offices, a
hotel and 2,000 homes.</p>
<p>Cllr Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for
development, transport and the economy, said: "The Midland Metro
project is a hugely important step forward for Birmingham as it
will create new jobs, encourage business growth and help boost the
region's economy.</p>
<p>"This proposed extension would take this vision even further,
ensuring that people and businesses across the city are connected
as never before.</p>
<p>"An important aspect is to better connect people to jobs and
services. We now need people to come forward and tell us what they
think so that we can make sure the finished scheme is as effective
as possible."</p>
<p>Cllr Ali said the extension would also complement and enhance
other key improvements to the Birmingham's transport network,
including a rebuilt New Street Station, the Metro route currently
being constructed through the city centre, and future tram
extensions to Centenary Square and from there along Broad Street to
Edgbaston.</p>
<p>The public can get further details about the project and give
their views on the two route options at <a
href="/metro">www.centro.org.uk/metro</a></p>
<p>A series of exhibitions are also being staged in the city centre
for people to ask questions and give feedback.</p>
<p>The exhibitions will take place on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday October 14 at The Bond, Fazeley Street between 11:30am
- 5:30pm</li>
<li>Thursday October 16 at Victoria Square between 10am - 6pm</li>
<li>Friday October 17 at The Coach Station, Digbeth between 12 noon
- 5pm</li>
<li>Thursday October 23 Winter Garden, Fazeley Studios between 8am
- 11am</li>
<li>Thursday October 23 The Dome, Custard Factory between 12noon -
4:30pm</li>
<li>Saturday October 25 Birmingham Markets between 9am -
3pm</li>
</ul>
<p>The deadline for comments is October 31.</p>
Views sought on further extension of the Midland Metro through Birmingham's Eastside district
19779
0
<p>The public are being invited to give their views on plans for a
further extension of the Midland Metro through the heart of the
Digbeth area of Birmingham.</p>
<p>Following an initial public consultation in February this year a
tram route from Bull Street in the city centre to the proposed HS2
high speed rail station at Curzon Street has already been
agreed.</p>
<p>But after transport chiefs secured extra Government money this
summer to take the extension on further into Digbeth the public are
now being offered a chance to have their say on which of two
possible routes the trams should take.</p>
/media/351677/eastside1.jpg
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0
Centro,John McNicholas,Peter Coates,National Express West Midlands
Bus award success for National Express West Midlands and Centro
2014-10-08T16:53:00
<p>A ground-breaking collaboration delivering wide-ranging benefits
for bus passengers in the West Midlands has been recognised with a
top transport industry award.</p>
<p>The Partnership Plus agreement between Centro, the region's
transport co-ordinator, and bus operator National Express West
Midlands won the Partnership of the Year category at the National
Transport Awards in London.</p>
<p>The awards were judged by the great and the good of the
transport industry including chair of the Transport Select
Committee Louise Ellman MP, Anthony Smith chief executive of
Passenger Focus the independent customer watchdog and Stephen
Joseph, director of the Campaign for Better Transport.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "I am
delighted that Partnership Plus has been recognised in this
way.</p>
<p>"It is an initiative that is transforming bus travel in the West
Midlands and it is deserved recognition of the hard work of the
Putting Passengers First committee, Centro staff and their
counterparts at National Express West Midlands."</p>
<p>Peter Coates Managing Director of National Express West Midlands
said: "Our partnership with Centro has delivered record-breaking
investment, major improvements in customer satisfaction and a 65%
decrease in anti-social behaviour. We are proud of this award
but it is important to stress that this is not the end of the road
for bus improvements in the West Midlands just a sign we are on the
right track."</p>
<p>Partnership Plus was signed in 2013 and will see a string of
investments and innovations delivered by 2015 when it comes up for
review.</p>
<p>These include:</p>
<ul>
<li>300 new buses across the West Midlands</li>
<li>Ten new 'Gold' corridors with significantly improved vehicles,
information and bus priority</li>
<li>New Real Time Information displays</li>
<li>More CCTV on buses</li>
<li>Expanded on-bus cleaning</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr McNicholas said: "Centro and NXWM are both dedicated to
transforming bus travel so that the passenger reaps the maximum
benefit.</p>
<p>"Partnership Plus is a hugely important part of that aim and I
look forward to its continued success."</p>
The Partnership Plus agreement wins a gong at the National Transport Awards in London.
19770
0
<p>A ground-breaking collaboration delivering wide-ranging benefits
for bus passengers in the West Midlands has been recognised with a
top transport industry award.</p>
0
More than 10,000 West Midlands jobseekers given free travel support
2014-10-10T14:00:00
<p style="text-align: left;">More than 10,000 of the region's job
seekers have been given free travel to help them get back into work
over the last two years.</p>
<p>Public transport co-ordinator Centro revealed its award-winning
WorkWise project, which provides free tickets for unemployed people
travelling to interviews or starting new jobs, had passed the
landmark this week.</p>
<p>The project which first launched in 2004 was expanded in 2012
following a funding boost from the Smart Network, Smarter Choices
scheme, a joint initiative between Centro and the region's seven
local authorities.</p>
<p>Centro has been working with JobCentrePlus to deliver the scheme
to job seekers in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull,
Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Since then 10,425 people visiting the region's job centres have
been helped by the scheme.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "WorkWise continues to be a real
success story for us and the fact that we have helped more than
10,000 of our residents in their search for work in such a short
space of time proves the real impact it can have.</p>
<p>"It can be difficult for job seekers to pay for travel to
interviews or to get to work before their first pay cheque
arrives.</p>
<p>"WorkWise helps break down these barriers to employment and give
people the support they need to find work."</p>
<p>WorkWise is available for job seekers living within the West
Midlands metropolitan area.</p>
<p>The scheme provides free journey planning as well as day tickets
for unemployed people travelling to interviews and up to eight
weeks travel for those starting new jobs.</p>
<p>Since launching, WorkWise has gained national recognition after
picking up the transport award in the 2007 Guardian Public service
Awards.</p>
<p>The following year, the scheme helped Centro scoop the prize for
Accessibility in the National Transport Awards which are regarded
as the transport industry's 'Oscars'.</p>
<p>Smart Network, Smarter Choices is a £50 million three-year
programme aimed at cutting carbon, boosting the economy and
connecting residents to jobs.</p>
<p>The programme was launched after £33 million was secured from
the government's Local Sustainable Transport Fund and boosted by
local cash.</p>
<p>As well as a providing funding for Workwise the project has seen
the creation of new and improved cycle routes, upgrades to
junctions to improve traffic flow and thousands of cycle training
and maintenance classes provided.</p>
<p>For more information visit: <a
href="http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise">www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise</a></p>
<p> </p>
More than 10,000 of the region's job seekers have been given free travel to help them get back into work over the last two years.
14930
0
0
Centro,Wolverhampton,Park and Ride,Priestfield
Work to start on new parking spaces at Priestfield Park and Ride
2014-10-15T16:01:00
<p>Work is to start on providing 17 new spaces at Priestfield Park
and Ride for the Midland Metro in Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>The new spaces will add to the existing 131 parking slots at the
popular facility run by Centro, the region's transport
co-ordinator.</p>
<p>They will be made as a result of re-designing the existing car
park by re-siting lamp columns and re-landscaping.</p>
<p>Work is due to start on Monday October 20 and is scheduled for
completion by early November.</p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro lead member for rail and Metro, said:
"Park and Ride is hugely popular in the West Midlands and as a
result many car parks get full very quickly.</p>
<p>"People tell us they want more spaces, and while we only have so
much land and resources available to do this we can ensure what we
do have is put to the best use possible.</p>
<p>"I am delighted that at Priestfield we are able to provide more
spaces, thus helping more motorists to make use of the excellent
public transport network."</p>
<p>Cllr Horton said that since 1997 Centro had invested more than
£15 million in Park and Ride facilities to provide more than 7,331
free spaces at the 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram
stops across the region.</p>
<p>A further 713 spaces will be provided in 2014 and 2015 through
extensions at Rowley Regis, Kings Norton, Stourbridge and Four
Oaks.</p>
<p>A further 250 spaces are being created through optimising
existing layouts such as at Priestfield.</p>
<p>Park and Ride has proved so popular that Centro was forced to
introduce a penalty charge scheme on September 29 to tackle the
problem of motorists unable to find a space and who were parking
wherever they could.</p>
<p>Anyone not parking in properly marked bays, on double yellow
lines, causing an obstruction, not displaying a valid disabled Blue
Badge permit or using the car park other than for Park and Ride now
receives a £100 charge.</p>
<p>This is reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days, but further
charges will be incurred if it is not paid within 28 days.
Motorists have the right of appeal.</p>
Work is to start on providing 17 new spaces at Priestfield Park and Ride for the Midland Metro in Wolverhampton.
19780
0
<p>Work is to start on providing 17 new spaces at Priestfield Park
and Ride for the Midland Metro in Wolverhampton.</p>
0
Centro,Your Public Transport Matters,Wednesbury
Wednesbury passengers to have their say on public transport
2014-10-16T12:00:00
<p>Passengers in Wednesbury have the chance to give transport
chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
<p>The 'Your Public Transport Matters' event will enable the
travelling public to talk directly with representatives from
Network West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system.</p>
<p>The event, between 11am and 1pm on Saturday October 18 at
Wednesbury bus station, has been organised by Centro, the region's
transport co-ordinator.</p>
<p>It will feature local councillors who represent Wednesbury on
the authority and staff from bus and rail operators will be
invited.</p>
<p>Feedback from members of the public will be looked at closely by
transport bosses and used to make improvements to the local
bus and rail network.</p>
<p>Cllr John McNicholas, the chairman of Centro, said: "This
event is the ideal opportunity to really understand the needs
of passengers.</p>
<p>"By holding these events more regularly and in locations like
Wednesbury bus station we hope to hear from as many people as
possible.</p>
<p>"We are particularly interested in hearing how we can improve
connections between different forms of public transport making
those connections easier, quicker and more convenient.</p>
<p>"We want public transport to be a real choice for people and we
will feedback passengers' views to bus and rail operators to help
make sure the network reflects their needs." </p>
Passengers in Wednesbury have the chance to give transport chiefs their views about the area’s network.
19401
0
<p>Passengers in Wednesbury have the chance to give transport
chiefs their views about the area's network.</p>
0
Centro,Wolverhampton,i54,Pendeford,.National Express West Midlands,Staffordshire,ISP
Express bus service to business parks set to launch
2014-10-20T17:28:00
<p><span>It means the bus will take as little as 15 minutes to
reach i54 South Staffordshire and just 17 minutes to the Pendeford
Business Park compared to up to 35 minutes at present.</span></p>
<p><span>The 54, which will use a fleet of brand new National
Express West Midlands buses boasting free wi-fi and low emission
engines, will operate between 5:35am and 11:25pm Monday to
Saturday. It will run every 15 minutes during peak times and every
30 minutes throughout the rest of the day and evening.</span></p>
<p><span>Its timetable has been designed to co-ordinate with i54
South Staffordshire shift patterns and to integrate with train
arrival and departure times at Bilbrook Station, which is on the
bus route. This will give people coming from Shropshire and
Staffordshire a far quicker link to the two business
parks.</span></p>
<p><span>The new bus service, which has been arranged by Centro, is
being <span>funded by the i54 transport steering group which
includes South Staffordshire Council, Staffordshire County Council,
Wolverhampton City Council and companies based at i54 including
Jaguar Land Rover, aerospace company MOOG, food testing specialists
Eurofins and ISP (International Security Printers). It will be
operated by National Express West Midlands.</span></span></p>
<p><span>In a joint statement, Cllr Roger Lawrence, leader of
Wolverhampton City Council, Cllr Philip Atkins, leader of
Staffordshire County Council and Cllr Brian Edwards, leader of
South Staffordshire Councils, said: "i54 South Staffordshire has
become one of the region's prime business hubs with major companies
operating there and employing hundreds of people.</span></p>
<p><span>"We have had to make sure connections and access to the
site is second to none to attract high quality companies. This has
been a unique partnership in that we have built a dedicated
motorway junction for the site.</span></p>
<p><span>"We also have to ensure the many hundreds of employees and
visitors to the site have alternative methods of transport that are
safe and convenient. We're pleased to have Centro on board to make
those connections work."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for
Wolverhampton, added: "Thousands are already working at the two
business parks and hundreds more jobs are set to come on
stream.</span></p>
<p><span>"It's therefore vital we have quick, convenient and
affordable public transport links not just for existing staff but
also for those looking to fill the new job opportunities being
created."</span></p>
<p><span>Andrew Christie, Manufacturing Standards Manager at
International Security Printers (ISP) which recently moved to i54,
said: "Our staff have received invaluable travel guidance and
support from the i54 Travel Planning Group during and since our
relocation to the business park.</span></p>
<p><span> "The introduction of the '54' service will bring
undoubted further benefits to ISP staff, providing them with a
quick and convenient public transport option."</span></p>
<p><span>Work is meanwhile progressing on the traffic and highway
improvements for Stafford Road being carried out by Wolverhampton
City Council and Centro.</span></p>
<p><span>New bus shelters have gone in and real time information
screens giving live departure and arrival times will soon be
up and running.</span></p>
<p><span>'Smart' traffic lights that give priority to buses at
junctions and crossings are also set to be installed and a
dedicated bus park and ride facility is being redeveloped with
improved security measures at Science Park by Bushbury
Lane.</span></p>
<p><span>The 54 bus will also serve other key areas of regeneration
along the Stafford Road route including new commercial and
residential developments.</span></p>
<p><span>Bus services 6 and 25 will also serve the i54 and
Pendeford Business Park giving direct links to the sites from many
areas across Wolverhampton including Aldersley, Low Hill,
Wednesfield, Willenhall and Bilston</span></p>
The 54 direct bus service between Wolverhampton city centre and the i54 South Staffordshire and Pendeford business parks is unveiled.
19781
0
<p><span>Jobseekers and workers are to get a fast and frequent new
bus service between Wolverhampton city centre and the i54 South
Staffordshire and Pendeford business parks.</span></p>
<p><span>The dedicated 54 service, which launches on Monday October
27, will go direct to the parks, cutting existing bus journey times
by up to 15 minutes.</span></p>
<p><span>The service will run from Wolverhampton Bus Station along
Stafford Road, taking advantage of a £1.4 million highway and
traffic management project currently being carried out by
Wolverhampton City Council and public transport co-ordinator
Centro.</span></p>
/media/355169/centro_i54_04.jpg
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1267016
jpg
Cllr Mark Deaville, rear left, Staffordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Andrew Christie of ISP, Cllr Peter Bilson, Deputy Leader of Wolverhampton Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity, Peter Coates, managing director of NX Bus, Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, front left, Cllr Judith Rowley and Cllr Bob McCardle, Cabinet Member for Street Services for South Staffordshire Council, launch the 54 service at i54 South Staffordshire.
0
Dozens compete in the Apprentice style challenge
2014-10-22T16:55:00
<p>The 10 most popular concepts were carried forward and teams
tasked with creating a workable prototype of the web or mobile app
in less than two days, with the support of the Oxygen Startups
team.</p>
<p>Teams then had five minutes to present their final creations to
a panel of experts including Rafael Cuesta, Centro's head of
strategic development, Conrad Jones, Centro's head of
sustainability, Alexa Torlo of Birmingham City University's new
technology department and Simon Jenner, Oxygen Startups CEO.</p>
<p>Ideas included an app which requests bicycle repairs using GPS
tracking technology, a site which calculates how long you spend
travelling each year and an app which allows passengers to give
feedback directly to public transport operators.</p>
<p>The winners, who devised an app which automatically alerts you
when you need to leave to catch your next train, were unveiled at a
celebration at the end of the event on Sunday night.</p>
<p>The app calculates how long it will take to walk to your nearest
station and also includes live updates on any delays to a train's
arrival.</p>
<p>Luke Lanchester, a local developer from 383 who came up with the
idea for the successful creation said: "Being a developer at heart,
I wanted to create an app that made people's lives easier.</p>
<p>"I think the simplicity of the idea, how long until you need to
leave for your next train, really helped the judges understand our
proposition in the fast-paced pitches. We can't wait to move
forward and get the app in the hands of the public!"</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley Centro's lead member for putting passengers
first, said: "The future of public transport relies on innovation
to meet the changing demands of the modern day commuter and this
weekend we saw some fantastic ideas go from concept to real world
functioning applications. </p>
<p>"We are already making great strides in modernising the services
we provide for passengers and by showcasing this application to
transport leaders across the continent we can demonstrate another
tool which could prove of great benefit for passengers in the
future."</p>
<p>The project forms part of the INVOLVE European scheme which aims
to share public transport ideas across 10 major continental cities
including Madrid, Prague and Rotterdam.</p>
<p>The winning app will now be worked on by a group of specialists
for a week before being showcased in front a team of top transport
chiefs from across Europe at the INVOLVE conference in Frankfurt
next month.</p>
<p>Oxygen Startups CEO Simon Jenner said: "It's been fantastic to
work with Centro on unleashing innovation in the transport sector
through this Transport Hack Weekend, using our experience from
supporting over 5000 entrepreneurs through our startup programmes
around the world."</p>
<p>During the weekend teams showcased their ideas across Twitter
using the hashtag #transporthack, reaching over 100,000 people.</p>
<p>The event is co-financed by the European Regional Development
Fund and made possible by the INTERREG 4C Programme of the European
Union.</p>
Technology whizz kids and aspiring entrepreneurs have taken part in a 48-hour challenge to develop a top transport app.
19471
0
<p>Dozens of technology whizz kids and aspiring entrepreneurs
descended on Birmingham this weekend (October 17-18) to take part
in a 48-hour challenge to develop the next top European transport
app.</p>
<p>The group of designers, developers and business brains from
London to Lithuania gathered at the Studio in the city's Cannon
Street to take part in the Apprentice style Transport Hack
Challenge.</p>
<p>The event held by West Midlands public transport co-ordinator
Centro and hackathon specialists Oxygen Startups, saw participants
present minute-long pitches to the 70 strong audience of
contestants. </p>
/media/355549/hack-challenge-1.jpg
2267
3400
2103206
jpg
Winners Luke Lanchester (left) and Paul O’Brien (right)
0
Rea of light to illuminate Longbridge this weekend
2014-10-23T13:46:00
<p>Residents are being given the chance to walk or cycle along one
of Birmingham's most famous routes when it is lit up by local
artworks this weekend.</p>
<p>A segment of the city's Rea Valley Route will be illuminated as
part of the first Longbridge Light Festival from 5pm on Saturday
(October 25).</p>
<p>The section of the route between Mill Lane in Northfield and
Tessall Lane in Longbridge will be showered with light from
handmade art works created by local community groups and
schools.</p>
<p>Staff from public transport co-ordinator Centro will be on-hand
to provide free Dr Bike cycle safety checks, discounted state of
the art bicycle locks and free police bike security marking.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable travel, said: "This weekend is a great opportunity
for people to get out and about and take part in some fun cycling
and walking activities.</p>
<p>"This is the first Longbridge Light Festival and will showcase
some of the local talent as well as help support the regeneration
in this part of the city."</p>
<p>The Rea Valley Route starts at Rea Street in Digbeth and runs
alongside the Rea River to its source in the Waseley Hills.</p>
<p>The Light Festival is part of a larger project by public arts
organisation WERK on behalf of Bournville College aiming to support
the regeneration of the area.</p>
<p>A series of workshops will be held to give residents choosing to
cycle the chance to light up their bikes during the event.</p>
<p>There will also be the opportunity to sign up for free cycle
training or maintenance courses which have already been taken up by
thousands across the region. </p>
One of Birmingham’s most famous routes will be lit up by local artworks this weekend (October 25).
14520
0
0
Centro,London Midland,Transforming Rail Travel,Chase Line,Walsall,Rugeley,Birmingham
More ticket machines for Chase Line stations
2014-10-27T18:00:00
<p>Rail passengers using the Chase Line now have automatic ticket
machines at every station on the route between Birmingham, Walsall
and Rugeley.</p>
<p>The final two machines have now been installed at Bloxwich North
and Landywood stations which means for the first time there are now
ticket buying facilities at all stops on the route.</p>
<p>The machines are part of a joint project between public
transport co-ordinator Centro and train operator London Midland to
upgrade stations across the region.</p>
<p> Under the Transforming Rail Travel agreement, Centro has
made more than £250,000 available for station improvements and
London Midland has carried out the work.</p>
<p>Some of that money has been used to install the ticket machines
at Bloxwich, Bloxwich North, Landywood and Rugeley Town
stations.</p>
<p>Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, Cllr Roger Horton,
said: "These improvements will make a tangible difference to
passengers and make it even easier to take the train.</p>
<p>"This, in turn, will help reduce the road congestion that is
costing our regional economy more than £2 billion a year."</p>
<p>Mark Goodall, London Midland's Head of Route for Cross City and
Chase Line Services added: "This is great news for passengers
travelling from Landywood and Bloxwich North.</p>
<p>"I know that passengers find the automatic ticket machines quick
and easy to use, so it's great we've been able to work with Centro
to deliver these improvements". </p>
<p>Although Landywood and Rugeley Town are outside the metropolitan
West Midlands, Centro considers them important stops in the wider
journey-to-work area.</p>
<p>As a result Centro has previously contributed £900,000 to a
separate package of improvements to stations along the Chase
Line.</p>
<p>This has included upgraded waiting shelters, passenger
information screens and CCTV security cameras.</p>
<p>This summer Centro also put £145,000 towards the £195,000 cost
of continuing to provide extra Saturday and evening services on the
Chase Line until March 2016. Staffordshire County Council and
Cannock Chase District Council covered the remainder of the
cost.</p>
<p> Meanwhile Network Rail is continuing with a £36 million
electrification project on the line.</p>
<p>This will provide the opportunity for faster, more frequent
journeys using less polluting electric trains.</p>
<p> </p>
Every station between Birmingham, Walsall and Rugeley now has ticket machines
19536
1
<p style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
0
Solihull,Centro,Judith Rowley,Smart Choices,Smarter Network,Tudor Grange
Shriek chic for Halloween-themed walk in Solihull
2014-10-28T10:01:00
<p>Public transport co-ordinator Centro and healthy lifestyle
experts the Health Exchange will be leading the walk around the
borough's Tudor Grange Park on Thursday (October 30) from
5.30pm.</p>
<p>The free event will take in local green spaces and be lit by
pumpkins to get walkers in the scary spirit.</p>
<p>Attendees are asked to dress in shriek chic and bring torches
for the evening walk which is open to all ages.</p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "This walk gives people the
opportunity to meet up, get some exercise and explore parts of the
local area.</p>
<p>"Having a spooky theme to mark Halloween will add to the fun and
hopefully people of all ages will join us for the event."</p>
<p>The event will begin at 5.30pm at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre,
Bloomfield Road and last up to one hour.</p>
<p>The walk forms part of the Smart Network, Smarter Choices
project, a partnership between Centro and the region's seven
district councils.</p>
<p>The scheme aims to cut carbon, boost the economy and connect
residents to jobs.</p>
<p>For more information email: <a
href="mailto:walks@healthexchange.org.uk">walks@healthexchange.org.uk</a></p>
Walkers are invited to turn up the shock and take part in a Halloween-themed walk.
19547
1
<p><span>Walkers are invited to turn up the shock and take part in
a Halloween-themed walk this week.</span></p>
0
Centro,London Midland,Roger Horton,Park and Ride,Stourbridge Junction,congestion
Busy rail station to get more free parking
2014-10-29T12:00:00
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro,
said: "Our free Park and Ride sites , like this one at Stourbridge,
play a key role in attracting thousands of motorists to make the
bulk of their daily commute by train.</p>
<p>"But the fact that they are convenient and free means many fill
up very quickly each day.</p>
<p>"That's why we have been investing heavily in expanding such
facilities where there is land available next to stations."</p>
<p>The Park and Ride extension will feature low energy lighting,
CCTV cameras, a covered walkway along the length of the new car
park and help points linked to the Network Safety and Security
Centre. There will also be electric vehicle charging points located
near to the station building.</p>
<p>Brenda Lawrence, London Midland's head of route for Snow Hill
lines, said: "Demand for rail travel continues to grow and we're
committed to doing all we can to improve the journey experience for
our passengers.</p>
<p>"Free Park and Ride facilities have proven to be hugely
successful along the Snow Hill route and I'm delighted we're
expanding the car park for Stourbridge residents through our
partnership with Centro."</p>
<p>Cllr Mohammed Hanif, Centro's lead member for Dudley, added:
"This work is not only good news for commuters but also for
residents in the surrounding streets.</p>
<p>"They have told me how they have been inconvenienced by
commuters parking outside their homes so this extension should help
address that issue."</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997 to provide more than 7,331 free
spaces at 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops across
the region.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take around three million
journeys off the region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide
emissions by more than 6,000 tonnes.</p>
Extra 223 parking spaces for Stourbridge Junction
17213
0
<p>Commuters using Stourbridge Junction rail station are to get
more free parking thanks to a £900,000 Park and Ride extension.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's public transport co-ordinator, has started
work on adding a further 223 spaces to the existing 789.</p>
<p>The extension is being carried out to ease overcrowding at the
Park and Ride facility which has proved so popular with commuters
that it is often full before the end of the morning rush hour.</p>
<p>The extra spaces will also help combat congestion and carbon
emissions by taking a further 133,000 commuter car journeys off
local roads each year.</p>
/media/359380/stour1.jpg
1728
2592
1142318
jpg
Cllr Mohammed Hanif, Centro’s lead member for Stourbridge, Brenda Lawrence, London Midland’s head of route for Snow Hill lines and Cllr Roger Horton, Centro’s lead member for rail and Metro
0
Centro,London Midland,Park and Ride
Busy rail station to get more free parking
2014-10-29T12:00:00
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro,
said: "Our free Park and Ride sites , like this one at Stourbridge,
play a key role in attracting thousands of motorists to make the
bulk of their daily commute by train.</p>
<p> "But the fact that they are convenient and free means many
fill up very quickly each day.</p>
<p> "That's why we have been investing heavily in expanding
such facilities where there is land available next to
stations."</p>
<p>The Park and Ride extension will feature low energy lighting,
CCTV cameras, a covered walkway along the length of the new car
park and help points linked to the Network Safety and Security
Centre. There will also be electric vehicle charging points located
near to the station building.</p>
<p>Brenda Lawrence, London Midland's head of route for Snow Hill
lines, said: "Demand for rail travel continues to grow and we're
committed to doing all we can to improve the journey experience for
our passengers.</p>
<p>"Free Park and Ride facilities have proven to be hugely
successful along the Snow Hill route and I'm delighted we're
expanding the car park for Stourbridge residents through our
partnership with Centro."</p>
<p>Cllr Mohammed Hanif, Centro's lead member for Dudley, added:
"This work is not only good news for commuters but also for
residents in the surrounding streets.</p>
<p>"They have told me how they have been inconvenienced by
commuters parking outside their homes so this extension should help
address that issue."</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997 to provide more than 7,331 free
spaces at 53 heavy rail car parks and four Metro tram stops across
the region.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take around three million
journeys off the region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide
emissions by more than 6,000 tonnes.</p>
Commuters to benefit from an extra 223 spaces at Stourbridge Junction
19580
0
<p>Commuters using Stourbridge Junction rail station are to get
more free parking thanks to a £900,000 Park and Ride extension.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's public transport co-ordinator, has started
work on adding a further 223 spaces to the existing 789.</p>
<p>The extension is being carried out to ease overcrowding at the
Park and Ride facility which has proved so popular with commuters
that it is often full before the end of the morning rush hour.</p>
<p>The extra spaces will also help combat congestion and carbon
emissions by taking a further 133,000 commuter car journeys off
local roads each year.</p>
/media/359381/stour3.jpg
2592
1728
1293237
jpg
Cllr Roger Horton, Brenda Lawrence and Cllr Mohammed Hanif get work underway on the new Park and Ride extension at Stourbridge Junction.
0
Centro,Safer Travel,Bonfire Night,Operation Goliath,Halloween
Operation Goliath targets anti-social behaviour on public transport
2014-10-30T11:05:00
<p style="text-align: left;">Police will be taking to the public
transport network in a high-profile operation targeting anti-social
behaviour over Halloween and Bonfire Night.</p>
<p>Operation Goliath will see officers from the Safer Travel team
mount extra patrols on board buses, trains and trams across the
West Midlands from Friday October 31 to Sunday November 9.</p>
<p>The operation will target areas identified as vulnerable to
suffering anti-social behaviour, with a mixture of foot and mobile
patrols responding quickly to real time issues identified by
drivers and passengers.</p>
<p>Uniformed police from the partnership will travel on all modes
of public transport, supported by officers from British Transport
and West Midlands police forces, across the region.</p>
<p>Inspector Lee Gordon of the Safer Travel Partnership said: "We
are not out to spoil people having fun, we want people to use
public transport and enjoy the period.</p>
<p>"It is important to remember that crime is down on public
transport and that the network in the West Midlands is a very safe
way of getting about but we know instances of ASB and crime can
occur from a minority of passengers at this time of year."</p>
<p>Total recorded crime on public transport in the West Midlands
fell by 7.5 per cent between 2011 and 2014.</p>
<p>However the time of year around Halloween and Bonfire Night
often sees a rise in complaints about anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p><span>Passenger surveys have found nuisance behaviour such as
playing loud music and smoking are key irritants that can also lead
to an unfounded fear of crime.</span></p>
<p>To address this, officers will speak to passengers advising them
about how crime has fallen on the network and how they can use the
See Something Say Something scheme to anonymously play their part
in tackling nuisance behaviour.</p>
<p>Insp Gordon said: "Operation Goliath aims to see as many
uniforms from the Partnership on the transport network engaging
with passengers and staff but also challenging and dealing robustly
with such behaviour."</p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their journey
can say something by texting 'bus', 'metro' or 'rail' followed
by a space and then details of the incident including time, date,
location and route number to 83010.</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on to the <a
href="http://www.safertravel.info/">www.safertravel.info</a>
website or by telephoning police on 101 for bus and 0800 405040 for
rail and Metro.</p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999 as usual.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership consists of Centro, West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police and transport operators.</p>
<p>'See Something, Say Something' was launched in 2008.</p>
<p>Since then thousands of passengers have used the system to
provide crucial information that has enabled the Safer Travel
Partnership to pinpoint crime and anti-social behaviour hot spots
and take appropriate action.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership also works with schools across the
region to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and
the effects of nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
Police take to the public transport network in a high-profile operation targeting anti-social behaviour over Halloween and Bonfire Night.
19584
0
<p style="text-align: left;">Police will be taking to the public
transport network in a high-profile operation targeting anti-social
behaviour over Halloween and Bonfire Night.</p>
<p>Operation Goliath will see officers from the Safer Travel team
mount extra patrols on board buses, trains and trams across the
West Midlands from Friday October 31 to Sunday November 9.</p>
<p>The operation will target areas identified as vulnerable to
suffering anti-social behaviour, with a mixture of foot and mobile
patrols responding quickly to real time issues identified by
drivers and passengers.</p>
0
Centro,Dudley,Amey,Dudley Council,Black Country Museum,Health Exchange,Guided Walk
Guided walk includes free health check for families
2014-11-06T12:00:00
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
Families can get in shape for winter and receive a free health
check by taking part in a guided walk round Dudley this
weekend.</p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
The Discover Dudley Autumn Walk, which has been organised by public
transport co-ordinator Centro and healthy lifestyle experts Health
Exchange, sets off from Dudley Leisure Centre at 11:15am on Sunday
(November 9).</p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
Walkers can get their free health check between 10am and 11am
before heading off on the five mile route which will take in local
landmarks and attractions including the Black Country Museum and
Wren's Nest Nature Reserve.</p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
Those completing the walk, which is being supported by Dudley
Council and engineering company Amey, will also receive a free
seven-day swimming pass, goodie bag and certificate.</p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
<span>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, said: "This event will not only give
people the chance to discover some of Dudley's attractions but also
make sure they are fit and healthy for winter.</span></p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
<span>"Walking is a great habit for people to develop especially
for short, local trips. Not only is it good for health but it's
also great for the environment."</span></p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
<span>Sunday's walk forms part of the Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project, a partnership between Centro and the region's
seven district councils.</span></p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
<span>The project aims to encourage more people to switch to
sustainable forms of travel in order to cut carbon and congestion
and in turn help the economy and environment.</span></p>
<p
style="color: #444444; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">
<span>For more information about the walk email:</span><span
class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> <a
href="mailto:walks@healthexchange.org.uk"><span>walks@healthexchange.org.uk</span></a></p>
Five mile walk will take in some of Dudley's key attractions including Black Country Museum
20351
0
0
Centro,John McNicholas,Poppy,Rememberance
Bus shelters wear the poppy to salute Britain’s war dead
2014-11-07T14:28:00
<p>Centro chairman Cllr John McNicholas said it was the idea of
Centro staff who wanted to show support for the armed forces and
remember the fallen.</p>
<p>He said: "So many of us have friends or relatives who have
served in the armed forces down the years and to whom we owe so
much.</p>
<p>"This is just one small way in which we can salute their service
and sacrifice, particularly in the year in which we mark the
centenary of the start of the First World War."</p>
Centro lends support to the Poppy Appeal with specially decorated bus shelters.
20353
0
<p>As Britain prepares to commemorate Remembrance Sunday transport
chiefs have shown their support with specially decorated bus
shelters.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's public transport co-ordinator, has
emblazoned the windows of selected shelters in Birmingham, the
Black Country, Coventry and Solihull with the iconic poppy
motif.</p>
/media/514285/poppies.jpg
2317
1416
1612124
jpg
Cllr John McNicholas at one of the poppy bus shelters.
0
Centro,London Midland,Park and Ride,Kings Norton
More free parking for Kings Norton station
2014-11-11T09:37:00
<p>The extra spaces will also help combat congestion and carbon
emissions by taking a further 64,000 commuter car journeys off
local roads each year. </p>
<p>Cllr Roger Horton, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro,
said: "Our Park and Ride sites are free of charge and convenient
but that means many of them have become a victim of their own
success and fill up very quickly each day. </p>
<p>"Nevertheless they play a key role in encouraging thousands of
people to use the train for most of their daily commute which is
why we are expanding the car parks wherever possible." </p>
<p>The Park and Ride extension will feature low energy lighting,
CCTV cameras and help points linked to the Network Safety and
Security Centre. </p>
<p>Mark Goodall, London Midland's head of route for Cross City and
Chase Line services, said: "This is another great example of how
working in partnership with Centro is bringing benefits to
passengers on the Cross City line. </p>
<p>"London Midland services are proving more and more popular so
the extension to the car park at Kings Norton will be welcome news
for our passengers. In the last seven years we have seen passenger
journeys increase by almost a third across our network." </p>
<p>Cllr Judith Rowley, Centro's lead member for fair, accessible
and sustainable transport, added: "Although we are extending
existing Park and Ride sites we are also working to make it easier
for people to leave the car at home altogether and walk or cycle to
the station instead. </p>
<p>"This work has seen the installation of enhanced cycle storage
facilities and other incentives." </p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested more than £15 million in
Park and Ride facilities since 1997 to provide more around 7,718
free spaces at 38 rail stations and three Metro tram stops across
the region. </p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take around 2.75 million journeys
off the region's roads each year, reducing carbon dioxide emissions
by more than 6,200 tonnes.</p>
Work starts on adding an extra 100 spaces to popular Park and Ride facility
20356
0
<p>Commuters using a south Birmingham rail station are to get more
free parking thanks to a £600,000 Park and Ride
extension. </p>
<p>Centro, the region's public transport co-ordinator, has started
work on adding a further 100 spaces to the existing 220 at Kings
Norton. </p>
<p>The extension is being carried out to ease overcrowding at the
Park and Ride facility which has proved so popular with commuters
that it is often full before the end of the morning rush hour.</p>
/media/514287/kn-1.jpg
2712
4168
645828
jpg
front l-r Cllr Roger Horton, Cllr Judith Rowley and Cllr Tim Huxtable with London Midland's Mark Goodall
0
Centro,Wolverhampton,Midland Metro,Tram
Mineworkings hit Wolverhampton Midland Metro track refurbishment
2014-11-12T11:46:00
<p>Around 4m (13ft) deep, the workings were discovered as workmen
dug into the ground to prepare foundations for the new track
running from The Royal to a rebuilt terminus at St George's in the
city centre.</p>
<p>It is thought to be a remnant of the coal, limestone or iron ore
mine works that criss-cross Wolverhampton and the wider Black
Country dating back to the Industrial Revolution.</p>
<p>Midland Metro programme director Paul Griffiths said it was
known there may be old workings in the area but the scale of what
was found was unexpected.</p>
<p>"It is one of those situations where, while you might suspect
there is something there, you are completely in the dark until you
start digging up the ground," he said.</p>
<p>"There is a history of minor settlement under the track in this
section and, while it has not been an issue in the past, for this
replacement programme we are digging deeper in this area to remove
old parts of the rail and the associated foundations.</p>
<p>"It is a problem that we cannot ignore - the ground will have to
be excavated then filled in properly to provide a strong and
durable base for the track."</p>
<p>The discovery is the latest in a number of unforeseen
complications that have had a cumulative impact on the scheme's
timetable since work began in September this year.</p>
<p>The strength of the foundations under the old track was worse
than anticipated and the discovery of unmarked public utility pipes
and a culvert also hit the timetable.</p>
<p>To tackle the delay, contractors have been working longer hours
and putting extra teams on the project.</p>
<p>Originally planned to open in November, The Royal is not now
scheduled to open until early December</p>
<p>No announcement is being made on when St George's will re-open
until the mineworkings have been fully evaluated, although
rebuilding work of the new terminus has been accelerated.</p>
<p>A shuttle bus service for passengers into Wolverhampton City
Centre from Priestfield and The Royal when it reopens will
continue. </p>
<p>Mr Griffiths said: "We regret the delay but the discovery of
this shaft is the latest in a string of complications.
Unfortunately with an operational tram route it is not possible to
have a full picture of what is in the ground until services have
been stopped and the old track removed.</p>
<p>"However once work is complete we will have a rail in place that
will have a working life of 30 years and a track formation that
will provide a reliable service into Wolverhampton."</p>
Work to replace worn out city centre tram track suffers a setback after contractors uncover old mineworkings.
20359
0
<p>Work to replace worn out tram track in Wolverhampton city centre
has suffered a setback after contractors uncovered old
mineworkings.</p>
<p>It was found underneath a section of the Midland Metro line just
past The Royal stop on the A41 Bilston Road, near the junction with
Steelhouse Lane, and could date back to the
18<sup>th</sup> century.</p>
<p>Bosses at Centro, the region's public transport co-ordinator
which is carrying out the £4.5 million track replacement programme,
must now examine the extent and determine what is at the bottom
before it can be filled.</p>
/media/514289/steelhouse-lane-shaft.jpg
720
1280
231617
jpg
A digger by the side of the mineworkings near Steelhouse Lane, Wolverhampton, indicating the depth of the crater.
0
Centro,Midland Metro,West Bromwich,Sandwell Council,Metro Plaza
New £1.4m plaza gives tram passengers a stylish arrival
2014-11-06T10:00:00
<p>The innovative scheme has been designed to create a welcoming,
safe, and attractive gateway entrance for those arriving by tram or
bus.</p>
<p>It also improves walking connections between the town centre,
Sandwell College Central Campus and the bus and Metro
stations. </p>
<p>The plaza was officially opened by councillors Roger Horton,
Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, Ian Jones, cabinet member
for jobs and economy and Maria Crompton, cabinet member for
highways and environment.</p>
<p>Cllr Horton said: "This new Plaza, along with new trams and the
new colleges is a great advert for the on-going regeneration of
West Bromwich town centre and of Sandwell as a whole. </p>
<p>"It creates a far better first impression for people arriving by
tram to go shopping or to college and provides a safer, more
pleasant environment for pedestrians. All this helps encourage more
people to arrive by public transport which in turn helps cut
congestion and pollution."</p>
<p>The Metro Plaza project involved reducing the width of the
Ringway road to slow traffic speeds and the filling in of the
dilapidated subway which had become a hotbed for anti-social
behaviour.</p>
<p>The steep embankment between the tram station and the town
centre was also dug out and re-landscaped to improve access and
visibility for pedestrians.</p>
<p>The plaza also boasts new footpaths and staircases constructed
out of high quality paving materials, freshly planted trees and new
lighting and benches.</p>
<p>Cllr Maria Crompton said: "The Metro Plaza scheme is
testament to what can be achieved when partners work together.</p>
<p>"From the outset the aim of the project was to create a high
quality public space that would give pedestrians arriving by public
transport priority over road traffic vehicles and to make sure they
could access the town centre easily and safely. </p>
<p>"The project has been delivered successfully with minimal impact
to both pedestrians and road traffic vehicles throughout its
construction as a direct result of effective partnership working
between Sandwell Council, Centro and the principle contractor
Fitzgerald."</p>
<p>Councillor Ian Jones added: The recent regeneration
projects across West Bromwich such as the New Square shopping
centre, Leisure Centre, Sandwell College and the Providence Place
office development have turned West Bromwich into a real visitor
destination town. </p>
<p>"The plaza scheme has now created an attractive and welcoming
arrival point for those visitors who wish to work, play and shop in
the town.</p>
<p>"The high quality public spaces which have been created
throughout this entire project will stand to attract further
investment to the town and create more jobs."</p>
<p>The work is part of the Public Realm project which provides
improvements to paving, lighting, seating, bins and new trees being
planted throughout the town centre.</p>
<p>The entire scheme was backed with a £3 million grant from the
European Regional Development Fund.</p>
Pedestrian-friendly scheme provides safe and attractive entrance to West Bromwich
20362
0
<p>A new town centre plaza has opened giving tram passengers a
stylish arrival at West Bromwich.</p>
<p>The Metro Plaza scheme, which gives commuters and shoppers a
much-improved entrance to the town is the latest piece of a
multi-million jigsaw to improve public spaces.</p>
<p>Sandwell Council teamed up with Centro, the region's public
transport co-ordinator, to complete the £1.4 million Metro Plaza
project which prioritises the needs of the pedestrian.</p>
/media/514291/metroplaza1.jpg
1500
2100
1817912
jpg
(l-r) Cllr Ian Jones, Cllr Maria Crompton; Cllr Roger Horton, and Nick Coley Managing Director Fitzgerald officially open Metro Plaza in West Bromwich town centre
0
West Midlands Strategic Director for Transport appointed
2014-11-13T16:28:00
<p>Laura, currently Director of Transport for the Black Country,
said: "These are exciting times for our region.</p>
<p>"The West Midlands is the UK's largest urban area outside of
London and we're the centre of operations for HS2, we've got a fast
growing international airport and are at the heart of the nation's
transport network.</p>
<p>"It's vitally important that we are able to connect people and
communities to areas of economic activity and this role presents a
unique opportunity to drive further transport investment into the
region to help us realise our collective economic aspirations."</p>
<p>Councillor Roger Lawrence, chair of the West Midlands ITA, said:
"Transportation is the lifeblood of the West Midlands economy; it
doesn't stop at municipal boundaries and so a strategic approach is
essential. </p>
<p>"Laura brings with her a wealth of experience gained from her
role as Director of Transport for the Black Country and has a deep
understanding of the importance that a more efficient, more
effective and more reliable transport network will have for the
economic growth."</p>
<p>Membership of the ITA comprises the leaders of the seven
metropolitan councils in the region - Wolverhampton, Solihull,
Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall.</p>
<p>It also includes the chairs of the three Local Enterprise
Partnerships, which are responsible for transport strategy across
the region including budgets, scheme prioritisation and bids for
funding.</p>
Laura Shoaf is appointed Strategic Director for Transport by the West Midlands ITA.
20471
0
<p>The West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority (ITA),
comprising the leaders of the seven metropolitan councils in the
region, has appointed Laura Shoaf as Strategic Director for
Transport.</p>
<p>Laura will work across the seven local councils in the West
Midlands and the three Local Enterprise Partnerships for the Black
Country, Greater Birmingham & Solihull and Coventry &
Warwickshire to champion transport provision in the region at the
highest level nationally.</p>
<p>The ITA was launched in July with the aim of ensuring the West
Midlands metropolitan area acts in a unified way on transport and
makes the strongest possible case when seeking funding for rail,
tram and road schemes to grow the local economy.</p>
/media/514317/laura-shoaf.jpg
1996
2540
1171496
jpg
Laura Shoaf, who will champion transport provision for the West Midlands on the national stage.
0
Centro,Bus,Partnership Plus,Arriva,Sapphire
Partnership Plus deal between Centro and Arriva Buses just the ticket
2014-11-14T15:47:00
<p>The commitment will pledge 22 initiatives between 2014 and 2016
with the aim of making bus travel more attractive, improving
customer satisfaction and growing passenger numbers.</p>
<p>The new buses will operate on the 110 route from Birmingham to
Tamworth and the 1 and 2 routes between Walsall and
Cannock.</p>
<p>As well as FREE wi-fi the buses feature e-leather seats, at-seat
charging points for mobile phones, laptops and ipads along with
destination stopping signs.</p>
<p>Alex Perry, Regional Managing Director of Arriva Midlands said:
"At Arriva Midlands, we are incredibly proud of the part we play in
ensuring our customers have access to the very best transport
service possible.</p>
<p>"We are delighted to enter into this agreement with Centro,
which we believe will facilitate the continual enhancement of not
only passenger experience, but also deliver patronage growth and an
enriched service provision."</p>
<p>Key features of the agreement are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Making all Arriva Midlands ticket offers available on the Swift
smartcard</li>
<li>A minimum of 20 new buses into the Arriva fleet, of which 18
will be Sapphire buses</li>
<li>Refurbishment of Dudley bus station</li>
<li>Provide new shelters and enhance information provision in
Wolverhampton city centre</li>
<li>Working with Centro to improve links to i54 near
Wolverhampton</li>
</ul>
<p>Other features include enhanced CCTV on board buses, better
training for bus drivers, and the provision of real time passenger
information at bus stops for Arriva services.</p>
<p>Cllr Kath Hartley, said: "This brand new partnership agreement
commits Centro and Arriva Midlands to working closely together.</p>
<p>"By doing so we can deliver many improvements for passengers
that will help make bus travel more attractive in the West Midlands
region."</p>
<p>The commitment to enhance Arriva services comes as Birmingham
City Council unveiled its £4 billion vision for transport in the
city which puts buses and trams at its heart.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/bmap">Birmingham
Mobility Action Plan</a> is a 20-year vision that proposes
massive investment to improve public transport.</p>
<p>If the scheme goes ahead it will herald a new era of public
transport in Birmingham and transform the daily commutes of
hundreds of thousands of people.</p>
Passengers are set to benefit from a £9 million partnership deal that will include new buses and Swift electronic ticketing.
19802
0
<p>Passengers are set to benefit from a £9 million partnership deal
that will include new buses, Swift electronic ticketing and
refurbishments to a key bus station.</p>
<p>Top-of-the range wi-fi equipped Sapphire buses and a revamp of
Dudley bus station are just some of the measures forming part of
Partnership Plus, a deal signed by Centro, the region's public
transport co-ordinator, and Arriva Midlands.</p>
<p>One of the buses was displayed to the public in a signing
ceremony at the markets in Birmingham city centre by Cllr Kath
Hartley, vice chair of Centro and chair of its Putting Passengers
First Committee, and Alex Perry, regional managing director of
Arriva Midland.</p>
/media/514322/1632.jpg
2519
3148
1204378
jpg
Cllr Kath Hartley, left, and Alex Perry, regional managing director of Arriva Midland buses, sign Partnership Plus.
1
0
<p>Archive content to follow.</p>
Archive
12
0
Higher speeds mean faster journey times for London Midland trains
2011-12-28T00:00:00
2012-01-03T00:00:00
<p>London Midland customers will see faster journey times with
forthcoming improvements to infrastructure on two key commuter
routes.</p>
<p>Work to improve the Chase Line, which includes the stations
between Walsall, Hednesford, Cannock and Rugeley, will see the line
speed increase from 45mph to 75mph. Originally closed to passengers
during the Beeching era, passenger services were restored by
Centro, the transport authority for the West Midlands,
Staffordshire and Cannock Chase Councils during the 1990s. It has
become an increasingly important commuter service in and out of
Birmingham.</p>
<p>At the same time the Wolverhampton to Shrewsbury line which
includes stations at Telford and Wellington will undergo
improvement works to increase the line speed from 75mph to
90mph.</p>
<p>Both projects are expected to be completed by Spring 2014 at the
latest. Funding for both projects was confirmed recently by Network
Rail.</p>
<p>London Midland's Wallace Weatherill said: "We very much look
forward to running faster trains on these routes. Improvements to
the lines will mean that journey times will be cut and thousands of
our customers will reach their destinations more quickly, this has
to be a good thing."</p>
<p>Cllr Tom Ansell, lead member for rail and Metro at Centro, said:
"This is great news for passengers, especially those who commute in
and out of theWest Midlandsfrom the surrounding Shire counties. We
are delighted that Network Rail is making this important
investment, which will hopefully act as a catalyst for further
improvements such as additional services on both routes and
electrification of the Chase line."</p>
<p><br />
<strong>Editor's notes:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>For further information or interview opportunities, please
contact London Midland communications on 0121 654 1278, email
comms@londonmidland.com or visit <a href="/"
title="">www.londonmidland.com</a>.</li>
<li>London Midland operates train services through the heart
ofEnglandfromLondonin the south, to Birmingham in
theMidlandsandLiverpoolin theNorth West. London Midland began
operating on11 November, 2007.</li>
<li>55 million passenger journeys a year are made on our services;
we manage 147 stations and operate over 1,300 services a day.</li>
<li>London Midland is owned by Govia, the partnership between the
Go-Ahead Group and Keolis. Govia is the most enduring partnership
between transport operators delivering rail franchises in this
country. Govia is the UK's busiest rail operator, responsible for
nearly 30 per cent of UKpassenger rail journeys through its three
rail companies, Southern (which includes Gatwick Express services),
Southeastern and London Midland. Further information on Govia is
available at <a href="/" title="">www.govia.info</a></li>
</ol>
London Midland customers will see faster journey times with forthcoming improvements to infrastructure on two key commuter routes.
17213
0
12
0
Safer Travel team protect Christmas passengers
2011-12-22T00:00:00
2011-12-22T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>NUISANCE passengers, fare dodgers and other offenders using
public transport during the busy pre-Christmas shopping period have
been targeted in a police operation.</p>
<p>Officers from West Midlands and British Transport Police �
alongside officials from Centro, the region's transport authority,
and National Express � carried out the four-day operation (Dec
12-15) at major bus depots, plus arterial routes into Birmingham,
and train stations.</p>
<p>Working together in the <em>Safer Travel</em>
<em>Partnership</em>, they hopped on 752 buses, carried out more
than 100 searches of suspicious individuals and made 16 arrests for
various offences.</p>
<p>Almost £30,000 was recovered by ticket inspectors from people
who were travelling without a valid ticket, whilst 230 fake or
invalid Travelcards were confiscated.</p>
<p>West Midlands Police Sergeant Karen Taylor from the Safer Travel
Team, said: "We engaged with more than 600 people and�in excess of
100 were searched. One man, a convicted robber, was arrested and
recalled to prison for breaching the terms of his licence release
agreement.</p>
<p>"This operation, supported by other police activity, has seen
robbery figures fall significantly in the city centre in the run up
to the festive season.</p>
<p>"In addition, a vast amount of intelligence was gained and those
suspected of causing problems to the travelling public were
challenged and where appropriate removed from the service."</p>
<p>Some of the main bus routes patrolled during the operation
included Soho Road, Stratford Road, Bristol Road, Digbeth High
Street, Nechells Parkway, and Dudley Road.</p>
<p>The routes were chosen following seasonal crime pattern
analysis, plus information received from the public via the <em>See
Something Say Something</em> scheme.�</p>
<p>Public transport users can anonymously feed information about
nuisance passengers to the Safer Travel team through the <em>See
Something, Say Something</em> service � just text the word 'Bus' or
'Tram' with details of the route number, time, date and incident to
83010.</p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging onto <a
href="/">www.safertravel.info</a> or by telephoning West Midlands
Police on 0345 113 5000. The service is for nuisance behaviour
only. If someone witnesses a crime they should phone 999.</p>
<p>Sgt Taylor, added: ""We received really positive feedback from
passengers about our presence and the proactive targeting of those
individuals who cause problems on the public transport system.</p>
<p>"It's important to remind people to keep personal belongings
safe over the Christmas period as many people carry new, expensive
gifts. Phones and gadgets should be concealed, keep shopping bags
close by, and keep handbags zipped."</p>
<p>Centro's Crime Reduction Manager, Mark Babington, added: "Crime
on our region's buses and trams is very low: just one offence in
every 147,500 bus rides and 106,382 tram journeys.</p>
<p>"But this time of year can see an increase in incidents,
especially rowdy, nuisance behaviour. This successful operation by
the Safer Travel Partnership has helped make sure those who fail to
respect their fellow passengers are brought to task."</p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police,
British Transport Police, National express West Midlands, the
region's seven Community Safety Partnerships and Centro. The
partnership works to make bus, Metro and Rail travel even safer for
passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and
around the network.</p>
<p>One19-year-old man arrested during the initiative has been
charged with possessing drugs and an offensive weapon and been
bailed to appear in court at a later date.</p>
<p><strong>�</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
"NUISANCE passengers, fare dodgers and other offenders are targeted in a police operation."
17213
Upload/thumbHLpoliceonbus.jpg
0
12
0
Centro welcomes report into bus competition
2011-12-21T00:00:00
2011-12-21T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>A report by competition chiefs into Britain's bus industry has
supported work to introduce an Oyster-style smartcard in the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, today welcomed
Competition Commission proposals on measures to improve ticketing
schemes which allow passengers to easily transfer between services
run by different bus operators.</p>
<p>Centro is already well advanced in work to introduce smartcards
that can be pre-loaded with cash which is then deducted as it is
used on the public transport network, regardless of which bus
company's service passengers get on.</p>
<p>A real world test of the technology will be held in the New Year
with a view to rolling it out across the West Midlands over the
next 12 months.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive, Geoff Inskip, said he was pleased the
Commission's report had taken into account Centro's views on
proposals for new bus ticketing schemes and supported the view that
smartcards would be key to further improving the bus network.</p>
<p>"We shall continue to work in partnership with bus operators in
the West Midlands to develop the already successful nBus and
nNetwork ticketing schemes with a key focus on introducing
Smartcard ticketing, similar to Oyster, across the public transport
in the months ahead," he said.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip also welcomed the report's endorsement of effective
partnerships between operators and local authorities � partnerships
like those already up and running in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"Centro has been leading the way in putting in place the sort of
partnerships that the Competition Commission believes can benefit
passengers," he added. "Such voluntary partnerships have seen us
work with several of the region's 20 or more individual bus
companies to help improve bus networks and waiting facilities.</p>
<p>"Together we have overhauled the networks in places like Dudley,
East Birmingham and Walsall and this has succeeded in attracting
more people to use the bus, helping in turn to cut congestion and
carbon emissions.</p>
<p>"The Competition Commission's report suggests that increasing
competition amongst bus companies will deliver improved services.
However the report also endorses good partnership working and I
believe, with our operator partnership, we have a solid foundation
in the West Midlands to drive up quality standards for passengers,
giving them regular, reliable, safe and affordable bus
journeys."</p>
<p>The report, published yesterday (Dec 20), explains how bus
services were deregulated in 1986 throughout the UK apart from in
London and Northern Ireland.</p>
<p>It found that there are about 1,245 bus companies in England,
Scotland and Wales, carrying 2.9 billion passengers a year and that
the five largest operators � Arriva, FirstGroup, Go-Ahead, National
Express and Stagecoach � carried 70 per cent of those
passengers.</p>
<p>"</p>
Competition chiefs reviewing Britain’s bus industry back Oyster-style cards for the West Midlands.
17213
Upload/thumbHLGeoffInskip.jpg
0
12
0
Top numbers of buses just the ticket for markets
2011-12-20T00:00:00
2011-12-20T00:00:00
9369
"Traders and Centro’s Babs Coombes, rear centre, get together to promote Wolverhampton markets."
<p>"</p>
<p>Christmas is coming and for shoppers it has never been easier to
get to Wolverhampton markets and shops by bus.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>That's the message from Centro, the region's transport
authority, and traders as the festive shopping season hits top
gear.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Following the recent Wolverhampton bus network review a record
number of services now travel around the city centre to provide
good access to shops and services from all areas of Wolverhampton
and beyond.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Market trader Dud Malik said: "The recent review was good news
for the markets because it made them much more accessible by
bus.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The markets are a vital feature of Wolverhampton city centre,
offering quality goods at top prices, and I would urge people to
take advantage of the excellent bus network that is now in
place."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cllr Bob Jones, Wolverhampton City Council Cabinet Member for
City Services said: "It has never been easier to get by bus to
Wolverhampton Markets.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"A record number of routes now pass the market and the free 500
city centre bus provides a quick link with the bus station and
through routes on market days for those services that don't
actually drop off in the markets area."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Services 2, 3, 4, 10, 26, 26A, 61, 63, 64, 89, 255, 256, 500,
560, 890, 891 and 892 all stop near the markets area, providing a
high frequency of buses to the area throughout the day and
week.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Babs Coombes, Black Country area manager for Centro, said:
"Buses come from areas as far afield as Bridgnorth, Stourbridge,
Walsall, Bloxwich, Perton and Dudley to Wolverhampton city centre,
providing excellent access to the markets for all.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"Also, lots of services stop on Market Street to provide access
to Marks & Spencer and the Wulfrun Shopping Centre which can
also be accessed by the buses that stop on Cleveland Street and in
the Queen Square area, with over two thirds of buses also serving
the bus station."</p>
<p>"</p>
A record number of buses in Wolverhampton city centre are proving a boon for its markets.
17213
Wolverhamptonmarketsuprig.jpg
0
12
0
Acocks Green rail passengers going up in the world
2011-12-15T00:00:00
2011-12-15T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using one of the region's busiest suburban rail
stations will find it far easier to use the facility after
transport authority Centro secured £1 million to help install
lifts.</p>
<p>Those with mobility problems have struggled to use Acocks Green
Station in Birmingham for decades because of the large number of
steps that need to be negotiated to reach its platforms.</p>
<p>As a result Centro applied for cash under the Government's
Access for All scheme which is designed to modernise the country's
stations many of which, like Acocks Green, date back to Edwardian
times.</p>
<p>Money from the fund has initially gone to the country's busiest
stations, the majority of which are in the South East of England
but the Department for Transport has now given the green light for
Acocks Green.</p>
<p>The Centro scheme involves installing lift access from the
station booking office to the car park and platforms as well as
improvements to the stair access to ensure the facility meets the
latest guidance and regulations.</p>
<p>Cllr Tom Ansell, Centro's Lead Member for Rail and Metro, said:
"Acocks Green is the busiest rail station without step free access
in the West Midlands so this funding is fantastic news for
passengers at a time when demand for rail travel is at its highest
level since the 1920s. This work means it will be much easier for
people to go by train from Acocks Green."</p>
<p>The station, which boasts a free 132 space park and ride
facility, is a key stop on the Birmingham Snow Hill to Leamington
Spa line, an important commuter route that also serves
Solihull.</p>
<p>However, the station's main entrance and booking office is on
Yardley Road, more than 30 feet above the platforms and car
park.</p>
<p>Centro is now in the process of putting together detailed
costings for the work which is expected to see the lift access
installed by�2014.</p>
<p>Nicola Moss, Head of Franchise Management at train operator
London Midland said: "We are very pleased at the announcement of
funding for step free access at Acocks Green. The improvements to
accessibility at stations across the region is part of on-going
collaborative work with our partners at DfT, Network Rail and
Centro."</p>
<p>Network Rail has completed work at Sutton Coldfield and is
carrying out access improvements at Northfield, Selly Oak and
Shirley.</p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers using one of the region’s busiest suburban rail stations will find it far easier to use the facility after transport authority Centro secured £1 million to help install lifts.
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Joy at £26 million Darlaston and Pleck road to boost jobs
2011-12-15T00:00:00
2011-12-15T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Delighted transport bosses are celebrating after Government have
backed a £26 million roads scheme to help create almost 2,000 new
jobs.�</p>
<p>Transport Secretary Justine Greening has given approval for
funding for the project to improve key junctions in Darlaston.�</p>
<p>Better access to sites across Darlaston and Pleck as well as the
Black Country enterprise zone can be achieved by the scheme.�</p>
<p>Walsall Council's scheme in partnership with Centro, the
region's transport authority, was only one of a handful across the
West Midlands to be asked by Government to submit detailed
plans.</p>
<p>Councillor Tom Ansell, Walsall Council cabinet member for
transport and lead member for Walsall on Centro, said: "This is the
best Christmas present we could wish for Walsall, Darlaston and
Pleck can now move forward and create jobs and prosperity need. We
need to acknowledge the work of all those who have made this
possible.�</p>
<p>"This is excellent news and a real shot in the arm not just for
Darlaston, Pleck and Walsall but also for the Black Country as a
whole.</p>
<p>"I'm sure this will be welcomed by business who have supported
this scheme to the tune of £1 million."�</p>
<p>The decision from Government means that the £26 million project
will be funded through a £14.316m million Government grant, a
£5.664m Walsall Council contribution, £5.665m from Centro and £1
million from business.�</p>
<p>Councillor Adrian Andrew, Walsall Council cabinet member for
regeneration, said the decision was vital to the regeneration of
Darlaston, Pleck and the wider borough. This is a project that will
have a major impact across the borough and Black Country.�</p>
<p>He added: "This is brilliant news. It will help create and
safeguard jobs and really does show that Walsall is open for
business.�</p>
<p>"All in all, this is a powerful example of how business and
local government can work together with national government
too."</p>
<p>As part of a major regeneration project and the new Black
Country enterprise zone, the former IMI site will be made safe for
building with developers Parkhill Estates lined-up for an £18
million package to reclaim the site which is set to be renamed
Pheonix 10.�</p>
<p>Councillor Adrian Andrew, Walsall Council Deputy Leader and
cabinet member for regeneration, said the road scheme would be a
major boot to regeneration.�</p>
<p>He said: "Better roads mean we can start to develop land that
otherwise we wouldn't have been able to. This will help us attract
investment to create new jobs."�</p>
<p>Business plans for the Black Country enterprise zone show 1,918
new jobs could be created within Darlaston by 2015.�</p>
<p>Hopes are high the Darlaston roads project could build on the
success of the wider Black Country enterprise zone which has
already secured a new Jaguar Land Rover engine plant at
Wolverhampton's i54 business park.�</p>
<p>If the scheme is approved, better access links will connect
Darlaston to the A454 and M6.�</p>
<p>The proposals if they get the green light will upgrade Bentley
Road South, Bentley Mill Way, the junction of A4038 Darlaston Road
and A4148 Old Pleck Road and the junction of A461 Bescot Road and
A4148 Wallows Lane.�</p>
<p>Work is expected to start around Spring 2013 and the project
will take just over two years to build.�</p>
<p>For more information log on at <a
href="/">http://bit.ly/darlaston</a>.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Delighted transport bosses are celebrating after Government have backed a £26 million roads scheme to help create almost 2,000 new jobs.�"
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Coventry rail network to get £19 million upgrade
2011-12-14T00:00:00
2011-12-15T00:00:00
9369
Coventry's Ricoh Arena
<p>"</p>
<p><span>A £19.2 million bid by Centro to upgrade the railway line
between Coventry and Nuneaton has been approved.</span></p>
<p><span>The region's transport authority and its partners,
Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council, submitted
their final detailed bid to the Department for Transport for the
upgrade earlier this year.</span></p>
<p><span>The Coventry - Nuneaton Rail Upgrade scheme, known locally
as NUCKLE, includes a new bay platform at Coventry railway station,
a new station at Coventry (Ricoh) Arena, a longer platform at
Bedworth and a new station at Bermuda Park.</span></p>
<p><span>Now this approval means that two-carriage trains will run
between Nuneaton and Coventry every 30 minutes.</span></p>
<p><span>On match or major event days trains will run between
Coventry and the Ricoh every 15 minutes. Cllr Tom Ansell, Centro's
Lead Member for Rail and Metro, added: "We believe the new service
and station on the line should act as a stimulus for economic
regeneration, bringing badly needed new jobs to the
region.</span></p>
<p><span>"Following this positive announcement by the Government,
Centro is now looking forward to working with our partners to
deliver the improved rail service on this crucial route for the
West Midlands."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr John Mutton, Leader of Coventry City Council, said:
""I am absolutely delighted with this fantastic news. It means we
can at last get on and provide the kind of sensible rail link that
we and local residents have been calling for.</span></p>
<p><span>""The new rail link will make a fantastic connection
between the Friargate development which is set to create up to
15,000 new jobs, the north of Coventry and the wider Warwickshire
area.</span></p>
<p><span>""We are one of the best connected areas in the country
and this can only improve things. It will help us to create new
jobs and attract new business too � which is great
news.""</span></p>
<p><span>A detailed planning application, for the new stations at
Coventry Arena and Bermuda Park in Warwickshire, is set to be
submitted in January next year.</span></p>
<p><span>Construction is set to start next year. Councillor Linda
Bigham, Cabinet Member City Development, said: ""This is great news
for Coventry and I am delighted that all the years of hard work
that has gone into this has finally paid off.</span></p>
<p><span>""The new link will provide a real boost to people living
in the north of the city and will help to open up new opportunities
to jobs.</span></p>
<p><span>""Now we need to get on and submit the planning
application so we can at last get it built. This new link will
provide another public transport option for people and I am sure it
will be well used. This is yet another step forward for our great
city � and what a fantastic Christmas present for us
all.""</span></p>
<p><span>£3.5m of ERDF funding has also been secured to support to
the scheme, which strengthens the viability of the
scheme.</span></p>
<p>"</p>
"<span class=""normaltext"">A £19.2 million bid by Centro to upgrade the railway line between Coventry and Nuneaton has been approved.</span>"
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New Street rebuild will boost city's economy
2011-12-13T00:00:00
2011-12-15T00:00:00
9369
Impression of New Street station
<p>"</p>
<p><span>New research has confirmed how the redevelopment
Birmingham's New Street Station will have a major impact in
stimulating economic regeneration in the city's southside
area.</span></p>
<p><span>A report by transport consultants Steer Davies Gleave
found that the station's £600 million Gateway redevelopment, of
which Centro, the region's transport authority is a key partner,
can act as a catalyst for increased economic activity.</span></p>
<p><span>The research, commissioned by network Rail, which lis
leading the Gateway project, predicts that the project
will:</span></p>
<p><span>� Transform the south side of the city centre, with the
project resulting in over 350,000 sq ft of new development to the
south of the station.</span></p>
<p><span>� Directly lead to an improvement in high quality office
space in the area, making it more attractive for businesses to
locate their headquarters in the city centre.</span></p>
<p><span>� Benefit the whole of the city centre by stimulating
developments and growth, rather than displacing existing city
centre development.</span></p>
<p><span>� Directly deliver up to 3,200 new jobs in the city
centre. John Lewis has already confirmed that their new department
store, located at the redeveloped station will directly create 650
new jobs when it opens in 2014.</span></p>
<p><span>Network Rail's director of property, David Biggs said:
"This report confirms that investing in stations boosts economic
activity and leads to further investment in the local economy, as
well as delivering improvements for passengers.</span></p>
<p><span>""The growth in passenger numbers has meant that Network
Rail can attract partners to regenerate areas around transport.
Birmingham New Street is a great example; we are delivering a
radically new station gateway in partnership with Centro, the city
council and John Lewis and transforming the south side of the
city".</span></p>
<p><span>Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council
said: "This research supports the vision outlined in The Big City
Plan and Enterprise Zone proposals, within which the regeneration
of New Street Gateway is seen as the key to unlocking economic and
jobs growth within the city and wider region.</span></p>
<p><span>"Not only will the project deliver a world-class transport
hub at the heart of the city, benefitting business, and the public
and potential investors alike, but it will also transform the
economic landscape of the city centre by opening up the entire
south side to redevelopment."</span></p>
<p>"</p>
"<span class=""normaltext"">New research has confirmed how the redevelopment Birmingham’s New Street Station will have a major impact in stimulating economic regeneration in the city’s southside area.</span>"
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Long awaited improvements to the Chase Line rail service secured
2011-12-09T00:00:00
2011-12-15T00:00:00
9369
Chase Line set for improvements
<p>"</p>
<p><span>Rail passengers using the region's Chase Line are to
benefit from a £5.4m package of improvements including faster
journeys.</span></p>
<p><span>The money is being made available by Network Rail for long
awaited work to increase line speed from 45mph-75mph.</span></p>
<p><span>Work is expected to complete on the Walsall-Cannock branch
by 2014, providing quicker links to Birmingham New Street and
beyond.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Tom Ansell, lead member for rail and Metro on Centro,
the transport authority, said: ""This is a really good deal for
passengers and we are delighted that Network Rail is making this
important investment.</span></p>
<p><span>""It means that journey times from Walsall into Birmingham
and also out to Rugeley can be cut and that can only be a good
thing for the thousands of people who use this line each
day.""</span></p>
<p><span>Network Rail had initially offered £2.7m for the
improvements, with a further £2.7m in match funding to be provided
from Regional Funding Allocations (RFA).</span></p>
<p><span>But the scheme stalled when the RFA programme was
withdrawn last year, leaving a £2.7m shortfall which Network Rail
has now agreed to match themselves through Regulated Asset Base
Increments.</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Gordon Alcott, Cannock Chase Council's Economic
Development and Planning Portfolio Leader, said: ""This
announcement is a welcome boost for our District and will improve
links to Birmingham and access to national rail
services.</span></p>
<p><span>""It is a key milestone and a step towards our ultimate
aim, the electrification of the Wallsall-Rugeley branch.</span></p>
<p><span>""The old speed limit of 45mph dates back to the
introduction of the Chase Line and an increase in line speed is
long overdue. ""</span></p>
<p><span>The increase in line speed will lead to increased
efficiency and will improve value for money on the line; we hope it
will also signal a move to restore services which were cut in
December 2010.""</span></p>
<p><span>The funding was announced by Richard Eccles, Director of
Network Strategy and Planning for Network Rail, at the Network
Planning Regional and Local Government Conference.</span></p>
<p>"</p>
"<span class=""normaltext"">Rail passengers using the region’s Chase Line are to benefit from a £5.4m package of improvements including faster journeys.</span>"
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Extensive public transport to bring festive cheer
2011-12-07T00:00:00
2011-12-07T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Drivers in the West Midlands can enjoy a festive tipple without
the risk of drink driving by taking advantage of extensive public
transport services this Christmas and New Year.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>With police last week launching a Christmas crack-down on drink
driving, a full timetable of public transport during the holidays
has been unveiled by transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Boxing Day in particular will see a comprehensive network of
frequent bus and tram services arriving in city centres from 8am so
shop staff can get to work and shoppers can bag an early bargain in
the sales. The last services will depart around 8pm.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "It is great news
that we have been able to provide such extensive services for
people in the West Midlands over the Christmas and New Year
holidays.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"With people visiting family and friends or going to office
parties, many of us will be enjoying a festive drink. But it's all
too easy to find yourself over the limit so it is important that
people take advantage of the excellent public transport on
offer.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"Boxing Day is often one of the busiest shopping days of the
year with people heading to the winter sales and it is particularly
pleasing that so many services will be operating."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>National Express West Midlands will run Boxing Day buses on 82
key routes across the region. This will be boosted by Centro using
public money to provide 51 further services, in those places where
no buses are being run on a commercial basis.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>On December 27 most buses will run Sunday services and run
Saturday timetables between December 28 and New Year's Eve.</p>
<p><strong>�</strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile the Midland Metro will operate a 20 minute service
between 08:30am and 7pm on Boxing Day and there will be a Sunday
service on December 27. A normal service will run between December
28 and New Year's Eve.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>New Year's Day will see most buses, trains and trams operate a
Sunday bus service.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Trains will have a two day scheduled break on December 25 and
26. A reduced service will operate on local routes via Birmingham
New Street on December 27 and 28.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The rebuilding of New Street station will continue during the
break, with a new section of bridge being lifted into the station,
which will extend the Navigation Street footbridge to create of a
new entrance on Hill Street.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The foundations for the new public walkways on the east side of
the station's south entrance will also be built and a tower crane
put in place at the front of the station, ready to construct a new
public square opposite the Bullring. The station will reopen on
December 27.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro started paying for Boxing Day bus services on key routes
eight years ago. Before that there had been no services for more
than two decades.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The move has proved extremely popular and passenger numbers are
now so high that National Express West Midlands operates many of
the routes on a commercial basis without the need for a subsidy
from the public purse.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Full details of public transport services over the entire
festive period including Boxing Day timetables are available at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> under festive travel
information.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>For more information about train services over the Christmas
period visit: <a href="/">www.nationalrail.co.uk/christmas</a>
�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Leaflets containing the details are also available at local
travel shops through the Network West Midlands area.</p>
<p>"</p>
Drivers in the West Midlands can enjoy a festive tipple without the risk of drink driving by�taking public transport this Christmas and New Year.
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Centro make £4 million savings without affecting front-line passenger services
2011-12-05T00:00:00
2011-12-05T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has drawn up a budget that protects front line services
and still saves £4 million next year.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The transport authority for the West Midlands has put forward a
proposed levy to member councils of £147.5 million for the year
2012/13.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A budget of £152 million was originally put forward by Centro
but was revised at the request of finance bosses in the seven local
councils that make up the integrated transport authority (ITA).</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The money has been found from efficiency and cost saving
programmes that have commenced during the past year, as well as
accelerating programmes scheduled for the financial year
2013/14.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>However members have been warned that if they want any further
savings then front line services would be hit and tough choices
would have to be made.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The proposed levy will be considered by members of the ITA at
its meeting on December 12, however a final decision will not be
made until February.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip told members: "We believe
the proposed Levy of £147.5 million is in line with most Districts'
Medium Term Financial Plans.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"If, however, Members decide that further savings are required
then these will need to come from areas which will have an impact
on front line services."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said approximately £88 million in the proposed levy -
60 per cent of expenditure - was committed to finance charges and
the cost of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme and
are ring-fenced.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The remaining £60 million will be spent on Ring and Ride, child
and rail/Metro concessions, bus subsidies and operational
expenditure such as staffing, infrastructure management and
maintenance � the only areas where Centro can potentially claw back
cash.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Currently, children travel at half price on the buses, while the
West Midlands provides free rail and Metro travel for older persons
after 9.30am on top of the existing national free bus pass they
already receive.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Ring and Ride is a door-to-door transport service for the
disabled. It is largely funded by a Centro grant, which in next
year's proposed levy would be £11.1 million.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Run by West Midlands Special Needs Transport it is the largest
scheme of its kind in Europe and has more than 70,000 registered
users.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A further £17.1 million is set for child travel and rail and
Metro are budgeted for £17.1million.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Ways of saving cash could include reducing the level of subsidy
for child fares, charging older people a £25 annual fee for the
rail and Metro pass add-on, and charging for charging for rail
station car parking � Centro has 7,000 Park and Ride spaces at 41
rail and Metro stations, all of which bar two are free to use.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Bus subsidies account for £8.5 million and are used to top-up
the commercial bus network on routes considered socially necessary,
and act as a lifeline to many.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "These are tough
financial times but I would emphasise that no cuts are planned in
front-line services under the levy of £147.5 million that we are
putting to members.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"However if members decide they want to see further savings then
these are the only areas where we have any room for manoeuvre and
reductions will result in these services being affected."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro has drawn up a budget that protects front line services and still saves £4 million next year.
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Report to give progress on transport service review
2011-12-05T00:00:00
2011-12-05T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Councillors on transport authority Centro are to be presented
with a report outlining the progress made on a review aimed at
improving the region's Ring and Ride service.</p>
<p>A meeting of the authority on Monday December 12 will also be
asked to consider possible changes to the way people apply for the
door-to-door transport service, which although operated by charity
West Midlands Special Needs Transport, is funded by Centro.</p>
<p>�A key recommendation in the report is to approve a consultation
of the service's 70,000 registered users over proposals to bring
the application process in line with similar schemes elsewhere in
the UK.</p>
<p>�At present people wanting to register simply fill in a form
declaring they find it very difficult or impossible to use
conventional public transport.</p>
<p>The review has been looking at ways of making the application
process more structured so that it can better demonstrate how
funding is targeted effectively at those people who have no
transport alternative to Ring and Ride.</p>
<p>�The review has looked at a range of transport options and found
that Ring and Ride is the best way of meeting the travel needs of
those people unable to use buses, trains and trams. The cost of
providing the service is £11.5m or some £7.50 per trip.</p>
<p>The consultation, if approved by councillors, would canvass
users on proposed changes which would give automatic eligibility
for those who send in documentation showing they receive benefits
linked to mobility such as the Higher Rate Mobility component of
Disability Allowance, Higher Rate Attendance Allowance or War
Pension Mobility.</p>
<p>Other documents to support applications could relate to medical
conditions including copies of prescriptions or provide
confirmation that the applicant receives other benefits linked to
mobility. Alternatively applicants can attend a medical centre for
assessment.</p>
<p>�Cllr Angus Adams, Chairman of Centro, said: "Many people who
are unable to use conventional public transport rely on Ring and
Ride. It allows them to get out and about and lead independent
lives in their own homes for as long as possible.</p>
<p>�"That's why we have undertaken this review to ensure it is
fully accountable to the public purse and can be operated on a
sound footing.</p>
<p>�"We feel it is important that Ring and Ride users have their
say on any proposed change on the way we assess those who can use
the service which is why we are recommending a full
consultation.</p>
<p>�"The proposals will help ensure that those people who cannot
use buses, trains and trams will continue to get the best Ring and
Ride service possible from the funding available."</p>
<p>�If the proposed changes are introduced then applications to
become a registered user of Ring and Ride would be managed by
Centro, which already deals with applications for concessionary
travel passes for the blind and disabled and older people.</p>
<p>"</p>
Councillors on transport authority Centro are to be presented with a report outlining the progress made on a review aimed at improving the region’s Ring and Ride service. �
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"New, green hybrid buses unveiled"
2011-12-02T00:00:00
2011-12-15T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p><span>National Express West Midlands and Centro, the region's
transport authority, have unveiled new state of the art hybrid
buses.</span></p>
<p><span>The new greener vehicles will be on the 22 between
Birmingham and Kitwell and 23 between Birmingham and Woodgate early
in the new year.</span></p>
<p><span>The services run on a joint 8 minute frequency during
7am-6.30pm and a 15 minute frequency the rest of the
day.</span></p>
<p><span>T</span><span>he services will lessen the carbon footprint
of the thousands of commuters they carry to and from work every
single day.</span></p>
<p><span>The event at Birmingham's Botanical Gardens was addressed
by Peter Coates Managing Director of National Express UK Bus
Division, Gisela Stuart MP for Birmingham Edgbaston and Councillor
Angus Adams Chairman of Centro.</span></p>
<p><span>The 18 new state of the art buses have a distinctive
livery illustrating the pride National Express West Midlands and
Centro take in protecting the local environment.</span></p>
<p><span>The new hybrid buses are a £5.2million investment into the
future of low carbon and sustainable transport in the West
Midlands, by National Express West Midlands, Centro and the
Department for Transport Green Bus Fund.</span></p>
<p><span>National Express West Midlands hybrids will save an
estimated 378 tonnes of carbon every year compared to regular
buses, reducing C02 emissions of a regular bus by 30 per
cent.</span></p>
<p><span>The new vehicles are not only more environmentally
friendly they also have state of the art improvements to customer
care and experience such as audio visual passenger stop
announcements, anytime vehicle location equipment to give
passengers real time information on their buses location and are
Smartcard ready.</span></p>
<p><span>The government recently announced a further £20million
pounds of Green Bus Fund which National Express West Midlands are
keen to take part in and bring more hybrids to the regions
streets.</span></p>
<p><span>Peter Coates, Managing Director National Express West
Midlands said: "Our new hybrids are really distinctive and a big
investment into the future of transport in the region.</span></p>
<p><span>""They look great from the outside and have the latest on
board advancements in customer experience including audio/visual
technology to alert those with hearing and sight problems when
their stop is approaching."</span></p>
<p><span>Cllr Angus Adams, Chairman of Centro, added: "This is a
significant milestone in bus travel in the West Midlands and
something to which we were happy to contribute.</span></p>
<p><span>"Not only will they encourage new bus technology and
stimulate the market for low carbon vehicles but they will
demonstrate to people that electric hybrid vehicles of this size
are viable and further proof that public transport is a serious and
ready alternative to the car."</span></p>
<p>"</p>
"<span class=""normaltext"">National Express West Midlands and Centro, the region's transport authority, have unveiled new state of the art hybrid buses.</span>"
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‘Meriden Gap’ taxibus given improvements ahead of Christmas
2011-12-01T00:00:00
2011-12-01T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>A popular minibus service linking Solihull to the 'Meriden Gap'
has proved such a hit with passengers that bosses are introducing a
raft of improvements in the run up to Christmas.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The Heart of England taxibus began running timetabled journeys
in September after Centro responded to residents' calls for more
bus services in the area.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The service, which is being funded by Centro with taxpayers'
money, has been so well used that larger vehicles and extra
journeys are now being provided.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>This week saw the start of additional journeys into Solihull on
Tuesdays as well as one to Kenilworth on Thursdays, and the old
eight seater minibuses have been replaced by bigger 14 seat
models.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Steven Hayes, Centro's area manager for Coventry and Solihull
said: "It is brilliant news that the service has been so well
received in the area and we are pleased to be able to make these
improvements for passengers.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"The lack of timetabled services in some areas had been an issue
for residents in the past and it is great that we can continue to
work with them to further improve the service they receive."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The Heart of England� taxibus service 83 and 84 is operated on
Centro's behalf by West Midland Special Needs Transport (WMSNT),
with support for the additional Kenilworth journey coming from
Warwickshire County Council.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The introduction of larger vehicles will see the smaller taxibus
available for journeys on request, ensuring a full service can once
again be provided while the timetabled trips are operating.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The additional journey to Solihull will leave Meriden at 11:05
with extra return trips also due to be scheduled this week. The
Kenilworth journey will leave Solihull at 10.25 and arrive in
Kenilworth at 11.12 stopping at Hampton, Meriden, Berkswell and
Balsall Common. .</p>
<p>"</p>
A popular minibus service linking Solihull to the ‘Meriden Gap’ has proved such a hit with passengers that bosses are introducing a raft of improvements in the run up to Christmas.
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Bilston’s new leisure centre gets bus service
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<p>"</p>
<p>Bilston's new multi-million pound leisure centre, built as part
of the area's regeneration programme, will be served by buses when
it opens to the public next month.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Only a very limited service currently runs to the site where the
£18.6 million Bert Williams Leisure Centre will open on December
3.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>But after a partnership between transport authority Centro,
National Express and Wolverhampton City Council, the existing 401
bus service will be re-routed to serve the state-of-the-art
facility.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The new route will also provide links to the £25 million South
Wolverhampton and Bilston Academy building which will provide
accommodation for 1,200 students and is due to open next year.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro's Black Country area manager Babs Coombes said: "We are
pleased to have been able to work with Wolverhampton City Council
and National Express to provide this service to the new leisure
centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"It is important that when facilities like these open to the
public there are much needed public transport connections in place
to make them easily accessible for residents."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The revised route will run from November 27 and will travel
along Dudley St and the newly installed Nettlefolds Way to provide
links to the centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Two new bus stops are being positioned on Nettlefolds Way and
the buses will make use of the new bus only right hand turn on to
the Black Country Route to enter the bus station.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Councillor Peter Bilson, Cabinet Member for Economic
Regeneration and Prosperity said: "I welcome the decision by the
bus company to re-route the existing bus service which will improve
accessibility to the leisure centre for even more people.�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"This supports the investment made by the City Council and its
partners when undertaking remediation works and building the new
infrastructure which Bilston needs.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"By planning ahead and providing the new bus only right hand
turn we are now in a position to�gain maximum advantage from the
significant investment that has been made in the town."�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The facility is expected to attract 200,000 visitors each year
and includes a 25 metre swimming pool, squash courts and a fitness
suite.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The centre, which is named after former Wolverhampton Wanderers
and England goalkeeper Bert Williams, will replace the existing
Bilston Leisure Centre and forms the first part of the Bilston
Urban Village development which aims to transform the area.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Simon Mathieson, Black Country Area Operations Director,
National Express West Midlands said: ""It is important that we work
with�Wolverhampton City�Council and Centro�to make sure that the
multimillion pound�investments into the local area are easily
accessible to as many local residents as possible.�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"On this route there is the new Bert Williams Leisure Centre in
Bilston and�the�South Wolverhampton and Bilston Academy due to open
next year.� We are sure that this route will be popular with local
residents using the leisure centre and kids getting to and from the
academy.""</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Buses will run half hourly between West Bromwich and Bilston via
Princes End Monday to Saturday daytimes and hourly evenings and
Sundays.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The service operated by Diamond will continue to run the
existing route.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Bilston’s new multi-million pound leisure centre, built as part of the area’s regeneration programme, will be served by buses when it opens to the public next month."
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Centro bid to win better funding deal for Midlands
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<p>"</p>
<p>Centro bosses are to meet with Transport Secretary Justine
Greening in a bid to win a better funding deal for rail projects in
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>�Centro, the region's transport authority, is keen to discuss
the level of investment for the West Midlands rail network between
2014 and 2019 proposed under the Initial Industry Plan (IIP).</p>
<p>�Chief executive Geoff Inskip told members of the Integrated
Transport Authority considering its response to the IIP that he had
written to MPs about the "paucity" of the plans.</p>
<p>�Dudley North MP Ian Austin raised the issue in parliament and
prompted the meeting with Ms Greening.</p>
<p>�A formal date for the meeting has yet to be finalised but the
controversial proposals would see the Midlands receive investment
of just £57 million out of a total proposed budget of around £10
billion.</p>
<p>The IIP has been drawn up by the Office of Rail Regulation,
Network Rail, the Association of Train Operating Companies, the
Rail Freight Operators Association, and the Rail Industry
Association and represents the industry's view of funding
priorities.</p>
<p>�Although not binding on the Government, it is influential when
ministers decide funding.</p>
<p>�Under the proposals the lion's share goes to London and the
South East, which gets between £349.5 million and £389.4 million
(40%) depending on total costs.</p>
<p>�Eight schemes identified by Centro as priorities for the five
year period, known as CP5, would be extremely unlikely to get off
the ground in that time.</p>
<p>�Mr Inskip said Centro believed the IIP did not adequately
address the jobs and regeneration needs of the region.</p>
<p>�They also failed to link in with Government thinking on the
proposed high-speed rail link between Birmingham and London.</p>
<p>�He said: "Centro is extremely disappointed that the IIP
proposes little to support the continued growth in both the
passenger and rail freight sectors in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>�"There should be a much wider package of infrastructure
investment around the region in order to improve accessibility to
both labour and goods markets, stimulating economic growth, job
creation and increasing local and national productivity.</p>
<p>�"We are asking the Secretary of State to consider the IIP and
tell the rail industry that they should rethink these proposals and
give far more emphasis to jobs and regeneration."</p>
<p>�The eight local rail schemes Centro wants to see completed or
work begin on in CP5 are:</p>
<ul>
<li>�Re-opening of the line between Walsall and Stourbridge</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>�The Camp Hill Chords scheme introducing services from Moor
Street in Birmingham to Kings Norton and Water Orton</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Electrification of the Walsall to Rugeley line</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Reinstatement of a fourth platform at Snow Hill station and the
Rowley Regis Turnback</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Increasing the speed on lines between Walsall and Rugeley,
Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury, Coventry and Nuneaton</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Resignalling and remodelling the track in the Worcester
area</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Improving capacity between Birmingham and Coventry</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Station enhancements at Walsall, Coventry, Wolverhampton,
Solihull and Birmingham International</li>
</ul>
<p>The only regional schemes in the Midlands the IIP proposals say
should go ahead are capacity enhancements at Water Orton and
between Leamington and Coventry.</p>
<p>Centro recently commissioned a study from KPMG which looks set
to demonstrate that such a programme of regional rail enhancements
would increase economic productivity in the West Midlands by more
than £400 million.</p>
<p>No decisions have been taken by the Government on the IIP
proposals and Mr Inskip said Centro would continue to press the
case for regional investment in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro bosses are to meet with Transport Secretary Justine Greening in a bid to win a better funding deal for rail projects in the West Midlands.
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Renewal letters go out to concessionary pass holders
2011-11-10T00:00:00
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<p>"</p>
<p>Thousands of people across the West Midlands will be receiving
letters urging them to sign up for their new concessionary travel
passes.</p>
<p>A total of 126,000 pensioners will be in the first wave of
nearly half a million holders to get new smart passes issued by
Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>The pass provides free, off-peak travel on buses, trains and
trams across the region and on buses anywhere else in England.</p>
<p>The first cards were issued in 2008 and have a maximum working
life of five years.</p>
<p>Centro administers the scheme locally on behalf of the
Department for Transport.</p>
<p>Sarah Jones, Centro's Head of Customer Services said: "We will
be writing to existing pass holders inviting them to renew their
passes.</p>
<p>"The letter will explain how and why they need to do this and
give customers a choice in respect of how they renew.</p>
<p>"Customers can submit their renewal application either in
writing by returning the letter that is sent to them, or online via
an electronic renewal form on Centro's website which they can
complete once they receive their letter."</p>
<p>A series of roadshows where Centro staff will advise people of
what they need to do are scheduled to take place around Birmingham
and the Black Country.</p>
<p>They are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 12<sup>th</sup> November � Park Street, Walsall,
9am-3pm</li>
<li>Tuesday 15<sup>th</sup> November � Queen's Square,
Wolverhampton, 9.30am-3pm</li>
<li>Saturday 19<sup>th</sup> November � Civic Square, Oldbury,
9am-3pm</li>
<li>Saturday 26<sup>th</sup> November � Birmingham Markets,
Edgbaston Street, Birmingham city centre</li>
</ul>
<p>The English National Concessionary pass was introduced on 1
April 2008 and provides a free off-peak travel concession on buses
in England for older people.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The concession is enhanced within the West Midlands by Centro
for local residents to include the use of local rail and Metro
services off-peak.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The original passes will expire in four batches - March 2012,
August 2012, March 2013 and April 2013.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The renewal letters are not being sent to blind and disabled
pass holders as a separate process applies to these customers.</p>
<p>Centro writes to these pass holders, whose continued eligibility
for a travel pass has to be reassessed, three months prior to their
pass expiring.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A dedicated telephone line to respond to enquiries about
renewals will be available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
This service will be available via a local rate number � 08450 755
888.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Customers will also be able to seek assistance in person at
Centro House and in Centro's Travel Information Centres.</p>
<p>"</p>
Thousands of people across the West Midlands will be receiving letters urging them to sign up for their new concessionary travel passes.
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£800 million of transport projects underway in Birmingham
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"The £127 million Midland Metro tram extension outside the redeveloped New Street Station, both projects are due for completion in 2015."
<p>"</p>
<p>More than £800 million of work to transform the way people
travel into and around Birmingham city centre is underway � just 12
months after the launch of a compelling transport vision.</p>
<p>Leading members of the city's private and public sectors today
outlined the progress achieved since they unveiled their Vision for
Movement blueprint exactly one year ago to help underpin economic
regeneration and cement Birmingham's future as a vibrant, global
city.</p>
<p>More than 100 key figures from the city's business community
attended the Vision for Movement � One Year On briefing at the
Council House to hear how the last 12 months had seen several of
the Vision's high profile projects forge ahead.</p>
<p>These include a £65 million runway extension at Birmingham
Airport, a £127 million extension of the Midland Metro tram through
the heart of the city's shopping district and the £600 million
Gateway redevelopment of New Street Station. Planning and design
work is also progressing on an £11 million rapid transit system
known as Sprint, running between Five Ways and Walsall.</p>
<p>Construction work is also set to start on two other key schemes.
The first is a £14 million reorganisation of the city's bus
services which will see stops being moved from early in the New
Year to allow the construction of six new passengers interchanges.
All buses will then come out of Corporation Street next summer
paving the way for work on the Metro extension.</p>
<p>The other key scheme is a £3 million project called Birmingham
Interconnect which features new direction signs and information
points featuring maps and public transport details. The project is
designed to make it easier and clearer for both visitors and
residents to find their way around the city to major attractions
and destinations.</p>
<p>All of the projects have been earmarked for completion by 2015
under Vision for Movement, a collaboration between the city's
business community, through its Business Improvement Districts
(BID's), Birmingham City Council, transport authority Centro and
National Express West Midlands.</p>
<p>Its goal is to lay the foundations for a comprehensive network
of rapid transit, bus, rail, cycling and walking routes considered
essential in supporting the city's economy.</p>
<p>Gary Taylor, founding member of Altitude Real Estate and
chairman of the Broad Street� BID, said: "'The city and the region
has to maximise the chance of attracting new investment and a
return� to growth.</p>
<p>"Transport is a major factor in investment decisions and a
catalyst for growth. The Vision for Movement is all about 'joined
up' thinking for getting around the city centre.</p>
<p>"It is vital to have simple routes and high quality travel
options for moving around the city centre by walking, by car or on
public transport for commuters and visitors."</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip added: "The last 12 months
have seen us make considerable progress towards the Vision's goal
of creating a well connected, efficient and walkable city.</p>
<p>"It has also seen Birmingham's private and public sectors forge
a close working relationship in order to find realistic and
affordable transport solutions that will help underpin economic
growth and the city's prosperity in the years ahead."</p>
<p>Vision for Movement also forms an important element of the wider
Big City Plan, a far reaching strategy for how the heart of
Birmingham should grow over the next two decades, taking into
account key developments such as the proposed High Speed Rail link
to London.</p>
<p>Cllr Mike Whitby, Leader of the City Council, said: "Developing
a modern, integrated and user friendly transport system is crucial
to Birmingham's continued development as a world-class city in
which to live, work and do business.</p>
<p>"From the airport to Metro, New Street Gateway to the improved
road network, we have clearly begun down a path of truly
transformational change in how we travel within and beyond the
city."</p>
<p>The last 12 months have seen:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tenders invited for the extension of the runway at Birmingham
Airport with a view to starting work next year and completion by
2014. The project also includes a diversion of and transport
improvements to the A45.</li>
<li>Massive internal construction work undertaken on the £600
million Gateway redevelopment of New Street Station. Work is now
moving externally with the installation of a new, eye-catching
stainless steel facade. The redeveloped station is due for
completion in 2015.</li>
<li>Government approval given for the extension of the Metro from
Snow Hill Station to New Street Station with a £3.2 million bridge
to carry trams over Great Charles Street already completed. The
extension is due for completion in 2015 � coinciding with New
Street Gateway</li>
<li>Five Ways to Walsall agreed as the first Sprint route and
costed at £11 million. A business case for the project is due for
completion next month.</li>
<li>The start of a £14 million scheme to remove buses from
Corporation Street� by next summer and build a series of modern bus
interchanges featuring high quality passenger infrastructure and
travel information. Stops will start to move early in the New
Year</li>
<li>The completion of concept work on the £3 million Birmingham
Interconnect project which will see commonly designed direction
signs and information points featuring maps and public transport
details. Due to appear on-street from next Summer (2012).</li>
<li>Detailed design work carried out on a dedicated pedestrian
route linking New Street Station, Moor Street Station and, in the
longer term, the proposed High Speed Rail station in Curzon
Street.</li>
<li>More than £25,000 of cycle storage commissioned, ready for
installation at 13 city centre locations this winter. Feasibility
and design work has also been carried out on a series of cycle hubs
offering storage, bike hire, bike maintenance and cycle
accessories.</li>
<li>Improvements to the pedestrian experience in Church Street in
order to enhance the strategic link to the Jewellery Quarter</li>
</ul>
<p>The briefing also heard how work was progressing on the Vision's
aim to increase carbon-free travel by creating a much better city
centre for walking and cycling.</p>
<p>The concept of a "Walkable City" involves transforming the
quality, safety and security of the pedestrian environment so that
walking becomes the most enjoyable and convenient way of getting
around large parts of the city centre.</p>
<p>Cycle routes with dedicated bike lanes and better connectivity
to the canal network are also being developed to encourage cycling
to and within the city centre.</p>
<p>"</p>
More than £800 million of work to transform the way people travel into and around Birmingham city centre is underway � just 12 months after the launch of a compelling transport vision.
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Park and rail deal is just the ticket for commuters
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<p>"</p>
<p>Commuters using a busy West Midlands rail station could save
£100 each month and avoid the rush hour jams by parking up their
cars and continuing their journey by train.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, and Virgin Trains have
teamed up to offer combined <em>park and rail</em> tickets from
Birmingham International station to help beat the rising cost of
city centre parking.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Those choosing to leave their cars at the station car park could
save up to £155.50 a month, by buying a combined four week
<strong>n</strong>-train or <strong>n</strong>-network 'park and
rail' ticket.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro marketing executive Rinku Banerjee said: "This is a great
opportunity for commuters to avoid the rush hour traffic and save
both time and money in the process.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"With the price of �petrol on the rise and rush hour road
congestion often reducing traffic to a crawl, the deal could help
make people's daily journeys easier, cheaper and greener."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A four-week <strong>n</strong>-train park and rail ticket which
can be used on most trains in the Network West Midlands area would
save £155.50, and a four-week <strong>n</strong>-network park and
rail ticket for use on most trains, buses and the Metro would save
£155.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Up to nine trains an hour leave Birmingham International for New
Street station and journeys take as little as 10 minutes, less than
half the time it would take to drive into the city centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The station's car park has more than 2,000 spaces and is
situated next to the station.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Park and rail tickets will be available from the station until
March 31 2012.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>For more information passengers can visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Commuters using a busy West Midlands rail station could save £100 each month and avoid the rush hour jams by parking up their cars and continuing their journey by train.
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Thousands of Birmingham families sign up for green initiative
2011-10-31T00:00:00
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Cllr Tim Huxtable with Centro’s Smarter Choices Team Leader Kerry Swingler and Personalised Travel Plan team members Mark Edwards and Andy Watt
<p>"</p>
<p>More than�5,000�homes in south Birmingham have signed up for
free customised travel advice in a bid to beat soaring petrol
prices and get greener.</p>
<p>Expert travel advisers�spent twelve weeks visiting�more than
10,000�homes�near the Pershore Road in Bournville, Stirchley,
Cotteridge, Kings Norton, West Heath and Kings Heath to tell
families how they can take advantage of the full range of travel
options on their doorstep.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>More than half of those visited asked the advisers to sit down
with them and draw up free personalised travel support. The 5,157
who signed up were�provided with information or help, such as free
bike training, to help them get from their own front door to their
destination without having to jump in the car.�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>And with the AA �reporting this month that petrol and diesel
prices are at their highest ever levels for this time of year with
further increases likely in the New Year, the change to public
transport could prove a cheaper alternative over the winter.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The support offered is individually tailored to�help residents
switch to local bus and rail services and make more local trips on
foot or bike. Of those who signed up to the project, 28 per cent
said they had now changed the way they travel.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The personalised travel initiative is part of the wider Pershore
Road Travel Choices project led by transport authority Centro in
partnership with Birmingham City Council. The £500,000, year-long
project aims to cut traffic congestion and carbon emissions along
the Pershore Road, making the area a cleaner and greener place to
live, work and study.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cllr Tim Huxtable, who is lead member for Birmingham on Centro
and lives along the Pershore Road corridor in Stirchley, said: "We
are delighted that the project was so well received in the area and
that more than half of all homes visited took up some form of
personalised travel advice.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"With the rising cost of petrol at the moment, this extra
guidance can help people make the switch from the car to cheaper
alternative modes of transport, as well as being healthier and more
environmentally friendly."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The Pershore Road Travel Choices project has seen experts
working with local schools to help pupils, parents and staff walk,
cycle, catch the bus or car share to reduce congestion caused by
the school run.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Local companies have also been supported in encouraging their
staff to travel more sustainably and a series of walks, cycle rides
and cycle training for the surrounding community have been
organised.</p>
<p><strong>�</strong></p>
<p>Residents wanting further information about the project can
visit <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/pershoreroad</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"More than�5,000�homes in south Birmingham have signed up for free customised travel advice in a bid to beat soaring petrol prices and get greener."
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Buses and taxis move out of Broadgate
2011-10-26T00:00:00
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How the new Broadgate will look
<p>"</p>
<p>Buses and taxis are set to move out of Coventry's
Broadgate�this�Sunday (October 30) and relocate�to stops in other
areas of the city centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Burges will be one of the new areas they move to after setting
down passengers in Ironmonger Row. Taxis will move to a new rank
inGreyfriars Lane.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The moves come after the plan for Broadgate was changed to
reflect the clear instruction from local people that Coventry's
main square should be pedestrianised.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The transformation of Broadgate is part of a wider £7 million
package of improvements which also includes improving the link
between the Railway Station and Bull Yard by filling in two subways
and extending Greyfriars Green right into the heart of the
city.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The work, which will also�improve the setting of some of the
city's finest buildings such as Holy Trinity church,�is part funded
by a £3.5 million grant from the European Regional Development
Fund.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cllr Lindsley Harvard, Cabinet Member for City Services, said:
""We have responded to what people wanted by providing a point in
Ironmonger Row for setting down passengers from buses while�taxis
will be moved just around the corner to Greyfriars Lane.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>""I think we have achieved the task people asked us to, of
getting them as close as possible to Broadgate, whilst also making
access to West Orchards easier. Moreover, we have plans for people
to easily access other parts of the city centre, via hop on and off
inner ring route services.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>""The work is ongoing and I would like to thank everyone for
bearing with us and assure people that we are making good progress
and are, indeed, ahead of schedule.""</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The changes to bus services may not yet be finalalised and�could
change again on January 29 next year�when Centro, the region's
transport authority,�has completed its wider network review.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro will be holding two exhibitions at Pool Meadow so people
can find out more about the bus moves, one tomorrow (Thursday
October 27) between 1pm and 6pm and one on Saturday October 29
between 10am and 3pm.� A team will also be on hand on Monday
(October 31) �to help and advise people in Broadgate.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro Chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The people of Coventry
can be assured that with the change of location for buses to new
hubs in the Broadgate area we are doing everything we can to ensure
services operate reliably. We'll be monitoring things closely ahead
of the wider full network review in January.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"These are exciting times for Coventry city centre and public
transport plays an important part of it, supporting and enabling
economic growth and helping to generate new jobs.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>""The bus stopping arrangements in Burges and Ironmonger Row
will be reviewed as part of Centro's wider network review - so I
hope bus users will bear with us until the final stops and shelters
are in place."" �</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The Council has been talking to the taxi trade about the new
rank in Greyfriars Lane and about size and location of other new
ranks in the city centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The change in Greyfriars Lane will see the one way order being
reversed so traffic will only be allowed to travel towards High
Street. There will also be improvements to the pavements making it
easier for wheelchair users to access taxis and the existing
limited waiting bay will be removed.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Commenting on the important step to move traffic out of
Broadgate Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for City development,
said: ""This is a really exciting step forward in the development
of our new square - which will be traffic free as a result of
residents' feedback.�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>""For many years it has been dominated by traffic with wide
lanes of road on three sides.�Once traffic moves out I think people
will get a real feel of the scale and size of the square and it
will be easier to see how it will work as a space for events
including market and street performance.""</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
Buses and taxis are set to move out of Coventry's Broadgate�this�Sunday (October 30) and relocate�to stops in other areas of the city centre.
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Free parking spaces at Chester Road reduced during resurfacing work
2011-10-20T00:00:00
2011-10-20T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Commuters using a busy suburban rail station will have fewer
Park and Ride spaces available next week (Monday October 24 to
Friday October 28) while resurfacing work is carried out.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, will be relaying the
surface on part of the Park and Ride site at Chester Road Station
in Sutton Coldfield resulting in up to 65 free parking spaces and
five of the nine spaces for the disabled being made
unavailable.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Contractors will carry the work out in two phases over the
course of the week. The first phase will see around 40 bays
resurfaced with a further 65 completed during the second phase.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro spokesman Steve Swingler said: "We apologise for any
inconvenience the work may cause but we have tried to minimise
disruption by carrying out the resurfacing during half term when
the station is less busy.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"There will still be more than 116 free Park and Ride spaces
available during the week and staff will be on hand to direct
motorists in and out of the site and to vacant spaces."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro added an extra 37 spaces to the Park and Ride site
two-and-a-half years ago to help meet soaring demand from
passengers and the facility's 186 spaces are now calculated to take
up to 130,000 car journeys off Birmingham's roads each year.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Mr Swingler added: �"Those motorists choosing to use the
region's 6,000 free Park and Ride spaces and then complete their
journeys by train are directly responsible for taking millions of
car trips off our roads each year.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"That means fewer carbon emissions and less congestion, an
increasingly serious problem which is costing the West Midlands
economy a staggering £4 billion a year in wasted fuel and
delays."</p>
<p>"</p>
Commuters using a busy suburban rail station will have fewer Park and Ride spaces available next week (Monday October 24 to Friday October 28) while resurfacing work is carried out.
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James enjoys the sweet smell of success
2011-10-20T00:00:00
2011-10-25T00:00:00
9369
"James Bell holding his winning storyboard with Centro’s award winning green travel mascot Theo, outside Cadbury World"
<p>"</p>
<p>Schoolboy James Bell was the toast of classmates after his story
telling skills landed them a dream trip to Cadbury World.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The nine-year-old scooped 28 Cadbury World golden tickets for
his class at St Augustine's Catholic Primary School in Handsworth
after winning a story competition organised by transport authority
Centro.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The Year 4 pupils were given a guided tour of the famous
chocolate attraction before tucking in to a free goody bag of
Cadbury treats.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>James' winning entry, which beat more than 500 rivals from
around the West Midlands, has also been turned into an animated
storyboard which features on Centro's award winning eco-friendly
website <a href="/">www.lezgogreen.org</a></p>
<p>�</p>
<p>His cartoon features a boy called Adil who, together with his
father, walks and catches the train to Cadbury World. While on the
trip they avoid traffic jams, admire the scenery and get some
valuable exercise.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Assistant Headteacher, Annette McGrath, said: "We were
absolutely delighted when we heard that James' story had been
awarded first prize and we we're very proud of his achievement.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"Our children love writing and always create marvellous stories,
often with a clear message.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"They were really excited about going to Cadbury World and as
you would expect they had a fantastic day out."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>James was presented with his winner's certificate by Centro's
sustainable travel office Rachel Hooper.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Rachel said: "The competition was very popular and we received
hundreds of excellent entries from school children across the
region. It has proved� a great way for young people to use their
creativity, engage with public transport and win a fun day out in
the process.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"James' story showed how you can plan your journey on the
internet and clearly illustrated how easy it is to visit top
attractions like Cadbury World by public transport while helping
the environment in the process."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro launched the comic strip competition to encourage Key
Stage 2 students across the region to use their creative and
literacy skills to come up with a story that showed their fellow
pupils the benefits of using green and healthy travel.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The <a href="/">www.letzgogreen.org</a> website was developed
three years ago by Centro and Resources for Learning. It uses
cartoons and interactive games linked to the school curriculum to
encourage children in the West Midlands to use green and healthy
travel on their journeys.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>There are zones for students to help build their confidence in
using public transport, walking and cycling, and to teach them how
to be streetwise and travel safely.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>To view the cartoon go to <a href="/"
title="">www.letzgogreen.org</a> and click on the "design a comic
book competition winner" box on the home page.</p>
<p>"</p>
Schoolboy James Bell was the toast of classmates after his story telling skills landed them a dream trip to Cadbury World.
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Business welcomes cross-party backing as MPs debate HS2
2011-10-14T00:00:00
2011-10-18T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Business leaders in Birmingham have welcomed cross-party support
for HS2 as MPs debated the issue in the House of Commons (Thursday,
October 13).</p>
<p>The development of the rail link between London and Birmingham
is expected to bring 22,000 jobs and deliver a £1.5 billion boost
to the West Midlands economy every year.</p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, chief executive of Birmingham chamber of
commerce Group (BCCG), said: "It's encouraging to know that HS2
proposals, which would cut the journey time between the capital and
Birmingham to 49 minutes, have already received endorsement from
all of the party conferences.</p>
<p>"The fact that they all support HS2 demonstrates how important
HS2 will be to our regional and national economy.</p>
<p>"What really excites businesses in the West Midlands is being
right at the heart of the network. Our region is the hub for
services to London, the North, Scotland and Europe."</p>
<p>Liberal Democrat Minister for Transport Norman Baker told his
party conference in Birmingham that there was "a desperate need for
more capacity north to south".</p>
<p>Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said that neglecting major
transport infrastructure would lead to neglecting the UK economy.
He said HS2 would "allow a levelling of the playing field, away
from London and the South East".</p>
<p>Labour's Shadow Secretary of State for Transport Maria Eagle has
given full support, calling for first phase legislation to go
beyond Birmingham to include the northern cities.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Business leaders in Birmingham have welcomed cross-party support for HS2 as MPs debated the issue in the House of Commons (Thursday, October 13)."
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Work starts on £3.9m Birmingham city centre interchange
2011-10-11T00:00:00
2011-10-11T00:00:00
9369
"Mike Archer, National Contracting Director for Aggregate Industries, left, Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip at the controls of a digger and Cllr Jon Hunt of Birmingham City Council, chairman of the Birmingham city centre steering group."
<p>"</p>
<p>Work has begun on the £3.9 million project that will
revolutionise bus travel in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>Aggregate Industries of Leicestershire has been awarded the job
of improving the</p>
<p>road infrastructure as part of the Birmingham City Centre
Interchange scheme.</p>
<p>This will deliver a major upgrade to bus passenger facilities in
the city centre, including a major overhaul of bus routes and stops
which will see the introduction of six bus interchanges around the
city centre in summer 2012.</p>
<p>The work will pave the way for when the Midland Metro extension
from Snow Hill to New Street station opens in 2015.</p>
<p>It has been commissioned by Centro and Birmingham City Council
and will include improving crossing facilities and signage,
installing cycle lanes, and improving and adding pedestrian
crossings.</p>
<p>It also provides newly designed shelters, bus totems and other
passenger facilities including easy to follow information to
encourage public transport and walking journeys</p>
<p>The work began on October 3 and is scheduled to last until July
2012, although there will be a two month break over the Christmas
and New Year period.</p>
<p>To minimise disruption to shoppers and businesses in the run-up
to Christmas much of it will be carried out at night.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "These works will lay the
foundations for the interchanges that will transform public
transport in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>"Inevitably there may be some disruption, for which we apologise
in advance, but by making the best use of the highway network we
can strike a balance between priority for public and private
transport and keep the city moving."</p>
<p>Cllr Timothy Huxtable, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment
and Regeneration, Birmingham City Council: "The new bus interchange
and reshaping of the road network around it, will form an integral
part of the city's new transport infra-structure for generations to
come.</p>
<p>"Alongside the Metro, New Street Gateway, airport extension and
HS2, the interchange will revolutionise the way transport links
operate in the city, making them quicker, more efficient and user
friendly for the public and businesses alike.""</p>
<p>Mike Archer, National Contracting Director for Aggregate
Industries, said: "It is no secret the UK's highways are in a
critical state and that investment in infrastructure is crucial in
the journey to economic recovery in the UK.</p>
<p>"Schemes like the Birmingham City Centre Interchange Scheme are
hugely important on both a regional and national level.</p>
<p>"The delivery of this scheme has been planned to be as efficient
as it can be with overnight working and careful planning to ensure
that the economic impact is minimised.""</p>
<p>Most of the alterations will include change of direction and
access arrangements for permitted vehicles.</p>
<p>Roads affected by the work are Moor Street Queensway, Carrs
Lane, High Street, New Street, Stephenson Street and Stephenson
Place, Corporation Street, Union Street, Warwick Passage, Union
Passage, Lower Bull Street, Dale End, Lower Temple Street, Upper
Bull Street, Temple Row, and Priory Queensway.</p>
<p>Changes in waiting restrictions are also proposed in Temple
Street, Bennett's Hill, Waterloo Street, Newhall Street, Dale End
and Albert Street.</p>
<p>It is proposed in these areas to increase the number of bays for
loading, taxis, blue badge parking and motorcycles to replace loss
of space in other central streets.</p>
<p>Once this is completed it will be followed by the on-street
works in 2013/14 to extend the Midland Metro from Snow Hill to New
Street via Lower Bull Street and Corporation Street.</p>
<p>For more information on the project go to <a
href="/"><strong>www.centro.org.uk/connectedcity</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
Work has begun on the £3.9 million project that will revolutionise bus travel in Birmingham city centre.
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Theo triumphs at transport 'Oscars'
2011-10-07T00:00:00
2011-10-18T00:00:00
9369
"(l-r) Centro’s Marketing Executive Rinku Banerjee, Chairman Cllr Angus Adams and Marketing Manager Julia Lameris receive the Travel Information and Marketing trophy at the transport ‘Oscars’ in London."
<p>"</p>
<p>A cartoon character created by transport authority Centro as
part of a campaign to encourage children to travel in an
environmentally friendly way has won a top industry award.<br />
<br />
Green transport mascot Theo toured the West Midlands during the
summer starring in a series of fun-packed family events laid on by
Centro, who also offered families cut price admission to top
attractions if they travelled by public transport.<br />
<br />
The successful Network West Midlands Theo Summer Campaign has now
been formally recognised after winning the Travel Information and
Marketing title at this year's National Transport Awards, widely
regarded as the� 'Oscars' of the transport industry.<br />
<br />
Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams, who received the award along with
Marketing Manager Julia Lameris and Marketing Executive Rinku
Banerjee at the London Lancaster Hotel last night (Thursday October
6), said: "I am extremely proud of the work Centro has done over
the past year and delighted that we have won this award.<br />
<br />
"It is deserved recognition of the hard work and imagination of our
marketing team in creating Theo and the Summer marketing campaign.
Theo is well loved by children across the West Midlands and he has
proved hugely successful in helping children understand the
importance of travelling in a green way."<br />
<br />
Some of the region's top attractions including the National Sea
Life Centre, Dudley Zoological Gardens, Cadbury World and the
Lighthouse Cinema teamed up with Theo to offer discounted admission
prices during the campaign.<br />
<br />
All people had to do was show a valid Network West Midlands
<strong>n</strong>network daytripper or <strong>n</strong>bus one
day ticket with a voucher from the summer travel guide to get
cut-price entry.<br />
<br />
Children also met Theo at Network West Midlands summer events
staged at several parks across the region and featuring free music
and sporting activities for children and pampering sessions for
parents.</p>
<p>Theo also features in Centro's award winning <strong><a
href="/"><span>Letzgogreen</span></a></strong> educational website,
where a series of similar colourful characters star in animated
cartoon strips, games and puzzles.</p>
<p>The website, which is linked to the school curriculum, has been
designed to show children how to travel in an environmentally
friendly way by bus, train, bike or foot, as well as how to be
streetwise and behave responsibly on the transport network.</p>
<p>Judges at last night's awards ceremony, which included a keynote
speech by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond, �heard how the Theo
Summer Campaign had resulted in an 87 per cent increase in visits
to the <a href="/"><span>www.letzgogreen.com</span></a> website, a
40 per cent increase in sales of child nbus tickets, a 27 per cent
rise in adult tickets and a 12 per cent increase in Network
daytripper family tickets.</p>
<p>"</p>
A cartoon character created by transport authority Centro as part of a campaign to encourage children to travel in an environmentally friendly way has won a top industry award.
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Ring and Ride booking to be made easier for thousands of users
2011-10-05T00:00:00
2011-10-05T00:00:00
9369
Blind Dave with Ring and Ride user Dorothy Perkins
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 70,000 Ring and Ride users across the West Midlands
will find it easier to book their journeys when new phone times are
introduced this weekend.<br />
<br />
Users of the door-to-door transport service will be able to book
their journeys closer to the time they want to travelas phone lines
will be available throughout the day rather than at restricted
times.<br />
<br />
The service provides a lifeline for tens of thousands of people
with limited mobility, many of whom would be unable to leave their
homes to go shopping or visit day centres, family and friends
without it.<br />
<br />
But some users have told how they can, at times, experience
difficulty in getting through to make a phone booking.<br />
<br />
Now West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT), the charity
which runs Ring and Ride, is to enhance its booking timesfrom this
Sunday (October 9).<br />
<br />
It means people wanting to book a journey which goes over the
boundary into a neighbouring borough will be able to book two days
in advance rather than the three day minimum previously in
place.</p>
<p>And all users booking a journey two days in advance will be able
to phone the service between 10:30am and 4:15pm <span>every
day</span> instead of only during limited time slots allocated to
them. In the past those booking cross-boundary journeys could only
phone between 6pm and 10pm.</p>
<p>Peter Maggs, chief executive of WMSNT, said: "One comment that
has been made over the years is that it is sometimes difficult to
get through on the phone as users trying to call two days in
advance have only limited time slots in which to book.<br />
<br />
""Operating the booking line between 10:30am and 4:15pm shouldmake
the system much easier and efficient to use and give our users more
flexibility.""<br />
<br />
Despite the changes to booking times, passengers can continue using
their existing Ring and Ride booking phone numbers.<br />
<br />
There is also no change for those users who normally ring between
9am and 10:15am to confirm a pre-bookedjourney two days in advance.
Time slots for users wanting to book one day in advance remain
unaltered.<br />
<br />
Ring and Ride, which began in 1983 with two minibuses operating out
of a Victorian building in Park Lane, Hockley, provides around 1.8
million trips a year in the West Midlands making it the largest
privately operated Ring and Ride service in the world.<br />
<br />
For any further information on the Ring and Ride service, service
users are asked to phone their normal enquiry line number.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
"More than 70,000 Ring and Ride users across the West Midlands will find it easier to book their journeys when new phone times are introduced this weekend."
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Changes ahead for bus services in Coventry city centre as road works begin
2011-09-29T00:00:00
2011-10-18T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Commuters into Coventry are being advised of changes to bus stop
locations as major road works begin in the city centre.</p>
<p>Centro, the Midlands' transport authority, said the junction of
Bishop Street, Hale Street, The Burges and Corporation Street is to
close from Sunday night (October 2).</p>
<p>It will see the removal of traffic lights and a widening of the
junction by Coventry City Council ahead of the permanent closure of
Broadgate to traffic at the end of October.</p>
<p>As a result, no buses will run north along Broadgate, or along
The Burges, Hale Street or Ironmonger Way.</p>
<p>Bus stops BF, BG, BH, and BJ will be closed permanently and
stops on Upper Wells Street, The Burges, Bishop Street and Hales
Street closed temporarily during the works.</p>
<p>In most cases the nearest alternative stop for passengers will
be in Pool Meadow Bus Station but full details are also available
on the Network West Midlands website at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/</a> with information also
posted at affected bus stops.</p>
<p>Centro's Coventry and Solihull area manager Steven Hayes said:
"We apologise in advance for any disruption that may be suffered by
passengers but we, along with Coventry City Council and bus
operators will be doing our best to keep it to a minimum.</p>
<p>"We are sure that once the works are completed we will be able
to give the people of Coventry a bus network fit for the 21st
century and a city centre that they can be proud of."</p>
<p>Cllr Lindsley Harvard, Cabinet Member for City Services, said:
""These changes to the bus routes are frustrating but necessary to
transform the junction outside the old grammar school.</p>
<p>"The area is an important part of the public realm scheme, as it
links the work currently taking place in Broadgate with the
development planned by Barberry on the old Royal Mail sorting
office site.</p>
<p>"By removing the railings, signals and signs and widening the
pavements we will create an impressive new connection to the city
centre and a more pleasant pedestrian space.""</p>
<p>Broadgate is scheduled to permanently close to traffic on
October 30 as part of a £7 million package of improvements ahead of
the city welcoming the world for Olympic football next year.</p>
<p>As a result of the work and its predicted impact on the city
centre road network, Centro, Coventry City Council, and bus
operators decided to delay the implementation of new out of city
centre routes and until January 29th 2012.</p>
<p>They agreed the full impact of the closures on traffic needed to
be understood� before introducing new bus routes and timetables to
the public.</p>
<p>"</p>
Commuters into Coventry are being advised of changes to bus stop locations as major road works begin in the city centre.
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European Transport Policy � the way ahead mapped out at Centro Green Charter net
2011-09-28T00:00:00
2011-10-18T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Two senior European figures met with Centro and other partners
to discuss the way ahead for sustainable public transport.</p>
<p><br />
West Midlands MEP Philip Bradbourn and Brigitte Ollier, Director of
the European Team for the International Association of Public
Transport (UITP),� addressed a Green Transport Charter networking
event in Birmingham.</p>
<p>Mr Bradbourn, a leading member of the European Parliament's
transport committee, spoke about EU regional transport policy and
development.</p>
<p>Ms Ollier spoke about the latest thinking on green transport and
the importance of achieving sustainable mobility in urban
areas.</p>
<p>The event also heard from Tom McGrath, Centro's Strategy and
Commissioning Director, who spoke on the UITP Organising
Authorities Assembly to improve public transport and meet current
and future sustainable mobility challenges.</p>
<p>Mr Bradbourn said: "A key part of evolving European transport
policy is its focus on co-modality and the need to make the
capacity of the transport network fit for purpose.</p>
<p>"Our region's transport infrastructure is important to Europe as
two major corridors forming part of the TransEuropean Transport
Network pass through the area.</p>
<p>"I am working with organisations, such as Centro, local
councillors and transport authorities to assist with the funding of
projects vital for the region."</p>
<p>Ms Ollier said: "It is incredibly important that public
transport is at the core of all sustainable mobility projects at a
European level and worldwide.</p>
<p>"By doing so we can influence politicians to support local
transport initiatives, which play a vital part in building
prosperity."</p>
<p>Centro's Green Transport Charter was the first of its kind in
the UK when it was launched last year.</p>
<p>It brings together rail, bus and tram operators who pledge to
support a whole range of initiatives that tackle pollution and
protect the environment.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The networking event was
the first opportunity we have had since signing the charter to
welcome stakeholders.</p>
<p>"We had lots to talk about and it proved very worthwhile, I look
forward to future similar events."</p>
<p>"</p>
Two senior European figures met with Centro and other partners to discuss the way ahead for sustainable public transport.
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Work on bus station goes underground with subway upgrade
2011-09-27T00:00:00
2011-09-27T00:00:00
9369
Artist's impression of how the new station will look
<p>"</p>
<p><span><span>Work on Stourbridge's new £7 million bus station
will enter another key phase next week when workers move
underground to start refurbishing its subway
connection.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>The project will see the closure of the Foster
Street East subway for 14 weeks from this Monday (October 3) so
that its walls and floors can be upgraded to provide a smarter and
brighter atmosphere.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>The closure means passengers will need to use
alternative walking routes into the town centre or take advantage
of the free shuttle bus service which is being provided by Centro,
the region's transport authority.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>Centro's project manager Anthony Johnson said: "We
apologise for any inconvenience the subway's closure may cause and
I'd like to thank people in advance for their
patience."</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>"Passengers can get a map showing alternative
walking routes by visiting the networkwestmidlands.com/stourbridge
website which features a dedicated link on the home
page.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>"We are also continuing to fund the free shuttle bus
which operates on a continuous loop around the town centre from 8am
to 6pm Monday to Saturday linking the temporary bus stops on
Birmingham Street and Parkfield Road to the main shopping
areas."</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>The upgraded subway is the result of plans to
improve the walking routes from the new station to the town centre.
A new covered walkway will also provide a link from the rail
station to the realigned subway at Foster Street.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>Meanwhile work on the new bus station itself is
progressing well and remains on schedule for completion in early
2012.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>The steelwork frames for both of the new station
buildings are now in place and the first stages of the roofing and
glazing for the main building are nearing completion. Workers will
continue to finish the fabric of the buildings and other external
works around the site over the coming months.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>The new 'Stourbridge Interchange' will feature a
modern and spacious station building and concourse featuring
toilets and electronic passenger information boards telling
passengers when their bus is due.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>CCTV, help points and an internal public address
system will also be installed throughout the
site.</span></span></p>
<p>�</p>
<p><span><span>There will be eight bus stands allowing easy
passenger circulation and doors that automatically open only when
the bus arrives.</span></span></p>
<p>"</p>
"<p class=""MsoNormal"" style=""margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;""><span style=""font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';""><span style=""font-size: small;"">Work on Stourbridge’s new £7 million bus station will enter another key phase next week when workers move underground to start refurbishing its subway connection.</span></span>"
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Bus pass is miles better than scrapping banger for cash
2011-09-26T00:00:00
2011-10-18T00:00:00
9369
"Paula Higgins of Centro, left, and Kathryn Byng of Cartakeback.com launch Trade Your Transport."
<p>"</p>
<p>Motorists are being urged to scrap their old bangers and take
advantage of a scheme offering a free bus pass.</p>
<p>Trade Your Transport gives anyone who trades in their old car a
four month nBus pass worth more than £200.</p>
<p>Centro, the transport authority for the West Midlands, has
teamed up with bus operators and Cartakeback.com, the largest scrap
car recycling network in the UK, to launch the scheme.</p>
<p>Paula Higgins, Centro Smartcard and Ticketing Officer, said: "At
a time when motoring has never been more expensive this scheme is a
great way to get out of the car and see what the bus network in the
West Midlands has to offer. And it really couldn't be easier than
with a nBus pass which can be used on virtually all bus operators
services throughout the area all day, every day"</p>
<p>"If someone was to buy four 4-weekly nBus tickets it would cost
£236 but instead they get four calendar monthly tickets for the
cost of their scrapped car, which starts from around £100, so they
are getting a really big discount on the retail price."</p>
<p>Trade Your Transport gives you the choice of delivering your old
car to your nearest recycling centre, or to make it even easier,
they'll collect it from you.</p>
<p>Once their car has been accepted at the recycling centre the
owner will receive a unique code to claim their nBus Pass
reward.</p>
<p>Kathryn Byng of Cartakeback.com said "all scrap car recycling
centres taking part in the scheme hold Authorised Treatment
Facility permits issued by the environment agencies, so people can
be assured that their old car would be disposed of legally and
without harming the environment.</p>
<p>She added that similar schemes are already operating
successfully in other parts of the UK.</p>
<p>"The nBus pass reward gives people the opportunity to try public
transport, some of who may never have considered it as an option
for travelling before," she said.</p>
<p>"It sends a positive environmental message encouraging less car
usage and cutting congestion in the area."</p>
<p>For more details about how to trade your transport go to <a
href="/">www.tradeyourtransport.com</a> or call 0844 669 0996.</p>
<p>"</p>
Motorists are being urged to scrap their old bangers and take advantage of a scheme offering a free bus pass.
17213
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0
Quality Partnership Scheme to bring big benefits for passengers and operators
2011-09-23T00:00:00
2011-10-19T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Birmingham city centre can expect higher
standards of bus services plus top class facilities under a
landmark scheme to improve quality.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, and Birmingham City
Council have announced the launch of a statutory Quality
Partnership Scheme (QPS) with bus operators.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>This is a legal agreement between a transport authority and one
or more bus companies.</p>
<p>It will mean improved quality and management of the city centre
as Centro and the City Council invest around £15 million in
on-street infrastructure improvements ahead of the extension of the
Midland Metro from Snow Hill to New Street station.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>In return, bus operators will pledge to maintain services to a
standard laid down in the QPS in a range of areas such as customer
service, punctuality, reliability and vehicle standards.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The agreement is significant because more than 118 routes and
465 buses an hour enter the city centre an hour on a normal
weekday.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, Centro lead member for buses, said: "The
importance of this agreement cannot be understated.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"It is a first for Birmingham which will help streamline and
improve city centre stops while improving quality for
passengers.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"Birmingham is part of the biggest urban area outside London and
its people need and deserve a high-standard, reliable public
transport system. This QPS will help deliver those standards."</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Cllr Timothy Huxtable, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment
and Regeneration for Birmingham City Council, said: """Making
further improvements to the city's bus network is one of the key
aspects of a city wide programme of improvements to public
transport currently underway within Birmingham.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"From bus improvements to the Metro extension, High Speed Rail
and the redevelopment of New Street Station to the runway extension
at Birmingham Airport, these improvements will revolutionise
transport within, to and from the city for generations to
come.""</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The key benefits to passengers under the scheme are:</p>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li>Buses must be low-floor, easy access, and comply with current
equality legislation</li>
<li>All vehicles must comply with improved emissions standards</li>
<li>Drivers must wear a uniform and have completed a training
programme that includes diversity and disability awareness</li>
<li>Drivers will be required to assist passengers in wheelchairs by
lifting or deploying ramps</li>
<li>Bus operators will have to participate in ticketing initiatives
including nNetwork and nBus tickets and any Smartcard ticketing
products introduced during the lifetime of the scheme</li>
</ul>
<p>In return, operators will see the £15 million investment by
Centro and Birmingham City Council on highway improvements to
benefit the bus.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>These include:</p>
<p>�</p>
<ul>
<li>Better enforcement of bus priority facilities</li>
<li>Better parking and loading controls in the city centre</li>
<li>Upgrading the 98 bus stops in the QPS area to provide better
quality waiting facilities for passengers, including Real Time
Information displays and regular cleaning of bus stops</li>
</ul>
<p>�</p>
<p>The QPS will also improve partnership working between operators,
Centro and the City Council to improve overall journey times,
reliability and punctuality.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>A formal consultation period with operators on the scheme will
run until December 2 with a view to implementing the QPS in late
Spring/early Summer 2012 on completion of the highway works in the
city centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The QPS will operate for an initial period of 10 years and�will
apply to all bus operators running vehicles into the city
centre.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The only exemptions will be coach operators, West Midlands
Special Needs Transport, which operates the Ring and Ride service,
school services and heritage vehicle operators.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers in Birmingham city centre can expect higher standards of bus services plus top class facilities under a landmark scheme to improve quality.
17213
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0
12
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Route 30 gets fleet of state-of-the-art buses
2011-09-13T00:00:00
2011-09-13T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>A Solihull bus service which was under threat of closure earlier
this year has been given a fleet of state-of-the-art executive
buses just months after it was saved.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In March, the 30 service which links Acocks Green to Solihull
via Olton was withdrawn by a commercial bus operator, but Central
Connect agreed to take over running of the service.</p>
<p>With support from transport authority Centro, the route has now
been given the boost of brand new 'Signature' buses, equipped with
leather seats, free wi-fi, air conditioning and some of the
greenest and cleanest engines in Europe.</p>
<p>The new fleet of buses went live in the area on September 5.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "I am delighted that we
have been able to work with Central Connect to not only continue to
operate route 30, but also provide these state-of-the-art
vehicles.</p>
<p>"These modern buses not only provide passengers with a more
comfortable environment to travel in but being equipped with top of
the range green engines also help do their bit for the
environment."</p>
<p>The Signature services currently running in South Solihull have
proved a hit since launching in June 2010.</p>
<p>One route saw a 28 per cent increase in the number of passengers
in the first three months, with a further 27 per cent over the
following six months.</p>
<p>This success has been acknowledged nationally, earning Centro a
place on the shortlist for October's National Transport awards in
the Improvements to Bus Services category.</p>
<p>Ian Pollard, commercial manager at Rotala said: "We are pleased
to get the opportunity to further extend our Signature network of
services around Solihull.</p>
<p>"Working in partnership with Centro it is our aim to not just
protect services from cancellation now but to secure their
long-term future by developing growth in passenger numbers.</p>
<p>"Our strategy is a simple one: we aim to treat our passengers
well by offering reliable services in a nice on-bus environment
driven by friendly and professional staff."</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION:</strong> <strong>Cllr Ted Richards,
Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport and Highways
at Solihull MBC, left, Ian Pollard, Rotala commercial manager,
Geoff Inskip Centro chief executive, Cllr John Hunt, Centro vice
chairman and</strong> <strong>lead member for Bus &
Highways, and Cllr Angus Adams, chairman of Centro.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
A Solihull bus service which was under threat of closure earlier this year has been given a fleet of state-of-the-art executive buses just months after it was saved.
17213
Signature38.JPG
0
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0
Centro rejects London Midland station staffing proposals
2011-09-13T00:00:00
2011-09-13T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro is standing firm in its opposition to controversial
proposals by London Midland to remove staff and reduce ticket
office opening hours from stations across the region.</p>
<p>London Midland has applied to the Department of Transport to
take the issue to arbitration in the wake of huge opposition to its
proposals.</p>
<p>Centro is strongly opposed to them, as are groups such as
Passenger Focus and more than 18,000 passengers, MPs and other
individuals who responded to the London Midland stakeholder
consultation.</p>
<p>A meeting of the Integrated Transport Authority on September
12th endorsed Centro's formal objection to the plans.</p>
<p>Under the London Midland proposals unveiled in March this year
all 57 of the stations it managed in the Centro area would be
affected in some way, either with reduced opening hours or complete
closure of the ticket office.</p>
<p>London Midland argued that passengers were increasingly buying
tickets online or via platform Ticket Vending Machines, so there
was less requirement for staffed offices.</p>
<p>Centro formally responded to London Midland objecting to the
proposals and also wrote to the Minister of State for Transport,
Theresa Villiers MP urging the Government to reject them.</p>
<p>As part of the London Midland arbitration bid the DfT has
invited Centro to make representations to the Secretary of State
for Transport, who will ultimately decide on whether to approve the
proposals.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said local railway stations
were 'gateways' to public transport networks and provided the first
impression to visitors of the quality of services an area
offered.</p>
<p>"Centro believes staffed stations are key to providing the
overall level of high service that customers expect and deserve,"
he said.</p>
<p>"Staff perform a critical role in customer service as well as
acting as a deterrent to criminal or antisocial behaviour and
making passengers feel safer on the station.</p>
<p>"Passengers should be able to turn up at any station and go on
their journey with ease and convenience - a staff presence is
crucial in making that happen."</p>
<p>Cllr Tom Ansell, Centro lead member for Rail and Light Rail,
said in the wake of recent announcements on huge fare increases not
enough was being done to give value for money for the taxpayer and
the passenger.</p>
<p>"We believe the interests of the passenger are best served by
Centro taking responsibility for the stations in its area," he
said.</p>
<p>"By doing so we can provide strong leadership and a local focus
that gives a consistent approach to issues such as maintenance,
renewal and improvement of stations."</p>
<p>Cllr Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said the London
Midland proposals failed passengers.</p>
<p>He said: "High profile stations such as Bournville and Jewellery
Quarter would be left without a staff presence - what kind of
signal does that send to passengers arriving to see some of the
West Midland's premier attractions</p>
<p>"Customer experience is not best served by ticket machines or
where people feel threatened by criminal or anti-social behaviour
because there is no staff deterrent, or where there is no-one there
just to help.</p>
<p>"As the Integrated Transport Authority for the West Midlands, we
at Centro would be failing in our duty if we did not do our best to
thwart these proposals."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro is standing firm in its opposition to controversial proposals by London Midland to remove staff and reduce ticket office opening hours from stations across the region.
17213
0
12
0
"New bike parking for Sandwell & Dudley, and Coseley rail stations"
2011-09-08T00:00:00
2011-09-08T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers catching trains from two Black Country rail stations
have been provided with new bicycle storage facilities to help them
get there by pedal power.</p>
<p>The new bike shelters have been installed at Sandwell and Dudley
and at Coseley by transport authority Centro for those people keen
to leave the car at home and opt for a more sustainable way of
getting to the stations. </p>
<p>Two covered shelters to protect bikes from the elements have
been installed at Sandwell and Dudley, featuring ten hoops to
provide secure storage for up to 20 bikes.</p>
<p>The new bicycle storage at Coseley includes five hoops for up to
10 bikes.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "One of our main
priorities at Centro is to encourage passengers to leave their cars
at home and use more sustainable methods of travel.</p>
<p>"By providing these facilities we hope more people will cycle to
train stations which is not only much more environmentally friendly
but will also reduce traffic and help keep them fit and
healthy."</p>
<p>The shelters at Sandwell and Dudley were supplied and installed
by Lock-It-Safe and the facility at Coseley was provided by
Broxap.</p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers catching trains from two Black Country rail stations have been provided with new bicycle storage facilities to help them get there by pedal power.
17213
Coseley.JPG
0
12
0
Radio star Ed Doolan urges concessionary passholders: �Don't miss out!�
2011-09-08T00:00:00
2011-09-08T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Nearly half a million pensioners across the West Midlands are to
get new concessionary passes - with one of the Midlands' best known
OAPs backing a call from transport chiefs to ensure people don't
miss out.</p>
<p>The smartcard pass gives free, off-peak travel on buses, trains
and trams across the region and on buses anywhere else in England
but are now coming up for renewal.</p>
<p>The first cards were issued in 2007 and only have a maximum
working life of five years.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority administers the scheme
locally on behalf of the Department of Transport, and is urging
anyone who has changed address since they were issued a pass to
contact them.</p>
<p>Award-winning BBC Radio WM presenter Ed, who holds one of the
passes and will be one of the first to receive a new one when they
are issued from March next year, backed the call.</p>
<p>He said:"We are entitled to these free passes and it's important
that we renew them, but it's also important that Centro have the
right address to send it to.</p>
<p>"If you have changed address at all since you received yours I
urge you to contact Centro and let them know. The pass offers so
much and it would be a shame to miss out."</p>
<p>The original passes will expire in four batches at six-monthly
intervals - March 2012, August 2012, March 2013 and August 2013.
The March 2012 batch includes approximately 129,000 cards.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "These
passes can be a real lifeline which is why it is important that
anyone who has changed address since receiving one lets us know
where they are living.</p>
<p>"Tell us if that is the case, a simple phone call is all it
takes and will ensure that you don't miss out."</p>
<p>To notify Centro of a change of address call the ticketing team
on 0845 303 6760, go to <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/olderpeople</a></strong> or
email <a href="/"><strong>ticketing@centro.org.uk</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
Nearly half a million pensioners across the West Midlands are to get new concessionary passes � with one of the Midlands' best known OAPs backing a call from transport chiefs to ensure people don't miss out.
17213
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"Bradford Place bus interchange in Walsall re-opens following £430,000 refurbishment"
2011-09-02T00:00:00
2011-09-02T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Walsall will see major improvements at the
town's Bradford Place bus interchange following a £430,000
upgrade.</p>
<p>The interchange has new bus shelters and will enjoy improved
traffic flows thanks to work carried out by Centro, the transport
authority for the West Midlands, and Walsall Council.</p>
<p>It will re-open on Sunday, September 4th after being closed for
a five week refurbishment programme, with temporary stops in
operation nearby.</p>
<p>Centro has installed modern glass shelters to give the
interchange a lighter and brighter feel, plus installed a new bus
stop in a works programme costing £160,000.</p>
<p>Walsall Council has simultaneously carried out road improvements
worth £270,000 in the area.</p>
<p>Bridgeman Street has been resurfaced from the railway bridge
throughout Bradford Place and along Bradford Street to the junction
with Caldmore Road.</p>
<p>The pedestrian crossing outside The Saddlers centre has also
been upgraded, with the road being raised in Newport Street near
the junction with Bradford Street.</p>
<p>A separate area has also been provided for taxi users featuring
an improved pedestrian crossing.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "Centro
and Walsall Council have worked closely together to monitor and
control traffic flow in the area, reduce congestion to help buses
operate more reliably and provide a better environment for
residents, shoppers, businesses and bus users.</p>
<p>"Bradford Place will now be a safer, more pleasant environment
where it is quicker and easier for people to change between
transport services and provide a facility that will attract more
people to travel by bus."</p>
<p>Councillor Anthony Harris, Walsall Council cabinet member for
transport, said: "This is a brilliant example of different
organisations coming together to build a better
Walsall. </p>
<p>"This will help the bus station a safer place to use but we've
also improved roads around the station so people will really see
the difference."</p>
<p>The refurbishment was carried out as part of a major network
review of buses in Wolverhampton and west Walsall.</p>
<p>Centro worked in partnership with Walsall Council, Wolverhampton
City Council and bus operators Arriva Midlands, Central Connect,
Midland, and National Express West Midlands.</p>
<p>Staff working from the Centro exhibition bus will be at Bradford
Place on Saturday and Sunday to offer help and advice to
passengers.</p>
<p>More information on changes to bus services, Bradford Place and
Wolverhampton Bus Station is available at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a> or
download the leaflet to explain the project at: <a
href="/"><strong>www.walsall.gov.uk/bradford_place_reopening_flyer.pdf</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION:</strong> <strong>Angie Boulton, left,
Centro Bus Stations and Interchange Manager, Cllr Gary Clarke of
Walsall Council and the Integrated Transport Authority, Cllr Tom
Ansell, Walsall Council portfolio holder for Transport and
Environment, and Cllr Angus Adams, chairman of Centro, apply a
final polish to Bradford Place bus interchange in
Walsall.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
"Bus passengers in Walsall will see major improvements at the town's Bradford Place bus interchange following a £430,000 upgrade."
17213
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0
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0
Taxibus to provide fixed journeys from 'Meriden Gap'
2011-09-01T00:00:00
2011-09-01T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>A popular mini-bus service linking Solihull to the 'Meriden Gap'
is to run fixed journeys on Tuesdays and Thursdays after Centro
answered calls from local residents.</p>
<p>The region's transport authority stepped in with taxpayers'
money to launch the new service 83 following requests from
residents in the area.</p>
<p>Passengers previously had to book journeys 24 hours in advance,
but those travelling between Meriden and Solihull's Mell Square can
now use the service without booking. </p>
<p>The service which launched on August 30, will leave Meriden
Green at 09:30 every Tuesday and Thursday and arrive in Solihull at
10:07, with a return journey leaving Mell Square at 11:45.</p>
<p>The bus will call at Meriden Green, Berkswell Village, Balsall
Common, Barston, Eastcote and Mell Square.</p>
<p>Glyn Price from Balsall Common Village Residents Association
welcomed the introduction of Service 83 and said he was sure it
would be well supported by the community.</p>
<p>He said: "There is no doubt that the withdrawal of the regular
service from Meriden, Berkswell and parts of Balsall Common to
Solihull in July 2010 caused hardship and difficulty for some
members of the community.</p>
<p>"Centro is to be congratulated for responding to the local
lobbying with the introduction of this service."</p>
<p>The journeys will be provided by the Heart of England Taxibus
which currently serves the area.</p>
<p>Passengers will still be able to use the existing demand
responsive facility which requires booking in advance but it is
hoped the regular journeys will help bridge gaps in services to the
area.</p>
<p>The service 83 will continue to run until January when it will
be reviewed.</p>
<p>Steven Hayes, Centro's area manager for Coventry and Solihull
said: "The service will now run at fixed times to make it easier
for passengers living within the Meriden Gap to travel to and from
Solihull without having to worry about booking in advance.</p>
<p>"It re-establishes a fixed bus route for Berkswell, Eastcote and
Barston and reinstates the link between Meriden and Balsall
Common.</p>
<p>"I would urge people to use the service to give us the best
possible chance of extending it beyond Christmas."</p>
<p>Fares to use the Taxibus are similar to those on conventional
bus routes with a typical journey costing £1.80.</p>
<p>Concessionary passes are accepted as well as
<strong>n</strong>network and <strong>n</strong>bus tickets.</p>
<p><strong>Picture caption: (Left to right) Centro's area manager
for Coventry and Solihull Steven Hayes, Veronica Jones, John White
(from Berkswell), Hilary and Tony Cunningham from Balsall Common
and bus driver Kay Channing.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
A popular mini-bus service linking Solihull to the 'Meriden Gap' is to run fixed journeys on Tuesdays and Thursdays after Centro answered calls from local residents.
17213
Taxibus21.JPG
0
12
0
Implementation date for Coventry bus network review deferred
2011-09-01T00:00:00
2011-09-01T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>A major review of the bus network in Coventry has been deferred
until the New Year.</p>
<p>Transport bosses at Centro, Coventry City Council, and bus
operators agreed the implementation of new out of city centre
routes and timetables should be delayed until January 29th 2012 in
the interests of passengers.</p>
<p>The relocation of stops out of Broadgate to new hubs close by
will go ahead as planned. </p>
<p>The decision was made to allow more time to assess the impact on
city centre roads of the closure of Broadgate which will
permanently close to traffic in the Autumn as part of a £7 million
package of improvements ahead of the city welcoming the world for
Olympic football next year. </p>
<p>Centro, the Midlands' transport authority, said all partners
felt it was important the full impact of the closures on traffic
was understood before introducing the new bus routes and
timetables.</p>
<p>Coventry and Solihull area manager Steven Hayes said a major
public consultation on the changes held earlier this year showed
service reliability was one of the most important things to
passengers.</p>
<p>"Providing a reliable bus network is therefore essential, and
partners wanted to take the opportunity to understand the
implications of this closure before introducing passengers to new
timetables across the wider network," he said.</p>
<p>"Originally it was intended to introduce the new network at the
end of October but as time has gone on it has become clear it is in
passengers' best interests that we make this evaluation first.</p>
<p>"The service we provide is of paramount importance and it would
be irresponsible to introduce new timetables that could potentially
be at risk from these major works.</p>
<p>"Delaying the review should mean that when the revised services
are introduced, they should operate reliably from day one."</p>
<p>Councillor Lindlsey Harvard, Cabinet Member for City Services
for Coventry City Council said: 'We have been working closely with
bus operators and Centro to create new bus hubs as close to
Broadgate as possible, including in Ironmonger Square, with a
drop-off point at the back of Primark.</p>
<p>"We will continue our work with them, aiming to ensure the
review leads to as many services as possible stopping at different
points around the City Centre, to enable people to shop in parts
that up to now they might have struggled to get to or from.""</p>
<p>"</p>
A major review of the bus network in Coventry has been deferred until the New Year.
17213
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Safer Travel Partnership makes an Impact tackling fear of crime
2011-08-26T00:00:00
2011-08-26T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Bus user Vicky Atherton with PCSO Terry
Court at West Bromwich Impact Day at Kings Square shopping
centre.</strong></p>
<p>A roadshow offering the travelling public valuable crime
prevention advice rolled into West Bromwich this week - the latest
destination in a West Midlands-wide tour.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership brought its Impact Days roadshow to
the town to emphasis just how safe the public transport system
really is.</p>
<p>Officers from BTP and the Safer Travel Police Team spent the day
meeting the public and explaining how offences on the bus network
had plummeted by more than 61 per cent over the last four years.
Offences against passengers or staff on the Metro are also at a
very low level with just 47 incidents recorded last year.</p>
<p>It means that excluding vandalism there was just one
offence in every 147,500 bus journeys and every 106,382 Metro tram
rides for the year April 2010 to March 2011.</p>
<p>Mark Babington, Centro's Crime Reduction Manager, said: "The
fear of crime is something that far outweighs what actually
happens.</p>
<p>"By getting out and about and engaging with people we can let
them know they have nothing to fear from going about their everyday
business on public transport."</p>
<p>One regular bus user spoken to at West Bromwich's King's Square
shopping centre was Vicky Atherton, a 22-year-old carer from
Wednesbury.</p>
<p>She said: "I think the scheme is a very good idea, it makes you
realise that there is help out there and also what you can do to
reduce any risk."</p>
<p>The Impact Day project also sees the public given the chance to
register their personal belongings, such as mobile phones and iPods
on the national 'Immobilise' database.</p>
<p>This makes it easier for police to return stolen property to the
rightful owner. To register online go to <a
href="/"><strong>www.registermythings.co.uk</strong></a>and click
on Immobilise.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership includes transport authority
Centro, West Midlands Police, British Transport Police, National
Express West Midlands and the region's seven Community Safety
Partnerships.</p>
<p>It works to make journeys even safer for passengers by deterring
crime and anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p>Since its launch in 2006 it has successfully identified crime
hotspots and persistent offenders and helped bring the crime rate
down.</p>
<p>Between April 1, 2010 and March 31 2011 bus crime fell 13 per
cent in Walsall, 16 per cent in Dudley, 26 per cent in
Wolverhampton, 8 per cent in Birmingham, 7 per cent in Sandwell and
40 per cent in Solihull, and 26 per cent in Coventry.</p>
<p>This was down to initiatives such as See Something Say
Something, a service where passengers who witness anti-social
behaviour can text 'bus' or 'Metro' followed by a space and then
details of the incident including time, date, location and
route number to 83010.</p>
<p>The information is then used by the Safer Travel Partnership to
pinpoint nuisance behaviour hotspots and take appropriate
action.</p>
<p>The text line is for nuisance behaviour only. In the case
of a criminal offence or an emergency passengers should phone 999
as usual.</p>
<p>Future Impact Days will be held on:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">August 27<sup>th</sup> - Great
Bridge, 9am to 3pm</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">September 20<sup>th</sup> -
Birmingham University campus, Selly Oak and University railway
stations</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">September 24th - Birmingham New
Street station, 3.30pm to 7pm</div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Further events are also being planned over autumn.</p>
<p>"</p>
A roadshow offering the travelling public valuable crime prevention advice rolled into West Bromwich � the latest destination in a West Midlands-wide tour.
17213
ImpactDayupright.jpg
0
12
0
Centro and National Express West Midlands agree improved services to Wednesfield
2011-08-26T00:00:00
2011-08-26T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users in Wolverhampton will see improved services after
transport bosses addressed passengers' concerns following the
introduction of a new network.</p>
<p>Centro and National Express West Midlands (NXWM) have fine-tuned
timetables and routes in the Wednesfield area after concerns from
local councillors and residents following the launch of the new
network in Wolverhampton and west Walsall in July.</p>
<p>Some customers felt the new network provided by the 25, 28 and
57 routes was providing a lesser service
to local shops in Wednesfield High Street and a
petition calling for a rethink was raised.</p>
<p>Changes to two of the routes - the 25 and the 57 - will now take
place from 4 September 2011, while route and timetable refinements
are being finalised for the 28 and the 69.</p>
<p>Cllr Steve Evans, who helped organise the petition, said he was
grateful Centro and National Express West Midlands had
listened.</p>
<p>"People were very concerned with the new routes and I would like
to thank Centro and National Express West Midlands for acting
upon those concerns," he said.</p>
<p>"Public transport is very important, and passengers were saying
services were not going where they were needed.</p>
<p>"When this happens it is important that big organisations listen
to the public and I am pleased to see that this is what has
happened."</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Director of Passenger Services for Centro, said
the Wolverhampton and west Walsall bus network review had been a
massive project involving extensive consultation with thousands of
passengers, traders and councillors to provide a service that
reflected their needs.</p>
<p>"With any review of this size there will inevitably be areas
that require an element of fine-tuning once everything is up and
running," he said.</p>
<p>"It is only once people are using the new network and they let
us know of their concerns that we can see what areas may need
addressing, and we are always happy to investigate what people are
telling us.</p>
<p>"That is what happened on this occasion and we have worked with
NXWM to iron out these local difficulties."</p>
<p>Simon Mathieson, Area Director at National Express West
Midlands said: ""Wednesfield has a comprehensive network
of bus services supporting the local economy with 38 bus
services an hour, or one bus arriving or departing every 95
seconds in the High Street for most of the day. </p>
<p>""Working in partnership with Centro, we're pleased we have been
able to take people's concerns on board to make these services
even better. They will complement the extra links
provided by new service 69 between Wednesfield, Coppice Farm, Short
Heath, Beechdale and Walsall. </p>
<p>""Following such a comprehensive modernisation of the bus
network some fine tuning was to beexpected,
and we want to ensure that these tweaks to the
service are implemented. We hope people get behind these
services and use their local bus.""</p>
<p>The 25, operated commercially by NXWM, will split into the 25
and 25A to provide an improved service for the Long Knowle
area. The 25A will divert from the end of Third Avenue along
Cannock Road, Blackhalve Lane, Long Knowle Lane, Amos Lane, Bellamy
Lane, Wood End Road and then into Wednesfield where it will rejoin
the normal route.</p>
<p>The hourly 25A gives Long Knowle estate, Blackhalve
Lane and Bellamy Lane more buses and provides
an additional link from Wood End to the High Street.</p>
<p>Centro has also agreed to use taxpayers' money to fund
significant enhancements to extend the times of the subsidised 57
service, operated by Midland, to cover travel to school/work
periods. It will also serve Wednesfield High Street.</p>
<p>Changes will also be made to the 69 and 28 to provide improved
services for the Wood End area later in September once the route
and timetable details have been finalised.</p>
<p>The 69 will divert along Linthouse Lane, Ridge Lane, Wood
End Road, Wednesfield High Street and back to current line of
route, reinstating links to Wednesfield High Street for residents
on Ridge Lane.</p>
<p>The 28 will follow its existing route to the end of
Prestwood Road West but then go along Lower Prestwood Road and
on to Linthouse Lane. The service will also serve the Ashmore Park
loop, giving the estate a direct link to New Cross Hospital
and Willenhall.</p>
<p>It will also provide improved services in Wood End by
reinstating the link from Prestwood Road West to Wood End shops and
post office and gives Ashmore Park a direct link to New Cross
Hospital grounds.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users in Wolverhampton will see improved services after transport bosses addressed passengers' concerns following the introduction of a new network.
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Centro nominated for six awards at transport 'Oscars'
2011-08-22T00:00:00
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<p>"</p>
<p>Centro will be hoping to hit the opposition for six at this
year's National Transport Awards, after picking up nominations in
half a dozen categories.</p>
<p>The region's transport authority will be vying for six accolades
at the Awards, regarded as the transport industry's 'Oscars', to be
held in London in October.</p>
<p>The event at London's Lancaster Hotel will see Centro hoping to
scoop the awards for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Travel Information and Marketing</li>
<li>The Joe Clarke Passenger Transport Authority of the Year</li>
<li>Excellence in Technology</li>
<li>Improvements to Bus Services</li>
<li>Most Innovative Transport Project</li>
<li>Contribution to Sustainable Transport</li>
</ul>
<p>The awards, now in their eleventh year, recognise the transport
sector's best initiatives and successes and Centro will be aiming
to reclaim the coveted Transport Authority of the Year award which
it last won in 2009.</p>
<p>Centro has been developing wide-ranging plans aimed at reducing
congestion and bringing wider economic, environmental and social
benefits by attracting more people on to public transport.</p>
<p>In the West Midlands, rail saw a 6.4% increase in users during
2009/10 with more than 40 million passenger journeys made during
the year. A further 320 million journeys were made by bus.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "I am proud of the work
Centro has done over the past year and very pleased that this has
been recognised by these nominations.</p>
<p>"We have made great strides forward in getting more people onto
public transport and I hope we can continue to build on that work
in the future.</p>
<p>"I'm particularly pleased that our work with the Prince's Trust
and Virgin has been nominated for Most Innovative Transport
Project. This saw us offer 12 young people valuable experience
working in public transport and we were delighted to see six of
those go on to secure jobs immediately at the end of their
course."</p>
<p>Judges will hear how Centro has worked hard over the last year
to deliver innovative projects which contribute to the sustainable
transport agenda and how it has moved forward on integrating
different forms of public transport.</p>
<p>They will also be told how Centro has excelled at effective
partnership working to improve public transport as a whole across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>EDITOR'S NOTES</strong>:</p>
<p><strong>Travel Information and Marketing</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>For the summer 'Theo' campaign, a free travel awareness-raising
campaign for children launched in May 2010.</li>
<li>An 87% increase in visits to the <a
href="/">www.letzgogreen.com</a> during the campaign, reaching
170991 hits from May until August.</li>
<li>Sales of nbus tickets increased by 40% child and 27%
adult.</li>
<li>Network daytripper the family ticket is up by 12% and adult
7%.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>The Joe Clarke Passenger Transport Authority of the
Year</strong></p>
<p>Achievements on the Midland Metro</p>
<ul>
<li>Plans approved for the £127million extension to Metro through
Birmingham city centre.</li>
<li>Projected £50million boost to the West Midlands economy as a
result.</li>
<li>Expected to create 1,300 sustainable new jobs and deliver over
3.5m passengers a year into the city.</li>
<li>Completion of the £3.19million Great Charles Street Bridge in
March 2011.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Achievements on the buses</p>
<ul>
<li>Formed the UK's first voluntary multi-lateral agreement with
Walsall Council and bus operators.</li>
<li>Use of the Solihull signature services saw a 28% rise in the
first three months.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Redeveloping Birmingham New Street</p>
<ul>
<li>Work has been progressing on the £600m project.</li>
<li>Centro had key input from a passenger's perspective.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>High Speed Rail</p>
<ul>
<li>Worked as a leading voice in the region, supporting
Government's plans to bring high speed rail to the West
Midlands.</li>
<li>Centro formed part of the GoHS2 group, which includes
Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Airport, the NEC Group,
Solihull Council and Birmingham Chamber of Commerce.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Park and Ride</p>
<ul>
<li>A 10% increase in use of park and ride facilities.</li>
<li>Created 330 new spaces at five stations.</li>
<li>Currently provides 6,700 car parking spaces at no charge.</li>
<li>Park and Ride facilities save more than 6,200 tonnes of carbon
emissions each year.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Accessibility</p>
<ul>
<li>Produced the 'Everyone's on board' DVD to help make travel
measures accessible to all.</li>
<li>Distributed to over 85 community groups in the area, libraries,
hospitals, councils and colleges, and has been sent to 800 disabled
individuals.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Excellence in Technology</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Smartcard technology introduced with more than 23 bus operators
in the West Midlands.</li>
<li>Over 2,300 buses fitted with Smartcard technology.</li>
<li>Smartcard available on 95% of buses in the West Midlands.</li>
<li>Currently 535,000 Smartcard holders in the region.</li>
<li>Smartcards issued currently available for older and eligible
blind and disabled people.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Improvements to Bus Services</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Consultation with locals in an attempt to buck the trend of
falling passenger numbers.</li>
<li>Central Connect's signature services now provide new buses with
leather seats, enhanced CCTV, free wi-fi for passengers and
dedicated drivers.</li>
<li>A 28% rise in patronage on one of the routes within the first
three months with a subsequent 27% over the following six
months.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Most Innovative Transport Project</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Get into Transport scheme with the Prince's Trust and
Virgin.</li>
<li>After success of the first programme the scheme was reinstated
just seven months later.</li>
<li>Twelve young people given a month's work experience at Centro
and Virgin Trains.</li>
<li>Two candidates given two-year apprenticeships with Centro and
four given apprenticeships with Virgin trains.</li>
<li>The programme is due to run again this year.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Contribution to Sustainable Transport</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>For the Solihull personalised journey planning project.</li>
<li>Encouraged 32% of households in the target area to sign
up.</li>
<li>A local travel map produced was requested by and delivered to
1,228 households.</li>
<li>Of the respondents 15% stated that they, or another person in
their household, had changed their previous travel behaviour.</li>
<li>Fourteen per cent felt they had increased their use of public
transport and 12% of respondents felt that the Shirley Community
Guide had encouraged them to make greater use of local retail
facilities.</li>
<li>A shift of 14% in the number of people travelling by train more
than a few times a year.</li>
<li>A shift of 20% of residents cycling more often than a few
times.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Centro will be hoping to hit the opposition for six at this year's National Transport Awards, after picking up nominations in half a dozen categories."
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Metro is the best of British after scooping first passenger safety award
2011-08-04T00:00:00
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9369
<p>"</p>
<p>The Midland Metro has become the first tram system in the
country to win a prestigious award for passenger safety and crime
reduction.</p>
<p>Judges from the Secured by Design organisation and the
Association of Chief Police Officers have given the coveted Safer
Tram Stop Award to six stops on the system, which is owned by
transport authority Centro and operated by National Express.</p>
<p>The initiative rewards operators who reduce crime and
anti-social behaviour at tram stops. It also advises operators,
designers and architects on how to develop better and create safer
environments.</p>
<p>Assessors for the award, a joint scheme between Secured by
Design and British Transport Police, travelled the line between
Birmingham Wolverhampton inspecting facilities at six stops -
Snow Hill, Jewellery Quarter, West Bromwich Central, The
Hawthorns, Wednesbury Parkway and Wolverhampton St George's.</p>
<p>They also interviewed passengers, asking questions such as how
safe they felt using the Metro and what they felt could be done to
improve it.</p>
<p>The award comes hard on the heels of a number of initiatives by
the Safer Travel Partnership, which involves Centro, West Midlands
Police, British Transport Police and National Express, to deter
crime and anti-social behaviour on the system</p>
<p>Cllr Tom Ansell, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro, said:
"Being the first in the country to be accredited with the award is
a great achievement and demonstrates the commitment of the Safer
Travel Partnership to make all modes of transport in the West
Midlands even safer.</p>
<p>"The Metro remains one of the safest forms of transport and we
are pleased that passengers have supported the improvements that
Centro, National Express Midland Metro and British Transport Police
have made, such as installing additional CCTV and help points and
the staging of more police patrols."</p>
<p>Dave Kaye, managing director of National Express West Midlands,
said: "Safety is our number one priority and we will continue to
strive to make the services we operate safer both for our customers
and our staff."</p>
<p>"The Safer Travel Partnership work tirelessly alongside our
staff to use customer feedback to make our trams safer. </p>
<p>"I want to thank all National Express staff and our partners for
their hard work and dedication that has lead to our services being
the first in Britain to be given this award."</p>
<p>Preparations are now being made for a further six stops on the
line to be assessed - Priestfield, Black Lake, St Paul's,
Wednesbury Great Western Street, Winson Green and Bilston.</p>
<p>A recent survey of passengers by Centro found that 86 per cent
felt safe while travelling on the Metro, while 88 per cent were
happy with its speed and frequency. A further 87 per cent were
satisfied with punctuality.</p>
<p>Safety and security has been a priority in the on-going
development of the Metro, with good lighting and CCTV monitoring at
all stops and CCTV installed on the trams also.</p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership also works to make bus and Metro
journeys even safer for passengers by deterring crime and
anti-social behaviour. Anyone seeing nuisance behaviour can text
'bus' or 'metro' followed by a space and then details of the
incident including time, date, location and route number to
83010. </p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on the <a
href="/" title=""><strong>www.safertravelinfo</strong></a> website
or by telephoning British Transport Police on 0300 123 2211.</p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Picture caption: (left to right)
Inspector Lee Gordon of British Transport Police, Metro manager
Fred Roberts and Cllr Tom Ansell, Centro's lead member for rail and
Metro, celebrate winning the Safer Tram Stop Award.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>EDITOR'S NOTES:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div>The Metro has 23 stops and operates a fast and frequent
service running every 6-8 minutes during the daytime peak and every
15 minutes at all other times.</div>
</li>
<li>
<div>A £127 million scheme to extend the Metro from Snow Hill
Station in Birmingham city centre to New Street Station is underway
and due to be completed in 2015.</div>
</li>
<li>
<div>As well as the line extension there will be a new fleet of
trams introduced.Five companies - Alstom, Bombardier, CAF, Siemens
and Stadler - have been shortlisted as potential suppliers.The
procurement process is expected to last around 12 months and the
new trams will be brought into service from late 2014.</div>
</li>
<li>
<div>The joint project by Centro, the Black Country and Birmingham
City councils, is expected to boost the West Midlands economy by
£50 million a year and create up to 1,300 sustainable new
jobs.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>"</p>
The Midland Metro has become the first tram system in the country to win a prestigious award for passenger safety and crime reduction.
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Government earmarks region's congestion busting project for funding
2011-08-03T00:00:00
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<p>"</p>
<p>A proposed multi-million pound project to reduce congestion on
some of the West Midlands' busiest roads took a major step forward
today when it was shortlisted for Government
funding<strong>.</strong></p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, was formally invited
to submit a detailed business case for its Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project which aims to cut the staggering £2.3 billion a
year cost of congestion to West Midlands businesses.</p>
<p>If successful, the business case will secure part of the
Government's £560 million Local Sustainable Transport Fund. The
cash has been made available by Ministers for transport authorities
to bring in measures which encourage sustainable ways of
travelling, such as public transport, which support the economy and
reduce carbon emissions.</p>
<p>Centro's Smart Network, Smarter Choices project focuses on
speeding up journey times for all road users and on changing
people's travel habits along several of the region's most congested
roads.</p>
<p>It would involve;</p>
<ul>
<li>Road improvements to tackle bottlenecks</li>
<li>Enhanced real time passenger information </li>
<li>Setting up car sharing schemes</li>
<li>Cycle lanes and bus priority measures</li>
</ul>
<p>Residents living near the congested routes would also be offered
customised travel advice about the full range of transport options
on their doorstep.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr Angus Adams, said: "Cutting congestion
will not only boost our local economy and speed up journey times
for all road users, from freight hauliers to bus operators but will
also help us cut carbon.</p>
<p>"Many of the elements include in our Smart Network, Smarter
Choices project have been proven to be successful in reducing
congestion and in changing people's travel habits in favour of more
sustainable ways of moving around.</p>
<p>"We are now looking forward to drawing up our business case for
the Government who have clearly seen much potential in a our
proposals."</p>
<p>One priority of the Smart Network, Smarter Choices project is to
tackle congestion caused by the school run. Experts will work with
nearby schools to help pupils, parents and staff walk, cycle, catch
the bus or car share.</p>
<p>Local companies will also be supported in encouraging their
staff to travel more sustainably and there will be a series of
organised walks, cycle rides and cycle training for the surrounding
community.</p>
<p>At the same time the project aims to support the local economy
by highlighting the wide range of local facilities available, many
of which are quicker to reach on foot, bike or bus than by car.</p>
<p>In drawing up the business case Centro will work with the
region's local authorities in identifying which key roads should be
included. The business case will also determine the cost of the
project.</p>
<p>The proposed Smart Network Smarter Choices project would form
part of the region's Local Transport Plan - a blueprint to improve
the transport system in the West Midlands over the next 15
years.</p>
<p>"</p>
A proposed multi-million pound project to reduce congestion on some of the West Midlands' busiest roads took a major step forward today when it was shortlisted for Government funding.
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North Solihull jobseekers get ticket to employment
2011-08-02T00:00:00
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9369
<p>"</p>
<p>An award winning scheme which has helped 2,600 North Solihull
job seekers back into work is to run for another two and a half
years, after securing funding of nearly £500,000.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro teamed up with the Department for
Communities and Local Government (DCLG), Solihull MBC and Jobcentre
Plus to renew the WorkWise initiative, which provides free journey
planning advice and travel passes for unemployed people travelling
to interviews or starting new jobs.</p>
<p>The news comes after funding for the scheme ended in April last
year and means the project can now continue to operate out of
Chelmsley Wood Jobcentre until December 2013. </p>
<p>Latest funding of £458,860 includes £229,430 from the European
Regional Development Fund, with the rest of the money coming from
Centro. The project is also supported by Jobcentre Plus and
Solihull MBC.</p>
<p>Cllr Ted Richards who represents Solihull Council on Centro
said: "We are delighted that we have been able to renew this
project in North Solihull.</p>
<p>"With the difficult economic climate it is great that we are
able to work together to give people opportunities like this and
help them find their way back into work.</p>
<p>"Many people find it difficult to pay for travel to interviews
or when starting a new job and this scheme helps eliminate some of
those barriers."</p>
<p>Workwise was first launched in the area in March 2003 and has
already helped 2,600 people back into work. With the new funding
the project aims to assist a further 1,267 North Solihull job
seekers over the next three years.</p>
<p>Dawn Ralph, Jobcentre manager at Chelmsley Wood Jobcentre Plus,
said: "Jobcentre Plus is proud to be associated with WorkWise in
Solihull. </p>
<p>"The project helps us to assist unemployed people to access
interviews and jobs by overcoming transport barriers to employment.
"</p>
<p>"It provides valuable support for people to
broaden their job search by increasing their awareness of local
public transport services near to them."</p>
<p>The programme will continue to be available for residents of
Chelmsley Wood, Fordbridge and Kingshurt or Smith Wood wards or
those signing on at Chelmsley Wood Jobcentre. </p>
<p>The scheme forms part of a wider employment initiative led by
Solihull Council called Journey to Success</p>
<p>To get free travel for the first three months of their new job
applicants must contact the WorkWise team before starting their new
employment.</p>
<p>For more information visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise</a></p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Picture caption (left to
right):</strong> <strong>Zanny Lomas, external relations manager
for JobCentre Plus, Cllr Ian Courts, Solihull Council's cabinet
member for economic development and regeneration, Stephen Rhodes,
Centro's passenger services director and Cllr Ted
Richards, Solihull's representative on
Centro</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
"An award winning scheme which has helped 2,600 North Solihull job seekers back into work is to run for another two and a half years."
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West Midlands delivers first class support for HS2 in final hours of consultation
2011-08-01T00:00:00
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<p>"</p>
<p>Chief executives and business leaders from the West Midlands
marked the end of the high speed rail consultation today (Friday
July 29) by travelling to London to personally hand over hundreds
of messages of support to Transport Secretary Philip Hammond.</p>
<p>In a final effort before the consultation came to an end more
than 1,000 supporting postcards were signed and collected in just
12 hours in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>Businesses, organisations and individuals across the West
Midlands are also sending in thousands of cards supporting HS2,
which were distributed in the final weeks of the campaign.</p>
<p>Mr Hammond was handed the pledges of support by members of
Go-HS2, an alliance of West Midlands businesses, business
organisations and public sector bodies backing High Speed Rail,
outside the Department for Transport in Whitehall. </p>
<p>After receiving the pledges Mr Hammond said: ""I am delighted to
see businesses and residents alike coming together to recognise the
enormous benefits high speed rail has to offer the West Midlands
region.</p>
<p>"Overcrowding on the rail network has become a daily challenge
for commuters and is only set to get worse. HS2 would not only
create jobs, drive regeneration and improve connectivity, but would
crucially deliver the extra capacity the West Coast Main Line so
desperately needs.""</p>
<p>The Go-HS2 representatives also presented Mr Hammond with their
organisations' official responses to the consultation.</p>
<p>Katie Teasdale, Head of Policy at the Birmingham Chamber of
Commerce Group, said: "It's great to have the opportunity to
present the Secretary of State with our consultation response,
which represents the views of almost 3,000 businesses of all sizes
and sectors in the Greater Birmingham area.</p>
<p>"The Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Group has spent a lot of
time engaging with our members to ensure that we adequately convey
their support of this transformational project."</p>
<p>Birmingham City Council Cabinet member for Transport,
Environment and Regeneration, Councillor Tim Huxtable, added: "We
were keen to meet Mr Hammond to demonstrate our strong support for
the project and stress the importance of HS2 to the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"Birmingham City Council is a strong supporter of HS2. The
benefits are obvious and the West Midlands can be the first region
to take advantage. Our region can become the transport hub for the
UK."</p>
<p>Centro Chairman, Councillor Angus Adams, said: "The extra
capacity HS2 will bring will allow many more local and regional
services to run on existing lines.</p>
<p>"We're here today on behalf of our region to demonstrate our
support for the 22,000 jobs, the fast links with major UK and
European cities and the huge additional rail capacity benefits that
HS2 brings. This is an opportunity to build for the future and we
can't let it pass us by."</p>
<p>John Morris, Birmingham Airport's Head of Government and
Industry Affairs, said: ""Birmingham Airport welcomes the
employment that HS2 will bring. High Speed Rail will also connect
international gateways, giving air travellers more choice, and
reducing the need for new runways, as underused airports help to
spread demand whilst boosting local economies"".</p>
<p><strong>Picture caption:</strong> <strong>Speedy delivery: High
speed rail supporters (l-r) Katie Teasdale, Birmingham Chamber's
Head of Policy and Strategy Relationships, Cllr Angus Adams,
Chairman of Centro, John Morris, Head of Government and Industry
Affairs for Birmingham Airport, Cllr Tim Huxtable, Birmingham City
Council Cabinet member for Transport, Environment and Regeneration,
David Bull, Birmingham City Council's Assistant Director
Development Strategy and Conrad Jones, Head of Marketing and
Communications at Centro hand over pledges of support to Transport
Secretary Philip Hammond (centre)</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Chief executives and business leaders from the West Midlands marked the end of the high speed rail consultation by travelling to London to personally hand over hundreds of messages of support to Transport Secretary Philip Hammond.
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New shopper service introduced for Goldthorn Park in Wolverhampton
2011-07-29T00:00:00
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<p>"</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION (upright): Cllr Bob Jones, left, Duncan
Ashley from West Midlands Special Needs Transport, Cllr Judith
Rowley, Cllr John Rowley, bus driver Kevin Nelson and Babs Coombes
of Centro at the launch of the 61 bus service in Goldthorn Park,
Wolverhampton.</strong></p>
<p>Residents in Wolverhampton have been offered a shopping lifeline
thanks to the introduction of a new bus service.</p>
<p style="text-align: "> </p>
<p>The 61 is an off-peak service in Goldthorn Park following a
review of bus services in the city by Centro, the region's
transport authority, local bus companies and Wolverhampton City
Council.</p>
<p>It replaces the former 641, which had previously been withdrawn
because of low passenger usage.</p>
<p>It will be operated under subsidy from Centro by West Midlands
Special Needs Transport (WMSNT).</p>
<p>A major consultation with the public as part of a recent review
of services in Wolverhampton and west Walsall revealed concern in
the area that many residents in Goldthorn Park would struggle to
access city centre shops and facilities if some form of service was
not introduced.</p>
<p>Centro Black Country area manager Babs Coombes said that
although the 61 was operated by WMSNT, which also runs the Ring and
Ride service throughout the West Midlands, it was open to all
members of the public.</p>
<p>She said: "Councillors and residents expressed concern that
people such as the elderly and disabled were left without a service
on the estate that could get them to important areas such as the
markets in the city.</p>
<p>"A service similar to what ran before had been shown to be no
longer viable, but we felt it was important that a replacement was
found.</p>
<p>"We sat down with people and asked them what they wanted and
where they wanted it to run.</p>
<p>"The result is a service that runs on alternate weekdays and a
weekend day providing an important link to local shops and
markets."</p>
<p>Ward member Cllr Judith Rowley said: "This service is a real
lifeline for pensioners and the disabled who depend on public
transport and who were facing great difficulty in getting to the
shops.</p>
<p>"We campaigned with Centro to secure some form of service and we
are delighted that they have listened."</p>
<p>Peter Maggs, Chief Executive of West Midlands Special Needs
Transport said: "We are pleased to have been selected to operate
this new service for the benefit of the residents of the Goldthorn
Estate. </p>
<p>We hope that it will make a real difference to those who rely on
public transport, to help them to get to the shops on a regular
basis"</p>
<p>The route operates between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Mondays,
Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.</p>
<p>It starts at Ednam Road in Goldthorn Park, running along Hornby
Road, Himley Crescent, Dudley Road, Mason Street, then into Queen
Street in Wolverhampton city centre, Victoria Street then
Wolverhampton markets.</p>
<p>The Wolverhampton and west Walsall bus network review saw a
radical reform of services in the area following a major
consultation exercise with passengers, businesses and traders and
councillors.</p>
<p>The changes cam into effect on July 24, the same day that
Wolverhampton's £22.5 million bus station opened its doors to the
public.</p>
<p>"</p>
Residents in Wolverhampton have been offered a shopping lifeline thanks to the introduction of a new bus service
17213
GoldthornParkupright1.jpg
0
12
0
First steps towards New Street's bright future
2011-07-28T00:00:00
2011-07-28T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>The redevelopment of Birmingham New Street will take another
step forward next week as engineers start preparatory work to
create the redeveloped station's stunning stainless steel
façade.<br />
</p>
<p>Designed to reflect the movement of the city and the station,
the 16,000 metre façade will be installed from early 2012 onwards
and is featured in a new animated fly through film released today
for the first time.<br />
</p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, project director for Network Rail said: "The
new façade will turn the redeveloped New Street station into an
instantly recognisable landmark for Birmingham and the West
Midlands when it is complete in 2015. In the meantime, we have a
huge engineering challenge to safely install the steel onto the
station building and we'll be working closely with our partners to
minimise any disruption to people and businesses in the
city." <br />
<br />
Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "With work
beginning on the cladding, now we really are starting to move
forward to a phase of the project which will be highly visible, and
should instil a real sense of confidence and pride throughout the
city at the transformational changes which are taking place."</p>
<p>The first section to be clad will be the north face of the
station building along Stephenson Street, and a half road closure
will come into operation on Monday 25 July 2011 to allow
preparatory work to be carried out safely. The work will take place
in three phases:<br />
</p>
<ol>
<li>Removing sections of the existing concrete panels on the
station building to survey and establish fixing points for the
facade</li>
<li>Supporting structural steel work is then attached to the
building</li>
<li>Finally, the stainless steel cladding will be attached to the
supporting steelwork.</li>
</ol>
<p>While Stephenson Street will remain open to traffic, the half
road closure means that three bus stops on Stephenson St will close
on Sunday 24 July: Centro has been working to make sure bus
passengers are kept informed of how these changes affect their
journeys.</p>
<p>The 35, 45, 47, 61, 63, 80 services will instead stop a few
yards away at the nearest existing bus stop in Navigation Street.
Those catching the 81, 82, 87, 89, 120, 127 and 128 services should
use the existing stops for these services in either Corporation
Street or Hill Street.</p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Video: Birmingham Gateway - Inside
New Street Station</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div center="" style="text-align: "><strong><a href="/">wmv
format</a></strong></div>
</li>
<li>
<div center="" style="text-align: "><strong><a href="/">mp4
format</a></strong></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>"</p>
The redevelopment of Birmingham New Street will take another step forward next week as engineers start preparatory work to create the redeveloped station's stunning stainless steel fa�ade.
17213
newstreet.JPG
0
12
0
New express bus route between Cannock and Birmingham hits the road
2011-07-27T00:00:00
2011-07-27T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A new direct bus service giving an express link between Cannock
and Birmingham has hit the road just in time for the school summer
holidays.</p>
<p>The X31 will depart from Cannock bus station every hour Mondays
to Saturdays and travel via Cheslyn Hay, New Invention, Short
Heath, Ashmore Lake, Shepwell Green and
Bentley then along the M6 before arriving at Carrs Lane
in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>The service, which began operating from Monday July 25th is
being run by Arriva buses in partnership with Centro, the
integrated transport authority for the West Midlands and means
parents living along the route can take advantage of Centro summer
offers to some of the Midlands' big attractions such as Cadbury
World and the National SEA LIFE Centre.</p>
<p>The X31 was introduced following a major review of bus services
in Wolverhampton and west Walsall conducted by Centro which
included an extensive public consultation exercise with passengers,
businesses and councillors.</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, vice chairman and lead member for buses for
Centro, said: "We are delighted that we have been able to supply
for the first time a service linking Birmingham with several
areas of Walsall and Cannock.</p>
<p>"Our consultation exercise showed people wanted this service and
we, along with Arriva, have been happy to oblige in providing a bus
service that will make travelling for commuters, shoppers, day
trippers and other passengers a great deal easier."</p>
<p>Cllr Ian Shires, chairman of the Regeneration Scrutiny Panel for
Walsall Borough Council, said: "One of the issues coming back from
the survey was that people wanted an express bus to get to
Birmingham for work, shopping and leisure.</p>
<p>"We are therefore very pleased that Centro and Arriva have
picked up on this. People have expressed a lot of interest since it
became known it was going to happen and I sincerely hope it will
prove a success."</p>
<p>Arriva Midlands communications manager Keith Myatt
said: "Feedback received from members of the public highlighted the
need for a new link from parts of Staffordshire, Walsall and
Wolverhampton direct to Birmingham.</p>
<p>"We are pleased to be able to deliver the X31 to meet those
needs and we are sure our fantastic fares will suit everyone's
pocket."</p>
<p>A standard adult single will cost £3.60 from Cannock, Great
Wyrley and Cheslyn Hay, an adult 2-trip ticket (no need to return
the same day) £4.50 and a 4-weekly saver unique to X31 customers
will cost £25.</p>
<p>From New Invention, Short Heath and Bentley a single will cost
£1.80, a 2-trip ticket £3.60 and the 4-weekly saver £25.</p>
<p>However families catching the X31 using 'n'network daytripper or
'n'bus one day tickets over the school summer holidays for further
savings.</p>
<p>Centro is offering discounts on entry to the Black Country
Living Museum, Cadbury World, the National SEA LIFE Centre, Dudley
Zoological Gardens, Thinktank, IMAX Cinema and the Light House
Cinema.</p>
<p>Up to two adults and four children can travel on a family
network daytripper for just £9.20 and this will entitle them to a
range of savings on the admission price to the various venues.</p>
<p>Concessionary travel passes will be accepted in the usual
way.</p>
<p>For more details on the X31 service and other routes following
the network review go to <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Picture Caption: Cllr Jon Hunt, left, Stephen Rhodes,
Director of Passenger Services for Centro, Lenny the Lobster from
the National SEA LIFE Centre, SEA LIFE Centre entertainer Sara
Sweeney, and Babs Coombes, Black Country area manager for Centro
mark the arrival of the X31 bus in Birmingham city
centre.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
A new direct bus service giving an express link between Cannock and Birmingham has hit the road just in time for the school summer holidays.
17213
X31upright.jpg
0
12
0
Bus companies sign charter to bring improvements to passengers
2011-07-25T00:00:00
2011-07-25T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Wolverhampton and west Walsall are to get a
raft of improvements including new buses and shelters and quicker
journey times thanks to the signing of a special document.</p>
<p>Signalling their intent to provide better bus services in the
area, transport authority Centro, local councils and bus companies
have all signed a voluntary agreement pledging improvements for
passengers.</p>
<p>The document was formally signed at Wolverhampton's new £22.5
million bus station on July 22 by representatives from Centro,
Wolverhampton City Council, Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council,
Arriva Midlands, Central Connect, Midland and National Express West
Midlands.</p>
<p>, The agreement sets out a number of pledges including;</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">More than 30 brand new low floor
buses within the first year</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">More than 250 new bus stops and
shelters</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">Highway improvements to provide
better bus journey times</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">Real Time Information (RTI)
displays on the new Wolverhampton services 2, 3 and 4</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">A smart-phone app featuring bus
times and information</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">Improved cleanliness of buses and
stops</div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Other features of the agreement include improvements to the
layout, waiting facilities and information at Bradford Place bus
interchange in Walsall, new timetable information and marketing for
services, regardless of which operator provides it, and a joint
working group to improve reliability and punctuality for
passengers.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "We know from
talking with passengers that what they want is a consistent, high
quality experience throughout their journey with clean, modern
buses and shelters, excellent information and fast, reliable
services.</p>
<p>"This agreement reflects the determination of bus operators and
local authorities across our region to not only give passengers
what they need but also provide the sort of high quality services
that can attract people out of their cars and onto public
transport."</p>
<p>The agreement coincided with the opening of Wolverhampton's new
bus station on July 24 - the same day that a new bus network for
Wolverhampton and West Walsall comes into effect.</p>
<p>This will see improvements to routes and the way services are
numbered based on what passengers asked for in a recent and
extensive public consultation.</p>
<p>Some of the key benefits being introduced include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">Major re-numbering of services to
provide a more localised and easy to understand network</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">The X31 express service from
Cannock to Birmingham via New Invention, Short Heath and
Willenhall</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">New links to New Cross Hospital
for Ashmore Park, New Invention, Priestfield, The Scotlands, Three
Tuns, Willenhall, Wobaston and Wood End</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">New links to Walsall Manor
Hospital for Darlaston, Kings Hill, Pleck Road and Wednesbury</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">Improved links between
Wolverhampton and Walsall via Bilston and Coppice farm, and between
Wolverhampton and Merry Hill</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">New cross city routes in
Wolverhampton to provide better access in the city centre and link
key shopping areas</div>
</li>
<li>
<div left="" style="text-align: ">A new shopper service for
Goldthorn Park and a new service for Kings Hill.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>People can get more information on the network changes from <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Picture caption: Gordon Frost, left, area business
manager for Arriva buses, Dave Kaye, UK Bus managing director
for National Express, Cllr Tom Ansell of Walsall Borough Council,
Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams, Cllr Judith Rowley of
Wolverhampton City Council, and Dave Reeves, managing director of
Midland buses sign the agreement at Wolverhampton bus
station.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers in Wolverhampton and west Walsall are to get a raft of improvements including new buses and shelters and quicker journey times thanks to the signing of a special document.
17213
Review.jpg
0
12
0
Iconic new bus station opens to passengers
2011-07-25T00:00:00
2011-07-25T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Wolverhampton and its passengers have been given a stunning
21<sup>st</sup> century gateway into the city with the opening of
an iconic new bus station.</p>
<p>The £22.5 million glass and steel structure opened its doors to
commuters on time and on budget as the first bus rolled in at 6am
on Sunday July 24.</p>
<p>The £22.5 million station is a vast improvement on the old and
outdated structure it replaces, offering fully enclosed and
comfortable waiting areas, cutting edge passenger information
systems and the ability to cater for more buses with 19 stands
compared to the old station's 18. In excess of 10,000 buses will
come in and out the station each week.</p>
<p>The opening marks the end of an 15 month joint project between
Centro, the region's transport authority, Wolverhampton City
Council and Neptune Developments.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "This is marvellous news
for Wolverhampton and its passengers who now have the sort of world
class facility they need and deserve.</p>
<p>"The new station is a prime example of the sort of quality we
are installing for passengers across the Network West Midlands
public transport system. I believe this impressive entrance
to the city is something everyone in Wolverhampton can be proud
of."</p>
<p>Cllr Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's cabinet member
for economic regeneration and prosperity, added: ""The opening of
the city's new bus station and pedestrian footbridge heralds the
completion of a significant part of Wolverhampton's Interchange
Project. This achievement will serve as a catalyst for further
regeneration and investment in the city."</p>
<p>The new station features three glass-enclosed waiting areas,
electronic information screens and safety and security features
including CCTV and help-points.</p>
<p>Safety will be further enhanced by having no pedestrian
crossings within the bus station. Instead passengers will access
their bus stand via covered pedestrian walkways equipped with glass
doors that automatically open when the vehicle arrives.</p>
<p>The new facility, together with a pedestrian footbridge linking
it with the railway station, forms part of the £22.5 million Phase
One of the Wolverhampton Interchange project which has an estimated
value of £170 million. Advantage West Midlands contributed
£9.6 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF)
Programme.</p>
<p>Steve Parry, managing director of Neptune Developments, said:
"We are delighted to have delivered this bus station to
Wolverhampton, on time and on budget. We are looking forward to
continue working with our partners to see the completion of
the rest of Phase 1 of the Interchange Project which will provide
the city with much improved facilities and new retail
opportunities.""</p>
<p>The opening coincided with the first day of a new, modernised
bus network for Wolverhampton and west Walsall which has seen
improvements to routes and the way services are numbered based on
what passengers asked for in a recent and extensive public
consultation.</p>
<p>The new network aims to build on the area's already strong
transport system to provide services that better match modern
travel patterns while also bringing improved buses, on-street
waiting facilities and information.</p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Picture caption (left to
right): Steve Parry, managing director of Neptune Developments,
Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, Cllr Angus Adams, chairman
of Centro and Cllr Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's
cabinet member for economic regeneration and prosperity, open the
city's new £22.5 million bus station to passengers.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Wolverhampton and its passengers have been given a stunning 21st century gateway into the city with the opening of an iconic new bus station.
17213
wolves1.jpg
0
12
0
New era dawns on the bus network for Wolverhampton and west Walsall
2011-07-22T00:00:00
2011-07-22T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers across Wolverhampton and west Walsall were today
reminded that major changes to their bus network come into effect
this Sunday.</p>
<p>The new network has been designed to provide a more localised
service and will see some service numbers, routes and timetables
change from start of service on Sunday.</p>
<p>It begins operating at the same time as the £22.5 million new
bus station in Wolverhampton starts and work begins on a £430,000
refurbishment of Bradford Place bus interchange in Walsall.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, has worked in partnership with Wolverhampton City
Council, Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council and bus operators
Arriva Midlands, Central Connect, Midland, and National Express
West Midlands to conduct the comprehensive overhaul.</p>
<p>The review saw Centro conduct a massive consultation exercise
with passengers, businesses and traders, and councillors, with
information leaflets being delivered to more than 100,000 homes
across Wolverhampton and west Walsall.</p>
<p>"This weekend sees the start of a new era of bus travel for
Wolverhampton and west Walsall, with a new network designed to meet
the needs of today's passengers and businesses," said Centro
chairman Cllr Angus Adams.</p>
<p>"We understand that this is a big change for many people but we
believe the whole area will benefit significantly from the modern
and easy to use bus system that this network review provides."</p>
<p>Some of the key benefits being introduced include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Major re-numbering of services to provide a more localised and
easy to understand network</li>
<li>The X31 express service from Cannock to Birmingham via New
Invention, Short Heath and Willenhall</li>
<li>New links to New Cross Hospital for Ashmore Park, New
Invention, Priestfield, The Scotlands, Three Tuns, Willenhall,
Wobaston and Wood End</li>
<li>New links to Walsall Manor Hospital for Darlaston, Kings Hill,
Pleck Road and Wednesbury</li>
<li>Improved links between Wolverhampton and Walsall via Bilston
and Coppice farm, and between Wolverhampton and Merry Hill</li>
<li>New cross city routes in Wolverhampton to provide better access
in the city centre and link key shopping areas</li>
<li>A new shopper service for Goldthorn Park and a new service for
Kings Hill.</li>
</ul>
<p>Cllr Adams said: ""More than 1,400 people told us they wanted to
see good access across city and town centres, buses running
reliably and with services at frequent intervals.</p>
<p>"We went out and asked people what they wanted; we listened and
worked with our partners to act upon those wishes to deliver a
modern, relevant up-to-date network."</p>
<p>To usher in the new station and network the partners will sign a
voluntary agreement on Friday July 22 pledging a range of benefits
for passengers that build on the development of the new
network.</p>
<p>They include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div>More than 30 brand new low floor buses within the first
year</div>
</li>
<li>More than 250 new bus stops and shelters</li>
<li>Highway improvements to provide better bus journey times</li>
<li>Real Time Information (RTI) displays on the new Wolverhampton
services 2,3 and 4</li>
<li>A smart-phone app featuring bus times and information</li>
<li>Improved cleanliness of buses and stops</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro has undertaken a comprehensive publicity campaign to
ensure people are fully aware of this Sunday's changes.</p>
<p>New timetables have been installed at bus stops across the
area.</p>
<p>Leaflets have also been delivered to more than 100,000 homes
across the area while hundreds of people have attended a series of
exhibitions around the area. There will also be further exhibitions
on Saturday July 23<sup>rd</sup> and Sunday July 30<sup>th</sup> in
Queens Square, Wolverhampton, between 9.30am and 3pm, and Bradford
Place, Walsall, 11am to 3pm on Monday 25<sup>th</sup> July.</p>
<p>To further help passengers there will be extra staff on hand on
Sunday and next week at the bus station and key interchanges across
the area to give advice and information on the new times, numbers
and routes.</p>
<p>People can get more information on the network changes from <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers across Wolverhampton and west Walsall were today reminded that major changes to their bus network come into effect this Sunday.
17213
0
12
0
Iconic new bus station opens to passengers
2011-07-20T00:00:00
2011-07-20T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Photocall: From 9:30am Sunday, July
24, Wolverhampton Bus Station, Pipers Row, Wolverhampton WV1
1LD.</strong></p>
<p>Wolverhampton is set to get a stunning, 21<sup>st</sup> century
gateway into the city this Sunday (July 24) when its new £22.5
million bus station opens to passengers.</p>
<p>To mark this landmark occasion the media is invited to a special
opening event providing an opportunity to look around the new
facility and its cutting edge passenger information systems. There
will be filming, photo and interview opportunities with key
representatives from the project's three partners - Centro, the
region's transport authority, Wolverhampton City Council and
Neptune Developments.</p>
<p>The event starts at 9:30am with the arrival of an open top bus
carrying guests. There will then be speeches starting at 10am by
Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, Cllr Peter Bilson,
Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Economic
Regeneration and Prosperity, Neptune's managing director Steve
Parry and Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams.</p>
<p>These will be followed by a cake cutting ceremony at 10:15am
with interview, photo and filming opportunities of this iconic
glass and steel structure.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Wolverhampton is set to get a stunning, 21st century gateway into the city this Sunday (July 24) when its new £22.5 million bus station opens to passengers."
17213
0
12
0
Changes to bus stops as work on New Street Station progresses
2011-07-19T00:00:00
2011-07-19T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers face some changes to their Birmingham city centre bus
stops as the rebuilding of New Street Station enters an exciting
new phase.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Three stops in Stephenson Street will be taken out of service
from Sunday July 24 so that preparatory work can start on the
installation of the station's futuristic stainless steel
façade.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The work means that the 35, 45, 47, 61, 63, 80 services will
instead stop a few yards away at the nearest existing bus stop in
Navigation Street.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Those catching the 81, 82, 87, 89, 120, 127 and 128 services
should use the existing stops for these services in either
Corporation Street or Hill Street.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The changes are necessary because the work on New Street Station
requires half the width of Stephenson Street to be closed in order
to create a safe working zone. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Birmingham area manager for Centro, the region's
transport authority, said: "We apologise for any inconvenience
these changes may cause passengers but the alternative stops are
relatively close by so people should not need to go too much
further to catch their bus."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro is a partner in the £600 million rebuild of New Street
Station along with Network Rail, Birmingham City Council, Advantage
West Midlands and the Department for Transport.</p>
<p>The redevelopment will double the station's passenger capacity,
improve access down to the platforms and improve pedestrian links
across the city. The project will deliver:</p>
<p>* A concourse that is three-and-a-half times bigger than at
present and enclosed by a giant, light-filled atrium</p>
<p>* More accessible, brighter and clearer platforms, serviced by
more than 40 new escalators and 15 new public lifts</p>
<p>* A stunning new station façade</p>
<p>* Better links to and through the station for pedestrians, with
eight new entrances</p>
<p>*The stimulus for the physical regeneration of the areas
surrounding the station</p>
<p>Meanwhile work is continuing inside New Street Station on
creating the new atrium. At 3,300 square metres, it will
cover an area 13 times the size of the centre court at Wimbledon,
and will form the centrepiece of the new station which is due for
completion in 2015.</p>
<p>Passengers wanting further details of the Stephenson Street bus
stop changes can log on to <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> and click on the
Stephenson Street link.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers face some changes to their Birmingham city centre bus stops as the rebuilding of New Street Station enters an exciting new phase.
17213
0
12
0
Paperless tickets to save passengers time and money
2011-07-15T00:00:00
2011-07-15T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Commuters in the West Midlands can now save money on their
travel tickets - without leaving the house.</p>
<p>A new scheme from transport authority Centro means passengers
can buy Direct Debit tickets online, cutting out the hassle of
paperwork and postage.</p>
<p>The tickets give holders generous discounts on the usual rail,
bus and tram fares in the Network West Midlands area.</p>
<p>The initiative makes it even easier for passengers to sign up
for their monthly tickets, as well as the added bonus of getting
them delivered straight to their doors.</p>
<p>Those who sign up can make a raft of savings on
<strong>n</strong>network, <strong>n</strong>train and
<strong>n</strong>bus tickets as well as out-of-county train
journeys.</p>
<p>A monthly <strong>n</strong>train ticket for all zones through
the Direct Debit scheme saves passengers £207.60 a year, compared
with buying the same ticket over the station counter or booking
office.</p>
<p>Centro Direct Sales Manager Jacqui Miller said: "This is
something we have been working towards for a while. It's a much
more modern way of issuing Direct Debit tickets and will reduce
time and effort for commuters.</p>
<p>"We hope that the added convenience and cost savings will
encourage even more people to see public transport as a viable
alternative to driving. We need to reduce the number of vehicles
currently on our roads and the bus, train and Metro can play an
important role in doing that."</p>
<p>All <strong>n</strong>network, <strong>n</strong>bus and
<strong>n</strong>train tickets can be used on public transport
throughout the Network West Midlands (NWM) area.</p>
<p>Passengers wishing to travel from outside the West Midlands can
buy an add-on ticket to include journeys from their home station to
the NWM area where their Direct Debit ticket will be valid.</p>
<p>Passengers can get more information about the scheme at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.co.uk/directdebit</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Commuters in the West Midlands can now save money on their travel tickets - without leaving the house.
17213
0
12
0
Cutting work to combat anti-social behaviour
2011-07-14T00:00:00
2011-07-14T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>More than £150,000 has already been spent on repairs and
maintenance to three bridges along the North Walsall Cutting but
Centro is now investigating the possibility of filling in the 1.2
km long railway cutting and then landscaping over it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The authority wants to hear from companies interested in
carrying out the work which would involve compacting hundreds of
tons of hardcore material into the cutting which runs between
Reedswood Way and Rycroft Junction, north of Walsall town
centre.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Chris Holden, a senior project manager at Centro, said:
"The cutting has suffered from anti-social behaviour which is why
we are keen to infill it for the benefit of the local community and
environment.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We were given planning permission to infill the cutting last
year and are now inviting expressions of interest from firms to
carry out the work which will require around 80,000 cubic metres of
imported material, along with landscaping and general improvement
works."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The infilling would follow on from work Centro has been doing to
three of the cutting's bridges, Upper Green Lane Bridge, Bloxwich
Road Bridge and Proffitt Street Bridge.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The work involves clearing vegetation, removing graffiti,
re-pointing and repairing brickwork, painting the steel beams and
installing new fencing. Upper Green Lane Bridge and Bloxwich Road
Bridge have already been done and work is underway on Proffitt
Street Bridge which is due for completion in late summer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The cutting forms part of a proposed future route for the
Midland Metro tram system. The so-called 5Ws route would link
Wolverhampton to Wednesfield, Willenhall, Walsall and Wednesbury
The route remains a regional transport priority and will be taken
forward when funding permits.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Companies interested in bidding for the infilling work should
refer to Centro's BravoSolution eTendering system (<a
href="/">www.wmcoe.bravosolution.co.uk</a>) and should respond by
e-mail to <a href="/">chrisholden@centro.org.uk</a> no later than
12 noon on July 22.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Further work to clean up a disused railway line that has become prone to anti-social behaviour is being considered by Centro, the region's transport authority."
17213
0
12
0
Youngsters put their foot down on congestion
2011-07-13T00:00:00
2011-07-13T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Youngsters at a south Birmingham school stepped out of the
classroom and into the great outdoors when they were given a fun
lesson in how to care for the environment.</p>
<p>The Year 3 pupils at Albert Bradbeer Primary School in Turves
Green were treated to a guided walk around Cofton Park as part
of a £500,000 project to cut traffic congestion and pollution along
the city's Pershore Road.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, together with Birmingham City
Council, have teamed up with the Ramblers to stage a series of
walks for schools, firms and local residents as part of the wider
Pershore Road Travel Choices Project.</p>
<p>The project, which runs until next March, involves travel
advisers working with people who live, work and study in the area
to help them make the switch away from the car to cheaper, cleaner
and healthier ways of travelling such as public transport, walking
and cycling.</p>
<p>Helen Osborn, Centro's project manager for the Pershore Road
Travel Choices project, said; "The kids really enjoy these walks
but they are also a great way of teaching them about the health and
environmental benefits of walking.</p>
<p>"Ideally, it will help them develop a lifelong habit of walking
for short journeys rather than using the car."</p>
<p>Two further walks for the community have now been arranged and
if they prove popular Centro plans to stage more. The two hours
walks are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Stirchley/Rea Valley Route - starting 11:30am on Saturday July
16 from The British Oak Pub, Pershore Road, Stirchley</li>
<li>University of Birmingham Campus - starting 11am on Saturday
August 6 from Winterbourne House, Edgbaston</li>
</ul>
<p>Meanwhile more than 3,000 homes along the Pershore Road
have signed up for free customised travel advice to help beat
soaring petrol prices and get healthy in the process.</p>
<p>Expert travel advisers have spent the last eight weeks
visiting more than 9,000 homes to tell families how
they can take advantage of the full range of travel options on
their doorstep.</p>
<p>One in three of all homes visited have snapped up the
opportunity to sit down with project staff and receive free
personalised travel advice showing exactly how residents can get
from their own front door to their destination without having to
jump in the car.</p>
<p>The team of Travel Advisers are set to visit a further
7,000 homes in the between now and the end of the month (July) to
discuss the travel options that may be available.</p>
<p>Residents wanting further information on the Pershore Road
Travel Choices project can contact the travel advisers on Tel: 0121
214 7184 or by e-mail: <a
href="/">travelchoices@centro.org.uk</a></p>
<p>Further details of walking activities and summer community
events are available at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/pershoreroad</a></p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Picture caption: Going green:
Albert Bradbeer Primary School teacher Miss Rachel Foster (centre
rear), Sameena Parvaz, Outreach officer at the Ramblers (right) and
pupils David Solademi and Ellie Pearson both aged 8, enjoy a guided
walk round Cofton Park as part of a £500,000 project to tackle
traffic congestion in south Birmingham.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Youngsters at a south Birmingham school stepped out of the classroom and into the great outdoors when they were given a fun lesson in how to care for the environment.
17213
_DSC7721A.jpg
0
12
0
Transport spend in London is three times higher per head than in the West Midlands
2011-07-11T00:00:00
2011-07-11T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>New analysis of Treasury public spending figures reveals that
spending per head on transport in London is now triple the amount
being spent in the West Midlands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The figures show that spending in London has risen to £802 per
head compared with just £257 in the West Midlands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Other regions of the country are also lagging behind with the
North West getting £333 per head, Yorkshire and Humberside £272 and
the North East £248.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The gap has widened considerably since the previous years'
figures with spend in London rising from £634 to £802 per head
compared to a modest increase from £262 to £286 in the West
Midlands and North of England as a whole.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The disparity in public spending on transport between London and
the regions is not matched for public spending as a whole, or for
spending on education or health. It is also a relatively recent
phenomenon rather than the historic norm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, the transport authority
for the West Midlands region, said: "London needs and deserves high
quality public transport. However, it's not just London's transport
system that needs a shot in the arm. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"Our cities are economic powerhouses but a greater level of
transport investment in the West Midlands and Britain's other major
urban centres is needed to help bridge the North South divide and
ensure that we can boost our economic performance and reach our
potential."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mr Inskip, who is also chairman of the Passenger Transport
Executive Group (Pteg) which represents the transport authorities
serving England's six biggest urban conurbations, said London's
transport system had quite rightly been transformed in recent years
by schemes such as the Oyster Card, London Overground, the
rebuilding of St Pancras Station and the overhaul of the tube.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>He said this transformation was vital given the importance of a
modern and efficient transport network to underpin London's
economic vigour and sustainable development.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>And he said plans for a high speed rail line between London and
Birmingham, the rebuilding of New Street Station and the go-ahead
to extend the Metro tram through Birmingham city centre showed that
investment in public transport was not confined to the capital.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But he warned: "These funding gap figures validate what people
can see with their own eyes - which is that in recent years
transport spending in London has been in a different league when
compared with the next tier of major cities.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We need to keep up the pace on investment of that scale if the
funding gap isn't to continue to grow in a divisive and
disproportionate way."</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
New analysis of Treasury public spending figures reveals that spending per head on transport in London is now triple the amount being spent in the West Midlands
17213
0
12
0
"All change as Bradford Place interchange gets 430,000 upgrade"
2011-07-08T00:00:00
2011-07-08T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Walsall will see major improvements at the
town's Bradford Place bus interchange as part of a 430,000
upgrade.</p>
<p>The interchange will have new bus shelters and enjoy improved
traffic flows as a result of the work being carried out by Centro,
the transport authority for the West Midlands, and Walsall
Council.</p>
<p>It starts on Sunday July 24, the day when a new bus network for
Wolverhampton and west Walsall comes into effect following a major
review of services in the area.</p>
<p>On that day Bradford Place will close to buses and temporary
stops introduced into nearby Bradford Street and Caldmore Road to
allow the work to be carried out.</p>
<p>It is scheduled to re-open in early September and will enjoy a
range of new features.</p>
<p>Centro will install modern glass shelters to make the area feel
lighter and brighter, and a new extra bus stop will be installed in
a works programme costing 160,000.</p>
<p>Centro and Walsall Council will work together to monitor and
control traffic flow in the area, reducing congestion to help buses
operate more reliably and provide a better environment for
residents, shoppers, businesses and bus users.</p>
<p>The work will also see Walsall Council carry out road
improvements worth 270,000 in the area.</p>
<p>Bridgeman Street will be resurfaced from the railway bridge
throughout Bradford Place and along Bradford Street to the junction
with Caldmore Road.</p>
<p>The pedestrian crossing outside The Saddlers centre will be
upgraded, with the road being raised in Newport Street near the
junction with Bradford Street, and a separate area will be provided
for taxi users featuring an improved pedestrian crossing.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: ""This project
between Centro and our partners at Walsall Council, along with the
new network provided through the recent review, will mean greatly
improved services for passengers.</p>
<p>""Bradford Place will be a safer, more pleasant environment,
make it quicker and easier for people to change between transport
services and provide a facility that will attract more people to
travel by bus.""</p>
<p>Councillor Tom Ansell, Walsall Council cabinet member for
transport, said: ""We've joined Centro to listen to the views of
bus passengers and we are looking to make a massive improvement to
the look, feel and layout of the Bradford Place bus
interchange.</p>
<p>""This will mean major re-surfacing, better links to the
Saddlers Centre and improvements for taxi users as part of a really
positive package.""</p>
<p>The <a href="/" target=""><strong>network review</strong></a>
saw Centro work in partnership with Walsall Council, Wolverhampton
City Council and bus operators Arriva Midlands, Central Connect,
Midland, and National Express West Midlands.</p>
<p>It included a major consultation and market research exercise
that saw public exhibitions and face to face interviews being held
across the area and consultation leaflets being delivered to more
than 100,000 homes.</p>
<p>The review has meant some service numbers, routes and timetables
will change from July 24, the same day that Wolverhampton's
state-of-the-art 22.5 million bus station opens.</p>
<p>An exhibition explaining the changes to Bradford Place and in
the network review will take place on the Network West Midlands
Exhibition Bus on Thursday 14<sup>th</sup> July in Park Street,
Walsall, from 1pm to 6pm.</p>
<p>More information on changes to bus services, Bradford Place and
Wolverhampton Bus Station is available at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
"Bus passengers in Walsall will see major improvements at the town's Bradford Place bus interchange as part of a 430,000 upgrade."
17213
0
12
0
£5 million boost for Birmingham to Stratford rail passengers
2011-07-06T00:00:00
2011-07-06T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A £9 million scheme to build a new rail station and increase
services on the Birmingham to Stratford line has taken a major step
forward after being awarded a £5 million Government grant.</p>
<p>The money, awarded as part of the Government's Local Sustainable
Transport Fund, follows a bid by Warwickshire County Council,
Centro and Network Rail to build a new Stratford Parkway Station on
the outskirts of the historic town.</p>
<p>As part of the project, Centro, which is the transport authority
for the West Midlands, has agreed to help fund extra train services
between Stratford and Birmingham, an important route for thousands
of Warwickshire people working in the Birmingham area and for
leisure travellers.</p>
<p>The county council is now working to secure the remaining £4
million funding for the Stratford-upon-Avon Local Sustainable
Transport Project which would see a new multi-million pound station
built next to the town's existing Park and Ride..</p>
<p>Centro's lead member for rail, Cllr Tom Ansell, said: "This new
station and the extra train services earmarked for the route is
fantastic news for commuters and that's why we are helping to fund
the project.</p>
<p>"More than 27 per cent of all daily commutes into Birmingham are
now made by train and that figure keeps rising as more people make
the switch from car. This project will help meet that rising demand
for train travel and tackle the road congestion which costs the
West Midlands economy more than £2.3 billion a year."</p>
<p>The bid won the support of rail users, potential passengers,
both Stratford District Council and Stratford Town Council,
Sustrans, the Shakespeare Line Promotion Group and Rail Future.</p>
<p>It is forecast that the project will attract 114,000 new rail
trips to the new station and the existing town station by
2024/2025. The extra revenue generated will help fund more trains
during weekdays, on Saturdays and provide a regular evening service
to both Stratford stations.</p>
<p>Cllr Peter Butlin, Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio
Holder for Highways and Transport, said: ""The project is great for
existing and new rail passengers. It will deliver economic growth
in a low carbon way and have a wider impact through sustainable
transport elements, particularly with extended hours for the park
and ride bus service and good cycling facilities."</p>
<p>People will be able to access the new Parkway station by
walking, cycling and public transport. It will also have
Stratford's first electric car charging point and a bike hire
scheme similar to London's popular 'Boris Bikes' initiative.</p>
<p>It is hoped that new evening and weekend services will start in
April 2012 and the weekday off-peak services will start when the
station opens in December 2013.</p>
<p>Transport Minister Norman Baker announced the funding as part of
a £155m Government package of national investment in transport
schemes, in which the Stratford project was one of 34 bids approved
in full from 73 submitted.</p>
<p>He said: "All the winning schemes have one thing in common -
they will help build strong local economies while addressing the
urgent challenge of climate change. We have empowered local
authorities to create packages of sustainable initiatives that are
tailored for their local areas. "</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A £9 million scheme to build a new rail station and increase services on the Birmingham to Stratford line has taken a major step forward after being awarded a £5 million Government grant.
17213
0
12
0
Transport chief says HS2 is the solution to railway capacity crunch
2011-07-05T00:00:00
2011-07-05T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>The West Midlands is facing a capacity crunch on its railways
and a new high-speed line is the best solution, according to
Centro's chief executive.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip was responding to Network Rail's West Coast Main
Line Route Utilisation Strategy (RUS), which predicts the West
Coast Main Line will be running at full capacity by 2024 as demand
continues to grow.</p>
<p>The West Midlands Rail Network is facing a similar crunch as
demand is expected to grow by 32% by 2019.</p>
<p>Network Rail's report concluded that a new high-speed line
between London, Birmingham and Manchester would free up much-needed
capacity on the existing rail network and could be the best
solution.</p>
<p>"It's important that people in the West Midlands realise that
transferring the principal Inter City services onto HS2 will give
us more capacity to provide the local and regional rail services
people really need," he said.</p>
<p>"If High Speed Rail does not go ahead we simply do not have
enough capacity in the West Midlands. This means we would be likely
to see less of the local and regional rail services we need as they
are squeezed out to provide more long distance services."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said capacity crunch problems could occur sooner than
predicted as future growth forecasts were lower than historical
trends.</p>
<p>Long distance rail travel has grown by 60% from the West
Midlands in the last decade. Forty million rail journeys per year
are made in the West Midlands and this is expected to grow by 32%
by 2019.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said the increased regional rail capacity HS2 would
deliver would provide many more local services and deliver huge
benefits for passengers and businesses across the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"Better local and regional services will allow our employers to
access a bigger pool of talent in the job market. They will also
make it easier for people in the West Midlands to get to work."</p>
<p>An independent report by KPMG concluded that HS2 alone would
deliver a £600m increase in economic output and 10,000 jobs to the
region, but when coupled with local and regional rail enhancements
the West Midlands economic output would increase by £1.5bn per year
creating 22,000 jobs.</p>
<p>Under plans drawn up by Centro HS2 would free up capacity on
existing lines so that stations such as Wolverhampton, Walsall,
Sandwell & Dudley and Coventry would get more rail
services.</p>
<p>Walsall would get new services to London, while Wolverhampton
would get seven services an hour to Birmingham International
(serving the Airport & NEC) rather than two. Coventry would
retain two direct Inter City services to London Euston via Milton
Keynes and get new direct services to Liverpool and Walsall,
together with an increase in local services to Leamington Spa.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said national freight volumes were expected to
increase by 54% by 2030, with around half of that traffic carried
on the West Coast Main Line.</p>
<p>"The increased capacity on our existing lines would allow rail
to carry more freight, helping to relieve congestion on our
region's roads," he said.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"The West Midlands is facing a capacity crunch on its railways and a new high-speed line is the best solution, according to Centro's chief executive."
17213
0
12
0
Bus passengers in line for £25 million improvements
2011-07-01T00:00:00
2011-07-01T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers across the region are in line for a raft of
improvements after a groundbreaking partnership between transport
authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands
(NXWM) was renewed and enhanced.</p>
<p>The agreement - Transforming Bus Travel 2 (TBT2) - will see the
two organisations working closely together to drive forward £25
million of improvements for passengers across the West Midlands
over the next two years.</p>
<p>The partnership was formally signed at the National Express
coach station in Digbeth, Birmingham by key representatives from
both sides including Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams and
National Express chief executive Dean Finch.</p>
<p>Commitments set out in the document include:</p>
<p>· The
introduction of more than 300 brand new, greener buses</p>
<p>· Improved
on-board cleanliness</p>
<p>· A Smartcard
system similar to London's Oyster Card</p>
<p>· Upgrades to
bus shelters and other waiting facilities including more Real Time
Information screens</p>
<p>· Specially
designed shelters and infrastructure in Birmingham city centre and
other major city/town centres</p>
<p>· New passenger
information systems including smart phone apps giving map
locations, real time information and timetables for individual bus
stops</p>
<p>Cllr Adams said: "Since the original Transforming Bus Travel was
signed just over two years ago we have been working hard to improve
the network for passengers.</p>
<p>"Yet this new agreement shows further real commitment and will
bring passengers even more benefits than they have seen
before."</p>
<p>Mr Finch added: "National Express West Midlands is
delighted to be renewing its partnership with Centro which
will build on major improvements to bus travel right
across the West Midlands delivering new greener buses, an
extension of the Smartcard system and the development of a
smartphone app.</p>
<p>"We are committed to working with Centro to deliver these
improvements and listening to our customers to make sure that we
are constantly working to make their journey better."</p>
<p>The agreement will see a joint Transforming Bus Travel taskforce
press ahead with further reviews of local bus networks, building on
the success achieved by recent reviews carried out by Centro and
NXWM in East Birmingham and North Solihull, North Walsall and South
Birmingham.</p>
<p>The new networks have involved modernising routes and improving
timetables so they are more relevant to existing and potential
passengers.</p>
<p>The taskforce will also drive forward other quality
improvements, such as enhanced driver training, in order to
maximise the potential for bus as an attractive journey option.</p>
<p>Joint marketing and promotion of specific routes and ticket
offers will also be implemented.</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, Centro's vice chairman and lead member for bus,
said: """It's important for passengers to realise that Centro is
working closely on their behalf with NXWM and other private bus
companies to bring about improvements on all sides. I'm especially
excited about the prospects for moving forward on smartcard
ticketing.""</p>
<p>Other commitments in the partnership agreement include the
introduction of 18 hybrid buses in Birmingham, five new bus washing
facilities and action to reduce bus window etching.</p>
<p> As the region's biggest bus operator, the partnership
agreement is initially with NXWM but Centro is keen to get other
companies across the region also on board.</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Getting onboard. National Express
chief executive Dean Finch (left) and Centro chairman Cllr Angus
Adams sign the agreement bringing £25 million of improvements to
the region's bus network.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers across the region are in line for a raft of improvements after a groundbreaking partnership between Centro and National Express West Midlands was renewed and enhanced.
17213
TBT.jpg
0
12
0
Families snap up chance to beat soaring petrol prices
2011-07-01T00:00:00
2011-07-01T00:00:00
17213
The Pershore Road Travel Choices project launches
<p>"</p>
<p>More than�3,000�homes along one of South Birmingham's busiest
roads have signed up for free customised travel advice to get
leaner and greener and beat soaring petrol prices in the
process.</p>
<p>Expert travel advisers�have spent the last seven weeks
visiting�more than 9,000�homes�near the Pershore Road to tell
families how they can take advantage of the full range of travel
options on their doorstep.</p>
<p>The house calls are part of the £500,000 Pershore Road Travel
Choices project aimed at cutting congestion along the route which
passes through key suburbs such as Kings Norton, Cotteridge,
Stirchley, and Edgbaston.</p>
<p>Of those visited, no less than one in three have snapped up the
opportunity to sit down with project staff and receive free
personalised travel advice showing exactly how residents can get
from their own front door to their destination without having to
jump in the car.�</p>
<p>Dozens more have taken advantage of the scheme's free bicycle
maintenance offer where trained mechanics visit homes to give
residents' bikes a full check over.</p>
<p>The project, led by transport authority Centro in partnership
with Birmingham City Council,�has involved�14 travel advisers
providing�a wealth of information and advice about greener,
healthier travel options.</p>
<p>Helen Osborn, Centro's project manager for the Pershore Road
Travel Choices project, said the individual travel plans, designed
to� encourage residents to switch to local bus and rail services
and to make more local trips on foot or bike, had been well
received by residents.</p>
<p>""We've had a fantastic response from people who have been quick
to recognise the benefits of getting expert help in making
the�switch to cheaper, healthier and more environmentally friendly
ways of travelling,"" she said.</p>
<p>""I think the cost of petrol and the frustration of getting
caught in traffic jams may be part of the reason why people have
been so enthusiastic. A lot of other people also want to do their
part for the environment or simply lose a bit of weight and get
fit.""</p>
<p>The�team of Travel Advisers are set to visit a further 7,000
homes in the between now and the end of the month (July) to discuss
the travel options that may be available.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The wider Pershore Road Travel Choices Project is set to run
until March next year and will involve working with families,
schools, businesses and community groups to help them make the
switch away from the car.</p>
<p>By reducing the number of cars on the Pershore Road, the project
aims to cut congestion and pollution while improving the health and
finances of local residents.</p>
<p>Similar projects elsewhere �in the UK have proved effective,
with typical reductions in car travel of between five and 15 per
cent.</p>
<p>Centro and the city council will closely monitor the Pershore
Road Travel Choices project to see how travel behaviour changes
over the coming months. If successful, similar projects could be
launched in other parts of the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Residents wanting further information�on the Pershore Road
Travel Choices project can contact the travel advisers on Tel: 0121
214 7184 or by e-mail: <a
href="/">travelchoices@centro.org.uk</a></p>
<p><strong>Picture caption</strong>; <strong>Wheel-y great. Centro
bike mechanics Emma Beech and Dave Sudgen (kneeling) provide some
free bike maintenance to householder John Veal</strong></p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
"More than 3,000 homes along one of South Birmingham's busiest roads have signed up for free customised travel advice to get leaner and greener and beat soaring petrol prices in the process."
17213
Image1.jpg
0
12
0
Tower demolition marks the latest phase in New Street regeneration
2011-06-30T00:00:00
2011-06-30T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A major step towards the regeneration of the south side of
Birmingham is underway, as work starts to demolish the city's
Stephenson Tower.</p>
<p>The site is the chosen home for the 250,000sq ft John Lewis
department store, scheduled to open in 2014, prior to the
redeveloped New Street station in 2015.</p>
<p>On hand to officially commence the start of works were Mike
Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council and Councillor Tom
Ansell, lead member for rail on transport authority Centro.</p>
<p> Cllr Ansell said: ""The demolition of the tower is a very
visual reminder of how we are forging ahead in the construction of
a station that passengers and the region as a whole can be proud
of."</p>
<p>Cllr Whitby added: "Demolishing Stephenson Tower signifies the
start of £100m worth of investment to redevelop the south side of
Birmingham. With John Lewis directly creating over 650 new jobs for
local people and New Street offering a world class station for our
region, the future of Birmingham looks bright."</p>
<p>"After several years of planning and attracting investment into
the city through the Big City Plan, this event, alongside ongoing
progress with the Library of Birmingham and start of works this
summer in Eastside, really marks the beginning of a period of
delivery which will bring real jobs, investment and improvements to
the city."</p>
<p>More than 7,000 tonnes of concrete will be removed between now
and early next year when demolition completes and around 95% of
material from the project will be recycled. Situated in the heart
of the city and next to the operating railway station, demolishing
the 200ft high tower will be no easy task. Throughout demolition,
the level of disruption will be kept to a minimum as work will
start from the top down, one floor at a time from within the
scaffold wrap encapsulating the tower.</p>
<p>Andrew Skidmore, programme sponsor for Network Rail said: "Once
complete, the redevelopment of New Street station will transform
the centre of Birmingham, providing a transport hub fit for the
21<sup>st</sup> Century and offering a wealth of further
opportunities through our partnership with Birmingham City Council.
This work really kick starts the excitement of what we have to
come."</p>
<p>To allow demolition to continue safely, the stairs linking
Queens Drive to Station Street will close on Saturday 2 July. This
will be followed by the closure of Queens Drive to pedestrians on 1
August. Alternative routes will be signposted.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"A major step towards the regeneration of the south side of Birmingham is underway, as work starts to demolish the city's Stephenson Tower."
17213
0
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0
Your Public Transport Matters roadshow to visit Dudley
2011-06-29T00:00:00
2011-06-29T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>People who visit, live or work in Dudley can have their say on
public transport in the borough by talking to the experts.</p>
<p>"Your Public Transport Matters" gives the travelling public the
chance to talk directly with Network West Midlands - the region's
integrated bus, rail and tram system.</p>
<p>Representatives from bus, rail and tram operators that
run public transport services in the region will be on hand to talk
to people visiting the Centro exhibition bus when it parks
up at Market Place in Dudley between 10am and 3pm on July
13th. </p>
<p>The event has been organised by Centro, the West Midlands'
integrated transport authority. Feedback from the event will be
looked at closely by transport bosses and used to make improvements
to the local bus, tram and rail network.</p>
<p>Similar events are planned for Birmingham, Sandwell,
Wolverhampton and Walsall over the summer and autumn.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Customer Relations Team Leader at Centro, said:
"We want to provide people with a public transport system that
provides a real alternative to the car, to do that we need to make
sure we provide the services they need and want. </p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity to really understand the needs of the passenger and
non-public transport user and we will be working with the transport
operators to feed their views into Network West Midlands. We
look forward to hearing people's views, particularly about how we
can make connections between different services easier, quicker and
more convenient." </p>
<p>"Public transport is a lifeline for so many people
in Solihull so it is essential we find out and understand
their views.</p>
<p>"We want to get the best deal for passengers and will be urging
bus and rail operators to listen very carefully to what passengers
say."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People who visit, live or work in Dudley can have their say on public transport in the borough by talking to the experts."
17213
0
12
0
A fresh way forward for bus services in Wolverhampton and west Walsall
2011-06-28T00:00:00
2011-06-28T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Wolverhampton and west Walsall will enjoy enhanced and
updated bus services at the end of July following a major
review.</p>
<p>A more localised network, cleaner and more modern buses, four
cross city services that will improve access to Wolverhampton city
centre and, for the first time, an express service between Cannock
and Birmingham are just some of the improvements being
introduced.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, has worked in partnership with Wolverhampton City
Council, Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council and bus operators
Arriva Midlands, Central Connect, Midland, and National Express
West Midlands to conduct the comprehensive overhaul, which will see
some service numbers, routes and timetables change.</p>
<p>It included a consultation and market research exercise that saw
public exhibitions and face to face interviews being held across
the area and consultation leaflets being delivered to more than
100,000 homes.</p>
<p>The changes come into effect on Sunday July 24<sup>th</sup>, the
same time as Wolverhampton's new state-of-the-art £22.5 million bus
station opens and improvements to Walsall's Bradford Place
interchange begin.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "We
believe we have delivered a bus network that provides connectivity
relevant to people's lives and jobs in the 21<sup>st</sup>
century.</p>
<p>"More than 1,400 people told us the improvements they wanted
which included good access across city and town centres, and buses
that run reliably with services at frequent intervals.</p>
<p>"We asked people what they wanted; we have listened and worked
with our partners to act upon those wishes."</p>
<p>The new services and improvements include:</p>
<ul>
<li>New cross city routes in Wolverhampton to provide better access
in the city centre and link key shopping areas</li>
<li>The X31 express service from Cannock to Birmingham via New
Invention, Short Heath and Willenhall</li>
<li>Major re-numbering services to provide an easier to understand,
localised network</li>
<li>New links to New Cross Hospital for Ashmore Park, Coppice Farm,
New Invention, Priestfield, Stow Heath, The Scotlands, Three Tuns,
Willenhall, Wobaston and Wood End</li>
<li>New links to Walsall Manor Hospital for Darlaston, Kings Hill,
Pleck Road and Wednesbury</li>
<li>Improved links between Wolverhampton and Walsall via Bilston
and between Wolverhampton and Merry Hill</li>
<li>A new shopper service for Goldthorn Park and a new service for
Kings Hill.</li>
</ul>
<p>Bus companies Midland and National Express West Midlands are
also working together to operate a joint timetable on the No10
service between Wolverhampton and Perton.</p>
<p>Formerly the 510, it will give a more co-ordinated service
frequency and more buses during peak times.</p>
<p>The new network will be supported by a partnership agreement
between all the partners to invest in the bus network, including
new vehicles, cleaning and monitoring of services, new
infrastructure and Real Time Information, and better signage.</p>
<p>All homes in Wolverhampton and west Walsall will be receiving a
leaflet outlining the changes, and in the run-up to July 24th some
service numbers and timetables will change at bus stops and
shelters in key centres across the network.</p>
<p>People can also find out more details at <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></strong>
or by attending one of a series of exhibitions where timetable
leaflets will be available and representatives will be on hand to
answer questions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thursday 14<sup>th</sup> July , 1pm to 6pm - Network West
Midlands (NWM) Exhibition Bus in Park Street, Walsall</li>
<li>Friday 15<sup>th</sup> July, 9.30pm to 3pm - NWM bus, car park
of Leys Hall Centre, New Street/The Leys, Darlaston</li>
<li>Saturday 16<sup>th</sup> July - 9am to 3pm - NWM bus, Queen
Square, Wolverhampton city centre</li>
<li>Monday 18<sup>th</sup> July, 9.30am-1.30pm - NWM bus in lay-by
at Morrison's, Blaydon Road/Whitburn Close, Pendeford,
Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Monday 18<sup>th</sup> July, 3pm to 7pm - NWM bus in ALDI car
park, Goldthorn Hill Road, Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Tuesday, 19<sup>th</sup> July, 9.30pm to 3pm - Market stall at
Wednesfield Market, High Street</li>
<li>Wednesday 20th July, 10am to 4pm - Static indoor exhibition at
Bilston bus station</li>
<li>Thursday 21<sup>st</sup> July, 9am to 3pm - NWM bus outside
Whitmore Reans library, Evans Street, Whitmore Reans,
Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Friday 22<sup>nd</sup> July, 9.30am to 3pm - Market stall at
Willenhall Market, Willenhall</li>
<li>Saturday 23<sup>rd</sup> July, 9am to 3pm - NWM bus, Queen
Square, Wolverhampton city centre</li>
</ul>
<p>Councillor Adams said: "I would encourage people to attend these
exhibitions to find out more about how the changes are going to
affect them.</p>
<p>"Working with our partners I am confident the bus network will
provide better access to the area's facilities and makes it quick
and easy for people to change between transport services. The aim
of this review is to provide a service that will attract more
people to travel by bus. Since a similar scheme was introduced last
year passenger numbers have increased and we hope to see the same
from this review."</p>
<p>"</p>
People in Wolverhampton and west Walsall will enjoy enhanced and updated bus services at the end of July following a major review.
17213
0
12
0
Opening date announced for Wolverhampton's new bus station
2011-06-24T00:00:00
2011-06-24T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Wolverhampton's new multi-million pound bus station will open to
passengers on Sunday July 24, transport authority Centro revealed
today.</p>
<p>The opening will coincide with the first day of a new modernised
bus network for Wolverhampton and west Walsall which will see
improvements to routes and the way services are numbered.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "We're delighted to
announce that the new station will open on time and on budget on
July 24.</p>
<p>"It's great news as it will not only provide passengers with a
top quality bus station but will also give a really positive
impression of Wolverhampton to people arriving in the city.</p>
<p>"We would also like to thank the people of Wolverhampton for the
patience they have shown during the building of the station and I'm
confident that once opened they will agree that it was worth the
wait."</p>
<p>Councillor Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet
Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity, said: ""The bus
station is a new landmark for Wolverhampton and will provide a
great welcome to visitors to our city. The finished building is a
fantastic, state-of-the-art facility fit for the 21st
century.""</p>
<p>Centro is now busy kitting out the station ready for the opening
date which will also mark the launch of the new bus network.
Centro, bus operators and Wolverhampton City Council are in the
process of finalising the new-look network and full details of the
improvements are due to be announced next week.</p>
<p>The network review aims to build on the already strong transport
network in the area to provide services that better match modern
travel patterns while also bringing improved buses, waiting
facilities and information</p>
<p>Alongside finishing off the station, Centro has been busy taking
special interest groups around the facility and using their
feedback to help make final tweaks and improvements.</p>
<p>This week, four hearing impaired youngsters from the Deaf
Resource Centre at Deansfield Community School in Wolverhampton
were invited to tour and test the station. Amongst their requests
for hearing impaired people was the possibility of a sign-language
video to be shown on the station's interactive screens
giving useful advice and information about using the new facility.
Centro is now working on producing the video.</p>
<p>Mrs Sue Brown, Head of Deaf Resource Space at the school, said:
"The bus station looks impressive and the students thoroughly
enjoyed their visit. It's great that Centro are taking on board
some of their ideas of improved access to make the bus station work
well for everyone."</p>
<p>Meanwhile contractor BAM is continuing to work on the highway
infrastructure which will allow more than 1,800 buses a day to
access the new station.</p>
<p>The fabric of the building was completed last month by Neptune
Developments and BAM and features a stylish glass entrance, 19 bus
stands, three glass-enclosed waiting areas, electronic information
screens and safety and security features including CCTV and
help-points.<br />
<br />
Safety will be further enhanced by having no pedestrian crossings
within the bus station. Instead passengers will access their bus
stand via covered pedestrian walkways equipped with glass doors
that automatically open when the vehicle arrives.</p>
<p>The new facility, together with a pedestrian footbridge linking
it with the railway station, forms part of the £22.5 million Phase
One of the Wolverhampton Interchange project which has an estimated
value of £170 million. Advantage West Midlands contributed
£9.6 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF)
Programme.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Wolverhampton's new multi-million pound bus station will open to passengers on Sunday July 24, transport authority Centro revealed today."
17213
0
12
0
Enhanced regional rail capacity will double the economic benefits of HS2 in the West Midlands
2011-06-23T00:00:00
2011-06-23T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>The increase in rail capacity and economic benefits released by
building a High Speed Rail network would be felt right across the
West Midlands, says transport chief.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, said an independent
survey by KPMG concluded that HS2 would bring 22,000 jobs to the
West Midlands and an increase in economic output worth £1.5bn per
year.</p>
<p>"High Speed Rail would release rail capacity and bring jobs
right across the region, so it's important people do not gain the
false impression that the benefits are focused on major cities
alone," he said.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip was responding to the review of the Government's Case
for a High Speed Rail programme, which was prepared for the
Transport Select Committee.</p>
<p>The report, by Oxera, states that cities such as Birmingham,
Manchester and London, and their surrounding areas were set to
benefit most. It does not define the surrounding areas.</p>
<p>When considering the economic effect of HS2 on towns and cities
across the UK the report states that 'precise impacts' would depend
on 'the reallocation of conventional services on the West Coast
Main Line and elsewhere.'</p>
<p>Mr Inskip agreed that the allocation of new services across the
West Midlands - due to increased capacity unlocked by the HS2
network - would be vital to the region's future prosperity.</p>
<p>The KPMG report concluded that HS2 alone would bring 10,000 jobs
to the West Midlands and an increase in economic output of £600m.
But, combined with regional and local rail enhancements, the West
Midlands would benefit from 22,000 jobs and an increase in economic
output worth £1.5bn per year.</p>
<p>"We welcome the fact that the report recognises just how
important the allocation of these new regional services will be,"
Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"Growth of 35% is forecast on the West Coast Main Line between
Birmingham and London by 2020, so we must release capacity on our
increasingly crowded rail network.</p>
<p>"We need a local and regional rail network that allows our
businesses not just to compete, but to thrive both nationally and
internationally. Only HS2 can deliver this level of capacity."</p>
<p>Under Centro proposals stations including Wolverhampton,
Coventry, Walsall and Sandwell & Dudley would receive new
services.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"The increase in rail capacity and economic benefits released by building a High Speed Rail network would be felt right across the West Midlands, says transport chief."
17213
0
12
0
Centro offering summer savings on family days out
2011-06-23T00:00:00
2011-06-23T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Hassled parents struggling to plan fun activities for their kids
over the school summer holidays are being offered cut price
admission into some of the region's best attractions - if they go
there by public transport.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has teamed up with
seven top destinations to help beat the boredom for youngsters over
the long break.</p>
<p>Families travelling by bus,train or Metro using 'n'network
daytripper or 'n'bus one day tickets can save pounds whilst also
avoiding the hassle and expense of driving and parking.</p>
<p>Centro is offering discounts on entry to the Black Country
Living Museum, Cadbury World, the National SEA LIFE Centre, Dudley
Zoological Gardens, Thinktank, IMAX Cinema and the Light House
Cinema.</p>
<p>Up to two adults and four children can travel on a family
network daytripper for just £9.20 and this will entitle them to a
range of savings on the admission price to the various venues.</p>
<p>Two adults and three children travelling on the bus, train or
Metro to Cadbury World would, for example, pay £35 for their entry.
This compares to the normal admission price of £50, a saving of £15
for a family of five.</p>
<p>Families who would otherwise drive can save even more money by
avoiding the additional cost of petrol or parking charges.</p>
<p>Centro Marketing Executive, Rinku Banerjee, said: "Over the
summer holidays parents often find it difficult to come up with
ways to keep their children entertained.</p>
<p>"These deals give families the opportunity to have a fun day out
without the stress of driving or sitting in frustrating traffic
jams or having to find and pay for parking and best of all they'll
save money in the process."</p>
<p>Parents wanting to keep their children entertained at home, can
check out Centro's Letzgogreen website at <a
href="/">www.letzgogreen.org</a> where children can find out about
public transport through interactive stories, games and
puzzles.</p>
<p>"Our children are the next generation of commuters so it's a
great way to introduce them to the benefits of travelling in an
environmentally friendly way." added Rinku.</p>
<p>"Besides which, going by train, bus or Metro, is often part of
the fun for many children."</p>
<p>For more information, and to download the vouchers visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/summer</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Hassled parents struggling to plan fun activities for their kids over the school summer holidays are being offered cut price admission into some of the region's best attractions.
17213
0
12
0
Congestion surveys strengthens the argument for public transport
2011-06-22T00:00:00
2011-06-22T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Families have been urged to make greater use of the region's
public transport network after a survey revealed that Birmingham is
now more congested than the notorious traffic hotspots of Rome
and Naples.</p>
<p>Birmingham is the 15<sup>th</sup> most congested city in Europe,
and is one of 16 UK cities in the European top 50, according to the
survey by satnav giants TomTom.</p>
<p>The survey comes hard on the heels of Department for Transport
figures which show that congestion in the West Midlands is now so
bad that the average traffic speed is less than 20mph.</p>
<p>Alex Burrows, head of strategy at Centro, the region's transport
authority, said the surveys showed that congestion, coupled with
soaring fuel costs, could be best combated by using public
transport.</p>
<p>"Surveys such as this show that the old way of thinking - just
hopping in the car no matter how short the journey - needs to
change," he said.</p>
<p>"Congestion in the West Midlands costs the regional economy £2.3
billion a year, but much can be done to tackle this if people
switch to alternative means such as public transport, cycling and
walking.</p>
<p>"Plus, with rising petrol prices there's never been a better
time for people to leave the car at home and make the switch. They
will also help cut pollution and carbon and improve their
fitness."</p>
<p>Birmingham was joined by Oxford, Belfast and Bradford in the
TomTom survey top 20.</p>
<p>London had the worst congestion in Britain, with just under 35
per cent of the capital's roads regularly suffering jams despite
the congestion charge.</p>
<p>It was third overall in Europe behind Brussels, which came top,
then Warsaw.</p>
<p>The Department for Transport figures found that in the Midlands
Wolverhampton was the most affected by congestion, where motorists
averaged a speed of 16.9mph to cover one mile, against the national
average of 26.1mph.</p>
<p>This was followed by Sandwell at 17.2mph, then Birmingham
(17.3mph), Walsall (19.1mph) and Dudley (18mph).</p>
<p>The best rates were recorded in Solihull (29.5mph) and Coventry
(24.7mph), but in all areas traffic is slower than it was six
months ago.</p>
<p>In April, Centro unveiled its Local Transport Plan - a 15 year
blueprint to improve public transport and tackle congestion across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The plan, drawn up in partnership with the seven West Midlands
metropolitan councils, includes dealing with congestion on the road
and motorway network, tackling social exclusion in rural areas
where dependence of the car is high, improving accessibility to
housing and employment areas and improving connections with rapid
transit schemes such as the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Other measures include enhanced walking and cycling
networks.</p>
<p>Alex Burrows said the giant strides being made in improving
public transport and connectivity in the West Midlands meant there
was a viable alternative to the private car for short journeys.</p>
<p>He said: "The schemes being put forward by Centro are about
providing better road and rail connections so it is easier for
people to access jobs, education health and leisure
opportunities</p>
<p>"There is still a long way to go but encouraging people to think
of alternative forms of transport to the car means a reduction in
congestion and pollution, which in turn improves the quality of
life for people by supporting and enabling economic growth and the
creation of new jobs."</p>
<p>"</p>
Families are urged to make greater use of the region's public transport network after a survey revealed that Birmingham is now more congested than the notorious traffic hotspots of Rome and Naples.
17213
0
12
0
Let there be light
2011-06-21T00:00:00
2011-06-21T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Engineers rebuilding Birmingham New Street station started
work this week to deliver something that the station has not
enjoyed for over 40 years: natural daylight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As high as eight double decker buses, the atrium will form the
centrepiece of the new station and the first stages of the job will
be undertaken by Birmingham based contractors Coleman &
Co. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Chris Montgomery, project director for Network Rail said:
"The stunning new atrium will be the focal point of the
redeveloped New Street which will transform the experience for the
thousands of passengers who rely on the station every day.
We're working hard to minimise disruption during construction and
while our engineers work behind the scenes, the station will remain
open for train services as normal."</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council,
added: ""It's excellent to see work get underway on the
stunning centrepiece at the heart of the new New Street. The new
atrium will become a focal point not only for the station but for
the city as well - providing a new meeting place and connecting the
city with a rejuvenated south side""</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Pallasades Shopping Centre will also remain open throughout
the construction works.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jonathan Cheetham, general manager of the Pallasades said: "The
construction of the hoarding marks a very exciting and significant
milestone in the regeneration of The Pallasades and New
Street station.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"The shops situated in the central core which are affected by
the hoarding work have now moved to alternative units in the
shopping centre and I'd like to reassure shoppers that they can
still find great value at The Pallasades as all our retailers will
remain open during the redevelopment."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hoardings are being erected around the old retail units in the
centre of the shopping centre. Coleman & Co will
then start the process of removing around 20,000 tonnes of concrete
and dismantling the roof on the top of the building. This
will create the huge space to form the new station atrium.
Construction of the steelwork which will form the atrium roof will
start later this year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>At 3,300 square metres, the new atrium will cover an area 13
times the size of the centre court at Wimbledon.
Lightweight, self cleaning ETFE will be used instead of glass
in the roof structure. The atrium will open alongside a
completed New Street station in 2015.</p>
<p><br />
</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Engineers rebuilding Birmingham New Street station started work this week to deliver something that the station has not enjoyed for over 40 years: natural daylight.
17213
NewStreet003.jpg
0
12
0
Your Public Transport Matters roadshow visits Solihull
2011-06-10T00:00:00
2011-06-10T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>People who visit, live or work in Solihull can have their say on
public transport in the area by talking to the experts.</p>
<p>"Your Public Transport Matters" gives the travelling public the
chance to talk directly with Network West Midlands - the region's
integrated bus, rail and tram system .</p>
<p>Representatives from bus, rail and tram
operators that run public transport services in the region
will be on hand to talk to people visiting the Centro
exhibition bus when it parks up at Mell Square between
10am and 3pm on June 28. </p>
<p>The event has been organised by Centro, the West Midlands'
integrated transport authority. Feedback from the event will be
looked at closely by transport bosses and used to make improvements
to the local bus, tram and rail network.</p>
<p>Similar events are planned for Dudley, Birmingham, Sandwell,
Wolverhampton and Walsall over the summer and autumn.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Customer Relations Team Leader at Centro, said:
"We want to provide people with a public transport system that
provides a real alternative to the car, to do that we need to make
sure we provide the services they need and want. </p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity to really understand the needs of the passenger and
non-public transport user and we will be working with the transport
operators to feed their views into Network West Midlands. We
look forward to hearing people's views, particularly about how we
can make connections between different services easier, quicker and
more convenient." </p>
<p>"Public transport is a lifeline for so many people
in Solihull so it is essential we find out and
understand their views. </p>
<p>"We want to get the best deal for passengers and will be urging
bus and rail operators to listen very carefully to what passengers
say."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"People who visit, live or work in Solihull can have their say on public transport in the area by talking to the experts."
17213
0
12
0
Height detection warning system installed at Great Bridge Road bridge
2011-06-01T00:00:00
2011-06-01T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A solution to the long-running problem of a notorious bridge in
the Black Country hit by vehicles too tall to fit underneath has
been found.</p>
<p>A Height Detection Warning System has been installed at the
bridge in Great Bridge Road, Sandwell, which is used by the Midland
Metro.</p>
<p>The 13ft bridge has been the subject of a number of minor
collisions or vehicles getting stuck underneath since the Metro
opened in 1999 - in the last five years there have been 19
incidents, despite warning signs being erected.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's integrated transport authority, has now
teamed up with Sandwell Council to share the cost of installing the
£52,000 warning system.</p>
<p>It uses an infra red beam, which crosses the highway on the
approaches either side of the bridge, which if broken by an over
height vehicle triggers a flashing display advising the driver that
the vehicle is too high and to turn back.</p>
<p>A similar system owned by Sandwell Highways Authority is already
in operation at Sandwell and Dudley railway station bridge and has
proven successful in reducing the number of incidents.</p>
<p>Centro spokesman Mark Langford said: "Something had to be done
because although, to date, there have been no injuries it remains a
possibility if action is not taken.</p>
<p>"Also, the impact on operations including downtime and imposed
temporary speed limits as a result of the strikes creates severe
disruption to passenger services. They have also been a source of
considerable annoyance to local residents and motorists who have to
put up with disruption to traffic.</p>
<p>"We are delighted that with the help of Sandwell Council we are
now able to install a warning system which we are confident will
deal with the problem."</p>
<p>Sandwell Council's cabinet member for neighbourhood services
Councillor Derek Rowley said: ""This has been a long-running
problem for traffic in Prince's End with an average of more than
three accidents a year there.</p>
<p>""I am delighted to have worked alongside our partner Centro to
improve this situation.""</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: The height detection system installed
at Great Bridge Road.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
A solution to the long-running problem of a notorious bridge in the Black Country hit by vehicles too tall to fit underneath has been found.
17213
GreatbridgeRoadportrait2.jpg
0
12
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Dudley Residents get Wellington Road service as 205 is re-routed
2011-05-31T00:00:00
2011-05-31T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Dudley residents have cause for celebration after National
Express and Centro answered calls from a local MP to provide bus
connections to a busy town street for the first time in three
years.</p>
<p>No service has directly served Wellington Road since April 2008
leaving many people with a steep uphill walk to access a popular
Sikh temple and other facilities.</p>
<p>However Dudley North MP, Ian Austin, contacted transport
authority Centro and after consultation with bus operator National
Express and residents, it was agreed to reroute the existing 205
bus. </p>
<p>The service will now run along Wellington Road, providing links
to the Cultural Centre and Dudley Leisure Centre, as well as the
temple.</p>
<p>Mr Austin said: "It is excellent news that National Express and
Centro were able to work together to provide this service for the
people of Dudley.</p>
<p>"It had been brought to my attention by residents that the
amenities on Wellington Road were difficult to access and I was
keen for this issue to be addressed.</p>
<p>"Both Centro and National Express were quick to help and the
changes to this service will go some way towards solving this
problem, as well as providing passengers with a faster route into
Dudley town centre."</p>
<p>The new 205 route will run from June 5 with buses leaving half
hourly during the day and hourly in the evenings.</p>
<p>The service will link to Wellington Road via Russells Hall Road
and continue into the town centre.</p>
<p>A National Express spokesman said: ""We are pleased to have been
able to work with Ian Austin MP and Centro to reroute this service
and provide the local community with even better access to our
services.""</p>
<p>The news comes after a survey revealed almost one in four Dudley
bus users would like more convenient bus stops.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "We are delighted that
National Express were willing to change the route to meet the needs
of the community. </p>
<p>"Many people rely on public transport for their daily routines
and it is great to see bus operators, members of parliament and
ourselves all working together to provide a better service for
residents."</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: (left to right) Centro chief
executive Geoff Inskip, Dudley North MP Ian Austin, Raj
Mishra of National Express, Dudley Councillor Khurshid
Ahmed and Nacttar Singh from the temple.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Dudley residents have cause for celebration after National Express and Centro answered calls from a local MP to provide bus connections to a busy town street for the first time in three years.
17213
205bus.jpg
0
12
0
Centro calling for crack down on metal thieves
2011-05-27T00:00:00
2011-05-27T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro is spearheading calls for a change in the law to help
thwart thieves stripping metal from the nation's rail network.</p>
<p>The region's transport authority is now asking for the support
of local authorities around the UK in calling on the Government to
crackdown on unscrupulous scrap yards who buy the stolen metal.</p>
<p>The call follows a number of high profile incidents which have
seen thieves bring parts of the rail network to a standstill after
stealing track-side components.</p>
<p>In the West Midlands the thefts have led to service delays of
2,163 hours (90 days) over the past three years and cost Network
Rail nearly £3.25m in compensation over the same period.</p>
<p>Integrated transport authority member Councillor Roger Horton is
leading the calls for change and said it was a minority who were
causing chaos for the majority.</p>
<p>He said: "It is an accident waiting to happen and I am surprised
we haven't seen a major accident already. As long as these thieves
have an avenue to sell the metal they will continue to do so and
they need to be stopped.</p>
<p>"It doesn't just affect us at the transport authority. It
affects everyone, churches, houses and businesses and something
needs to be done."</p>
<p>Centro are backing guidelines set out by the British Metal
Recycling Association (BMRA) and Association of Chief Police
Officers which form part of a voluntary code of practice for
recycling facilities.</p>
<p>These guidelines highlight the need for more stringent checks on
people recycling metal, requiring them to give their names,
addresses and provide identification before any payment is
made.</p>
<p>They also call for the introduction of CCTV footage which should
be kept for four weeks, and any suspicious people or transactions
to be reported to British Transport Police.</p>
<p>Inspector Lee Gordon, of British Transport Police (BTP), said
cracking down on thieves raiding rail networks across the country
remained one of the Force's biggest priorities. </p>
<p>He said: "We need the powers to tackle the heart of this problem
effectively, allowing us to shut down dealers who continue to flout
the law and provide a market for thieves through buying and selling
stolen metal.</p>
<p>"There is a common assumption that cable theft is a victimless
crime, with the only effects being felt by the railway industry.
This is not the case.</p>
<p>"Delays caused by thieves have a considerable impact on the
lives of people who rely on the railway to go about their business
and can result in people missing vital appointments."</p>
<p>Figures released by Network Rail earlier this month showed
incidents of metal theft from the West Midlands rail network had
increased by more than a third over the past two years.</p>
<p>Nationally the problem increased 52 per cent last year,
averaging more than six attacks every day.</p>
<p>Jo Kaye, route director at Network Rail, said: "These criminal
acts have to stop. Every day passengers and essential freight
deliveries upon which our economy relies are being delayed by
thieves looking to make a quick buck at our expense."</p>
<p>Centro have submitted their calls for legislation reform to the
Local Government Association as part of the bid for a change in
legislation.</p>
<p>Anyone with information about cable theft from the railways
should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or
Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro is spearheading calls for a change in the law to help thwart thieves stripping metal from the nation's rail network.
17213
0
12
0
Centro celebrates twin triumph at awards
2011-05-26T00:00:00
2011-05-26T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro was celebrating after scooping a double success at two
separate awards ceremonies.</p>
<p>Alex Burrows, head of strategy at the integrated transport
authority, won the Communications category at the Birmingham Young
Professional of the Year awards in a glitzy ceremony at the
International Convention Centre in Birmingham.</p>
<p>On the same night Centro and its partners Coventry City Council
and National Express won Best Partnership category in the
Institution of Civil Engineers awards, also held at the ICC.</p>
<p>The award was for their collaboration in delivering the
inaugural West Midlands Smart Routes scheme on the Number 13 bus
route in Coventry.</p>
<p>Alex, aged 32, is responsible for establishing Centro's lobbying
function alongside developing the strategic direction for
integrated transport across the West Midlands metropolitan
area.</p>
<p>He has worked across the transport, betting and wine and spirits
sectors, led the team that secured the funding for the Midland
Metro City Centre extension and is currently championing the High
Speed 2 rail development programme.</p>
<p>Alex was up against Mark Chambers, regional director of the
Central Office of Information, and Tara Tomes, consumer media
relations manager at the NEC group.</p>
<p>He said: "I am very flattered to have won the Communications
BYPY category, it's a great honour considering the quality of the
competition from Mark and Tara at these very prestigious
awards.<br />
<br />
"However it wouldn't have been possible without the hard work and
support of my colleagues at Centro and this award is as much for
them as it is for me."</p>
<p>The Smart Routes programme was a £2.3 million scheme delivered
within budget and on time to improve services on the No 13 route
between Coventry city centre and the Holbrooks area.</p>
<p>It began operating in March and uses a co-ordinated approach to
providing better facilities and faster services for bus passengers,
enhanced traffic flow for motorists and an improved urban
environment for people living in and visiting the area.</p>
<p>The No 13 scheme has seen parking bays, bus lanes, traffic light
priority and junction improvements installed along the route
between Coventry city centre to Holbrooks via Jubilee Crescent.</p>
<p>Councillor Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for City Development at
Coventry City Council said: ""I am delighted that we have won the
partnership award. </p>
<p>"People expect us to work well with our partners and of course
we do, as it ensures we get maximum benefit for local people.
It's very encouraging for us and our officers to be recognised for
the hard work on the city centre to Holbrook's bus route.""</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is fabulous news
for all concerned and my warmest congratulations go to Alex and
everyone connected with the Smart Routes project."</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Alex Burrows celebrates with his
award.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Centro is celebrating after scooping a double success at two separate awards ceremonies.
17213
AlexBurrows.jpg
0
12
0
Bus crime falls by 14 per cent
2011-05-25T00:00:00
2011-05-25T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has fallen by
14 per cent over the last year, figures from the Safer Travel
Partnership have revealed.</p>
<p>This means that crime on and around the region's bus network has
fallen by 61 per cent over the last four years and excluding
vandalism, there is now just one offence in every 147,500 bus
rides.</p>
<p>Safer Travel, which works to make bus journeys even safer for
passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour, said the
reduction showed how the team's operations and growing expertise
since its launch five years ago were proving successful. Their ever
growing intelligence database is also helping to pinpoint crime
hotspots and persistent offenders.</p>
<p>The figures from Safer Travel, a joint venture between West
Midlands Police, Centro, National Express, British Transport Police
and Safer Birmingham Partnership, show a drop in bus crime last
year (April 1 2010 to March 31 2011) of 13 per cent in Walsall, 16
per cent in Dudley, 26 per cent in Wolverhampton, 8 per cent in
Birmingham, 7 per cent in Sandwell and 40 per cent in Solihull, and
26 per cent in Coventry.</p>
<p>Acting Inspector Al Green, manager of the Safer Travel Police
Team, said: ""The figures are very welcome and clearly show how bus
crime is continuing to fall. But we will continue to work
hard to build on this success and reduce the number of
offences even further both on board buses and at stops and
shelters. We will aim to do this by working closely with our
partners and by acting on the vital intelligence provided by
bus operators and, crucially, the travelling public.</p>
<p>"Although the number of offences on the network is low, the
presence of anti-social behaviour can lead to an unfounded fear of
crime. We rely on community intelligence and encourage members of
the public to speak with our officers and provide them with
information about the issues affecting their
journeys, including unacceptable behaviour, whether criminal
or anti social in nature. Members of the public can also provide us
with information about nuisance behaviour through our See Something
Say Something text service."</p>
<p>Police operations have involved a range of tactics including
high visibility and covert police patrols, special transmitters
which "tap" into live bus CCTV, the deployment of a specially
trained drugs sniffer dog to check passengers and the mounting of
surveillance at crime hot spots.</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, the vice-chairman of Centro, said: ""It's
encouraging to see that the work being done to reduce crime and
anti-social behaviour on the buses is working. Some people may
still have concerns and I would urge them not to suffer in silence
but to let the Safer Travel Team know if there are problems on
their buses.""</p>
<p>The team has also continued working with schools to raise
awareness among pupils about personal safety and the effects of
nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
<p>Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager for National Express West
Midlands, added: ""Last year more than 28,000 schoolchildren
took part in a National Express and Safer Travel presentation which
helps to prevent and deter crime on the bus network.</p>
<p>"These new figures are testament to the commitment of schools
and colleges across the region who have partnered with us to ensure
pupils travel safely and responsibly with fellow passengers."</p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their bus or
Metro journey can use the See Something say Something service by
texting 'bus' or 'metro' followed by a space and then details of
the incident including time, date, location and route number to
83010. </p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on the <strong><a
href="/" title="">www.safertravelinfo</a></strong> website or by
telephoning West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000. </p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has fallen by 14 per cent over the last year, figures from the Safer Travel Partnership have revealed."
17213
0
12
0
Congestion busting project gets off to a flying start
2011-05-19T00:00:00
2011-05-19T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A £500,000 project to cut congestion on one of Birmingham's
busiest roads has been officially launched, raising hundreds of
pounds for charity in the process.</p>
<p>A ten-strong team from transport authority Centro and Birmingham
City Council marked the start of the Pershore Road Travel Choices
project by joining hundreds of other runners at Cannon Hill Park
for this week's Race for Life event - a five kilometre run in aid
of Cancer Research UK.</p>
<p>Over the next ten months the project team will work with
families, schools, businesses and community groups along the
Pershore Road helping them to make the switch from car to more
sustainable forms of travel such as public transport, walking and
cycling.</p>
<p>By reducing the number of cars on the Pershore Road the project,
a joint initiative between Centro and the city council, aims to cut
congestion and pollution while improving the health of local
residents. The experts will also offer advice on how to beat
soaring petrol prices and save money.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro's sustainable travel officer, Helen Osborn, who is
heading up the project, said: "This campaign is all about making
the area a cleaner and greener place to live, work and study. A big
part of that involves travelling in a way that can improve health
and fitness such as walking and cycling, which reflects many of the
themes of Race for Life.</p>
<p>"We are hoping the local community will take advantage of this
opportunity to try and change to their travel habits and help
improve their environment, fitness and finances in the
process."</p>
<p>Similar projects elsewhere in the UK have proved effective, with
typical reductions in car travel of between five and 15 per cent.
Centro and the city council will closely monitor the Pershore Road
Travel Choices project to see how travel behaviour changes over the
coming months. If successful, similar projects could be launched in
other parts of the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Over the next three months a team of 14 Travel Advisers will
call at more than 16,500 homes close to the Pershore Road offering
families customised travel advice about the full range of transport
options on their doorstep.</p>
<p>The advisers will draw up personalised travel advice for
each home, laying out exactly how residents can get from their own
front door to their destination without having to jump in the car.
Advice will be offered on which local bus and rail services to use
and on how to make their trip by foot or bike.</p>
<p>One priority will be to tackle congestion caused by the school
run. Experts will work with nearby schools to help pupils, parents
and staff walk, cycle, catch the bus or car share. Local companies
will also be supported in encouraging their staff to travel more
sustainably and there will be a series of organised walks, cycle
rides and cycle training for the surrounding community.</p>
<p>The project aims to support the local economy by highlighting
the wide range of local facilities available, many of which are
quicker to reach on foot, bike or bus than by car.</p>
<p>Residents wanting further information about receiving
personalised travel advice can contact the Travel Advisers on Tel:
0121 214 7184 or by e-mail: <a href="/"
target="">travelchoices@centro.org.uk</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"A £500,000 project to cut congestion on one of Birmingham's busiest roads has been officially launched, raising hundreds of pounds for charity in the process."
17213
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0
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Front-runners to build new Midland Metro fleet announced
2011-05-17T00:00:00
2011-05-17T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>The five front-runners in the race to supply the new
multi-million pound tram fleet that will take the Midland Metro
forward into the 21<sup>st</sup> century have been selected.</p>
<p>The five companies are Alstom, Bombardier, CAF, Siemens and
Stadler.</p>
<p>They have been invited by Centro, the region's transport
authority, to bid for a contract which is worth up to £50
million.</p>
<p>The procurement process is expected to last around 12 months and
the new trams will be brought into service from late 2014, with the
Midland Metro extension from Snow Hill to New Street station coming
on line in 2015.</p>
<p>The extension will create 1,300 sustainable new jobs and boost
the West Midlands economy by £50 million a year as the new trams
increase passenger capacity between Birmingham and the Black
Country.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "This is
an exciting development in the story of the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>"All of the candidates are leaders in their field and users of
the Midland Metro can be assured that whoever is chosen will be
delivering vehicles of the highest quality."</p>
<p>The order will be for 19 vehicles and they will replace the
current 16-strong fleet to deal with the expected growth in use of
the Metro once the 1.3km (0.8 miles) extension is open.</p>
<p>The larger number of new trams, which will be approximately 30%
bigger, will also allow more frequent services to be
operated, significantly increasing the passenger carrying
capacity of the system.</p>
<p>Councillor Adams said the result would be a much more pleasant
city centre in Birmingham.</p>
<p>"It will be a very different city centre to walk around -
quieter, cleaner, with much reduced emissions and well-connected,"
he said.</p>
<p>"The new tram fleet and subsequent extension into Birmingham
City Centre will be a real step forward for the Midland Metro and
the West Midlands, linking the revamped New Street Gateway Station
to key retail and business areas in the city and on to the
Jewellery Quarter and the Black Country."</p>
<p>"</p>
The five front-runners in the race to supply the new multi-million pound tram fleet that will take the Midland Metro forward into the 21st century have been selected.
17213
0
12
0
Construction milestone for city's new bus station
2011-05-13T00:00:00
2011-05-13T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>The construction of Wolverhampton's new bus station reached a
significant milestone this week when contractors completed their
phase of the building work.</p>
<p>After a nine month build, Neptune Developments and building firm
BAM Construction Ltd have finished the fabric of the new facility
on time and on budget.</p>
<p>Neptune is now in the process of handing over the site to
transport authority Centro so it can move in and start the complex
task of kitting out the new station.</p>
<p>This will include the installation of cutting edge, fibre
optics-based passenger information systems, which will be the first
of their kind in the region, the completion of several
administrative offices and the fitting out of a new Travel
Information Centre. Further work will also be done installing new
coach stands in Pipers Row and creating a link to them from the
station. Extensive branding and signage will also be installed
around the facility.</p>
<p>Work by Wolverhampton City Council on the new roadways into the
station will also now continue and once completed will enable
Centro to get operational experience of the facility and give bus
companies and their drivers the chance try out and familiarise
themselves with the layout.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is an exciting
milestone in the project and I would like to congratulate Neptune
and Bam for bringing in this phase of the project on time and on
budget.</p>
<p>"It means we can now get on with completing the work and we
remain on target for a summer opening and the delivery of a
tremendous asset not only for passengers but for the city in
general."</p>
<p>Councillor Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet
Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity, said: 'People have
been able to watch Wolverhampton's new bus station take shape from
the very start and I'm sure we are all delighted to see the project
on schedule. When the station opens in the summer, I am confident
that the people of the city will have a very impressive
facility."</p>
<p>Neptune's development director, Rob Mason, added: "We are
extremely pleased that our work on the new bus station has
been completed on time and within budget. Once opened, it will give
residents and visitors to Wolverhampton a much improved facility
that will enhance the city's public transport offer. We also look
forward to continuing our work with the rest of Phase One of the
Interchange project".<br />
<br />
The station will feature a stylish glass entrance, 19 bus stands,
three glass enclosed waiting areas, electronic information screens
and safety and security features including CCTV and
help-points.<br />
<br />
Safety will be further enhanced by having no pedestrian crossings
within the bus station. Instead passengers will access their bus
stand via covered pedestrian walkways equipped with glass doors
that automatically open when the vehicle arrives. The station will
also feature public toilets, retail and leisure space and
drivers' accommodation.</p>
<p>The new facility, together with a pedestrian footbridge linking
it with the railway station, forms part of the £22.5 million Phase
One of the Wolverhampton Interchange project which has an estimated
value of £170 million. Advantage West Midlands contributed
£9.6 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF)
Programme.</p>
<p>"</p>
The construction of Wolverhampton's new bus station reached a significant milestone this week when contractors completed their phase of the building work.
17213
BusStation1.jpg
0
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0
Anger of business and MPs at demands for cancellation of HS2
2011-05-13T00:00:00
2011-05-13T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<div sizcache="" sizset="">
<p>Business people and MPs from the West Midlands and the North
have expressed anger at calls for the cancellation of the HS2
project.</p>
<p>The Taxpayers' Alliance, Countryside Alliance, MPs and other
members of the HS2 opposition held a meeting in Westminster in
which they called for the cancellation of the HS2 project.</p>
<p>But supporters of the scheme have hit back, saying that
these opposition groups misunderstand the need for investment in
infrastructure outside of the South East.</p>
<p>Peter Mathews, Chairman and Managing Director of
Stourbridge-based Black Country Metals Ltd, said: "I'm really
disappointed with the alliance of opposition groups who are clearly
insensitive to the needs of people outside of the South East.</p>
<p>""There are vast swathes of the country crying out for the
jobs creation, access to new markets and regional investment that
HS2 would bring.</p>
<p>"It is time to stop listening to small gatherings of people in
Westminster who are opposed to progress, and start listening to and
understanding the reality of people's lives in the rest of the UK.
To ignore the benefits of this type of project will lead to us
becoming a backwater economy."</p>
<p>John Morris, Head of Industry and Government Affairs, Birmingham
Airport, said: "Whilst I respect the right of residents to protest,
the country doesn't want yet another diatribe from the metropolitan
elite.</p>
<p>""The Crossrail project already has a funding stream of
£2bn/year and it is inexcusable to suggest that the rest of the UK
should not also benefit from this funding stream in the form of a
high-speed rail network, when Crossrail is completed.""</p>
<p>Julie Hilling, Labour MP for Bolton West, said HS2 was an
exciting project which would benefit many Northern towns which
have felt like the 'poor relation' with regard to rail services
thus far.</p>
<p>""The West Coast Main Line is at full capacity and, with the
popularity of rail travel, doing nothing is simply not an option,""
she said.</p>
<p>""Public transport has to be about more than pure economics - we
need to consider the benefits that HS2 will bring to people and the
environment".</p>
<p>Geoffrey Piper, Chief Executive of the North West Leadership
Team and former President of the Chartered Accountants of
Liverpool, said: "Our economy needs re-balancing, and this requires
the North boosting its productivity. High-speed rail will help to
do this. It would be a huge blow to anyone outside of the South
East if this project does not go ahead."</p>
<p>"It is one thing to pontificate from the halls of power, and
another to see what you are trying to deny the rest of the UK. It
is time to stop being selfish."</p>
</div>
<p>"</p>
Business people and MPs from the West Midlands and the North have expressed anger at calls for the cancellation of the HS2 project.
17213
0
12
0
Passengers say Metro is on the right track
2011-05-12T00:00:00
2011-05-12T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using the Midland Metro have given the service a
big thumbs up - a survey from transport authority Centro has
shown.</p>
<p>The tram line, which connects Birmingham to Wolverhampton via
key locations in the Black Country, scored an overall satisfaction
rate of 82 per cent amongst passengers. They also gave it at least
80 per cent in four other categories related to passenger service
in Centro's annual customer satisfaction survey.</p>
<p>The survey found that 88 per cent of the people interviewed were
happy with the speed and frequency of the Metro and 87 per cent
were satisfied with punctuality. A further 81 per cent said they
were pleased with the ease of connections from the Metro to other
bus and train services.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "The Metro is an
important part of the public transport network in the West Midlands
and we are delighted that passengers are pleased with the service
they are receiving.</p>
<p>"Many people use trams as part of their daily commute and to get
to events or to visit friends and family and we are pleased
that passengers see it as a mode of transport they can rely
on."</p>
<p>The survey also revealed that 86 per cent of passengers felt
safe while travelling on board the Metro, while 89 per cent were
satisfied with the ease of using the service.</p>
<p>Work is currently ongoing to extend the Metro, which will see
trams run along the streets of Birmingham city centre,
connecting the New Street and Snow Hill stations.</p>
<p>Earlier this year a major milestone was reached as work was
completed on the Great Charles Street Bridge, which will bring
Metro services off the existing approach to Snow Hill station and
over a £9million viaduct.</p>
<p>Coun Adams added: "These surveys give us an opportunity to
connect with passengers and the feedback we receive not only allows
us to see where we are going right but also gives us the chance to
identify areas for improvement."</p>
<p>There was also positive news for bus users with 87 per cent of
people interviewed saying they were pleased with the ease of bus
travel. The results also revealed an increase in feelings of
security with 78 per cent of people feeling safe while on a bus and
74 per cent feeling safe while waiting for a bus.</p>
<p>But passengers highlighted cleaner bus stops and less graffiti
as two key areas for improvement.</p>
<p>Meanwhile Centro is continuing work to improve the quality
of bus services across the West Midlands by modernising local bus
networks so they better reflect today's 24/7 life-style.</p>
<p>There was also good news on the rail network with an overall
satisfaction rate of 78 per cent. The survey saw an increase in
satisfaction levels with the availability of information at
stations (80 per cent) and ease of use of timetables (79 per
cent), while the range of tickets and passes available was
rated at 82 per cent.</p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers using the Midland Metro have given the service a big thumbs up - a survey from transport authority Centro has shown.
17213
0
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0
£1 million Park and Ride expansion project completed at Tile Hill railway station
2011-05-11T00:00:00
2011-05-11T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A £1m expansion scheme of a popular Park and Ride facility at a
busy Coventry railway station has been completed.</p>
<p>Tile Hill station now boasts a total of 323 free to use spaces
following the programme by Centro, the integrated transport
authority for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Work began last October to ease overcrowding in the station's
car park, which had proved so popular with commuters it was often
full before the end of the morning peak period.</p>
<p>The new facility was opened by Centro chairman Councillor Angus
Adams and chief executive Geoff Inskip.</p>
<p>Councillor Adams said the demand for parking highlighted
the success of Park and Ride.</p>
<p>He said: "Park and Ride was almost a victim of its own success
at Tile Hill, the demand for it was clearly overwhelming.</p>
<p>"Therefore I am delighted that this expansion programme has been
completed, it means more people can make their journeys in a way
that reduces carbon emissions and congestion."</p>
<p>The completed car park features 306 normal spaces, 16 disabled
spaces and one for station staff.</p>
<p>The new spaces, which will also help reduce parking on
surrounding streets, will feature upgraded security lighting, CCTV
cameras and help points linked to the Network Safety and Security
Centre.</p>
<p>Centro's congestion-busting Park and Ride facilities have been a
major success in helping to persuade motorists to make the bulk of
their daily commute by rail.</p>
<p>There are now more than 6,500 free spaces at Centro's 53 heavy
rail car parks and four of its Metro stops.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take more than 53,000 journeys
off the road each week, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200
tonnes a year.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested £14 million in Park and
Ride since 1997 and all of the car parks have been awarded Safer
Parking Accreditation for achieving low levels of vehicle crime and
anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip,
left, and chairman Councillor Angus Adams open the new car park at
Tile Hill railway station.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
A £1m expansion scheme of a popular Park and Ride facility at a busy Coventry railway station has been completed.
17213
TileHill1.jpg
0
12
0
South Birmingham families urged to get green and lean
2011-05-09T00:00:00
2011-05-09T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 16,500 homes in south Birmingham are to be offered
customised travel advice on how to be lean and green this summer
and beat soaring petrol prices at the same time.</p>
<p style="text-align: "> </p>
<p>Expert Travel Advisers representing Centro, the region's
transport authority, are visiting homes close to the Pershore Road
between now and July to speak to families about how they can take
advantage of the full range of travel options on their
doorstep.</p>
<p>The advisers will draw up personalised travel advice for
each home, laying out exactly how residents can get from their own
front door to their destination without having to jump in the car.
Families will be offered all the help and information they need to
switch to local bus and rail services and to also make more local
trips on foot or bike.</p>
<p>This personalised travel advice is part of the bigger
Pershore Road Travel Choices project which is taking place along
the route over the next eleven months. The £505,000 project aims to
cut traffic congestion and carbon emissions along the Pershore
Road, making the area a cleaner and greener place to live, work and
study.</p>
<p>Local ward councillor Tim Huxtable, who is the city council's
lead member at Centro, said: "This is a great opportunity for
families to sit down with our advisers and get expert, tailored
travel information that can help them make the switch to cheaper,
healthier and more environmentally friendly forms of travel.</p>
<p>"But this is just a small part of the bigger Pershore Road
Travel Choices project which aims to transform the way people make
their journeys along the Pershore Road and with rising petrol
prices there's never been a better time for people to leave the car
at home and make the switch. They will also help cut pollution and
carbon and improve their fitness."</p>
<p>A team of 14 Travel Advisers will visit homes in the area
over the next 12 weeks to invite householders to discuss their
travel options. They will also help support the local economy by
highlighting the wide range of local facilities available, many of
which are quicker to reach on foot, bike or bus than by car.
Householders will be invited to feedback any comments about
travelling around the area.</p>
<p>The wider Pershore Road Travel Choices project, which is being
run by Centro, in partnership with Birmingham City Council, will be
officially launched at the Race for Life event in Cannon Hill Park
on May 18.</p>
<p>The project will see experts working with local schools to help
pupils, parents and staff walk, cycle, catch the bus or car share
to reduce congestion caused by the school run. Local companies will
also be supported in encouraging their staff to travel more
sustainably and there will be a series of organised walks, cycle
rides and cycle training for the surrounding community.</p>
<p>Residents wanting further information about receiving
personalised travel advice can contact the Travel Advisers on Tel:
0121 214 7184 or by e-mail: <a href="/"
target="">travelchoices@centro.org.uk</a></p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Councillor Tim Huxtable, second right,
with Travel Advisers Kerry Swingler, Mark Edwards, and Andy
Watt.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"More than 16,500 homes in south Birmingham are to be offered customised travel advice on how to be lean and green this summer and beat soaring petrol prices at the same time."
17213
GoGreen1.jpg
0
12
0
"Improved bus service for passengers in Dickens Heath, Maypole and Wythall"
2011-04-28T00:00:00
2011-04-28T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus users are enjoying an improved service thanks to a
collaboration between Centro and Worcestershire County Council.</p>
<p>The S7 now provides a subsidised service around Dickens Heath
and Whitlock's End railway station, where drops at the station have
been timed to connect with train services.</p>
<p>It has also been extended to Maypole in Birmingham and nearby
Wythall in Worcestershire.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, developed the service around Wythall in partnership
with Worcestershire County Council.</p>
<p>The council agreed to contribute towards the subsidy after it
withdrew the two-hourly 175 service which had previously covered
the area.</p>
<p>Steve Hayes, Centro's Area Manager for Coventry and Solihull,
said: "This is good news all round for people using the S7.</p>
<p>"Not only are they benefiting from an extended service but it
also improves the journey experience for people going on to catch
the train from Whitlock's End."</p>
<p>Andy Baker, Worcestershire County Council's Sustainable
Transport Manager said: ""We have taken this opportunity to work
with Centro to secure an improved service for Wythall residents
travelling to Solihull, whilst also making the service more
financially efficient.""</p>
<p>The improved service to Whitlock's End station coincides with
the start of work there to extend its Park and Ride facilities by
more than 160 car parking spaces and which is due for completion in
the summer..</p>
<p>Steve Hayes said: "We wanted to improve connections between
Dickens Heath and Whitlock's End - the timetable has been developed
so that people now have five minutes between being dropped off at
the station and catching their train.</p>
<p>"Because of the revised route we had some extra time at
Whitlock's End of the route - as it was linking up with train
services there it no longer needed to go to Shirley station so we
were able to extend the service to Maypole.</p>
<p>"It also meant we were able to work with Worcestershire County
Council in developing the service around Wythall, which is now
hourly compared to the previous every two hours of the
175."</p>
<p>The S7 bus service has been improved as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div>Timed to connect with trains to Birmingham at Whitlock's End
Station throughout the day. Peak public transport journey
time between Dickens Heath and Birmingham city centre has reduced
to just 31 minutes.</div>
</li>
<li>Service extended to Maypole and Wythall to replace the
withdrawn Worcestershire service 175 (was 2-hourly); frequency of
services between Wythall and Solihull has therefore increased to
hourly from every 2 hours.</li>
<li>Retimed to provide a half-hourly service (with S4) through
Woodlands Estate in Shirley. Previously the S4 and S7 ran 15
minutes apart, then a 45 minute gap.</li>
</ul>
<p>From Wythall Church the service runs along Chapel Lane, Hill
Lane, Alcester Road, Station Road, Lea Green Lane, Hollywood Lane,
Shawhurst Lane, Alcester Road, Alcester Road South, Maypole Lane,
High Street, Peterbrook Road, Haslucks Green Road, Tilehouse Lane,
Dickens Heath Road, Tanworth Lane, Stretton Road, Hathaway Road,
Shakespeare Drive, Bills Lane, Church Road, Stratford Road,
Solihull Road, Sharman's Cross Road, Streetsbrook Road, Station
Approach, Blossomfield Road and Station Road in Solihull town
centre.</p>
<p>It is operated by Solihull Travel and it connects with Solihull
Travel's X50 between Redditch and Birmingham and through tickets
are available.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus users are enjoying an improved service thanks to a collaboration between Centro and Worcestershire County Council.
17213
0
12
0
New 335 bus service launched for Walsall's Manor Hospital
2011-04-19T00:00:00
2011-04-19T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>A new bus service providing key Sunday and evening links from
Walsall town centre to the recently reopened Manor Hospital is to
be launched this month.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro is subsidising the new 335 service
which will provide connections to the hospital from Alumwell
Estate, Bradford Place and Walsall bus station.</p>
<p>The 335 currently runs daytime services Monday to Saturday from
Bradford Place to Alumwell via Manor Hospital, with no buses going
to the Hospital on Sundays or evenings.</p>
<p>The new service, which will run from April 24, will bridge that
gap and provide a much needed link for people coming into the town
centre from the bus station to the Hospital.</p>
<p>Black Country area manager Babs Coombes said: "We are delighted
that we will be able to provide an evening and Sunday service to
Manor Hospital from the end of April.</p>
<p>"With the multi-million pound redevelopment of the Hospital it
is even more important that residents have easy access and the new
bus will really help to fill gaps in the current service.</p>
<p>"Because there is less traffic in the evenings we have also been
able to find time to run the service to the Walsall Bus Station as
well as Bradford Place providing even better links for
passengers.</p>
<p>"I would like to urge passengers to make sure they support this
service by getting on board so we can keep it running into the
future."</p>
<p>The news follows completion of a multi-million pound
redevelopment programme at Manor Hospital.</p>
<p>Bus operator Diamond will be running the new service which will
see buses operating on a half hourly basis.</p>
<p>Centro is also currently working with operators on a review of
bus services in Wolverhampton and West Walsall to see if any other
improvements can be made to bus services in the area.</p>
<p>"</p>
A new bus service providing key Sunday and evening links to Walsall's Manor Hospital is to be launched.
17213
0
12
0
Work to start on Whitlock's End Park and Ride extension
2011-04-19T00:00:00
2011-04-19T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Extension work worth more than £500,000 to expand Park and Ride
at a busy commuter railway station near Birmingham is set to
begin.</p>
<p>The £577,000 expansion programme at Whitlock's End near Shirley
will provide an extra 164 parking spaces, including 14 disabled
bays, resulting in a total of 275 spaces.</p>
<p>The improvements will also see the installation of CCTV, Help
Points, cycle locker provision, improved lighting, landscaping and
fencing.</p>
<p>The work is being carried out by Centro, the integrated
transport authority for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Work is due to start on April 26 and is scheduled to finish in
late summer. Spaces at the existing car park will remain open
during this time.</p>
<p>Access to the extension will be off the existing entrance in
Tilehouse Lane.</p>
<p>Chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "This is excellent news
for rail users, commuters and the environment.</p>
<p>"Park and Ride is a very popular scheme and we are delighted to
be able to continue this good work by providing even more spaces at
Whitlock's End.</p>
<p>"These new spaces will make a major difference in helping to
tackle congestion and pollution."</p>
<p>Centro is also working with Solihull Metropolitan Borough
Council to provide a new footpath on the southbound side
of Tilehouse Lane and provide a crossing facility. </p>
<p>It also aims to provide bus stops on either side of Tilehouse
Lane to enable better integration with the S7 bus
service. </p>
<p>These works, if agreed, will take place at a later date.</p>
<p>Centro's congestion-busting Park and Ride facilities have been a
major success in helping to persuade motorists to make the bulk of
their daily commute by rail and there are now more than 6,500 free
spaces at Centro's 53 heavy rail car parks and four of its Midland
Metro stops.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take more than 53,000 journeys
off the road each week, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200
tonnes a year.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested £14 million in Park and
Ride since 1997 and all of the car parks have been awarded Safer
Parking Accreditation for achieving low levels of vehicle crime and
anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Extension work worth more than £500,000 to expand Park and Ride at a busy commuter railway station near Birmingham is set to begin."
17213
WhitlocksEnd2reduced1.jpg
0
12
0
Business overwhelming in its support
2011-04-19T00:00:00
2011-04-19T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Businesses in Birmingham and Solihull are overwhelmingly in
favour of the high speed rail link (HS2) between London, Birmingham
and the north, new research reveals today.</p>
<p>A survey by Birmingham Chamber of Commerce indicates that 72 per
cent of Birmingham and Solihull businesses believe that HS2
will open up inward investment, employment and economic prosperity
opportunities for the future.</p>
<p>Birmingham Chamber is a member of the Go-HS2 alliance and fully
recognises HS2's strategic importance to the West Midlands and the
whole country. Other members include Centro, the region's transport
authority, Birmingham Airport, The NEC Group, Birmingham City
Council and Business Birmingham, the city's inward investment
agency.</p>
<p>Christine Braddock, Birmingham Chamber's president, said:
"Reduced travel times and increased capacity will create new market
opportunities, attract inward investment and increase the region's
access to customers."</p>
<p>The survey also revealed that 75 per cent thought HS2 could have
a similar impact here to abroad. High speed rail operates
successfully in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan and China.</p>
<p>The distances between population centres in the UK are roughly
comparable to that of other countries that have HSR networks such
as Germany, where the most successful high speed service is between
Frankfurt and Cologne. The two cities are 110 miles apart - the
same distance as between London and Birmingham.</p>
<p>Dr Braddock added: "Unemployment in our region is 9.7 per cent
so developing sustainable long-term jobs is paramount. We require
skilled jobs that won't disappear, which this region has failed on
over the last decade.</p>
<p>"With London benefiting from Crossrail and Thameslink, the
business community here in Birmingham is desperate to also benefit
from investment in first-class transport links which would no doubt
help re-balance the economy.</p>
<p>"The government is currently spending £2billion a year on
Crossrail, a major infrastructure project benefiting London and the
South East. Once that project has completed, this country can
afford to continue that level of investment in another major and
desperately-needed infrastructure project which is HS2. This will
benefit the whole country and especially the Midlands and the North
from day one of opening."</p>
<p>A Business Infrastructure Commission report last week stated
that improvements to transport, energy and IT communications could
boost the economy by £10 billion a year. The Government should
invest in a long-term infrastructure plan for the UK or face
putting its economic future at risk, said the Business
Infrastructure Commission.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Businesses in Birmingham and Solihull are overwhelmingly in favour of the high speed rail link (HS2) between London, Birmingham and the north, new research reveals today."
17213
0
12
0
Changes on the buses with service improvements for passengers in Walsall and Sutton Coldfield
2011-04-15T00:00:00
2011-04-15T00:00:00
17213
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Walsall and Sutton Coldfield will see
improvements to services including a brand new route thanks to
partnership working between transport authority Centro and bus
company Central Buses.</p>
<p>They have teamed up to introduce changes to three services - the
74, 78, and 88 - which will come into effect from 24th April.</p>
<p>They have also introduced a new route, the No 79, which will run
between Sutton Coldfield and Aldridge via New Oscott and
Streetly.</p>
<p>Streetly will have new additional links to Walsall thanks to the
extension of the 88 service, Gillity Village will have a quicker
and more direct link to Walsall on the 74 and there will be
timetable improvements to the 78 service.</p>
<p>All services will be provided with low floor, wheelchair
accessible vehicles which will have CCTV fitted for the comfort and
safety of passengers.</p>
<p>The introduction of the 79 came as a result of talks between
Centro and Streetly residents who said they wanted a new service to
Aldridge.</p>
<p>It will run from Anchor Road in Aldridge to Lower Parade in
Sutton Coldfield via Portland Road, Erdington Road, Foley Road
West, Blackwood Road, Ferndale Road, Bridle Lane, Chester Road,
Chester Road North, George Frederick Road, Banners Gate Road,
Chester Road North, Jockey Road, Birmingham Road and Brassington
Avenue.</p>
<p>Buses will run Monday to Saturday during shopping periods, every
60 minutes.</p>
<p>Geoff Cross, Managing Director of Central Buses said: "We have
listened carefully to the comments of residents in Streetly about
the need for a new link to Aldridge and I am delighted that we have
been able to introduce the new 79 service to provide people living
in the area with the service they want."</p>
<p>The 74 will operate hourly, Monday to Saturday, between Walsall
bus station and Liskeard Road via Hatherton Road, Lichfield Street,
Bridge Street, Ablewell Street, Springhill Road, Gillity Avenue,
Athlone Road, Greaves Avenue, Lake Avenue, Birmingham Road, Bell
Road, Park Hall Road, Launceston Road and Falmouth Road.</p>
<p>The 78 will run hourly, Monday to Saturday, from the Queslett
pub at Streetly to Sutton Coldfield via Aldridge Road, Hundred Acre
Road, Bridle lane, Blackwood Drive, Lowlands Avenue, Hazelwood
Road, Foley Road West, Foley Road East, Thornhill Road, Streetly
Lane, Belwell Lane, Lichfield Road, Mill Street and Lower
Parade.</p>
<p>An additional peak time journey is also being introduced at 1455
from Sutton Coldfield and 1525 from Streetly.</p>
<p>The section of route between Kingstanding Circle and Queslett
will no longer be served because due to low passenger numbers and
the length of the route making it difficult to keep the service to
time.</p>
<p>The 88 has been extended from Streetly into Walsall via Chuckery
in Walsall and will give extra links for people travelling from
Streetly, Erdington, Wylde Green and New Oscott.</p>
<p>It runs hourly, six days a week, from Six Ways in Erdington to
Walsall bus station via Sutton New Road, Sutton Road, Broadfields
Road, Florence Road, Chester Road, Kings Road, Kingstanding Road,
Sutton Oak Road, Chester Road North, Chester Road, Foley Road West,
Beacon Hill, Sutton Road, The Crescent, Princes Avenue, Lincoln
Road, Calder Avenue, Walhouse Road, Lower Rushall Street, Lichfield
Street and Hatherton Road.</p>
<p>Centro uses public funding to pay for some journeys during the
middle of the day, in the early morning and in the late afternoon
on these services to ensure local communities maintain their bus
links throughout the day,</p>
<p>Babs Coombes Area Manager Black Country at Centro said: "Central
Buses approached us with some ideas to enhance these services
following passenger requests.</p>
<p>"We are always looking at ways to improve services for
customers, and these changes have been introduced to do just
that."</p>
<p>A variety of cheaper tickets can be purchased on the bus (one,
seven and 28 day tickets) for these services <a
href="/"><strong>http://centralbuses.com/pdf/fares.pdf</strong></a>
or for more information go to <a href="/"
title=""><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a><strong> </strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Bus passengers in Walsall and Sutton Coldfield enjoy improvements to services including a brand new route thanks to partnership working between transport authority Centro and bus company Central Buses.
17213
Centralbodyimage.jpg
0
12
0
Free Stourbridge town centre shuttle bus service to continue
2011-04-11T00:00:00
2011-04-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The trial of a free shuttle bus service linking temporary bus
stops in Stourbridge to the rest of the town centre as work
continues on the town's multi-million pound new transport
interchange is to be extended.</p>
<p>The bus service was initially launched by transport authority
Centro for three months after the bus station was closed last
October for a £7m re-development. The trial was then extended to
April due to its popularity,</p>
<p>The service will now operate for at least a further three months
until July 24 after attracting up to 400 passengers a day last
month.</p>
<p>Black Country area manager Babs Coombes said: "We understand the
importance of providing this link from the temporary bus stops to
Stourbridge town centre while work to build the new interchange
continues. This has been supported by the popularity of the service
and we are delighted to be extending the trial for at least a
further three months.</p>
<p>"I would urge people to continue to use the shuttle to give us
the best chance of providing the service beyond July."</p>
<p>The shuttle bus, which is operated by National Express West
Midlands, serves stops at Parkfield Road, Birmingham Street, High
Street and Market Street.</p>
<p>The new 'Stourbridge Interchange' is being built on the site of
the existing bus station and is due to open to passengers in early
2012.</p>
<p>It will feature a modern and spacious station building and
concourse with toilets and electronic passenger information boards
telling passengers when their bus is due.</p>
<p>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system will
also be installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>There will be eight bus stands allowing easy passenger
circulation and featuring doors that automatically open only when
the bus arrives.</p>
<p>An additional bus stop will be installed on Vauxhall Road to
allow smooth interchange between bus and rail.</p>
<p>A focus has also been placed on improving walking routes into
the town centre, and a new covered walkway will provide a link from
the rail station to the realigned subway from Foster Street.</p>
<p>Demolition of the old bus station and construction of a new
retaining wall along Foster Street East have been completed. Work
has also started on building the new station building's base and
the connection to the existing subway.</p>
<p>Visit <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/stourbridge</a>for
further information.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
The trial of a free shuttle bus service linking temporary bus stops in Stourbridge to the rest of the town centre as work continues on the town's multi-million pound new transport interchange is to be extended.
17213
0
12
0
New bridge milestone for Midland Metro at Snow Hill station
2011-03-31T00:00:00
2011-03-31T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The landmark £3.19m bridge which will take the Midland Metro
into the heart of Birmingham has been completed.</p>
<p>The bridge over Great Charles Street Queensway is a key part of
the Metro extension which will take the line to New Street
station.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, began work on the bridge within days of the
Government giving the go-ahead in October.</p>
<p>It will bring Metro services off the existing approach to Snow
Hill station and over a £9 million viaduct - constructed as a
contribution by developer Ballymore.</p>
<p>From there it will go through the city centre to New Street
station.</p>
<p>The extension will revolutionise the way people travel to and
around the city, giving a fast link between Birmingham's two major
rail stations while delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a
year right into the heart of the city's shopping district.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is fantastic
news for the Midland Metro and for the people who use it,
especially as it has come in on time and on budget.</p>
<p>"This is a major step forward for a scheme that is going to
bring massive economic benefits for the entire region and create
thousands of jobs."</p>
<p>The new structure utilises a former rail bridge abutment and
pier and lands on the new viaduct alongside Snow Hill Station.</p>
<p>Design work for the on-street section of the Metro extension is
underway and preliminary site works are expected to commence in
2012.</p>
<p>Trams will follow a route from the existing Metro terminus at
Snow Hill, along the viaduct built by Ballymore, down Upper Bull
Street and Corporation Street then on to Stephenson Street before
stopping outside a new entrance at New Street Station.</p>
<p>The route will also provide a fast link from New Street Station
to the emerging business district at Snow Hill and serve as a
platform for a future rapid transit network that can connect and
feed into proposed High Speed Rail terminus in Eastside.</p>
<p>The total cost of the scheme is £127m with £55m of that paying
for the 1.3km long extension.</p>
<p>Centro's plans to extend the Metro will create 1,300 sustainable
new jobs and boost the West Midlands economy by £50m a year as a
fleet of new, bigger trams increase passenger capacity between
Birmingham and the Black Country.</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE: Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, front, on
the newly completed bridge at Snow Hill station with Balfour Beatty
site manager James Robinson, left, Paul Griffiths of Centro's
Midland Metro executive and Centro project manager Peter
Gallagher.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
The landmark £3.19m bridge which will take the Midland Metro into the heart of Birmingham has been completed.
17213
SnowHillMetrobridge.jpg
0
12
0
New station entrance boosts access to city
2011-03-31T00:00:00
2011-03-31T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Access to one of Birmingham's most important rail stations has
been greatly improved following the opening of a second passenger
entrance.</p>
<p>The work at Snow Hill Station has involved delicate and complex
engineering to install an entrance, complete with escalators and
lifts, inside 120-year-old railway arches in Livery Street.</p>
<p>The new entrance will also provide access to Midland Metro trams
both now and from 2015 when they will no longer terminate in the
heart of Snow Hill Station but instead run through the city's
streets to New Street Station.</p>
<p>The second entrance is an important, planned element in the
regeneration of the Snow Hill area which has been establishing
itself as the city's financial district in recent years and is
earmarked to expand across Great Charles Street on to land
immediately in front of the new station access.</p>
<p>The city council has already indicated that it will allow
extensive commercial activity on the land, including offices,
hotels, restaurants and shops as well as residential.</p>
<p>The new entrance will enable people working, living or visiting
the site to reach it quickly and easily by rail or Metro. It will
also provide much better connectivity to the Jewellery Quarter.</p>
<p>Importantly, the new entrance and its lifts will improve access
to Snow Hill Station for the disabled who find it difficult to use
either the bridge across Great Charles Street or the subway running
beneath it.</p>
<p>Centro's director of passenger services, Stephen Rhodes, said:
"This has been a challenging project not least because of the
difficult engineering involved but it has been highly successful in
overcoming these very complex structural issues.</p>
<p>"Essentially it has involved putting a 21st century facility
into a Victorian viaduct under a live railway line and this has
been achieved without any disruption to train services.</p>
<p>"Apart from the immediate advantages to passengers, this new
entrance will help support the on-going regeneration of the Snow
Hill area which has seen some major investment in the last few
years."</p>
<p>Alex Hynes, commercial director at train company London Midland,
said: ""This is great news for rail passengers in
Birmingham. Snow Hill is one of our key stations and we are
delighted this new entrance will provide better access and
help to boost regeneration in the city centre.""</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Access to one of Birmingham's most important rail stations has been greatly improved following the opening of a second passenger entrance.
17213
0
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Lucky for some � passengers benefit as 13 bus route goes Smart
2011-03-25T00:00:00
2011-03-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using the number 13 bus route in Coventry will
benefit following a £2.3 million major programme to improve
services that delivers the first West Midlands Smart Route.</p>
<p>Passenger transport authority Centro has worked in partnership
with Coventry City Council, consultants Jacobs and bus operator
National Express Coventry on the scheme.</p>
<p>It uses a co-ordinated approach to providing better
facilities and faster services for bus passengers, enhanced traffic
flow for motorists and an improved urban environment for people
living in and visiting the area.</p>
<p>The No 13 scheme has seen parking bays, bus lanes, traffic light
priority and junction improvements installed along the route
between Coventry city centre to Holbrooks via Jubilee Crescent.</p>
<p>The measures include:</p>
<ul>
<li> Upgrade
of 41 bus stopping points (21 shelter sites)</li>
<li>· Installation
of Real Time Passenger Information at ten of the busiest stops</li>
<li>· A 240 metre
Bus Lane in Radford Road and Upper Well Street</li>
<li>· Parking bays
in Links Road</li>
<li>· Junction
widening at Beake Avenue/Burnaby Road and Beake Avenue/Park Gate
Road junctions</li>
<li>· Installation
of traffic light priority at all traffic signals along
corridor</li>
<li>· New traffic
control signals with bus priority at Sandy Lane railway bridge</li>
<li>· New bus gate
on Radford Road</li>
<li>· Formalised
interchange at Nuns Lane/Wheelwright Lane</li>
<li>· Smarter
Travel Project</li>
<li>· Pedestrian
Crossing on Radford Road</li>
</ul>
<p>Work began in January 2009, was delivered within budget and on
time and has resulted in a reduction in a journey time saving of
around 4 minutes and 56 seconds in the morning peak and 4 minutes
51 seconds in the afternoon peak between the City Centre and
Holbrooks.</p>
<p>The scheme is part of the award winning Prime Lines project, a
joint initiative between Coventry City Council, Centro and National
Express Coventry which has reduced journey times and made bus
travel more attractive across the city.</p>
<p>The first stage of Prime Lines was completed on a number of bus
routes across the city in July 2009. Buses running along these
corridors have already seen an increase in reliability of 26 per
cent, with punctuality improving by 40 per cent."</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Passenger Services Director at Centro said: "The
Prime Lines project is all about improving the passenger experience
for bus users across Coventry from the start to the end of their
journey.</p>
<p>"Improvements have already been delivered on several key bus
routes across the city thanks to the scheme. These have proved very
successful in helping buses be quicker and more reliable, providing
better information and making services more accessible. We look
forward to working with our partners to replicate these successes
for passengers on the 13 bus route."</p>
<p>Councillor Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for City Development at
Coventry, said: ""I would like to thank everyone who has made this
project a success - from the organisations involved to the site
teams. I know that Coventry residents are pleased with the
results.""</p>
<p>Mark Kipling, Area Director for National Express Coventry, said:
"We are delighted to support the launch of this initiative which
will improve the journey for passengers on Coventry."</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Mark Kipling, left, Stephen Rhodes and
Councillor Jon Hunt, vice-chairman of Centro, watch as Councillor
Mary Bigham cuts the ribbon on the upgraded Number 13
route.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers using the number 13 bus route in Coventry will benefit following a £2.3 million major programme to improve services that delivers the first West Midlands Smart Route.
17213
No13busrouteportrait1.jpg
0
12
0
Region's public transport gets European recognition
2011-03-24T00:00:00
2011-03-24T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>The West Midlands will play host to delegates from across Europe
after public transport in the region gained continental
recognition.</p>
<p>Centro was selected as a Good Practice centre for Integrated
Transport Strategy and their innovative ideas will now be shared
with 16 partner countries as part of a programme run by European
skills sharing project, INTERREG.</p>
<p>The initiative will see visitors descend on the region to learn
from the transport authority's key successes including public
engagement and the recently launched Local Transport Plan.</p>
<p>Centro will also work with Worcestershire County Council to
assist them in promoting their good practices on Sustainable
Travel.</p>
<p>Rafael Cuesta, Head of Commissioning at Centro, said: "This
programme gives us a brilliant opportunity to work closely with
some major European partners.</p>
<p>"Sharing ideas and good practices in this way will be
significant step towards achieving our vision of a world class
public transport system delivered by a best in class
organisation."</p>
<p>Delegates from Italy will visit this month and will be followed
by counterparts from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Sweden and
Germany later in the year.</p>
<p>The transport authority in collaboration with the European
partners put together a successful bid to INTERREG in August last
year and the findings of the two year programme will decide how
European funds are spent on public transport from 2014.</p>
<p>The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development
Fund and made possible by the INTERREG IV C Programme.</p>
<p>"</p>
The West Midlands will play host to delegates from across Europe after public transport in the region gained continental recognition.
17213
0
12
0
People urged to have their say on the buses in Coventry
2011-03-23T00:00:00
2011-03-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Coventry are being urged to have their say as part of
a review of local bus services.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority is working with
Coventry City Council, Warwickshire County Council and bus
companies A-Line, Central Connect, De Courcey, National Express
Coventry and Stagecoach to look at the network and see what can be
done for existing and prospective passengers.</p>
<p>The aim is to build on the already strong transport network in
the area to provide services that better serve modern travel
patterns while also bringing improved buses, waiting facilities and
information.</p>
<p>The review covers the Coventry metropolitan area and
cross-border bus services to and from Warwickshire.</p>
<p>People who visit, work and live in the area are being urged to
attend exhibitions throughout March and April to give their views
on what works well and what would make services better.</p>
<p>Coventry's bus network has been greatly improved through the
Primelines priority route scheme. Centro and its partners aim to
build on this by investing in Coventry in the lead up to the 2012
Olympic events in the city and beyond, resulting in a first-class
bus service.</p>
<p>This information, along with other research, will then be used
to make improvements and ensure bus services are taking people
where they want to go, when they want to go.</p>
<p>People who want to have their say can go to any of the following
exhibitions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 26<sup>th</sup> March, 10am-3pm - Exhibition at Cannon
Park Shopping Centre, Canley</li>
<li>Monday 28<sup>th</sup> March - 11am to 3pm - NWM Marquee at
Daventry Road shops, Cheylesmore</li>
<li>Tuesday 29<sup>th</sup> March, 11am to 3pm - NWM Marquee
outside Earlsdon library, by clock tower</li>
<li>Wednesday 30th March, 12pm to 4pm - NWM Exhibition Bus on Co-op
car park, Remembrance Road, Willenhall</li>
<li>Thursday 31<sup>st</sup> March, 3pm to 7pm - Exhibition at Pool
Meadow Bus Station, city centre</li>
<li>Saturday 2<sup>nd</sup> April, 10am to 3pm - Exhibition at
Riley Square Shopping Centre, Bell Green, vacant shop unit by
library</li>
<li>Monday 4<sup>th</sup> April, 3pm to 7pm - Exhibition at
University Hospital, Walsgrave, main entrance</li>
<li>Tuesday 5<sup>th</sup> April, 11am to 3pm - NWM marquee on the
green at Jubilee Crescent</li>
<li>Wednesday 6<sup>th</sup> April, 12pm to 4pm - Exhibition at
Christ the King Parish Centre, Westhill Road, Coundon</li>
<li>Thursday 7<sup>th</sup> April, 3pm to 7pm - Exhibition at Arena
park Shopping Centre, near Ricoh Arena, by library</li>
<li>Friday 8<sup>th</sup> April, 10am to 2pm - NWM Marquee at
Jardine Crescent shops, Tile Hill</li>
<li>Saturday 9<sup>th</sup> April, 10am to 3pm - NWM Exhibition Bus
at Broadgate, city centre</li>
</ul>
<p>People can also give their views by logging on to <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a>
and all comments and views must be received by Friday
15<sup>th</sup> April.</p>
<p>Changes from this review will be introduced on Sunday October
30<sup>th</sup>, 2011 and in the lead up to this a series of
exhibitions will be held to let people know about what changes are
being proposed. They will be advertised in the local press, bus
stations and on buses.</p>
<p>The review is the latest in a number that have successfully
taken place across the West Midlands including Dudley, south
Solihull, south Birmingham, north Walsall and west Birmingham.</p>
<p>They have produced a string of benefits for passengers
including:</p>
<ul>
<li>New and improved bus shelters with up-to-date information at
every stop</li>
<li>Improved links to key shopping destinations</li>
<li>New services on roads that have never had a bus before or have
had their bus withdrawn</li>
<li>More buses with turn up and go timetables on main roads</li>
<li>New and refurbished vehicles</li>
<li>Highways improvements to help buses beat the traffic</li>
<li>More electronic bus stop displays and Real Time
information</li>
<li>Customer care training for drivers</li>
<li>Enhanced safety and security measures both at stops and on the
bus</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "A bus network
review is a golden opportunity for passengers to tell us what they
think of the services they are using and how they can be
improved.</p>
<p>"I would urge people to go to the exhibitions and let us know
what improvements they want to see so that we can act upon it to
provide the best possible service."</p>
<p>"</p>
People in Coventry are being urged to have their say as part of a review of local bus services.
17213
0
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0
"Deal to give passengers, quicker, cleaner and more reliable bus services"
2011-03-22T00:00:00
2011-03-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers in East Birmingham and North Solihull are to get
250 new shelters and dozens of brand new buses benefitting from a
series of bespoke road improvements designed to improve
punctuality.</p>
<p>These are just some of the enhancements passengers will see
phased in over the next three years following the signing of a
special agreement between Centro, the region's transport authority,
Birmingham City Council and bus operators National Express
West Midlands, Arriva Midlands, Claribel Buses, Central Connect and
Central Buses. </p>
<p>The agreement, known as a Voluntary Multilateral Agreement, is
the biggest of its kind in the UK and was formally signed at the
Birmingham Transport Summit by Centro chairman Councillor Angus
Adams, Councillor Tim Huxtable, Cabinet Member for Transport,
Environment and regeneration at Birmingham City Council, Dave Kaye,
managing director of UK Bus at National Express, Gordon Frost,
operations director for Arriva Midlands, Geoff Cross, managing
director of Central Buses, Antony Goozee, development director for
Rotala and Andy Watkiss, director of Claribel Buses.</p>
<p>The improvements set out in the document aim to give passengers
more faster and more punctual services, shorter waiting times and a
more comfortable journey from the moment they leave their homes to
when they get off the bus.</p>
<p>The agreement includes: </p>
<ul>
<li>Bus-friendly highways improvements over the next two years
including junction upgrades and traffic light priority measures to
improve punctuality and reliability.</li>
<li>The introduction of more than 250 brand new bus shelters, with
several being fitted with electronic information displays or solar
powered lighting</li>
<li>The introduction of brand new environmentally friendly buses
over the next three years. </li>
<li>Cleaner buses with partners working together to keep vehicles
and stops free from litter and graffiti.</li>
</ul>
<p> Key routes will benefit from even more enhancements
including Real Time Information, showing passengers exactly how
many minutes until the next bus is due, and an even
more intensive cleaning regime on buses and at stops and
shelters along the routes.</p>
<p>The enhancements build on the route and timetable changes due to
come into effect across East Birmingham and North Solihull this
Sunday (March 27th 2011). These will see higher frequencies and the
introduction of an easy to understand network with new publicity,
timetables and maps.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said "Centro, bus
operators and Birmingham Council are taking the lead in
showing that public and private sector organisations can work
together in partnership on their own initiative to achieve great
benefits for the travelling public.</p>
<p>"Residents and visitors to East Birmingham and North
Solihull will see a big improvement to their bus services
thanks to this agreement and this, in turn, will play a key role in
encouraging more people to choose the bus as a viable alternative
to the car." </p>
<p>Dave Kaye, managing director of UK Bus at National Express,
added: "Working in partnership will help us
to deliver even better services for our customers. Buses
support economic growth by delivering reliable and efficient
transport networks and these changes will encourage more people to
give up their car and choose public transport.""</p>
<p>Councillor Tim Huxtable, Cabinet Member for Transport,
Environment and Regeneration at Birmingham City Council, said:
"The people of Birmingham deserve a bus network that reflects
the success of the City, caters for our modern society and attracts
residents and visitors to our local centres.</p>
<p>"This partnership, where seven key organisations have come
together to provide an up-to-date network of accessible, reliable,
and high quality bus services will be a great step forward in
providing this."</p>
<p>The new network for East Birmingham and North Solihull being
introduced this Sunday will see services improved for Bromford,
Marston Green and Smith's Wood. There will also be enhanced links
between Solihull and Heartlands Hospital and Lea Hall.</p>
<p>As part of the review people living in the area were asked how
they felt services could be improved to facilities such as
hospitals and shops.</p>
<p>The new services and improvements include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Improved access to Birmingham Heartlands Hospital from
Birmingham and Chelmsley Wood</li>
<li>The 58 service restoring the link between Small Heath and
Solihull</li>
<li>New peak period links on the 71/71A between Castle Vale and
Sutton Coldfield</li>
<li>The 99 service running from Lea Village to Acocks Green via
Sheldon</li>
<li>A high frequency 17 service with more peak and daytime buses,
Sunday daytimes every 15 minutes and evenings every 30 minutes</li>
<li>A new high frequency service 55 operating every 7 to 8 minutes
Monday to Saturday daytime.</li>
</ul>
<p>North Chelmsley Wood will see extra links provided, with the 72
now running to the medical centre in Chipperfield Road, Bromford,
and Morrison's supermarket from the Bromford Estate and Chester
Road.</p>
<p>The 900 and the 957, which was previously a limited service,
will now stop at all stops between Gilbertstone Avenue and the Swan
Centre at Yardley, while the 966 has reverted to a
double-decker service.</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Councillor Angus Adams front, with
Councillor Tim Huxtable, left, and bus operator representatives
Dave Kaye of National Express, Anthony Goozee of Rotala, Ian
Harwood of Central Buses, Gordon Frost of Arriva Midlands and
Andrew Watkiss of Claribels.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers in East Birmingham and North Solihull are to get 250 new shelters and dozens of brand new buses benefitting from a series of bespoke road improvements designed to improve punctuality.
17213
Centrosigning.jpg
0
12
0
Work ramps up at New Street
2011-03-22T00:00:00
2011-03-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Engineers working on the New Street Gateway project marked a
significant milestone over the weekend as they demolished the old
spiral ramp access between the Pallasades shopping centre and
Stephenson Street.</p>
<p>The demolition is the first stage of the construction of a brand
new entrance which will allow passengers to access the redeveloped
station directly from Stephenson Street and New Street.</p>
<p>The new entrance will open at the completion of phase 1 of the
project in 2012 when the first half of a redeveloped New Street
station opens to passengers. Upon completion of the project in
2015, the new Stephenson Street entrance will also be served by the
Midland Metro extension from Snow Hill.</p>
<p>"</p>
Engineers working on the New Street Gateway project marked a significant milestone over the weekend as they demolished the old spiral ramp access between the Pallasades shopping centre and Stephenson Street.
17213
Therampbeforedemolision.jpg
0
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0
Stay lean and green with walking journey planner
2011-03-21T00:00:00
2011-03-21T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Regional transport authority Centro is encouraging residents to
'walk it' during Climate Change Week (March 21-27), after a
regionwide walking journey planner went live.</p>
<p>Calorie-busting website <a href="/">www.walkit.com</a> now
covers all of Birmingham<strong>,</strong> Solihull, Coventry and
the Black Country after funding of £134,000 was secured to
comprehensively map the West Midlands online.</p>
<p>The planner plots walking routes between two postcodes or
locations and shows the number of steps, distance travelled,
calories burned and carbon emissions saved by walking.</p>
<p>Stephen Bermingham, Sustainable Travel Officer at Centro, said:
"This is a great opportunity for people in the West Midlands to see
the real benefits that can come from walking.</p>
<p>"Walking is sometimes not seen as a viable alternative to other
modes of transport. I hope that the website will help show that it
is possible to make at least some of our journeys by foot and to
link in to public transport.</p>
<p>"It's been a combined effort from Centro and the councils to get
the region mapped. The good thing about the website is that it also
shows that walking can improve your fitness while reducing your
carbon emissions."</p>
<p>The scheme has been supported by Centro in partnership with the
seven district councils and walkit.com</p>
<p>The funding includes £56,000 from Centro with the rest of the
money coming from the region's councils.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Councillor Angus Adams said: ""I would urge
people to make use of the website and use it to make more informed
choices. </p>
<p>"We need to encourage people to have healthier and greener
lifestyles. By giving details of carbon savings and calorie burn,
this website should help point us in the right direction."</p>
<p>Centro has been targeting reductions in the number of car
journeys made by individuals in the West Midlands as part of a
sustainable travel programme.</p>
<p>WalkIt.com aims to help people make more informed decisions
about walking in urban areas and the impact on their health and
carbon footprint.</p>
<p>Throughout Climate Change Week (March 21-27), staff will be in
each of the seven districts to help promote the initiative.</p>
<p>For more information visit, <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/walkit</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Regional transport authority Centro is encouraging residents to 'walk it' during Climate Change Week (March 21-27), after a regionwide walking journey planner went live."
17213
WalkItlaunch.JPG
0
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Midland Metro network to partially close for engineering enhancement works
2011-03-18T00:00:00
2011-03-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The Midland Metro will be partially closed for four days in
April to allow for the completion of a £500,000 maintenance
project.</p>
<p>The line between Wolverhampton St George's and Wednesbury
Parkway will be affected by the closure between April 17-20
inclusive. Trams will continue to operate as normal between
Wednesbury Parkway and Birmingham Snow Hill.</p>
<p>The work is to enhance the service for passengers and maintain
the tram system's 99% reliability. It is the continuation of a
project begun last October by transport authority Centro and
operator Travel Midland Metro, where similar work was undertaken
between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wednesbury Great Western
Street.</p>
<p>It will see enhancement work to the overhead cables, which will
give them a life span of up to 30 years and require less
maintenance than the existing lines installed more than a decade
ago.</p>
<p>Sophie Allison, Metro Partnerships Manager at Centro, said: "The
tram system is already the West Midlands most reliable mode of
transport, and the overhead line upgrade will help us to make sure
it maintains its great record of almost 100 per cent reliability in
to the future.</p>
<p>"Unfortunately it will be necessary to close the tram system in
part over a four day period to upgrade the overhead lines. We
apologise for any disruption but this is the best way for us to get
the work done. Doing it in any other way would take significantly
longer and cause more disruption to passengers over an extended
period."</p>
<p>Passengers travelling to destinations between Wolverhampton St
George's and Wednesbury Parkway will be able to use Midland Metro
tickets and passes on the National Express West Midlands (NXWM) 79
and 126 bus services during the closure period. NXWM Daysaver
tickets issued on the 79 and 126 will also be valid on the
Metro.</p>
<p>However Metro and Metro/bus tickets are not valid on the rail
network.</p>
<p>In a separate project, CCTV and the communications system used
on the Metro network is receiving a £500,000 upgrade which
will come into operation in early April.</p>
<p>This includes providing passengers with an improved information
announcement and display system and enhanced help points at stops
including Braille lettering for the blind and visually impaired. It
will also update the CCTV control systems along
the line and improve passenger information points.</p>
<p>Sophie said: "Passengers can be assured that the level of
investment in these two programmes is proof of our determination to
maintain the extremely high levels of reliability and security on
the Midland Metro in the future.</p>
<p>"The enhancement work will make the lines more robust so they
are less likely to require ongoing maintenance work, reducing the
risk of delays on the tram system for passengers, while
improvements to the CCTV and communications systems means people
will get better information and feel safer when they use the
network."</p>
<p>"</p>
"The Midland Metro will be partially closed for four days in April to allow for the completion of a £500,000 maintenance project."
17213
0
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0
New bus services for east Birmingham and north Solihull
2011-03-17T00:00:00
2011-03-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People living in east Birmingham and north Solihull are to get
new bus services and timetables following a comprehensive
review.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated public transport authority for the West
Midlands, collaborated with Birmingham City Council, Solihull
Metropolitan Borough Council and bus operating companies to deliver
a more modern bus network.</p>
<p>The new services will see links improved between Bromford and
Birmingham, Marston Green, Smith's Wood and Solihull, between Lea
Hall and Solihull, between Solihull and Heartlands Hospital, Lea
Hall and Birmingham.</p>
<p>As part of the review people living in the area were asked how
they felt services could be improved to facilities such as
hospitals and shops.</p>
<p>The new services and improvements include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Improved access to Birmingham Heartlands Hospital from
Birmingham and Chelmsley Wood</li>
<li>The 58 service restoring the link between Small Heath and
Solihull</li>
<li>New peak period links on the 71/71A between Castle Vale and
Sutton Coldfield</li>
<li>The 99 service running from Lea Village to Acocks Green via
Sheldon</li>
<li> A high frequency 17 service with more peak & daytime
buses, Sunday daytimes every 15 minutes and evenings every 30
minutes</li>
</ul>
<p>North Chemlsey Wood will see extra links provided, with the 72
now running to the medical centre in Chipperfield Road, Bromford,
and Morrison's supermarket from the Bromford estate and Chester
Road.</p>
<p>The 900 and the 957, which was previously a limited service,
will now stop at all stops between Gilbertstone Avenue and the Swan
Centre at Yardley, while the 966 has changed to a double-decker
service.</p>
<p>The changes come into effect from Sunday 27<sup>th</sup> March
2011 and will be publicised with a massive information campaign
that will see exhibitions, posters and leaflets being delivered to
more than 100,000 homes.</p>
<p>People can find out more details about the changes and access
timetables at <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a>
or by attending one of a series of exhibitions taking place over
the next two weeks:</p>
<ul>
<li>Friday March 18, 9.30am-3.30pm - Static exhibition at Chelmsley
Wood shopping centre, walkway through to ASDA, Level 1, by
shops</li>
<li>Saturday March 19, 9.30am-3.30pm - Network West Midlands
marquee outside Bon Marche, Wheatsheaf shops, Sheldon</li>
<li>Monday March 21, 9am-3pm - Network West Midlands bus at
Morrison's, Hurst Lane, Castle Bromwich</li>
<li>Tuesday March 22, 10am-4pm, Network West Midlands marquee, High
Street, Birmingham city centre</li>
<li>Wednesday March 23, 2.30pm-5.30pm - Braunton Suite, Firs
Community Centre, Shawsdale Road, Bromford</li>
<li>Thursday March 24, 3pm-7pm - Network West Midlands marquee by
the Halifax and Domino's junction at Church Road/Stoney Lane, Yew
Tree</li>
<li>Saturday March 26, 9.30am-2.30pm - static exhibition at
Chelmsley Wood shopping centre walkway, through to ASDA, Level 1 by
shops</li>
</ul>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "We have
listened carefully to the public's feedback about what they think
would make their transport network better and I would encourage
people to attend the exhibitions to find out more.</p>
<p>"Working with our partners I am confident the bus network will
provide better access to the area's facilities and makes it quick
and easy for people to change between transport services."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
People living in east Birmingham and north Solihull get new bus services and timetables following a comprehensive review.
17213
0
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Centro re-instates 908 to Pelsall Wood after residents' campaign
2011-03-15T00:00:00
2011-03-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Residents in Walsall are celebrating after successfully
campaigning for the re-introduction of a bus service to their
estate.</p>
<p>People living in Pelsall Wood lobbied for the return of the 908
service after it was taken out of their estate to run along the
main road at the end of August last year.</p>
<p>Locals said the withdrawal of the 908 had left people who
depended on the bus with a long walk to the nearest alternative bus
stop.</p>
<p>Following meetings with residents and local councillors, public
transport body Centro and bus company National Express West
Midlands (NXWM) worked together to re-introduce the service.</p>
<p>Resident Mrs Mary McCrank helped organise the campaign. She
said: "We are very grateful that Centro and National Express West
Midlands have listened to us.</p>
<p>"This estate has people of all ages, from pensioners to mothers
of young children, and when the 908 was withdrawn it left them
struggling, especially during the recent bad weather.</p>
<p>"Having the 908 brought back is fantastic news for this area as
it is a real lifeline."</p>
<p>The 908 runs from Walsall to Wolverhampton via Pelsall and
Bloxwich and following its reintroduction the Pelsall will now
travel along Trevor Road Monday to Saturday from start of service
at 6am until 5:30pm.</p>
<p>Councillor Marco Longhi, the ward member for Walsall Borough
Council and a member of Centro's Integrated Transport Authority
committee, said he was delighted that a solution had been
found.</p>
<p>"I am pleased that we have been able to accommodate the wishes
of the residents and re-introduce a bus service to an area which is
so obviously in favour of it," he said.</p>
<p>"I applaud the residents for their hard work in bringing it to
our attention and thank National Express West Midlands for their
flexibility in helping us bring it back."</p>
<p><strong>PICTURE CAPTION: Nick Newcombe National Express, left
local resident Mary McCrank, centre, and right Coun. Marco Longhi
Pelsall, (Centro), celebrate with other Pelsall Wood residents the
return of the 908 bus service.</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Residents in Walsall are celebrating after successfully campaigning for the re-introduction of a bus service to their estate.
17213
908busservice.jpg
0
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Dudley Port set for Park and Ride extension
2011-03-11T00:00:00
2011-03-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers using a busy Sandwell train station have been handed
a boost after work started this week to extend its popular Park and
Ride service.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, are spending £250,000
to add an extra 47 parking spaces at Dudley Port, more than
doubling its capacity to 83.</p>
<p>High demand for the current facility led Centro to step in with
taxpayers' money to ease overcrowding at the station and reduce
parking on the surrounding roads.</p>
<p>The spaces will be available in a new car park accessible from
Park Lane East, which will be fitted with CCTV cameras and upgraded
lighting.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Councillor Angus Adams, said: "This is
excellent news for rail users, commuters and the environment.</p>
<p>"Park and Ride has proved a very popular scheme and we are
pleased to be able to continue this good work by providing even
more spaces at Dudley Port. These new spaces will make a major
difference in helping to tackle congestion and pollution."</p>
<p>The new car park will be next to the current facility and will
be linked by the existing footpath from Park Lane East.</p>
<p>As part of a wider project the footpath will undergo lighting
and surfacing improvements.</p>
<p>The work, which is being carried out by contractor C A
Blackwell, is scheduled for completion in the summer and passengers
will be able to use the existing spaces throughout the
extension.</p>
<p>Details of the extension will be on display at the station from
this week.</p>
<p>Centro's congestion-busting Park and Ride facilities have been a
major success in helping to persuade motorists to make the bulk of
their daily commute by rail and there are now more than 6,500 free
spaces at Centro's 53 heavy rail car parks and four of its Metro
stops.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take more than 53,000 journeys
off the road each week, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200
tonnes a year.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested £14 million in Park and
Ride since 1997 and all of the car parks have been awarded Safer
Parking Accreditation for achieving low levels of vehicle crime and
anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers using a busy Black Country train station get a boost as work starts to extend its popular Park and Ride service.
17213
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0
GoHS2 hits back at critics of high-speed rail
2011-03-11T00:00:00
2011-03-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>West Midlands transport chiefs have hit back at critics of high
speed rail, insisting the HS2 project will deliver
massive economic benefits.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said the planned £44 billion
line from London to Birmingham represented a golden opportunity to
improve Britain's rail infrastructure.</p>
<p>He was responding to a letter by 20 business and politcal
figures including former chancellor Lord Lawson of Blaby.</p>
<p>Speaking on behalf of the GoHS2 group, whose members include
Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Airport, the NEC Group,
Solihull Council and Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, Mr Inskip said
high speed rail would be the biggest creator of wealth and jobs in
a generation.</p>
<p>In a letter to The Daily Telegraph he wrote: ""In their letter
Patrick Barbour, Toby Baxendale and others dismiss high-speed rail
(HS2) as something the country cannot afford. How wrong they are -
the truth is that if the UK is going to compete in a global market
HS rail is something that the UK cannot afford NOT to do.</p>
<p>""GoHS2 is a West Midlands consortium which believes HS2
is of national importance, it will see the UK able to
compete on the same stage as our closest international competitors
who have been quick to recognize and capitalise on the economic
benefits of high speed rail.</p>
<p>""It will be the biggest creator of jobs and wealth in a
generation, delivering £2 of benefits to every household for every
£1 spent, creating thousands of jobs and generating £6bn a year for
the Treasury.</p>
<p>""The South East is already getting Crossrail at £2bn per year
as well as receiving three times the investment per capita in
public transport than the national average. We believe the rest of
the UK must receive similar treatment if it is to be
competitive.</p>
<p>""Network Rail and many transport professionals agree that the
West Coast Main Line will have reached full capacity by the
mid-2020s.</p>
<p>""The argument put forward by the anti-HS2 lobby such as longer
and more frequent trains or expanding and disrupting the existing
line were examined and exhausted - they just will not cut the
mustard. Local services would suffer at the expense of inter-city
trains, which will subsequently damage the regional economy.</p>
<p>""We recognise, and indeed support, the need to maintain
investment in the existing rail infrastructure and motorway and
road network but HS2 offers the only serious solution.</p>
<p>""In the West Midlands it would allow increased service
frequencies to local destinations. Places like Kenilworth could
have new services such as a direct London service, while released
capacity would enable more freight trains to operate along the West
Coast Main Line which would otherwise have to travel by road,
thereby adding to congestion and pollution.</p>
<p>""Britain's rail infrastructure has long been accused of being
unfit for purpose. This is a golden opportunity to do something
about it, transforming the UK economy and the way we travel in the
21st century.""</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro boss Geoff Inskip hits back for GoHS2 at critics of high speed rail.
17213
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Prince's Trust candidates awarded apprenticeships with Centro and Virgin Trains
2011-03-11T00:00:00
2011-03-11T00:00:00
"Kelah Fox, left, and Dwain Stevens who were offered apprenticeships with Centro"
<p>"</p>
<p>Six unemployed young people from the West Midlands have been
offered apprenticeships with Centro and Virgin Trains after
completing a Prince's Trust course to help them move into
employment.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>The successful six were unveiled at a presentation event on
Friday March 11, attended by Dudley North MP and Shadow Sports
Minister Ian Austin.</p>
<p>Charlotte Carter, 21 from Bewdley, Worcestershire, Luke Gibbs,
25 from Quinton, Birmingham, Luke Neate, 20 from Old Hill, West
Midlands, and Farrah Begum 19, from Alum Rock, Birmingham, secured
customer service roles with Virgin Trains.</p>
<p>Kelah Fox, 25 from Moseley, Birmingham and Dwain Stevens, 23
from Newtown, Birmingham, were both given similar apprenticeships
with Centro.</p>
<p>Speaking at the event Mr Austin, said: ""Of all the things I've
been invited to, this has been one of the most pleasurable,
enjoyable and inspiring events it has been my privilege to
attend.</p>
<p>""I think it is absolutely brilliant to see companies from the
private public and voluntary sectors joining together to give young
people this fantastic opportunity.""</p>
<p>The news comes after the 18 to 25-year-olds spent time on the
four-week programme gaining valuable experience in public
transport.</p>
<p>As part of the flagship scheme, the group each spent three weeks
working in various departments at Centro and a week with Virgin
Trains. They were also given support with job searching, interview
and application skills.</p>
<p>Kathy Williams, West Midlands regional director for The Prince's
Trust, said: ""The Prince's Trust Get into Transport course
provides a great opportunity for young people to gain valuable work
experience to help them find a job. More than three in four young
people helped by The Prince's Trust move into work, training or
education.</p>
<p>""""We have developed a valuable partnership with Centro. After
the success of last year's programme we are delighted to also have
Virgin Trains on board to help young people move into work.""</p>
<p>The Prince's Trust had initially teamed up with Centro and
Virgin Trains to provide 12 work four-week placements as part of
the youth charity's Get into Transport programme.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Chris Gibb, Chief Operating Officer at Virgin Trains said: ""I
am very pleased that Virgin Trains has been involved in this
initiative. Last year Centro impressed me with work they were doing
with the Prince's Trust, and we decided to get involved ourselves
this year. I am delighted these young people will have an
opportunity to learn about customer service from our excellent team
at Wolverhampton.""</p>
<p>Last year Centro, the West Midlands Integrated Transport
Authority, ran the first successful programme with The Prince's
Trust which resulted in one apprenticeship and four other young
people gaining temporary employment.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: ""The get into
transport scheme is a fabulous initiative giving young people a
real chance to gain experience working in public transport. The
four week programme is designed to give all of those who
participate valuable experience and the opportunity to gain and
develop skills and identify their strengths.</p>
<p>""This is the second year of Centro's involvement with the
Prince's Trust and we are delighted that this year Virgin Trains
have joined with us in offering a further apprenticeship
places.""</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Councillor Angus Adams told all the
participants: ""We have got 12 winners here not just six. Everyone
who took part on the course has picked up skills that will last
them for the rest of their lives. If you use this experience in the
future I am sure none of you will have any problem finding
employment.""</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
Six unemployed young people on the Prince's Trust scheme win apprenticeships with Centro and Virgin Trains.
17213
Centrowinners1.jpg
0
12
0
Integrated Transport Authority members agree Ring and Ride charge
2011-03-07T00:00:00
2011-03-07T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p style="text-align: "> </p>
<p>Councillors have agreed to introduce a small charge for the
thousands of regular users of the Ring and Ride service.</p>
<p>Members of the Integrated Transport Authority endorsed a
recommendation that a 60p single trip fare be brought in for
registered users for 2011/12.</p>
<p>The move follows a public consultation by integrated transport
authority Centro, which funds the Ring and Ride service on behalf
of the region's seven district councils, and West Midlands Special
Needs Transport, the charity which runs the service.</p>
<p>Users voted in favour of introducing the charge and preserving
existing services because of a £900,000 shortfall in the Ring and
Ride budget.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said the move would be on
a 12 month basis and pledged there would be a review after six
months to see how the service was running and whether the charge
was effectively tackling the deficit.</p>
<p>He said: "In an ideal world we would not have to do this but the
harsh reality is that in these difficult economic times the budget
has been reduced and if we are to maintain services as users would
want then we have had to introduce this charge.</p>
<p>"We went to a public consultation and asked the people that
really mattered - the Ring and Ride users - what they felt. They
told us, and the overwhelming majority said they were happy to make
a small payment and we have acted on that."</p>
<p>More than 30,000 people were invited to take part in the ballot
in February which offered them a choice of options designed to save
£900,000 from the Ring and Ride budget over the coming year.</p>
<p>A total of 15,429 regular users responded, with 13,934 (90 per
cent) voting in favour of paying a charge rather than a reduction
in the number of journeys operated which could have seen the
withdrawal of some services in the evenings and/or other times
of the day.</p>
<p>Of the 90 per cent who voted in favour of charges, 8,659 (56 per
cent) opted for a 60p single fare and 5,452 (35per cent) voted for
the £36 membership fee.</p>
<p>West Midlands council tax payers have paid £12.1 million this
year towards the cost of running Ring and Ride.</p>
<p>Although West Midlands Special Needs Transport made significant
efficiencies to off-set the rising costs of running the Ring and
Ride service, savings were still needed because of a reduction in
grant due to the financial pressures on the seven West Midlands
district councils following cuts to their own funding over the next
three years.</p>
<p>Users were asked to vote for one of two options:</p>
<ul>
<li>A reduction in the level of service</li>
<li>Charges in the form of either an annual membership fee of £36
(equivalent to 69p a week) or a single trip fare of 60p</li>
</ul>
<p>Of the 90 per cent who voted in favour of charges, 8,659 (56 per
cent) opted for a 60p single fare and 5,452 (35per cent) voted for
the £36 membership fee.</p>
<p>Ring and Ride, which began in 1983 with two minibuses operating
out of a Victorian building in Park Lane, Hockley, provides around
1.8 million trips a year in the West Midlands making it the largest
privately operated Ring and Ride service in the world.</p>
<p>Passengers phone a special number two days in advance to book
their journeys giving details of where they want to be picked up
and taken to, and the time they want to travel.</p>
<p>"</p>
Councillors have agreed to introduce a small charge for the thousands of regular users of the Ring and Ride service.
17213
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0
Centro members' concerns over London Midland proposals to reduce staff at rail stations
2011-03-01T00:00:00
2011-03-01T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro is urging rail passengers to oppose London Midland
proposals to slash the numbers of staff at stations across the
region.</p>
<p>London Midland has launched a consultation exercise today (March
1<sup>st</sup> 2011) to implement the changes between July and
August 2011.</p>
<p>But the integrated West Midlands passenger transport authority
has written to Transport Minister Theresa Villiers urging her to
look closely at proposals by London Midland to reduce the level of
passenger services at 87 stations out of the 90 London Midland
runs.</p>
<p>London Midland says it needs to reduce numbers to save money,
with staff being completely removed from eight stations - Adderley
Park, Bescot Stadium, Duddeston, Jewellery Quarter, Lye, Small
Heath, Witton, and Wythall - and dramatically reduced at almost all
other stations under their proposals.</p>
<p>It is proposing to launch a consultation exercise on March 1 and
implement the changes between June and August 2011.</p>
<p>But in a joint letter to Ms Villiers, Centro chairman Councillor
Angus Adams, vice chairman Councillor Jon Hunt and Opposition Group
Leader Councillor John McNicholas said the proposals would be
totally unacceptable to passengers.</p>
<p>They said when London Midland was awarded the franchise to run
stations in the West Midlands it was done so on the basis of
specific staffing levels. To reduce them by such significant
numbers would have a major impact on passengers.</p>
<p>Councillor Adams said: "Their rationale for deciding changes
fails to take into account the wider benefits of staff presence at
stations, including the critically important role in reassuring
passengers.</p>
<p>"We have made it clear to London Midland that were we a
co-signatory to the franchise agreement the Integrated Transport
Authority would not approve these changes."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro writes to Transport Secretary Theresa Villiers and urges passengers to oppose London Midland proposals to slash the numbers of staff at stations across the region.
17213
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Centro welcomes launch of HS2 consultation period
2011-02-28T00:00:00
2011-02-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the launch by the Government of the official
consultation period on its proposals for the High Speed 2 (HS2)
rail link between London and Birmingham.</p>
<p>Transport Secretary Philip Hammond was in Birmingham to unveil
the launch at the city's International Convention Centre in a
high-profile event attended by council and business leaders from
across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Announcing the five-month consultation into the proposals for
HS2, Mr Hammond said the country faced a ""once in a lifetime""
opportunity to create new jobs and prosperity with a project that
would deliver benefits of up to £44 billion for the UK economy.</p>
<p>Mr Hammond said: ""This will be one of the most extensive and
potentially far-reaching government consultations in history.""</p>
<p>Work is due to start on HS2 in 2015 and will see 250mph trains
taking as little as half an hour to travel between the two
cities.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, the integrated
transport authority for the West Midlands, said HS2 would bring
22,000 new jobs to the West Midlands and boost its economy by £1.5
billion a year.</p>
<p>He said: "I believe the consultation will establish beyond doubt
the case for a rail network that is going to have far-reaching
benefits for the West Midlands for generations.</p>
<p>"HS2 is going to be worth many millions of pounds to the
regional economy, will create thousands of jobs and will open up
the region to the rest of the country and Europe."</p>
<p>Councillor Adams said HS2 would also ease the pressure on
existing rail services, freeing up track space for new
services.</p>
<p>He said: "Without HS2 the West Coast Main Line is going to reach
capacity within a decade, which will result in local and regional
services being pushed out at the expense of more profitable inter-
city services. If that happens it would hit hundreds of thousands
of regional commuters, damage local economies and stifle economic
growth and job creation."</p>
<p>The proposed HS2 route would see a high speed link linking
Euston station in London to a new interchange at Curzon
Street in Birmingham with trains travelling at speeds of up to
225mph taking just 49 minutes to make the journey.</p>
<p>Councillor Adams said it was important to remember the benefits
of HS2 would be regional and not just in the Birmingham area.</p>
<p>"High speed rail will encourage companies to move out of London
and the south east of England to the West Midlands, helping to
create badly needed new jobs and increased prosperity," he
said.</p>
<p>"Having such a vital link to London and beyond that Europe for
businesses, tourists and the public alike is going to be of massive
benefit for the entire region."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro welcomes the launch by the Government of the official consultation period on its proposals for the High Speed 2 rail link between London and Birmingham.
17213
0
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0
Ring and Ride users vote in favour of paying
2011-02-25T00:00:00
2011-02-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Thousands of regular users of the region's Ring and Ride buses
have voted overwhelmingly in favour of paying a small charge to use
the door-to-door service.</p>
<p>More than 30,000 people were invited to take part in a ballot
which offered them a choice of options designed to save £900,000
from the Ring and Ride budget over the coming year.</p>
<p>A total of 15,429 regular users responded with 13,934 (90 per
cent) voting in favour of paying a charge rather than a reduction
in the number of journeys operated which could have seen the
withdrawal of some services in the evenings and/or other times
of the day</p>
<p>The ballot was organised by transport authority Centro, which
funds the Ring and Ride service on behalf of the region's seven
district councils and West Midlands Special Needs Transport, the
charity which runs the service.</p>
<p>West Midlands council tax payers have paid £12.1 million towards
the cost of running Ring and Ride this year but for the financial
year starting in April substantial savings of £900,000 are
required.</p>
<p>Although West Midlands Special Needs Transport has made
significant efficiencies to off-set the rising costs of running the
Ring and Ride service, savings are still needed because of a
reduction in grant due to the financial pressures on the seven West
Midlands district councils following cuts to their own funding over
the next three years.</p>
<p>Users were asked to vote for one of two options:</p>
<ul>
<li>A reduction in the level of service</li>
<li>Charges in the form of either an annual membership fee of £36
(equivalent to 69p a week) or a single trip fare of 60p</li>
</ul>
<p>Of the 90 per cent who voted in favour of charges, 8,659 (56 per
cent) opted for a 60p single fare and 5,452 (35per cent) voted for
the £36 membership fee.</p>
<p>The results of the ballot will now be put before a special
meeting of Centro's Integrated Transport Authority on March 7 where
councillors will make a final decision on how to achieve the
£900,000 savings. A recommendation to introduce the 60p single trip
fare, reflecting the ballot result, will be put to them.</p>
<p>Centro's director of passenger services, Stephen Rhodes, said:
"Ring and Ride is an important lifeline for some of the most
vulnerable members of society - people who are unable to use
conventional public transport.</p>
<p>"However these are very hard financial times and the pressures
on public finances mean the seven local authorities have to make
some tough financial decisions, which has resulted in a reduction
in the funds we can make available to Ring and Ride.</p>
<p>"This is why we felt it was important to ask users for their
views on how they felt the service should move forward. They have
told us what they feel; now it is down to members to decide the
best course of action."</p>
<p>Ring and Ride, which began in 1983 with two minibuses operating
out of a Victorian building in Park Lane, Hockley, provides around
1.8 million trips a year in the West Midlands making it the largest
privately operated Ring and Ride service in the world.</p>
<p>Passengers phone a special number two days in advance to book
their journeys giving details of where they want to be picked up
and taken to, and the time they want to travel.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Thousands of regular users of the region's Ring and Ride buses have voted overwhelmingly in favour of paying a small charge to use the door-to-door service.
17213
0
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Business and public sectors unite behind high speed rail
2011-02-24T00:00:00
2011-02-24T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Key players from the West Midlands private and public sectors
have joined forces to launch a powerful consortium in support of
the proposed high speed rail link between Birmingham and
London.</p>
<p>Go-HS2 is a collaboration between big business including The NEC
Group, Birmingham Airport, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, Business
Birmingham, the city's inward investment agency and public bodies
Birmingham City Council, Solihull Council and transport authority
Centro.</p>
<p>The organisations have come together after carefully weighing up
the arguments for and against the project. The consortium has spent
months analysing research into the rail link's impact on the West
Midlands economy and its ability to release badly needed capacity
on the existing rail network, especially on the congested West
Coast Main Line (WCML) running between the region and London.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, said: "Go-HS2
galvanises support for the project within the business and public
sector and enables us to speak with one voice on what we believe is
the biggest opportunity for wealth and job creation in a
generation.</p>
<p>"HS2 can bring 22,000 new jobs to the West Midlands and boost
its economy by £1.5 billion a year and it's this potential for
regeneration combined with its ability to meet future rail demand
that makes the case.</p>
<p>"We all recognise the huge part HS2 can play in creating a
successful and prosperous West Midlands and that's why we are
united in our determination to see this high speed rail route
delivered."</p>
<p>Paul Kehoe, CEO of Birmingham Airport, added; "High Speed Rail
should be considered as a national project, as a network is built
in coming years. The first element - from London to Birmingham -
means that the West Midlands can be an early beneficiary, as the UK
economy becomes more balanced and less London-centric"</p>
<p>Apart from the significant economic benefits for the region,
Go-HS2 members believe the high speed route is vital to secure the
long term viability of the existing rail system after expert
research from Network Rail showed that the WCML will have reach
full capacity by the mid-2020s after which it will be unable to
fully meet demand. </p>
<p>The research also showed that all the alternative options such
as longer and more frequent trains or expanding the existing line
have been examined and exhausted and cannot meet future demand.</p>
<p>Go-HS2 believes that because a new rail line has to be built, it
would be short-sighted not to spend a relatively small amount of
extra money and make that line high speed thereby unlocking all the
extra economic and journey time benefits such a railway
brings. </p>
<p>Go-HS2 is also concerned that failure to build the new line
could see local and regional services pushed out at the expense of
more profitable inter city services. That would hit hundreds of
thousands of regional commuters, damage local economies and stifle
economic growth and job creation. </p>
<p>By contrast, building the line would not only bring jobs and
economic growth but also release badly needed capacity on the
existing rail network.</p>
<p>In the West Midlands this would allow increased service
frequencies to local destinations such as Lichfield, Tamworth,
Nuneaton and Rugby and more regional services linking towns
currently without direct services. Places like Kenilworth could
have new services such as a direct London service. The released
capacity would also enable more freight trains to operate along the
West Coast Main Line. </p>
<p>Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "There can
be little doubt that HS2 will bring significant economic benefits
to the region's economy, providing a vital link to London and
beyond that Europe for businesses, tourists and the public
alike.</p>
<p>"That the membership of this consortium is drawn from such a
diverse group, straddling public and private sectors alike, really
demonstrates how the region is speaking with one voice on this
issue."</p>
<p>Paul Thandi, CEO, The NEC Group, said: "The NEC Group is
increasingly global in both its offer and reach. The prospect of
High Speed Rail connecting us to London in under 40 minutes
presents huge growth opportunities for our business , helping to
attract events with truly national and international appeal, while
boosting business tourism.</p>
<p>"The NEC site alone, which is also home to the LG Arena as well
as the exhibition centre, attracts more than three million visitors
each year - 70 per cent of which are from outside the West
Midlands, and 10 per cent outside the UK. We create 25,000 jobs and
generate £1.8billion economic impact - so with time being one of
the most precious commodities, if it's easier and faster to get to
us, then this is a great advantage - attracting even more visitors
from a broader market that, in turn, will greatly benefit the wider
regional economy." </p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, chief executive of Birmingham Chamber of
Commerce: added: "High speed will attract companies from the
overheated south east of England to the West Midlands helping to
create badly needed new jobs and increased prosperity. </p>
<p>" But high speed rail is crucial to the wider UK economy.
Failure to address our fragmented transport infrastructure will
leave us unable to match our closest international competitors who
have been quick to recognise the economic benefits of integrating
high speed rail with other transport - such as aviation - and have
invested heavily in it."</p>
<p>Neil Rami, head of Business Birmingham, the city's inward
investment programme, operated by Marketing Birmingham, said:
"Birmingham is a business city that must be served by first class
transport links if it is to deliver the private sector jobs its
economy is demanding. </p>
<p>"International investors we speak with are underlining the
importance for their business of operating in a country with a
21<sup>st</sup> century rail network, which for them means
high-speed rail connections.</p>
<p>"Regional economies must be given the tools to make themselves
attractive investment propositions, just as their counterparts on
the continent. We must ensure that it is not just the South
East that can compete in the global market place. UK Plc
deserves better."</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Key players from the West Midlands private and public sectors have joined forces to launch a powerful consortium in support of the proposed high speed rail link between Birmingham and London.
17213
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Work to solve Birmingham and Coventry rail bottleneck needed in addition to high speed rail
2011-02-16T00:00:00
2011-02-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Two extra railway tracks need to be laid along the West Coast
Main Line (WCML) between Birmingham and Coventry well ahead of any
opening of the proposed high speed rail link if the West Midlands
is to meet ever rising demand for local rail travel, Centro, the
region's transport authority, said today.</p>
<p>Backed by a number of West Midlands MPs, Centro has called on
train operating companies to make four tracking of the line between
the two cities a key part of any bids to win the forthcoming
14-year franchise for the WCML which is due to start next year.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, said: "Apart from the £1.5
billion a year boost to the West Midlands economy and the 22,000
new jobs that a high speed rail link between London and Birmingham
(HS2) will bring, we have to build it because the WCML will reach
full capacity by the mid 2020s.</p>
<p>"However, the existing stretch between Birmingham and Coventry
is already a bottle neck that impacts on the reliability of the
services running on it and it is extremely difficult to get any
more trains through this pinch point.</p>
<p>"This capacity problem will only get more acute in the next few
years and will reach saturation point by 2021, five years before
HS2 is due to open.</p>
<p>Once we hit that point ten years from now some tough choices
will have to be made between the inter-city and local services
operating on the line.</p>
<p>"There is a very real risk that local services could be pushed
out in favour of more profitable inter-city trains, thereby
damaging local economies and stifling economic growth and job
creation.</p>
<p>"We therefore cannot afford to wait for HS2 and are calling on
train companies looking to bid for the WCML franchise to make a
commitment to four tracking the line between Birmingham and
Coventry. Indeed even after the proposed high speed line opens,
four tracks on this stretch of railway will remain crucial to meet
demand."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said that the longer, 14-year period of the next WCML
franchise should give train companies the security to commit to the
investment needed to lay the two extra tracks between Birmingham
and Coventry. He also called for Network Rail to consider the four
tracking proposal as part of its forthcoming Rail Utilisation
Strategy.</p>
<p>A report released this week by pro-HS2 company Greengauge 21
released showed how the proposed high speed rail link between
London and the West Midlands would release badly needed capacity on
the classic rail network.</p>
<p>It said that in the West Midlands this would allow increased
service frequencies to local destinations such as Lichfield,
Tamworth, Nuneaton and Rugby and more regional services linking
towns currently without direct services. Places like Kenilworth
could also have new services such as a direct London service.</p>
<p>But Mr Inskip said: "Despite the benefits HS2 brings to the
wider regional rail network, the issue of capacity for both
passenger and freight services between Birmingham and Coventry
needs to be dealt with far sooner.</p>
<p>"That is why we want to see the four tracking proposal included
in the franchise bids that are now or about to be submitted."</p>
<p>Centro this week met with seven West Midland Labour MPs at
Parliament to brief them on how the region would benefit both
economically and transport-wise from the proposed high speed rail
link. Four tracking between Birmingham and Coventry was one of the
issues that the MPs said they were keen to see addressed.</p>
<p>Centro, Birmingham City Council, the NEC Group, Birmingham
Airport, Solihull Council, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and
Marketing Birmingham are all supporting the Government's high speed
rail plan which is due to go out to public consultation
shortly.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "The case for HS2 cannot be overstated, it is
quite simply the biggest opportunity for wealth and job creation in
a generation."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Two extra railway tracks need to be laid along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) between Birmingham and Coventry well ahead of any opening of the proposed high speed rail link if the West Midlands is to meet ever rising demand for local rail travel, Centro, the region's transport authority, said today."
17213
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Anti-social bus passengers brought to task thanks to public tip-offs
2011-02-16T00:00:00
2011-02-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A campaign which gives bus and Metro passengers the chance to
help police crackdown on anti-social behaviour has led to scores of
arrests. </p>
<p>Police have been able to identify specific hot spots across the
West Midlands and take action based on crucial data gathered
through 'See Something, Say Something' which enables passengers to
anonymously send information about nuisance behaviour by text
message.</p>
<p>Tactics used have included high visibility and covert patrols,
the deployment of specially trained drugs sniffer dogs and
'Gateway' operations to blanket-check specific bus routes. Officers
have also been using hi-tech 'Invariance' equipment which links in
to on-board bus CCTV cameras to beam live images to hand-held
screens in nearby police cars.</p>
<p>Inspector Cate Webb-Jones, who heads up police operations for
the Safer Travel Partnership which includes West Midlands Police,
National Express West Midlands, Centro, the Safer Birmingham
Partnership and British Transport Police, said dozens of text
messages about nuisance behaviour were being sent by the public
each month to the 83010 text number.</p>
<p>"This information is invaluable to us as it provides excellent
intelligence on what is happening and where," she said. "By
analysing the data we can identify any problem routes or services,
pinpoint the type of behaviour taking place and take appropriate
action.</p>
<p>"Although crime on the bus network is low - just one offence in
every 100,000 journeys - we know that nuisance behaviour can
lead to an unfounded fear of crime amongst some passengers.</p>
<p>"I would therefore urge the public to keep on using 'See
Something Say Something' because doing so helps us to bring those
offenders to task. It really is a case of 'You Said We Did'."</p>
<p>In Birmingham, the Safer Travel police team has been targeting
routes identified by 'See Something Say Something' as having a
particular problem. Since last April more than 66 operations have
been staged as a result of information forwarded by the public,
leading to 134 arrests and a cut in crime of 15 per cent. Targeted
routes have included the Bristol, Hagley and Pershore Roads.</p>
<p>In Coventry, Solihull and East Birmingham more than 21 Gateway
operations based on See Something Say Something information have
been carried out over the last six months. These have helped
achieve an impressive 40 per cent drop in bus crime in Solihull and
a 26 per cent drop in Coventry.</p>
<p>In the Black Country the Safer Travel police team has been
concentrating high visibility patrols on hotspots highlighted by
passengers in their See Something Say Something texts.</p>
<p>One Gateway Operation staged on the 559 route in Wolverhampton
in December led to six suspected drugs offenders being searched and
two men prosecuted for drug possession. This followed a number of
texts from the public which complained of cannabis smoking on buses
running on the route.</p>
<p>Other texts highlighted nuisance behaviour on the 126 route.
Police responded by staging an operation that led to the arrest of
two people for offences such as assault and public order. Another
operation in the Carters Green area of West Bromwich in December
resulted in 27 people fined for ticket fraud.</p>
<p>Since 'See Something, Say Something' was launched in October
2008, more than 3,000 texts have been received.</p>
<p>The most persistent issues on buses are;</p>
<ul>
<li>smoking - which is dealt with by individual bus companies and
local authority enforcement teams</li>
<li>misuse of drugs</li>
<li>general anti-social behaviour. </li>
</ul>
<p>The success of See Something Say Something has, in part, helped
to see crime on the West Midlands bus network fall to its lowest
level for five years. Latest figures show a fall of 18 per cent
over the last 12 months and a drop of 54 per cent over the previous
three years.</p>
<p>On the Metro, British Transport Police and Travel Midland Metro
staff succeeded in reducing crime by 39 per cent between 2005
and 2009.</p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their bus or
Metro journey can say something by texting 'bus' or 'metro'
followed by a space and then details of the incident including
time, date, location and route number to 83010. </p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on the <a
href="/" title="">www.safertravelinfo</a> website or by telephoning
West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000. </p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A campaign which gives bus and Metro passengers the chance to help police crackdown on anti-social behaviour has led to scores of arrests.
17213
0
12
0
People urged to have their say on buses in Wolverhampton and west Walsall
2011-02-15T00:00:00
2011-02-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Wolverhampton and west Walsall are being urged to have
their say as part of a review of local bus services.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority is working with
Wolverhampton City Council, Walsall Borough Council and local bus
companies to look at the network and see what can be done for
existing and prospective passengers.</p>
<p>The aim is to build on the already strong transport network in
the area to provide services that better serve modern travel
patterns while also bringing improved buses, waiting facilities and
information.</p>
<p>The review covers all of Wolverhampton and all or part of the
following postcodes in west Walsall: WS2, WS10, WV12, WV13, and
WV14.</p>
<p>People who visit, work and live in these areas are being urged
to attend exhibitions throughout February and March to give their
views on what works well and what would make bus services in the
area better.</p>
<p>Centro also wants to establish if people would like to see the
re-introduction of the Wolverhampton city centre bus.</p>
<p>This information, along with other research, will then be used
to make improvements and ensure bus services are taking people
where they want to go, when they want to go.</p>
<p>The work forms part of Centro's vision to Transform Bus Travel,
which focuses on improving the quality of bus travel in the region
and provide people with an attractive alternative to the car.</p>
<p>Changes are due to come into effect during the summer in line
with the opening of the new £21m Wolverhampton bus interchange.</p>
<p>People who want to have their say can go to any of the following
exhibitions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Friday 18<sup>th</sup> February, 9.30am to 3.30pm, market stall
at Darlaston Market, pedestrian area of High Street, adjacent to
ASDA</li>
<li>Saturday 19<sup>th</sup> February, 9.30am to 3pm, market stall
at Wednesfield Market, High Street</li>
<li>Tuesday 22<sup>nd</sup> February, 9.30am to 3pm, Network West
Midlands exhibition bus outside Whitmore Reans library, Evans
Street, Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Wednesday 23<sup>rd</sup> February, 9.30am to 3pm, static
indoor exhibition outside Argos in Saddlers Centre, Walsall town
centre</li>
<li>Friday 25<sup>th</sup> February, 9.30am to 3.30pm, market stall
at Willenhall Market, Willenhall</li>
<li>Saturday 26<sup>th</sup> February, 9am to 3pm, Network West
Midlands bus at Queen Square, Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Tuesday 1<sup>st</sup> March, 10am to 3pm, Network West
Midlands bus in bus lay-by serving Morrisons at Blaydon
Road/Whitburn Close, Pendeford, Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Wednesday 2nd March, 3pm to 7pm, static indoor exhibition at
New Blakenhall Community and Healthy Living Centre, Bromley Street,
Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Thursday 3<sup>rd</sup> March, 10am to 3pm, static indoor
exhibition at Bilston bus station</li>
</ul>
<p>People can also give their views by logging on to <a
href="/"><strong>www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</strong></a>
and all comments and views must be received by Friday
11<sup>th</sup> March.</p>
<p>A number of exhibitions will take place telling people of the
changes, and notices will be displayed inside buses and at key
locations plus on websites. People can also leave their contact
details to receive an update.</p>
<p>The review is the latest in a number that have successfully
taken place across the West Midlands including Dudley, south
Solihull, south Birmingham, north Walsall and west Birmingham.</p>
<p>They have produced a string of benefits for passengers
including:</p>
<ul>
<li>New and improved bus shelters with up-to-date information at
every stop</li>
<li>Improved links to key shopping destinations</li>
<li>New services on roads that have never had a bus before or have
had their bus withdrawn</li>
<li>More buses with turn up and go timetables on main roads</li>
<li>New and refurbished vehicles</li>
<li>Highways improvements to help buses beat the traffic</li>
<li>More electronic bus stop displays and Real Time
information</li>
<li>Customer care training for drivers</li>
<li>Enhanced safety and security measures both at stops and on the
bus</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "A bus network
review is a golden opportunity for passengers to tell us what they
think of the services they are using and how they can be
improved.</p>
<p>"I would urge people to go to the exhibitions and let us know
what improvements they want to see so that we can act upon it to
provide the best possible service."</p>
<p>"</p>
People in Wolverhampton and west Walsall are being urged to have their say as part of a review of local bus services.
17213
0
12
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Bus service extended after proving hit with passengers
2011-02-11T00:00:00
2011-02-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A trial bus service linking a Walsall estate to the town centre
has proved so popular that transport chiefs have given it a four
month extension and laid on extra trips.</p>
<p>The number of people using the 360 community bus running between
High Heath and Walsall has almost doubled since the service was
launched in September by transport authority Centro and local
charity Walsall Community Transport.</p>
<p>The trial service was initially set to run for six months until
March but the increased demand has seen that date extended to
July.</p>
<p>The service, which provides a vital link to the Rushall Medical
Centre, has been operating three times a day on Monday, Wednesday
and Friday but that will now increase to four trips. An extra stop
has also been added in the town centre at stand WD on Hatherton
Road. The additional journey is being subsidised by Walsall
Community Transport, which is operating the service.</p>
<p>Stan Taylor, Chair of Trustees at Walsall Community Transport,
said: "We were delighted to have been invited to become involved in
the initiative and feel rewarded by the tremendous response from
local residents who have been instrumental in the service achieving
the growth in popularity achieved."</p>
<p>The new timetable has been drawn up following consultation
between Centro, Walsall Community Transport and the High Heath and
Shelfield Residents Association, to ensure it best serves the needs
of local people.</p>
<p>Centro stepped in with taxpayers' money to launch the trial
service in September to bridge a gap in connections between Walsall
and High Heath after a commercial service on the route was
withdrawn by the private bus company running it.</p>
<p>Passengers can get further details and times for the service by
contacting Walsall Community Transport on 01922 685555.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A trial bus service linking a Walsall estate to the town centre has proved so popular that transport chiefs have given it a four month extension and laid on extra trips.
17213
0
12
0
Centro challenges Taxpayers' Alliance report criticising HS2
2011-02-04T00:00:00
2011-02-04T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro today challenged the findings of a report which dismisses
the case for the high speed rail link between London and
Birmingham.</p>
<p>The proposed HS2 link from the capital is vital for the future
economic prosperity of the West Midlands and is essential to
relieve overcrowding on the existing network which is running out
of capacity, the integrated transport authority for the region
said.</p>
<p>Work is due to start on HS2 in 2015 and will see 250mph trains
taking as little as half an hour to travel between the two
cities.</p>
<p>But a report by Chris Stokes on behalf of the pressure group
Taxpayers' Alliance says the business case for HS2 has not been
made.</p>
<p>Mr Stokes also argues that existing services and infrastructure
should be upgraded instead.</p>
<p>However Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said HS2 would bring
massive benefits in terms of investment and jobs for the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>He also said simply upgrading existing infrastructure to cope
with demand was not an option.</p>
<p>A study commissioned in 2010 for Centro from KPMG showed HS2,
coupled with enhancements to the rest of the local network, would
bring 22,000 new jobs to the West Midlands and boost the regional
economy by £1.5bn per annum.</p>
<p>And a KPMG report for Greengauge 21 entitled High Speed Rail in
Britain: Consequences for Employment and Economic Growth said the
increased tax take to Treasury from increased economic activity
would be up to £6 billion per year.</p>
<p>"The case for HS2 cannot be overstated, it is quite simply the
biggest opportunity for wealth and job creation in a generation,"
Mr Inskip said.</p>
<p>"Thousands of new jobs will be the most fantastic boost to the
economy, both locally and nationally, which in turn will bring
increased prosperity."</p>
<p>Mr Stokes argued that the need for new capacity could be better
served with longer and more frequent trains on the existing
InterCity service on the West Coast Main Line.</p>
<p>But an in-depth review of the existing West Coast main line
between London and Birmingham by Network Rail showed the route
would be full by 2026, although some say it will be much earlier
than this.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said: "We have, together with Network Rail, looked at
that option and have categorically ruled it out. It just will not
provide the capacity that we need."</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said one of the major strengths of the case for HS2 is
that it will release capacity on the existing network for extra
services.</p>
<p>In the West Midlands this would allow increased service
frequencies to local destinations, more regional services and
completely new services such as a regular stopping train to
Tamworth.</p>
<p>He said: "We need to create more capacity on the rail network
and HS2 allows us to do that.</p>
<p>"It follows that if we are going to build a new railway line we
should take the opportunity to make that line high-speed and get
all of the benefits that high-speed trains bring.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip said there was also an environmental case for HS2 as
the carbon emissions of travel by high-speed rail were only a third
of those of car travel and a quarter of travelling by air.</p>
<p>"I believe HS2 is going to be of benefit to everyone," he
added.</p>
<p>"The opportunity for major investment and network improvement in
this region offered by HS2 should be welcomed by everyone who wants
to see a successful and prosperous West Midlands."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro boss Geoff Inskip challenges the findings of a report which dismisses the case for the high-speed rail link between Birmingham and London.
17213
0
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City centre tram project moves forward
2011-02-04T00:00:00
2011-02-04T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p style="text-align: ">Work to extend the Metro tram system
through the streets of Birmingham city centre took a major step
forward today after the Government made more than £75 million
available for the exciting scheme.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Government's confirmation of funding means transport
authority Centro can now invite companies to bid for key elements
of the project such as supplying a new fleet of trams and the
building of a new maintenance depot at Wednesbury. It also means
that the extension from Snow Hill Station to a rebuilt New Street
Station remains on course for completion by 2015.</p>
<p>The Department for Transport gave the green light after being
satisfied that the financial forecasts for the £129 million project
were sound.</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: "We have been working
very closely with the Department for Transport since October in
determining the final costs of the schemes and we're delighted that
the Government has approved them.</p>
<p>"It means we can now press on with buying a new fleet of trams
for the Metro system and building the maintenance depot. We will be
inviting companies to bid for the building of the extension itself
next year. This approval keeps us on track to have the Metro
extension open to coincide with the completion of the New Street
Station Gateway refurbishment."</p>
<p>The joint project by Centro, the region's transport authority,
the Black Country and Birmingham City councils, is expected to
boost the West Midlands economy by £50 million a year and create up
to 1,300 sustainable new jobs.</p>
<p>It will provide a fast link between Birmingham's two major rail
stations and deliver more than 3.5 million passengers a year right
into the heart of the city's shopping district.</p>
<p>It will also give a fast link from New Street Station to the
emerging business district at Snow Hill and the unique and historic
Jewellery Quarter and serve as a platform for a future rapid
transit network that can connect and feed into the city's
forthcoming High Speed Rail terminus.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the fleet of new, bigger trams will bring major
benefits to Metro in the Black Country by increasing passenger
capacity and frequency of service to every six minutes throughout
the day.</p>
<p>The funding announcement by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond
also included good news for four other key transport projects in
the West Midlands:</p>
<ul>
<li>The £19 million Coventry to Nuneaton Rail Enhancement Scheme
(NUCKLE) providing additional rail services and new stations at
Ricoh Arena and Bermuda</li>
<li>The £30 million Darlaston Strategic Development Area
Scheme providing new and enhanced roads to serve the regeneration
of 54 acres of brownfield land.</li>
<li>A £23 million scheme to upgrade the Chester Road in
Birmingham including sections of bus lanes and cycling and
pedestrian facilities.</li>
<li>The £11 million A45 Westbound Bridge scheme involving the
replacement of the 19<sup>th</sup> century bridge carrying the dual
carriageway near Birmingham Airport</li>
</ul>
<p>The schemes, which are all included in the region's Local
Transport Plan, have been moved by the Government into a
development pool with decisions on funding for them expected to be
made by the end of 2011.</p>
<p>Mr Inskip added: "Over the last few months we have been working
with our partners to ensure the business cases for these schemes
are robust and we are pleased that the Government has agreed to
progress them to the next funding stage.</p>
<p>"There is no room for complacency, however, and the schemes are
not yet fully funded by Government. We will therefore
work hard over the coming months to refine the business cases
and put in our best and final offer by the end of the year."</p>
<p>A fifth, £31 million scheme to carry out major maintenance work
on the Tame Valley Viaduct , which carries part of the A38M Aston
Expressway, was not granted entry into the development pool. It is
hoped the scheme can be assessed further for inclusion in the next
round of Government funding after 2015.</p>
<p>"</p>
Work to extend the Metro system through the streets of Birmingham city centre takes a major step forward as the Government makes more than £75m available for the scheme.
17213
StephensonStTram.JPG
0
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0
"Centro welcomes Chancellor's pledge of 8,000 new jobs in Birmingham from HS2"
2011-01-27T00:00:00
2011-01-27T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George
Osborne's statement that the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail link will
create 8,000 jobs in Birmingham.</p>
<p>Speaking on a visit to Birmingham, Mr Osborne said the project
would transform the Curzon Street area of the city centre, where
the terminal is scheduled to be built.</p>
<p>He said: "The project will create 10,000 construction jobs
followed by 8,000 permanent jobs in and around Birmingham itself -
4,500 of which will be based in Curzon Street.</p>
<p>"These are not my figures they are the findings of a new
independent study into the project, which is a vital piece of
transport infrastructure both for Birmingham and the rest of the
country."</p>
<p>HS2 will initially link London to Birmingham, with 250mph trains
taking as little as half an hour to travel between the two
cities.</p>
<p>It is expected to run from a rebuilt Euston station in London
and terminate at a new city centre station built at Curzon/Fazeley
Street in Birmingham's Eastside regeneration area.</p>
<p>The line could then be extended northwards with two forks
running up either side of the Pennines.</p>
<p>The west-sided fork would go to Manchester, with the second
extension passing through the East Midlands to Sheffield and Leeds.
They would then link with existing routes to Newcastle, Glasgow and
Edinburgh.</p>
<p>Mr Osborne's comments come as HS2 Ltd, the firm behind the
project, reportedly identified the former LDV and Alstom
train-making works in Washwood Heath, Birmingham, as the favoured
location for a rail maintenance depot for the line.</p>
<p>This would breathe new life into an area badly hit by the
closure of Alstom in 2004 with the loss of more than 1,200 jobs,
and LDV, which closed in 2009 with the loss of more than 800
jobs.</p>
<p>Work is due to start on HS2 in 2015 and Centro chairman
Councillor Angus Adams said: "I welcome the Chancellor of the
Exchequer's comments as they reinforce what we have believed all
along about HS2," he said.</p>
<p>"It is a project which brings massive employment and
regeneration opportunities to the region."</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip, urging business to get
behind the project, added: "Our own independent study has shown
that the substantial boost to West Midlands economic output,
average wages and job creation that the Chancellor is talking about
could in fact be doubled if the high speed line is combined with
improvements to the region's existing rail network, bringing over
22,000 new jobs to the West Midlands and boosting the regional
economy by £1.5bn a year.</p>
<p>"What Mr Osborne has said highlights the real importance of the
high speed project to the West Midlands."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Centro has welcomed the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne's statement that the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail link will create 8,000 jobs in Birmingham."
17213
0
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Ring and Ride users asked to help shape future of service
2011-01-19T00:00:00
2011-01-19T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Users of the region's Ring and Ride service are being asked to
help decide the best way of overcoming a shortfall in funding for
the coming year.</p>
<p>West Midlands council tax payers have paid £12.1 million towards
the cost of running Ring and Ride this year but for the financial
year starting in April substantial savings of £900,000 are
required.</p>
<p>The shortfall is a result of a possible seven per cent cut in
grant due the financial pressures on the seven West Midlands
district councils following cuts to their funding over the next
three years, plus dramatic cost increases in items like fuel.</p>
<p>Bosses at West Midlands Special Needs Transport, the charity
which provides the service, and transport authority Centro,
which funds Ring and Ride on behalf of the district councils, are
now appealing to users of the door-to-door transport service to
help decide how to make those savings.</p>
<p>More than 30,000 users are being sent a questionnaire asking
them to vote for one of two options:</p>
<p> + Making an eight per
cent reduction in the number of trips being run which could see the
withdrawal of some services in the evenings and/or other
times of the day.</p>
<p> + Introducing
charges in the form of either:</p>
<p> An annual membership
fee of £36 - the equivalent of 69p a week or</p>
<p> A single trip fare of
60p (£1.20 for a return trip)</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip, said: "Ring and Ride is a
lifeline for thousands of people in the West Midlands who are
unable to use conventional public transport.</p>
<p>"It plays an extremely important role in our region's public
transport system which is why we have given the charity more than
£12 million this year. Unfortunately, there is a pressing need for
the seven West Midland councils to reduce expenditure in this
period of severe financial constraint.</p>
<p>"We feel it is crucial to ask users what they think so that we
can continue providing the best possible service for them from the
funds available."</p>
<p>Ring and Ride, which began in 1983 with two minibuses operating
out of a Victorian building in Park Lane, Hockley, provides around
two million trips a year in the West Midlands making it the largest
privately operated Ring and Ride service in the world.</p>
<p>Passengers phone a special number to book their journeys giving
details of where they want to be picked up and taken to, and the
time they want to travel.</p>
<p>The vast majority of Ring and Ride passengers currently enjoy a
free service using their Senior Citizen's or Disabled Person's
passes, as they would if they could use mainstream buses.</p>
<p>Peter Maggs, chief executive of West Midlands Special Needs
Transport, said: "We are only asking our passengers to provide us
with their preferences on how we should balance the books after we
have made every possible efficiency and saving withoutreducing the
Ringand Ride service. This has included a number of management
posts being made redundant to save money."</p>
<p>Users have until Monday January 31 to return the questionnaire
in the pre-paid envelope sent to them.</p>
<p>Passenger consultation sessions will also be held in each of the
local authority areas so that people can give their views on the
options and receive assistance with completing the
questionnaire.</p>
<p>Details of the consultation sessions are listed below and will
also be available along with the consultation questionnaire by
logging on to <a
href="/">www.centro.org.uk/ringandridesurvey</a></p>
<p>The road shows will be held at:</p>
<table border="" cellspacing="" cellpadding="">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Day / Date</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Times</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Venue</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Type</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p> </p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p> </p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p> </p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Friday 21/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Cornbow Centre, Halesowen (Queensway Mall. Adj. To Bus Station
exit.)</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Static Display</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Friday 21/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Queen Square, Wolverhampton</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Saturday 22/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Birmingham, Bull Ring Markets (Edgbaston Street)</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Saturday 22/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre. ( West Mall)</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Static Display</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Monday 24/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Churchill Shopping Centre, Dudley</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Static Display</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Monday 24/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Broadgate, Coventry</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Tuesday 25/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Walsall Bus Station</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Marquee</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Tuesday 25/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Mell Square, Solihull</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Marquee</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Wednesday 26/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Broadgate, Coventry</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Wednesday 26/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>West Bromwich Bus Station (Adjacent to Travel Centre)</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Static Display</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Thursday 27/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Birmingham, Bull Ring Markets (Edgbaston Street)</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Thursday 27/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Queen Square, Wolverhampton</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Marquee</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Friday 28/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Walsall Bus Station</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Network West Midlands Marquee</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Friday 28/1/11</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>09.30 - 15.00</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>West Bromwich Bus Station (Adjacent to Travel Centre)</p>
</td>
<td width="" valign="">
<p>Static Display</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Users of the region's Ring and Ride service are being asked to help decide the best way of overcoming a shortfall in funding for the coming year.
17213
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Penn residents get direct bus service into Wolverhampton as 613 is re-routed
2011-01-18T00:00:00
2011-01-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Residents in the Penn area of Wolverhampton are to get their
direct link to the city centre back after a re-organisation of bus
services.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has agreed a deal with bus operator
Midland for the 613 service to begin operating between Wakeley Hill
and Wolverhampton city centre via the Penn Road, as an extension of
its current route around Fordhouses and Bradmore.</p>
<p>The move comes because the hourly 614, which provides services
around the Penn, Bradmore and Penn Fields areas of the city is
being withdrawn by National Express West Midlands (NXWM) at the end
of January because it is no longer commercially viable.</p>
<p>The Service 614 itself was a replacement for Services 514 and
515 that NXWM withdrew in July 2010.</p>
<p>Starting from January 30 the service will run from Fordhouses,
Legs Lane in Northwood Park, Cannock Road, Wednesfield High Street,
Bentley Bridge Retail Park, New Cross Hospital, Prestwood Road and
Coronation Road in Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>From the city centre it will then go through Broad Street,
Lichfield Street, Rayleigh Road, Bamford Road, to Wakeley Hill at
Penn then back to the city centre via Penn Road to Queen
Street.</p>
<p>It will then follow the reverse of the route, therefore giving
Wakeley Hill an hourly direct service into and out of the city
centre which takes just 17 minutes.</p>
<p>It also means that the area will have a half hourly service into
Wolverhampton as they can also catch the bus through Bradmore into
the city in addition to the direct link via the Penn Road.</p>
<p>Black Country network coordination manager Stephen Tongue said
despite the 614 being lost people were actually gaining a better
service because there was now a direct link to Wolverhampton city
centre from the Penn area.</p>
<p>"People in the Wakeley Hill and Mount Road area of Penn are
unhappy because currently they have to use a service that takes a
long and complicated route to get to the city centre.</p>
<p>"Now, not only have we been able to save the bus service for the
Penn area but we are delighted that we are now able to provide a
direct link to Wolverhampton city centre straight up the Penn Road
for which they have been asking for some time."</p>
<p>"</p>
Residents in the Penn area of Wolverhampton are to get their direct link to the city centre back after a re-organisation of bus services.
17213
0
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0
West Midlands well placed to reap economic rewards of high speed rail says Minister
2011-01-18T00:00:00
2011-01-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Britain's planned high speed rail network will bring major
economic benefits to the West Midlands, Transport Minister Norman
Baker has told the region.</p>
<p>Speaking at a Parliamentary Reception hosted by transport
authority Centro, Mr Baker urged key figures from the region's
local authorities, business community and transport industry to
grab the opportunity and do all they could to capitalise on the
huge economic gains offered by high speed.</p>
<p>Mr Baker told guests at the House of Commons event that the
Government's plans for high speed rail would put Birmingham and the
West Midlands at the heart of a national network that would help
reduce the North-South divide.</p>
<p>He said the network, which would initially link London with
Birmingham before continuing north in a Y-shaped network branching
west to Manchester and east to Leeds, would shift some of the
economic focus away from the south east of England and towards the
Midlands and the north of the country. Mr Baker said the West
Midlands should take the opportunity to fully exploit the potential
rewards.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip, said after the reception:
"The Minister is absolutely right in identifying the West Midlands
as being well placed to reap the substantial economic rewards of
high speed.</p>
<p>"I can assure him we will do everything we can to maximise those
opportunities. Indeed, we have already commissioned research which
shows that by improving our local transport system to better
connect and feed into high speed rail we can actually double the
forecasted economic benefits."</p>
<p>Research has shown the link from London to Birmingham alone
would boost the West Midlands' economic output by £600m, creating
10,000 additional jobs and bringing an average wage increase of
£100 a year for each worker.</p>
<p>However, these figures can be more than doubled to a £1.5 bn
increase in West Midlands economic output, 22,000 new jobs and an
average wage increase of £300 a year by making improvements to the
region's own public transport network so that it better connects
with high speed rail.</p>
<p>In a key note speech to the Parliamentary reception Mr Inskip
had earlier told guests that Centro, together with the Black
Country, Birmingham, Solihull and the region's business community ,
was taking a lead role in supporting the case for High Speed Rail
to the West Midlands. </p>
<p>"Transport affects our everyday lives so it is important we put
those resources that Transport Ministers have fought so hard for in
the comprehensive spending review to effective use in growing our
local economy and reducing carbon emissions," he said.</p>
<p>"That's why I am so pleased that our major projects programme
continues with the rebuilding of New Street Station, Wolverhampton
Interchange, Stourbridge Bus Station, the diversion of the A45 and
the Birmingham Airport runway extension, Smartcard and of course
the extension of the Midland Metro through Birmingham city
centre."</p>
<p>"</p>
"Britain's planned high speed rail network will bring major economic benefits to the West Midlands, Transport Minister Norman Baker has told the region."
17213
0
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0
Free Stourbridge town centre shuttle bus service to continue
2011-01-17T00:00:00
2011-01-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The trial of a free shuttle bus service linking temporary bus
stops in Stourbridge to the rest of the town centre as work
continues on the town's multi-million pound new transport
interchange is to be extended.</p>
<p>The bus service was initially launched by transport authority
Centro for three months after the bus station was closed last
October for a £7m re-development.</p>
<p>It will now continue running until April 23 and Black Country
area manager Babs Coombes said she was pleased at the development
as its continuation depended on passenger demand.</p>
<p>"I'm delighted that, even considering the bad weather in
December, the shuttle bus is proving popular and that we have been
able to extend the trial . I would like to encourage people to keep
using the service so we have the best possible chance of keeping
the shuttle running after April too.</p>
<p>"Work on the new interchange is going well and, once finished,
will provide the people of Stourbridge with a high-quality
transport facility they can be proud of."</p>
<p>The shuttle bus, which is operated by National Express West
Midlands, serves stops at Parkfield Road, Birmingham Street, High
Street and Market Street.</p>
<p>As a result of customer and operator feedback, there will also
be some changes to the bus stops that some bus services use in
Stourbridge from January 30, 2011.</p>
<p>Services 267 to Kingswinford and 657 to Briarscroft will drop
off and pick up passengers from Stand E instead of Stand D on
Birmingham Street.</p>
<p>Services 227 and 228, which go to Kinver, will move from stand H
on Parkfield Road to Stand F on Birmingham Street - the stop
closest to the ring road.</p>
<p>Service 240 to Cradley Heath will move from Stand H on Parkfield
Road to the next stop along, Stand G.</p>
<p>Services 228 and 296 to Brockmoor, 251 and 287 to Merry Hill and
297B to Sedgley will move from Stand G to Stand H on Parkfield
Road.</p>
<p>New posters will be placed at stops and on buses, leaflets are
being produced and staff will be on street during the first week of
the changes to help direct passengers. Details are also available
at networkwestmidlands.com</p>
<p>Centro has also listened carefully to customers requests about
how the temporary stops can be improved. As a result of passenger
and operator feedback an extra shelter has been provided at Stand F
on Birmingham Street, an additional shelter has been ordered for
stand H on Parkfield Road and a shelter has also been provided for
drivers to use during their layover next to Stand A on Birmingham
Street.</p>
<p>Andrew Thrupp, Stourbridge bus station manager added: "We
understand there is inevitably some disruption during the project
to build Stourbridge's new interchange and I'd like to thank people
for their patience and constructive feedback during the work. I'm
really pleased that we have been able to make some improvements to
the temporary stopping arrangements for customers and bus operators
thanks to these valuable comments."</p>
<p>The new 'Stourbridge Interchange' is being built on the site of
the existing bus station and is due to open to passengers in early
2012.</p>
<p>It will feature a modern and spacious station building and
concourse with toilets and electronic passenger information
boards telling passengers when their bus is due.</p>
<p>CCTV, help points and an internal public address system will
also be installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>There will be eight bus stands allowing easy passenger
circulation and featuring doors that automatically open only when
the bus arrives.</p>
<p>An additional bus stop will be installed on Vauxhall Road to
allow smooth interchange between bus and rail.</p>
<p>A focus has also being placed on improving walking routes into
the town centre, and a new covered walkway will provide a link from
the rail station to the realigned subway from Foster Street.</p>
<p>Demolition of the old bus station stands has been completed and
preparatory work to commence the replacement of the old subway by a
new upgraded one with improved lighting has begun.</p>
<p>Following customer and operator suggestions some services'
dropping off and picking up points will change from Sunday
30<sup>th</sup> January 2011.</p>
<p>Visit <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/stourbridge</a>for
further information.</p>
<p>"</p>
The trial of a free shuttle bus service linking temporary bus stops in Stourbridge to the rest of the town centre as work continues on the town's multi-million pound new transport interchange is to be extended.
17213
0
12
0
Centro Sales Teams Break Through £9m Barrier
2011-01-13T00:00:00
2011-01-13T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><strong>Picture caption: Direct Sales team members Sue Jarman,
left, Adie Hughes, Ruth Durham, James Webster and Direct Sales Team
Manager Maxine Doyle.</strong></p>
<p>Centro's sales teams have defied the difficult economic times to
chalk up sales worth more than £9m.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A drive to encourage people to buy their monthly nNetwork and
nTrain season tickets by Direct Debit which offers an attractive
discount, or the Corporate Travel Scheme with companies such as
Severn Trent Water, Wragge & Co solicitors of Birmingham,
The Gambling Commission, and Birmingham City Council, has resulted
in a projected annual turnover of £9.1m in 2011.</p>
<p>In just one eight week period last year Centro's Direct Sales
team processed 920 applications for the adult and child direct
debit schemes.</p>
<p>This was part of a successful year that saw a total of 2,480 new
people sign up to buy their tickets via direct debit and take
advantage of the great savings available, bringing the total
currently paying by direct debit to 7,120.</p>
<p>At the same time more than 650 bespoke annual tickets were sold
to Severn Trent staff relocating to new premises in Coventry city
centre.</p>
<p>This generated £750,000, with 70% of those signing up being new
users to public transport.</p>
<p>The team consists of team manager Maxine Doyle, Jacqui Miller,
James Webster, Ruth Durham, Adie Hughes, Sue Jarman, June Tyler and
Carmel Slammon.</p>
<p>Toby Rackliff, Head of Customer Services at Centro,
said<strong>:</strong> "In what has been a very difficult economic
climate the Direct Sales team have been very successful in raising
awareness to the benefits of buying season tickets by Direct Debit
or through an employer-based Corporate Travel scheme which are
offered by some of the major employers in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"With Severn Trent we worked with them closely in order to offer
staff bespoke information, journey planning advice and an
attractive option to the car, which would encourage the workforce
to choose to use public transport.</p>
<p>"A key theme for us is delivering best-in-class service to each
and every customer, no mean feat when you consider that in one
eight week period alone the team dealt with more than 2,800
telephone calls and responded to in excess of 1,000 emails."</p>
<p>Paying by direct debit for monthly nTrain and nNetwork tickets
for bus, train and Midland Metro is easy and convenient and
customers can make some real savings.</p>
<p>Buying a monthly nTrain ticket for Zones 1-4 through the Direct
Debit scheme results in a saving of £17.30 a month, compared to the
cost of the same ticket bought at the station.</p>
<p>It is easy to apply visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/directdebit</a> for full
details.</p>
<p>Users can travel anywhere within their chosen zones, and share
the savings with friends and family who can travel with them on the
train off-peak. One adult pays just £1 and up to two children 50p
each.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "I applaud the
efforts of the sales teams and congratulate them on achieving this
fantastic figure in these difficult times.</p>
<p>"The savings on offer with a Direct Debit monthly ticket means
there has never been a better time to make the switch to public
transport.""</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro's sales teams have defied the difficult economic times to chalk up sales worth more than £9m.
17213
DirectSaleswide.JPG
0
12
0
Passenger numbers on the up for Solihull Signature services
2011-01-06T00:00:00
2011-01-06T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A state-of-the-art bus service in Solihull is proving a hit with
passengers as rising numbers prove it is just the ticket.</p>
<p>The 82 service, which covers the 'Meriden Gap' between Solihull
and Coventry, has seen passenger use rocket by 20% since it was
launched in 2010.</p>
<p>The S2 and S3 services which run between Hockley Heath, Dorridge
and Solihull saw rises of 5% while the S4, which runs between
Solihull and Cheswick Green via Woodlands estate, enjoyed a rise of
4%.</p>
<p>Known as Signature services, they are run by operating company
Central Connect of Birmingham and subsidised by Centro, the
region's transport authority.</p>
<p>Signature bus services have the latest environmentally friendly
Euro 5 Low Emission Engines, high-quality leather seats, CCTV and
free Wi-Fi so passengers can access the internet on the move.</p>
<p>Central Connect commercial manager Ian Pollard said: "On all
services we consider that quality enhancements delivered in the
Signature specification has encouraged new passengers to choose bus
as their mode of travel and we hope this trend will continue.</p>
<p>"A big part of the success in developing and improving passenger
relations is down to our drivers maintaining a good standard of
professionalism.</p>
<p>"We are proud of the way they have made Signature stand out as
offering something extra to public transport users.</p>
<p>"We would like to thank the many passengers that have tried our
services so far and encourage people that have not done so until
now to give Signature a go."</p>
<p>Chris Perry, Head of Transport Operations at Centro, said: "We
are pleased to be working in partnership with Central Connect to
deliver high-quality bus services in the more rural parts of
Solihull.</p>
<p>"Signature is helping us to deliver our vision of transforming
bus travel and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing
attractive bus services in the Heart of England."</p>
<p>Just under 4,000 passenger journeys on Signature services had
been made by the end of December 2010.</p>
<p>The S2 and S3 were launched in June 2010 and the S4 a month
later following a review of bus services in the south Solihull area
by Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands.</p>
<p>The 82 was launched in July 2010 to replace the previous
subsidised 82 bus route between Balsall Common and Solihull, which
had previously suffered from low passenger numbers and provided
poor value for money for the council tax payer.</p>
<p>Ian Pollard said: "The 82 was essentially a new service at
inception so some of the growth is down to passengers getting used
to the route and recognising how useful it can be to them.</p>
<p>"But on all the Signature services we consider that the quality
they deliver has encouraged new passengers to choose bus as their
mode of travel and we hope this trend will continue."</p>
<p>"</p>
A state-of-the-art bus service in Solihull is proving a hit with passengers as rising numbers prove it is just the ticket.
17213
Signaturebus1.jpg
0
12
0
More dates added for people to have their say on the West Midlands Local Transport Plan
2011-01-04T00:00:00
2011-01-04T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People are being given a greater chance to have their say on the
future of public transport in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Exhibitions are already scheduled to take place in January but
Centro is now inviting businesses and the public to have their say
on the Local Transport Plan (LTP) at three Transport User Forum
meetings.</p>
<p>The first is on January 19 Wolverhampton Council House for the
Black Country, the second is on January 20 for Coventry at Coventry
Council House, and the third for Birmingham and Solihull at Centro
House in Summer Lane, Birmingham, on January 25.</p>
<p>All the meetings start at 6pm.</p>
<p>The LTP has been unveiled by transport authority Centro working
in partnership with the seven West Midlands district councils.</p>
<p>It is a blueprint to improve the region's transport system over
the next 15 years and has been launched to help underpin economic
regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "The LTP sets out
our transport priorities for the next 15 years and we want to hear
what the public and business communities think.</p>
<p>"The forums will give people the chance to talk about the
transport issues that matter to them.</p>
<p>"Transport plays an important part in the life of the region,
supporting and enabling economic growth and generating new
jobs.</p>
<p>"I would urge anyone with an interest in the future of public
transport in this region to turn up and let us know what they
think."</p>
<p>The exhibitions are:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div>Monday 10<sup>th</sup> January - Network West Midlands
Exhibition Bus, By Lady Godiva, Broadgate, Coventry city centre
(2pm-5pm)</div>
</li>
<li>Tuesday 11<sup>th</sup> January - Committee Rooms, Birmingham
Council House, Victoria Square (3pm-7pm)</li>
<li>Saturday 15<sup>th</sup> January - Network West Midlands
Exhibition Bus, Park Street, Walsall town centre (11am-3pm)</li>
<li>Tuesday 18<sup>th</sup> January - Dudley Council Plus, Castle
Street, Dudley (3pm-6pm)</li>
<li>Thursday 27<sup>th</sup> January - LIFT Building, Venture way,
Brierley Hill (4pm-7pm)</li>
</ul>
<p>You can also give your views at <a
href="/"><strong>www.westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/formalconsultation</strong></a></p>
<p>They will be considered and used to shape the final version of
the LTP which can then be viewed on the website from 1<sup>st</sup>
April.</p>
<p>"</p>
People are being given a greater chance to have their say on the future of public transport in the West Midlands.
17213
0
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0
Festive cheer for commuters as Park and Ride extended at Tile Hill
2010-12-22T00:00:00
2010-12-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro contractors have provided commuters with some festive
cheer after pulling out all the stops to finish the first phase of
the extension of a popular Coventry Park and Ride in the face of
some of the worst winter weather Britain has seen for decades.</p>
<p>Tile Hill station now has a total of 164 parking spaces after a
further 70 were provided by workmen as part of a £1m expansion
scheme that began last October.</p>
<p>The extension is being carried out to ease overcrowding in the
station's existing car park which has proved so popular with
commuters that it is often full before the end of the morning peak
period.</p>
<p>There were fears the contractors, from C. Spencer Ltd of North
Yorkshire, would be delayed in laying the tarmac for the car park
because of the recent snow falls that have blanketed the UK.</p>
<p>But a week-long window between the snows gave them enough time
to lay the tarmac and paint the markings in time for when the bad
weather returned last weekend.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "This is
excellent news for commuters and for the environment, and I would
like to thanks the contractors for their hard work in difficult
conditions.</p>
<p>"Tile Hill has been a real success story for Park and Ride but
it proved to be almost too popular, so these new spaces will make a
major difference in helping to tackle congestion and pollution</p>
<p>The new spaces, which will also help reduce parking on
surrounding streets, will be next to the station's existing car
park and will have upgraded lighting, CCTV cameras and help points
linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre.</p>
<p>The remaining spaces, which will bring the total to 232, are
scheduled to be finished next Spring.</p>
<p>Centro's congestion-busting Park and Ride facilities have been a
major success in helping to persuade motorists to make the bulk of
their daily commute by rail and there are now more than 6,500 free
spaces at Centro's 53 heavy rail car parks and four of its Metro
stops.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take more than 53,000 journeys
off the road each week, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200
tonnes a year.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated transport authority for the West
Midlands, and its partners have invested £14 million in Park and
Ride since 1997 and all of the car parks have been awarded Safer
Parking Accreditation for achieving low levels of vehicle crime and
anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Centro contractors have provided commuters with some festive cheer after pulling out all the stops to finish the first phase of the extension of a popular Coventry Park and Ride in the face of some of the worst winter weather Britain has seen for decades.
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Public invited to have its say on West Midlands Local Travel Plan
2010-12-22T00:00:00
2010-12-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People have the chance to have their say on the future of public
transport in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Centro is inviting businesses and the public to give their views
on the Local Transport Plan (LTP) at a number of exhibitions around
the Midlands in the New Year.</p>
<p>Alternatively, they can obtain a copy from their local library
and then submit their views.</p>
<p>The LTP has been unveiled by transport authority Centro working
in partnership with the seven West Midlands district councils.</p>
<p>It is a blueprint to improve the region's transport system over
the next 15 years and has been launched to help underpin economic
regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "The LTP details
our transport priorities for the next 15 years and we want to hear
what the public and business communities think.</p>
<p>"It sets out how transport plays its part in improving the
quality of life of the region, supporting and enabling economic
growth and generating new jobs.</p>
<p>"I would urge anyone with an interest in the future of public
transport in this region to let us know what they think."</p>
<p>The exhibitions are:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div>Monday 10<sup>th</sup> January - Network West Midlands
Exhibition Bus, By Lady Godiva, Broadgate, Coventry city centre
(2pm-5pm)</div>
</li>
<li>Tuesday 11<sup>th</sup> January - Committee Rooms, Birmingham
Council House, Victoria Square (3pm-7pm)</li>
<li>Saturday 15<sup>th</sup> January - Network West Midlands
Exhibition Bus, Park Street, Walsall town centre (11am-3pm)</li>
<li>Tuesday 18<sup>th</sup> January - Dudley Council Plus, Castle
Street, Dudley (3pm-6pm)</li>
<li>Thursday 27<sup>th</sup> January - LIFT Building, Venture way,
Brierley Hill (4pm-7pm)</li>
</ul>
<p>You can also give your views at <a
href="/"><strong>www.westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/formalconsultation</strong></a></p>
<p>They will be considered and used to shape the final version of
the LTP which can then be viewed on the website from 1<sup>st</sup>
April 2011.</p>
<p>"</p>
People have the chance to have their say on the future of public transport in the West Midlands.
17213
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Centro welcomes Government backing for HS2 as preferred route is announced
2010-12-21T00:00:00
2010-12-21T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the Government's announcement of its
preferred route for the HS2 high-speed rail line from Birmingham to
London.</p>
<p>Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said the route had been
altered to deal with serious concerns about its impact on local
communities and the countryside.</p>
<p>Work is due to start in 2015 after it was first announced
earlier this year by Labour Transport Secretary Lord Adonis
following an exhaustive feasibility study.</p>
<p>The Y-shaped network of high-speed lines will extend the fast
trains north of Birmingham to northern England and Scotland,
bringing journey times down to between 30 and 50 minutes, with the
Government convinced that the line will give the economy an
enormous, and environmentally-friendly, boost.</p>
<p>The line is expected to run from a rebuilt Euston station in
London and terminate at a new city centre station built at
Curzon/Fazeley Street in Birmingham's Eastside regeneration
area.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, the transport authority
for the West Midlands, said: ""This is good news for the West
Midlands. HSR will transform the region's economy, creating new
jobs and boosting economic activity.</p>
<p>""We also welcome the steps Mr Hammond has made in mitigating
the environmental impacts by altering the route. By 2025 the West
Coast line will be at more than full capacity, which underpins a
very strong business case for HS2.</p>
<p>""Furthermore, independent research shows that HS2 will generate
22,000 jobs in the West Midlands and boost the region's economy by
£1.5bn a year.""</p>
<p>Mr Hammond said ministers were ""acutely conscious"" of the need
to mitigate the impact on areas such as the Chilterns and
Warwickshire given that people in those areas would gain little or
no direct benefit from the line.</p>
<p>He said many parts of the line would be dug into cuttings and
minor deviations included to avoid the most senstitive spots.</p>
<p>He told the Commons: "The Government believes that the
construction of a high speed rail network will support economic
growth and the rebalancing of the UK economy.</p>
<p>"But we recognise that the proposed line will have significant
local impacts on the areas it passes through, and that we have a
duty to do everything practically possible to mitigate those
impacts.</p>
<p>Mr Hammond told MPs he had travelled the length of the line
talking to local authorities, property owners, protest groups and
Members of Parliament, as well as commissioning additional work on
the options for improving the proposed alignment.</p>
<p>"As a consequence, significant amendments have been made to both
the vertical and horizontal alignment, and to the proposed
mitigation measures," he said.</p>
<p>" In total, around 50% of the preferred route proposal published
in March has been amended in some respect.</p>
<p>"I am confident that solutions have now been found which can
significantly mitigate the impacts of the railway at local level
which, when properly understood, will reassure many of those who
have been understandably apprehensive about the potential impact on
their lives and their property values."</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro has welcomed the Government's announcement of its preferred route for the HS2 high-speed rail-line from Birmingham to London.
17213
philiphammond.jpg
0
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0
Centro welcomes David Cameron support for HS2
2010-12-16T00:00:00
2010-12-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has welcomed the support given by the Prime Minister for
a proposed new high-speed rail link between Birmingham and
London.</p>
<p>David Cameron said the network would help alleviate the economic
north-south divide.</p>
<p>Mr Cameron said the £30bn train line linking Birmingham to
London would spread the economic wealth concentrated in the South
East.</p>
<p>During Prime Minister's question time, he told the Commons:
""For 50 years we have been trying to deal with the north-south
divide, we have been trying to have a more effective regional
policy.</p>
<p>""I do believe that high-speed rail has got a really effective
role to play in bringing our country closer together and spreading
economic benefit throughout all of our country.""</p>
<p>The plan, known as High Speed 2 (HS2), will initially link
London to Birmingham, with 250mph trains taking as little as half
an hour to travel between the two cities.</p>
<p>The line could then be extended northwards with two forks
running up either side of the Pennines.</p>
<p>The west-sided fork would go to Manchester, with the second
extension passing through the East Midlands to Sheffield and Leeds.
They would then link with existing routes to Newcastle, Glasgow and
Edinburgh.</p>
<p>The first stage of the route will not be completed before 2026
at the earliest and will see potentially 440 homes demolished.</p>
<p>Of the homes threatened with demolition, 247 would be in the
Euston area but many of the other areas affected include Tory
heartlands just north of London.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: "It is very
encouraging that the Prime Minister is backing HS2, which is going
to have a dramatic effect on the economy both regionally and
nationally.</p>
<p>"It will mean firms in the overheated south-east of England can
have confidence in re-locating to the Midlands, thus creating jobs,
inward investment and business opportunities for all. <br />
<br />
"This in turn will create jobs, supply chains and spending in the
local economies of the entire area, bringing sustainable growth
throughout.""</p>
<p>The Prime Minister made his comments as he responded to a
question from Conservative Andrea Leadsom, whose constituency of
South Northamptonshire will be potentially affected by the new
route.</p>
<p>She said: ""Are you aware of the concerns of many people at
reports in the Press that you plan to support high-speed rail
regardless of the consultation next year Would you spread a bit of
Christmas cheer by reassuring my constituents that you will keep an
open mind and you will not be railroading (these proposals)
through.""</p>
<p>Mr Cameron said there would be a ""proper consultation"" before
lending his support to high speed rail.</p>
<p>A Centro commissioned study has shown how the already
substantial boost to West Midlands economic output, average wages
and job creation could be doubled if the high speed line is
combined with improvements to the region's existing rail
network.</p>
<p>Running from Euston in London, work would start in 2017, cost
between</p>
<p>£15.8bn billion and £17.4bn and reduce the journey time between
the UK's two biggest cities to between 30 and 50 minutes.</p>
<p>Journey times between London and Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield
would come down from around two hours 10 minutes now to 75 minutes
when the new network is in place.</p>
<p>London to Glasgow and Edinburgh journey times would be reduced
to just three-and-- half hours.</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro has welcomed the support given by the Prime Minister for a proposed new high-speed rail link between Birmingham and London.
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Building work continues at New Street Station on Christmas Day
2010-12-14T00:00:00
2010-12-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The Christmas turkey will be on hold at Birmingham New Street as
engineers working on the Gateway project use a huge crane to lift
in a brand new section of bridge.</p>
<p>Navigation Street footbridge at the west end of the station will
be extended to allow access to platform 12 for the first time and
create a new station entrance on Hill Street.</p>
<p>Andrew Skidmore, programme sponsor for Network Rail commented:
"This new section of bridge will give passengers more choice and
improve access from the station to the south side of the city;
however we can't install it safely with passengers and trains
travelling through the station.</p>
<p>"Birmingham relies on New Street station to keep it moving so
we're taking advantage of the two day shutdown of the national rail
network to complete this important piece of work."</p>
<p>To extend the bridge, engineers will use a huge 700 tonne crane
which will be erected on Hill Street to safely remove the narrow
bridge span which currently serves platforms 10/11.</p>
<p>The crane will then lift the new span of the bridge into
place.</p>
<p>The existing bridge only has one exit onto Navigation Street and
only serves platforms 2 to 11, meaning a long walk round for
passengers who have a train to catch from platforms 1 or 12.</p>
<p>The new bridge will provide access to every platform and by
creating a second exit onto Hill Street, will ease congestion and
give passengers more options to access the station.</p>
<p>Hill Street will be closed to vehicles and pedestrians on
Christmas Day. However the bottom half of Hill Street will reopen
on Boxing Day morning to allow shoppers and deliveries to access
the Pallasades Shopping Centre.</p>
<p>There will then be a series of night time road closures of Hill
Street between 26 December and 28 December before the road fully
reopens on 29 December.</p>
<p>Train services will operate as normal from Birmingham New Street
up until the last train departure on Christmas Eve.</p>
<p>The lifting operation will then start at midnight and will be
complete by Boxing Day evening.</p>
<p>New Street station, along with most of the rest of the rail
network, will then reopen to passengers on Monday 27 December.</p>
<p>However, there will be a rail replacement service between
Redditch and New Street on 27 and 28 December, including fast buses
from Redditch, as work continues on the Selly Oak bypass.</p>
<p>The extended Navigation Street bridge will open fully for
passengers at the completion of phase one of the Gateway project in
Autumn 2012.</p>
<p>With New Street station closed, an extensive bus and Metro
service will be provided on Boxing Day by Centro, the region's
transport authority, and local bus companies.</p>
<p>The Gateway project is funded by Network Rail, Birmingham City
Council, Department for Transport, Advantage West Midlands and
Centro.</p>
<p>The project will transform New Street station into a bright,
modern, 21st century focal point for Birmingham.</p>
<p>It will double passenger capacity and deliver a concourse that
is three-and-a-half times bigger than at present and enclosed by a
giant, light-filled atrium.</p>
<p>There will be more accessible, brighter and clearer platforms,
serviced by more than 40 new escalators and more than 15 new public
lifts, a new station facade, and better links to and through the
station for pedestrians, with eight new entrances.</p>
<p>Full details of services on Boxing Day and the rest of the
Christmas period are available by phoning Traveline on 0871 200 22
33 or by logging on to <strong><a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> or <a
href="/">www.nationalexpress.com/westmidlands</a></strong></p>
<p>For Coventry services visit <strong><a
href="/">www.nationalexpress.com/coventry</a></strong></p>
<p>"</p>
The Christmas turkey will be on hold at Birmingham's New Street station as engineers working on the Gateway project use a huge crane to lift in a brand new section of bridge.
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NewStreet0042.JPG
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Improved public transport along upgraded A45 will boost jobs and investment
2010-12-10T00:00:00
2010-12-10T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A multi-million pound upgrade of one of Birmingham's key routes
will include provision for a high-speed link for public transport
to boost jobs and investment.</p>
<p>The A45 Coventry Road is set to undergo a £32m diversion and the
design of the improved road will include a bus lane Rapid Transit
Link to the airport and station and the National Exhibition
Centre.</p>
<p>Long term it could feature the Midland Metro tram system as part
of future plans to expand the network.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said public transport along
an improved A45 would mean reduced journey times, more routes and
higher frequency of services.</p>
<p>"This will particularly benefit residents in deprived areas who
depend on public transport, particularly for accessing employment
opportunities," he said.</p>
<p>"The scheme is likely to lead to a greater proportion of people
accessing jobs available in employment sites along the A45
transport corridor, as well as giving them better access to other
services and transport hubs."</p>
<p>The diversion will take place on the stretch between the A45's
junction with Damson Parkway and roundabout by The Clock pub,
improving the dual carriageway</p>
<p>Nearby Junction 6 of the M42 will also see improvements to the
slip roads and enhancements to the signals of Damson Parkway</p>
<p>The Airport Company is proposing to contribute £7 million. The
funding requirement from the public sector is £25 million. Members
of Centro's Integrated Transport Authority were told that it should
invest up to £10m in the project.</p>
<p>Growth along the A45/M42 corridor is seen as key to the West
Midlands economy.</p>
<p>Birmingham Airport and the NEC, along with Birmingham
International, Birmingham Business Park and Jaguar Land Rover in
nearby Solihull are all expected to benefit from improvements along
the corridor.</p>
<p>The airport and the NEC alone are estimated to support 39,000
jobs directly and indirectly, contributing £1.5bn a year to the
local economy.</p>
<p>"</p>
A multi-million pound upgrade of one of Birmingham's key routes will include provision for a high-speed link for public transport to boost jobs and investment.
17213
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Public transport just the ticket for Boxing Day and New Years sales
2010-12-03T00:00:00
2010-12-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p style="text-align: "> </p>
<p>Shoppers can hit the Christmas and New Year sales by leaving the
car at home and taking advantage of a public transport system that
is just the ticket.</p>
<p>Centro, National Express West Midlands and other bus companies
are working in partnership to operate more than 150 Boxing Day
services across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>This includes two new services - the X96 from Dudley to the
Merry Hill shopping centre and the 302 from Walsall to Lower Farm -
and extending the 76 route in Birmingham to run from Kings Heath to
the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Edgbaston.</p>
<p>Centro has bolstered the Boxing Day network by subsidising extra
services across the West Midlands in places where there are no
buses being run on a commercial basis.</p>
<p>Councillor Angus Adams, the chairman of Centro, said: "I am very
pleased that we have been able to provide such a comprehensive
service for people, particularly with the Boxing Day services
despite it falling on a Sunday this year.</p>
<p>"The post-Christmas sales are always one of the busiest times of
year for retailers and we were keen that workers and shoppers could
get into the main retail centres early and easily."</p>
<p>Boxing Day bus services will operate between 9am and 7.30pm,
with a flat fare of £1.70 adult and 85p child on all services
except in Coventry where a flat fare of £1.50 and 75p will
apply.</p>
<p>The Midland Metro will operate a 15 minute service between 10am
and 6pm.</p>
<p>No trains will run on Boxing Day.</p>
<p>On December 27 and 28 a Sunday service will operate on most
routes, with National Express West Midlands and National Express
Coventry operating with enhancements to many routes.</p>
<p>Local train services will operate to a reduced timetable, with
stations on the Cross City line between Birmingham New Street and
Redditch served by a rail replacement bus.</p>
<p>The Midland Metro will operate as a Sunday service.</p>
<p>On December 29 to New Year's Eve, most bus services will operate
Saturday timetables.</p>
<p>Metro services will operate as normal while trains will run on a
reduced level of service.</p>
<p>On New Year's Day a Sunday bus service will operate on many
routes. Services in Coventry will operate as per the Boxing Day
timetable.</p>
<p>Local trains will operate to a reduced timetable and a Sunday
service will operate on the Metro.</p>
<p>On January 2 a normal Sunday service will operate on all bus
routes and the Metro, while there will be no London Midland
services between Birmingham New Street and Shrewsbury.</p>
<p>On January 3 a Sunday service will operate on most bus routes
and the Metro, and local train services will operate to a Saturday
service frequency.</p>
<p>Normal services resume from January 4.</p>
<p>In addition, Ring & Ride, the charity which provides
transport for elderly and disabled people who cannot use
conventional public transport, will run every day including
Christmas Day when it will be available to wheelchair users who are
registered with the organisation.</p>
<p>For further details of bus and Metro services over the Christmas
period call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 or visit <a
href="/"><strong>networkwestmidlands.com</strong></a>or <a
href="/"><strong>nxwestmidlands.co.uk</strong></a></p>
<p>For Coventry services visit <a
href="/"><strong>nxcoventry.co.uk</strong></a></p>
<p>"</p>
"Shoppers can hit the Christmas and New Year sales with public transport thanks to an extensive range of bus, train and Metro services from Boxing Day onwards."
17213
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Midland Metro re-opens after burst water pipe hits services
2010-12-03T00:00:00
2010-12-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Services on the Midland Metro in Birmingham have been restored
after major disruption from ice caused by a burst water pipe on one
of the coldest nights of the year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The pipe was in an empty property in Vyse Street above Hockley
Tunnel in the Jewellery Quarter.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On a night where temperatures in the city went as low as -7C,
water soaked through the tunnel ceiling and onto overhead power
lines and the track, forming thick ice along a five metre
stretch.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It was discovered early on Friday morning in a routine check by
Midland Metro staff.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Services were suspended at 5.15am between the Jewellery Quarter
and Snow Hill stations for the ice to be removed, although it ran
as normal from Wolverhampton St Georges to Soho Benson Road in
Birmingham.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This was done by workmen operating a Mecalac, a vehicle which
operates on road and rail and which has a cherry-picker basket
enabling them to reach the overhead lines to remove the ice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However to do this the power had to be turned off between
Jewellery Quarter and the Wednesbury Great Western Street
stops as Great Western Street was the nearest point on the line
where the Mecalac could access the line from the road.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Services were suspended between Wednesbury Great Western Street
and Jewellery Quarter shortly before 1pm but resumed at 4pm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Colin Robey, Team Leader of Midland Metro Operations Projects
for Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, said: "It was like a grotto in the tunnel, there was
a lot of ice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"Unfortunately to remove it entailed having to turn off the
power, with the inevitable disruption to services for which we can
only apologise, but the work was successfully completed in time for
the evening peak-period."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Services on the Midland Metro in Birmingham were hit by thick ice from a burst water pipe on one of the coldest nights of the year in the city.
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New bridge milestone for Midland Metro at Snow Hill station
2010-11-26T00:00:00
2010-11-26T00:00:00
One of the giant concrete beams is lowered into place
<p>"</p>
<p>The first phase of a new £3.19m bridge which will take the
Midland Metro into the heart of Birmingham has been completed.</p>
<p>The massive concrete beams on which the new Metro track will
rest have been placed over Great Charles Street Queensway at Snow
Hill station.</p>
<p>Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority for the
West Midlands, began work on the bridge within days of the
Government's announcement in October that the Metro extension
through Birmingham city centre would be going ahead.</p>
<p>The bridge will bring Metro services off the existing approach
to Snow Hill station and over a £9m viaduct - constructed as a
contribution by developer Ballymore - from where it will go through
the city centre to New Street station.</p>
<p>The pre-cast concrete beams are up to 21m in length and weigh up
to 25 tonnes.</p>
<p>They were deftly lowered into place by workmen from Balfour
Beatty in a night-time operation over five days that saw Great
Charles Street closed overnight.</p>
<p>The operation was tricky because of the close confines of the
site � with the rail line on one side and the A38 running beneath
there was little margin for error when manoeuvring the beams into
place.</p>
<p>Centro's plans to extend the Metro will create 1,300 sustainable
new jobs and boost the West Midlands economy by £50m a year as a
fleet of new, bigger trams increase passenger capacity between
Birmingham and the Black Country.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: ""I am delighted
that we have already reached this milestone phase of the project, a
significant step towards fruition.</p>
<p>""The Midland Metro extension is massively important for the
future prosperity of the Midlands which is why we wasted no time in
getting to work.""</p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip said: ""This is an exciting
chapter in the story of the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>""People can now see taking physical shape a scheme that is
going to unlock so many jobs and economic benefits for the entire
region.""</p>
<p>The new bridge utilises a former rail bridge abutment and pier
and lands on the new viaduct alongside Snow Hill Station.</p>
<p>It is due to be completed during the Spring of 2011. Design work
for the on-street section of the Metro extension is underway and
preliminary site works are expected to commence in 2012.</p>
<p>Trams will follow a route from the existing Metro terminus at
Snow Hill, along the viaduct built by Ballymore, down Upper Bull
Street and Corporation Street then on to Stephenson Street before
stopping outside a new entrance at New Street Station.</p>
<p>The route will also provide a fast link from New Street Station
to the emerging business district at Snow Hill and serve as a
platform for a future rapid transit network that can connect and
feed into the city's forthcoming High Speed Rail terminus.</p>
<p>The total cost of the scheme is £127m with £55m of that paying
for the 1.3km long extension.</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>"</p>
The first phase of a new £3.19m bridge which will take the Midland Metro into the heart of Birmingham has been completed.
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Transport blueprint to keep Birmingham moving
2010-11-26T00:00:00
2010-11-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A blueprint to improve Birmingham's transport system over the
next 15 years has been launched to help underpin economic
regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.</p>
<p>The Local Transport Plan (LTP) has been unveiled by transport
authority Centro working in partnership with the seven West
Midlands district councils. Centro is now inviting businesses and
the public to have their say on the document's proposals.</p>
<p>The LTP covers the entire metropolitan West Midlands and
surrounding area but sets out to address the specific transport
challenges faced by each of the region's different areas.</p>
<p>In Birmingham, the blueprint aims to support the city's global
ambitions by catering for an ever rising demand for travel without
causing an increase in traffic congestion.</p>
<p>The LTP sets out a number of proposals to;</p>
<ul>
<li>Improve access and movement around a growing city centre</li>
<li>Tackle congestion on the motorway network and the overspill
onto the city's primary roads</li>
<li>Improve public transport around the city centre and out to
Birmingham Airport/NEC</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The Local Transport Plan
looks at the needs of the Wes Midlands and sets out ways to meet
those needs through short, medium and long term solutions.</p>
<p>"The LTP also sets out how transport can play its part in
improving the quality of life for people by supporting and enabling
economic growth and the creation of new jobs.</p>
<p>"It's about providing better road and rail connections so it is
easier for people to access jobs, education health and leisure
opportunities.</p>
<p>"The LTP sets out our transport priorities for the next 15 years
and now we want the public and business community to tell us what
they think."</p>
<p>The LTP's detailed proposals will be available at public
exhibition on Tuesday, January 11, 2011 in the Committee Rooms at
Birmingham Council House in Victoria Square.</p>
<p>The proposals and a consultation questionnaire will also be
available on line from Monday November 29 at
westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/formalconsultation</p>
<p>The website also gives the dates and locations of the other LTP
public exhibitions being held around the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The public has until January 31, 2011 to give its views and
comments which will then be considered and used to shape the final
LTP document.</p>
<p>This will come into effect on April 1, 2011 and be posted on the
website.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A blueprint to improve Birmingham's transport system over the next 15 years has been launched to help underpin economic regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.
17213
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Transport blueprint to keep Coventry moving
2010-11-26T00:00:00
2010-11-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A blueprint to improve Coventry's transport system over the next
15 years has been launched to help underpin economic regeneration
and the creation of vital new jobs.</p>
<p>The Local Transport Plan (LTP) has been unveiled by transport
authority Centro working in partnership with the seven West
Midlands district councils. Centro is now inviting businesses and
the public to have their say on the document's proposals.</p>
<p>The LTP covers the entire metropolitan West Midlands and
surrounding area but sets out to address the specific transport
challenges faced by each of the region's different areas.</p>
<p>In Coventry, the blueprint seeks ways of capitalising on
Coventry's strong economic and transport links with Warwickshire as
well as the rest of the Metropolitan Area. It also looks at some of
the challenges being faced by the rural area between Coventry and
Solihull.</p>
<p>The LTP will seek solutions that;</p>
<ul>
<li>Enhance accessibility to support redevelopment of the city
centre</li>
<li>Improve connections between Coventry and the rest of the
Metropolitan Area with rapid transit, for example by Metro or
SPRINT</li>
<li>Improve connections with the South Midlands, including Milton
Keynes and Northampton</li>
<li>Deal with congestion on the M42, particularly around the
Birmingham Airport/NEC junction</li>
<li>Address rural social exclusion issues resulting from heavy
reliance on the private car.</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The Local Transport Plan
looks at the needs of the West Midlands and sets out ways to meet
those needs through short, medium and long term solutions.</p>
<p>"The LTP also sets out how transport can play its part in
improving the quality of life for people by supporting and enabling
economic growth and the creation of new jobs.</p>
<p>"It's about providing better road and rail connections so it is
easier for people to access jobs, education, health and leisure
opportunities.</p>
<p>"The LTP sets out our transport priorities for the next 15 years
and now we want the public and business community to tell us what
they think."</p>
<p>The LTP's detailed proposals will be available at a public
exhibition on Monday, January 10, between 2pm and 5pm at a venue in
the city to be announced at a later date. Details of the venue once
available will displayed in the Centro Travel Shop, Pool Meadow Bus
Station.</p>
<p>The proposals and a consultation questionnaire will be available
on line from Monday, November 29 at
westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/formalconsultation</p>
<p>The website will also give the dates and locations of the other
LTP public exhibitions being held around the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The public has until January 31, 2011 to give its views and
comments which will then be considered and used to shape the final
LTP document.</p>
<p>This will come into effect on April 1, 2011 and be posted on the
website.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A blueprint to improve Coventry's transport system over the next 15 years has been launched to help underpin economic regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.
17213
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Transport blueprint to keep the Black Country moving
2010-11-26T00:00:00
2010-11-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A blueprint to improve the Black Country's transport system over
the next 15 years has been launched to help underpin economic
regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.</p>
<p>The Local Transport Plan (LTP) has been unveiled by transport
authority Centro working in partnership with the seven West
Midlands district councils. Centro is now inviting businesses and
the public to have their say on the document's proposals.</p>
<p>The LTP covers the entire metropolitan West Midlands and
surrounding area but sets out to address the specific transport
challenges faced by each of the region's different areas.</p>
<p>In the Black Country, the blueprint aims to put in place
transport solutions that help to attract investment, widen the
local labour supply and improve access to markets.</p>
<p>The LTP will seeks to improve;</p>
<ul>
<li>Public transport connections between the four main centres of
brierley Hill, Walsall, West Bromwich and Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Connections with the M5 and M6 and tackle congestion at
motorway junctions</li>
<li>Road freight access to employment areas</li>
<li>Connections linking Black Country businesses to the national
freight network</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The Local Transport Plan
looks at the needs of the West Midlands and sets out ways to meet
those needs through short, medium and long term solutions.</p>
<p>"The LTP also sets out how transport can play its part in
improving the quality of life for people by supporting and enabling
economic growth and the creation of new jobs.</p>
<p>"It's about providing better road and rail connections so it is
easier for people to access jobs, education, health and leisure
opportunities.</p>
<p>"The LTP sets out our transport priorities for the next 15 years
and now we want the public and business community to tell us what
they think."</p>
<p>The LTP's detailed proposals will be available at public
exhibitions on Thursday, December 2 between 4pm and 7pm at The
Public, West Bromwich, on Tuesday, December 7 between 4pm and 7pm
at The Lighthouse (Old Chubb Building), Railway Drive,
Wolverhampton, on Saturday January 15 2011 between 11am and 3pm on
the Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus, Park Street, Walsall town
centre, on Tuesday January 18, 2011 between 3pm and 6pm at Dudley
Council Plus, Castle Street, Dudley and on Thursday January 27,
2011 between 4pm and 7pm at the LIFT Building, Venture Way,
Brierley Hill.</p>
<p>The proposals and a consultation questionnaire will also
be available on line from Monday November 29 at
westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/formalconsultation</p>
<p>The website also gives the dates and locations of the other LTP
public exhibitions being held around the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The public has until January 31, 2011 to give its views and
comments which will then be considered and used to shape the final
LTP document.</p>
<p>This will come into effect on April 1, 2011 and be posted on the
website.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A blueprint to improve the Black Country's transport system over the next 15 years has been launched to help underpin economic regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.
17213
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Transport blueprint to keep Solihull moving
2010-11-26T00:00:00
2010-11-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A blueprint to improve Solihull's transport system over the next
15 years has been launched to help underpin economic regeneration
and the creation of vital new jobs.</p>
<p>The Local Transport Plan (LTP) has been unveiled by transport
authority Centro working in partnership with the seven West
Midlands district councils. Centro is now inviting businesses and
the public to have their say on the document's proposals.</p>
<p>The LTP covers the entire metropolitan West Midlands and
surrounding area but sets out to address the specific transport
challenges faced by each of the region's different areas.</p>
<p>In Solihull, the blueprint seeks ways of addressing the
difficulty in providing public transport in the borough's rural
areas and at providing better transport links in the north of the
district to help boost the economy.</p>
<p>The LTP will seek solutions that;</p>
<ul>
<li>Improve accessibility and connectivity to the North Solihull
regeneration Area</li>
<li>Improve access to Solihull town centre</li>
<li>Deal with congestion on the M42, particularly around the
Birmingham Airport/NEC junction</li>
<li>Address rural social exclusion issues resulting from heavy
reliance on the private car.</li>
<li>Encourage a shift to more sustainable modes of travel than the
private car.</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "The Local Transport Plan
looks at the needs of the West Midlands and sets out ways to meet
those needs through short, medium and long term solutions.</p>
<p>"The LTP also sets out how transport can play its part in
improving the quality of life for people by supporting and enabling
economic growth and the creation of new jobs.</p>
<p>"It's about providing better road and rail connections so it is
easier for people to access jobs, education, health and leisure
opportunities.</p>
<p>"The LTP sets out our transport priorities for the next 15 years
and now we want the public and business community to tell us what
they think."</p>
<p>The LTP's detailed proposals will be available at public
exhibitions on Saturday, December 4 between 10am and 2pm on the
1<sup>st</sup> floor opposite the Grotto, Chelmsley Wood Shopping
Centre and on Saturday, December 11 between 10am and 2pm on the
Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus, High Street, Solihull town
centre.</p>
<p>The proposals and a consultation questionnaire will also
be available on line from Monday November 29 at
westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/formalconsultation</p>
<p>The website also gives the dates and locations of the other LTP
public exhibitions being held around the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The public has until January 31, 2011 to give its views and
comments which will then be considered and used to shape the final
LTP document.</p>
<p>This will come into effect on April 1, 2011 and be posted on the
website.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A blueprint to improve Solihull's transport system over the next 15 years has been launched to help underpin economic regeneration and the creation of vital new jobs.
17213
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"Bus shelters in Walsall get £410,000 upgrade"
2010-11-26T00:00:00
2010-11-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in Walsall are to benefit from a £410,000 upgrade
providing better bus services in the north of the borough.</p>
<p>A total of 160 shelters will be replaced with new and more
environmentally-friendly versions by Centro around Aldridge,
Bloxwich, Pelsall, Brownhills and Streetly.</p>
<p>The new blue and orange shelters cost £2,500 each and are made
of aluminium. They are longer-lasting than the old green and yellow
versions, which are made of steel and are less
weather-resistant.</p>
<p>They are also able to accommodate high-tech Real Time
information bus signs which are being rolled out by Centro across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Adrian Venables, infrastructure project manager for Centro's
Transforming Bus Travel scheme, said: "These new shelters will
provide a much more pleasant environment for passengers as they
will give greater protection from the weather.</p>
<p>"In time they will also incorporate the very latest in Real Time
technology, giving passengers across north Walsall up-to-the-minute
information about their journey."</p>
<p>The work follows a comprehensive Area Network Review of bus
services in north Walsall by Centro, the integrated passenger
transport authority for the West Midlands, local bus operators and
Walsall Council.</p>
<p>Residents, councillors and businesses were asked for their views
in January on how to improve bus services in the area as part of
the North Walsall bus network review.</p>
<p>The changes were finalised using this feedback as well as
comments from schools, community groups, and other
stakeholders.</p>
<p>As a result of the review a number of new services and
improvements to existing routes were introduced in April as part of
a three year improvement package.</p>
<p>The old shelters will be donated to groups such as old people's
homes and football clubs, while those that cannot be used will be
recycled.</p>
<p>Since the North Walsall network review, west Birmingham has also
seen improvements to its bus services through the same process.</p>
<p>Between now and the end of next year three more areas will
undergo reviews - east Birmingham/north Solihull in February
followed by Wolverhampton and west Walsall in the summer and
Coventry later in the year.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Bus passengers in Walsall are to benefit from a £410,000 upgrade providing better bus shelters in the north of the borough."
17213
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New 231 bus service launched for Halesowen estates
2010-11-25T00:00:00
2010-11-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><strong>Picture caption: Andrew Lunn of National Express
schedules, ward councillors Lesley Faulkner and Karen Shakespeare,
and Babs Coombes, Black Country area manager for
centro.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Residents of Hurst Green and Olive Lane estate have a
brand new bus service thanks to transport authority Centro.</p>
<p>The 231 will operate hourly on Mondays to Saturdays between
Halesowen bus station and Halesowen Street in Blackheath, serving
Hurst Green, Olive Lane estate and Rowley Regis station from
November 28.</p>
<p>It is being operated by National Express West Midlands under
subsidy from Centro, the integrated passenger transport authority
for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>They stepped in after changes to the 230 route operated by
Diamond resulted in parts of the Olive Lane estate and Hurst Green
having no service.</p>
<p>The route will cover the areas no longer served by the 230 and
will provide people on Woodbury Road with a new service after it
lost its bus some time ago.</p>
<p>It also provides a brand new link between Halesowen and Rowley
Regis rail station and extra links from Blackheath to Rowley Regis
station, making it much easier for people to connect to the rail
network.</p>
<p>Centro is currently working with the local highways authority to
identify suitable locations for bus stops in Woodbury Road and
Merrivale Road. In the meantime, the service will operate as a hail
and ride bus on those roads.</p>
<p>Councillor Lesley Faulkner, ward member for Halesowen North on
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, was one of those who
campaigned for the service to be introduced.</p>
<p>She said: ""A great deal of people will benefit from this new
service and I am grateful that Centro has listened to the concerns
of the community.</p>
<p>""This service will provide a valuable lifeline to people such
as the elderly and parents with small children who need to get to
Halesowen town centre and Blackheath. I would urge people to get on
board so we can all benefit from the new service in to the
future.""</p>
<p>The 231 will run hourly at the opposite half hour to the Diamond
230.</p>
<p>On weekdays buses towards Halesowen will serve Olive Lane estate
from 07:42 to 17:42, and on Saturdays from 08:42 to 17:42.</p>
<p>The first weekday bus from Halesowen arrives at the estate at
07:25 and the last at 17:25, and on Saturdays at 08:25 to
17:25.</p>
<p>Babs Coombes, Area Manager Black Country at Centro added: ""We
realised the loss of parts of the 230 service would be an issue for
people living in the Olive Lane and Hurst Green areas.</p>
<p>""We are delighted that we have been able to take the
opportunity to provide the new service 231 not only for the
residents that will lose the 230 but also for the Woodbury Road
area.""</p>
<p>"</p>
Residents of Hurst Green and Olive Lane estate get a brand new bus service thanks to Centro.
17213
bus1.jpg
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Young person's transport conference in Birmingham
2010-11-24T00:00:00
2010-11-24T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Safe and evironmentally friendly travel is on the agenda for
schoolchildren in Birmingham.</p>
<p>Year 8 pupils from eight schools will be taking part in the
Young Persons Transport Conference at the Tally Ho! Centre in
Edgbaston on November 26.</p>
<p>The youngsters will take part in a range of workshops and
presentations covering issues surrounding journey planning,
sustainable travel and safer travel.</p>
<p>This includes drawing up School Travel Plans, discussions about
CCTV projects, a rap from the Safer Travel Police Team and a
performance by the Sideways Theatre Company.</p>
<p>Schools taking part are John Wilmott School of Sutton Coldfield,
Swanshurst School in Kings Heath, Holte School in Lozells, Kings
Heath Boys School, St John Wall RC School in Handsworth, Stockland
Green School in Erdington, Bishop Vesey's Grammar School in Sutton
Coldfield, and Queensbridge School in Moseley.</p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police,
British Transport Police, the Safer Birmingham Partnership, bus
operator National Express West Midlands, TravelWise, School Travel
Plan team and Centro, the region's passenger transport
authority.</p>
<p>It works to make bus travel even safer for passengers by
deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the
network, as well as helping passengers learn how to make their
journey even simpler.</p>
<p>Rachel Hooper, Sustainable Travel Officer at Centro, said: "The
aim of the conference is to give pupils the knowledge and skills to
travel to school in a safe and sustainable way.</p>
<p>"It's a learning environment but the emphasis is also on making
it a fun environment that gets them involved."</p>
<p>"</p>
Safe and evironmentally friendly travel is on the agenda for schoolchildren in Birmingham.
17213
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New bike storage facilities at Black Country rail stations
2010-11-24T00:00:00
2010-11-24T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers catching trains from Stourbridge Junction and Rowley
Regis stations have been provided with new bicycle storage
facilities to help them get there by pedal power.</p>
<p>The new bike shelters have been installed by transport authority
Centro for those people keen to leave the car at home and opt for a
more sustainable way of getting to the stations.</p>
<p>A covered shelter to protect bikes from the elements has just
been installed at Stourbridge Junction in front of the booking
office. It features five hoops providing secure storage for up to
ten bikes.</p>
<p>The bicycle storage at Rowley Regis is situated near to the
station entrance by the Birmingham bound platform. It has ten
hoops providing under cover housing for up to 20 bikes.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "At Centro we are working
to make it as easy as possible for people to leave their cars at
home and travel using more environmentally friendly modes of
transport.</p>
<p>"By putting in these facilities we hope that more people will
take up cycling to the stations which will not only save them money
in fuel but also help them stay fit and healthy. They will also, of
course, be doing even more for the environment."</p>
<p>Both facilities were supplied and installed by
<strong>Lock-it-Safe.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams
(left) and Centro sustainable travel officer Stephen Bermingham try
out the new cycle shelter at Stourbridge Junction</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers catching trains from Stourbridge Junction and Rowley Regis stations have been provided with new bicycle storage facilities to help them get there by pedal power.
17213
Bike2.jpg
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Car use decreases as public transport takes the strain
2010-11-22T00:00:00
2010-11-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Public transport in the West Midlands is steaming ahead as
figures show it continues to gain ground against the private
car.</p>
<p>It now accounts for more than half of morning peak trips -
57.8% - into Birmingham city centre, the highest public transport
share recorded in the West Midlands and a 1% rise on the previous
year. In 1995 the figure was 42%.</p>
<p>Rail use is now 51 per cent higher than it was a decade ago,
while bus travel remains the favourite public transport choice.</p>
<p>A total of 40 million journeys were made on the region's rail
network in 2009/10, an increase of 6.4% compared with 2008/09,
while five million passengers took the Midland Metro. </p>
<p>Bus patronage produces equally impressive figures, with nearly
320million journeys in 2009. This equates to 12.2 million
passenger journeys per 100,000 people in the West Midlands, the
second highest figure in the country, beaten only by 13 million in
Tyne and Wear.</p>
<p>The Annual Statistical Report 2009/10 for Centro, the region's
integrated passenger transport authority, showed 29% of trips
into Birmingham city centre during the morning peak are now made by
bus, closely followed by 27% made by train and 1.6% by the Midland
Metro.</p>
<p>Car trips decreased into many parts of the West Midlands
including Birmingham (3.6%), Brierley Hill (0.4%), Solihull (4.2%)
and Walsall (1.5%).</p>
<p>On a typical weekday 95% of the spaces at car parks at train
stations across the region are occupied, with many full by the end
of the morning peak period.</p>
<p>The report shows more motorists also ditched their cars for the
Metro.</p>
<p>The number of passengers using it was the same as last year but
97 per cent of park and ride spaces on the line were occupied in
2009/10, an increase of three per cent on the previous year. During
a typical week 96,000 passengers use the Metro and at the busiest
times it was more than 109,000.</p>
<p>Bus travel saw a small reduction from 326.7 million to 319.5
million. It is thought the fall is due to the West Midlands
suffering large job losses during the recession. A high
proportion of bus journeys are undertaken by adults travelling to
and from work and any significant change in the local employment
rate would have a significant impact on local bus patronage.
It is also thought that as people have cut back on spending they
have become less likely to travel to leisure and shopping
locations.</p>
<p>The report showed sales of Centro's network tickets dipped
slightly by 0.8% in 2009/10 after an increase of 8.1% the previous
year, but revenue increased by 2% to £11.1m. Sales of bus tickets
followed a similar pattern and experienced a 24% increase in
revenue.</p>
<p>More than 90% of eligible West Midlands' senior citizens have
acquired their national concessionary pass, which can now be used
on Smartcard technology which has been fitted to all buses.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said: "The continued
growth of rail travel is very good news and proves that it is a
quick and reliable alternative to the car.</p>
<p>"The Metro system continues to establish itself as another
effective alternative, reinforced by the Government's approval of
its expansion in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>"Bus travel continues to be the dominant choice for people
in the West Midlands and I am confident that as the economic
picture improves this will reflect in the patronage figures."</p>
<p>Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip added: "If CO2 emissions and
traffic congestion is to be beaten it is crucial that more people
make the switch from car to sustainable modes of transport.</p>
<p>"These latest figures show motorists are being persuaded to make
that switch and we at Centro will continue to work with our
partners to give the West Midlands a public transport system that
make it easier for them to get around by bus, tram, bicycle or on
foot."</p>
<p>Travel by private car as opposed to public transport emits the
greatest level of carbon dioxide with an average of 205 grams per
passenger km, compared with 111 by bus, 83 by light rail and 58 by
rail.</p>
<p>Through the Smarter Choices scheme, which aims to change
people's travel behaviour, Centro and its public and private
partners aim to increase public transport usage and reduce
congestion and exhaust emissions.</p>
<p>Centro's figures revealed car trips decreased into Birmingham
(3.6%), Brierley Hill (0.4%), Solihull (4.2%) and Walsall (1.5%)
and the West Midlands won £2.3m from the Government for beating
congestion targets.</p>
<p>Other highlights in the year included a new £5m fleet of
buses for Halesowen and Stourbridge, bus crime reaching a four year
low after dropping by 41% over the last two years, and the
re-launch of the award-winning WorkWise initiative which provides
transport advice, journey plans and free travel passes for
interviews and during the first three months of a new job.</p>
<p>This comes despite an on-going increase in car ownership. The
report showed the percentage of West Midlands' households with two
or more cars rose from 8% in 1971 to 24% in 2001, and with no car
falling from 51 per cent in 1971 to 34 per cent in 2001.</p>
<p>Department for Transport projections showed only 25 per cent of
households are expected to have no car by 2035 while 28% will have
two or more cars.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Public transport in the West Midlands is steaming ahead as figures show it continues to gain ground against the private car.
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Transport blueprint sets out vision for vibrant 21st century city
2010-11-11T00:00:00
2010-11-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><strong>Picture caption: The rapid transit system used in Oregan
USA, which gives an idea of how the Birmingham Sprint will
look</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>A compelling vision to transform the way people come into and
move around Birmingham city centre was today launched by business,
council and transport chiefs.</p>
<p>'Vision for Movement' lays the foundations for a comprehensive
network of rapid transit, bus, rail, cycling and walking routes to
underpin Birmingham's economic regeneration and help cement its
future as a vibrant, global city.</p>
<p>The Vision is the result of a newly formed partnership between
the city's business community, by way of its Business Improvement
Districts (BID's), Birmingham City Council, transport
authority Centro and National Express West Midlands..</p>
<p>Its goal is to create a well connected, efficient and walkable
city by finding transport solutions that are realistic and
deliverable in the short to medium term but also co-ordinate with
longer-term schemes outlined in the document's 20-year
timeframe.</p>
<p>Vision for Movement will also form an important element of the
wider Big City Plan, a far reaching blueprint for how the heart of
Birmingham should develop over the next two decades.</p>
<p>Gary Taylor, chairman of the Broad Street BID, said: "The city's
business improvement districts each have major transport and
movement projects as their top priorities. The Broad Street BID's
proposal for a rapid transit scheme was a central part of its
renewal prospectus that achieved 94 per cent majority in its
renewal ballot in November 2009.</p>
<p>"Joining forces with the City Council and Centro to produce a
shared plan with a clear set of projects and goals was a natural
next step for the three city centre BIDS - Broad Street, Retail and
Colmore.</p>
<p>"Funding major transport projects is going to be a challenge but
Vision for Movement defines a series of achievable projects that,
collectively, will transform how people can move around a growing
city centre."</p>
<p><strong>High-quality</strong></p>
<p>The Vision builds on major transport schemes already underway
including the rebuilding of New Street Station and the extension of
the Midland Metro on to the city centre streets.</p>
<p>A key feature of the Vision is an integrated, high quality rapid
transit network through the city centre and out along major routes
linking;</p>
<ul>
<li>
<div>Five Ways to Walsall;</div>
</li>
<li>Birmingham International to Ladywood via Sheldon and Chelmsley
Wood;</li>
<li>Eastside to Quinton and Bartley Green;</li>
<li>Ladywood to Perry Barr.</li>
</ul>
<p>Although Metro remains at the heart of the long-term strategy to
support economic regeneration in the city centre, in the shorter
term a network of flexible rapid transit routes, known as
Birmingham Sprint, will be developed.</p>
<p>Birmingham Sprint will be a high quality, tram-style service
benefiting from highway priority measures to speed up journeys. It
will be designed to provide a step change in the quality of public
transport options for people travelling to, from and around the
city centre. It will also compliment and enhance the existing
bus network.</p>
<p>Two Birmingham Sprint priorities will be a cross city route from
Broad Street to the New Street and Moor Street stations and a route
from the city centre to the rail and air gateways at Birmingham
International.</p>
<p>Centro chief executive, Geoff Inskip, <em>pictured right</em>,
said: "Working with the city's business community, we have set out
a clear vision of the transport schemes that Birmingham needs to
enable economic growth and secure its future prosperity.</p>
<p>"As the transport authority, we will lend our full support in
helping to develop and deliver these initiatives alongside the
business sector and the city council."</p>
<p>Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council,
welcomed the blueprint saying: "The Big City Plan has set out our
bold vision and framework for Birmingham's growth and prosperity
over the next 20 years - with new jobs, homes, cultural and leisure
opportunities.<br />
<br />
"The Vision for Movement will form an essential part of our Big
City Plan, adding the detail about how people will travel safely,
efficiently and easily within a welcoming environment. In a
sophisticated partnership with the private sector we are setting
out clearly how we want to create a more connected city.<br />
<br />
"Bringing together the immense possibilities before us - which
include High Speed Rail, major infrastructure investments in New
Street and Metro - I believe Birmingham now really is on the cusp
of gaining a transport infrastructure that truly befits a global
destination."<br />
<br />
The Vision's proposals also include;</p>
<ul>
<li>Alterations to the rail network at Camp Hill to open new
passenger stations on the rail lines out to Kings Norton and
Tamworth;</li>
<li>The transformation of existing bus services with high quality,
green vehicles, new city centre passenger interchanges and hi-tech
travel information</li>
<li>Park and Ride facilities to support rapid transit and cycle
routes and reduce demand for car journeys into the city;</li>
<li>Improving the efficiency of the existing road network by
remodelling key junctions, making it easier to use the Ring Road
and installing traffic management systems that give priority to
public transport, cycling and walking.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Vision also puts great emphasis on carbon-free travel by
creating a much better city centre for walking and cycling. The
concept of a "Walkable City" involves transforming the quality,
safety and security of the pedestrian environment so that walking
becomes the most enjoyable and convenient way of getting around
large parts of the city centre.</p>
<p>Cycle routes with dedicated bike lanes and better connectivity
to the canal network will also be developed to encourage cycling to
and within the city centre. Proposals will be developed for secure
cycle hubs featuring bike storage, hire and repair as well as
improved cycle facilities at rail stations.</p>
<p>"</p>
"A compelling vision to transform the way people come into and move around Birmingham city centre has been launched by business, council and transport chiefs."
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Contract signed for first electric buses in the West Midlands
2010-11-08T00:00:00
2010-11-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><strong>Picture Caption left to right: John Horn, Sales Director
of Optare, Mike de Courcey, Managing Director of Travel de
Courcey, Stephen Rhodes, Director of Passenger Services at Centro,
and Councillor Linda Bigham of Coventry City Council sign the
contract for the new electric buses.</strong></p>
<p>A landmark deal has been reached to bring the first electric
buses on to the roads of the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Coventry bus and coach firm Travel de Courcey will introduce
three 38-seat Versa EV's on the roads of the city from May next
year, the first large electric buses to be used in the country.</p>
<p>They will run on the city's Park and Ride South route,
travelling between Memorial Park in Kenilworth Road and Coventry
city centre.</p>
<p>The order for the buses was signed at the Euro Bus Expo at the
National Exhibition Centre near Birmingham by Mike de Courcey,
managing director of Travel de Courcey, Coventry City Council,
Centro, the integrated public transport body for the West Midlands,
and bus manufacturers Optare of Leeds.</p>
<p>Travel De Courcey is investing £400,000 and the Government's
Green Bus Fund, which supports bus companies and local authorities
in England in buying new low carbon buses, is investing
£300,000.</p>
<p>As part of a partnership with Centro and Coventry City Council,
Centro has contributed £100,000 while the council has installed
power charging points for the buses.</p>
<p>Mike de Courcey said: "Over the years we have been looking to
improve the type of vehicles we use, both from an environmental and
a passenger perspective.</p>
<p>"The government came forward with the Green Bus Fund last year
and we thought it was an opportunity for us to dip our toe in the
water.</p>
<p>"The electric buses are ideal for urban driving where the
vehicle is stopping and starting. We will be the first city in the
area operating them, which is fitting as Coventry was the first
city in the region to operate park and ride.</p>
<p>"It's a huge investment for us but we believe it is what the
customer wants - quiet, clean and something which will take us
forward 10 years or more.</p>
<p>"If we can take this forward it can lead to a bigger and better
service."</p>
<p>The buses will be made by Optare plc of Leeds. Chief Operating
Officer Glenn Saint said he was delighted to have won the
order.</p>
<p>"This is an operator that is highly regarded for providing the
people of the West Midlands with high quality bus services using
modern vehicles that incorporate the latest low emission
technology," he said.</p>
<p>"In the case of these Versa EVs, that means zero emissions - no
CO2, no nitrogen oxides, no particulates, and virtually no
noise."</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, Director of Passenger Services at Centro, said:
"This is the first electric bus project in the Centro area and it
is a significant milestone to which we were happy to
contribute.</p>
<p>"This will further encourage bus technology and stimulate the
market for low carbon buses, an industry in which the UK is a world
leader and to which we at Centro aspire."</p>
<p>On a full charge the Versa EV will have a range of between 55-75
miles depending on operating conditions.</p>
<p>Councillor Linda Bigham, Cabinet member for City Development at
Coventry City Council, said: "These buses are a natural progression
for park and Ride and we will continue to support this
partnership."</p>
<p>The Coventry South Park and Ride scheme has spaces for more than
400 cars. The first buses leave at 0736 and run to a 12 minute
frequency until 1812 on weekdays (0800 until 1800 Saturdays) and a
range of fares are offered including family tickets and five and
28-day tickets.</p>
<p>"</p>
A landmark deal has been agreed to bring the first electric buses to the roads of the West Midlands.
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"Work starts on new, £7 million Stourbridge Interchange"
2010-11-08T00:00:00
2010-11-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Work on Stourbridge's new, state-of-the-art transport
interchange officially got under way today (Monday November 8) when
Centro Chairman Cllr Angus Adams and Chief Executive Geoff Inskip
cut the first sod.</p>
<p>With them was Terry McDonald, contracts manager at construction
company Interserve which is building the striking £7 million
facility on behalf of Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>The new "Stourbridge Interchange", which will be built on the
site of the existing bus station, will boast a cutting edge,
contemporary design, including a focal point canopy to provide a
landmark gateway for Stourbridge.</p>
<p>The new facility is due to open to passengers in early 2012.</p>
<p>Cllr Adams said: "It's very exciting to see work start on the
new interchange which I believe will be a tremendous asset for both
passengers and the town.</p>
<p>"We have been careful to make sure this new interchange not only
gives the people of Stourbridge the sort of world class facility
they need and deserve but also one they can be proud of as a
landmark gateway into their town."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The development will feature a modern and spacious station
building and concourse with toilets, a retail unit and electronic
passenger information boards telling passengers when their bus is
due. CCTV, help points and an internal public address system will
also be installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>There will be eight, spacious bus stands allowing easy passenger
circulation and featuring doors that automatically open only when
the bus arrives. An additional bus stop will be installed on
Vauxhall Road to allow smooth interchange between bus and rail.</p>
<p>A focus has also being placed on improving walking routes into
the town centre and a new covered walkway will link the new station
building to the existing subway from Foster Street. The subway
itself will be refurbished to become much more open and bright.</p>
<p>Better links will also be created to the innovative People Mover
connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy interchange
between bus and rail services.</p>
<p>Geoff said: "The design process has been rigorous but we are
confident this new interchange will give passengers a truly world
class facility. Good public transport is vital for economic
regeneration and job creation so this new interchange will not just
benefit passengers but Stourbridge as a whole."</p>
<p>Stourbridge Bus Station closed to the public on October 24 so
the site could be prepared for today's start of work. Alternative
stopping arrangements for the 700 buses which used the station each
day have already been switched to temporary stops in nearby
Parkfield Road and Birmingham Street. All the temporary stops
feature shelters to help protect passengers from the elements.</p>
<p>A free shuttle bus linking the temporary bus stop locations to
Stourbridge town centre has been laid on, initially for three
months with its continuation dependent on passenger demand.</p>
<p>The bus operates from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and follows
a one way loop along Parkfield Road, Vauxhall Road, Birmingham
Street, St John's Road, High Street, Market Street, Bell Street,
New Street, St John's Road, Church Street and back to Parkfield
Road. The shuttle bus serves stops at Parkfield Road, Birmingham
Street, High Street and Market Street.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Work on Stourbridge's new, state-of-the-art transport interchange officially got under way today (Monday November 8) when Centro Chairman Cllr Angus Adams and Chief Executive Geoff Inskip cut the first sod."
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Minister sees region's buses go 'smart'
2010-11-03T00:00:00
2010-11-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p style="text-align: "> </p>
<p><strong>Local Transport Minister Norman Baker, left, marks the
completion of the £14 million Smartcard rollout programme on the
West Midlands' buses with Centro chairman Angus Adams.</strong></p>
<p> The completion of a £14 million project to make the West
Midlands' buses 'smart' was today (Wednesday Nov 3) officially
marked by Local Transport Minister Norman Baker.</p>
<p>The Smartcard project by regional transport authority Centro has
seen more than 2,500 buses fitted with electronic card readers that
pave the way for a local version of the London Oyster Card.</p>
<p>The Minister today marked the end of the Smartcard rollout by
presenting a giant personalised version of the concessionary travel
pass to Centro Chairman Angus Adams at West Bromwich Bus
Station.</p>
<p>The on-board Smartcard readers are programmed to accept the free
national concessionary passes for older and eligible blind and
disabled people. Holders simply place their card on the reader when
they board and wait for the green light to show or the audible beep
to be heard.</p>
<p>Only holders of concessionary passes have to use the Smartcard
readers at the moment but the successful installation of the
machines on the region's buses will now enable new kinds of smart
ticketing to be introduced. These will simplify the ticketing
process and make public transport even more convenient.</p>
<p>Mr Baker said: ""The benefits of smart ticketing are clear -
quicker, easier and potentially better value journeys on trains,
buses and trams<strong>.</strong></p>
<p>""My personal vision is to see seamless travel on one smart card
throughout the country by 2020, at the latest, and
I believe the roll-out of smart ticketing will attract
more people onto public transport.</p>
<p>""Smart ticketing is already part of everyday life for millions
of people across England and I am pleased that travellers in the
West Midlands will now be able to experience the same
benefits."</p>
<p>Virtually all the buses and depots belonging to the region's bus
companies have now been fitted out by Centro with the Smartcard
machines and back office computer equipment.</p>
<p>The machines read a microchip which is embedded in all
concessionary passes that allow free travel on local buses in
England.</p>
<p>However, holders of these passes in the West Midlands enjoy one
of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country with Centro
also providing them with free travel on West Midland trains and
trams.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adam, said: "This has been a complex
project but it paves the way for the introduction of a truly world
class ticketing system.</p>
<p>"Now that our region's buses are smart we can press on with work
to introduce a West Midlands Smartcard, similar to the Oyster Card
in London. This will enable passengers to pre-load their card with
cash which is then deducted as it is used on the public transport
network, regardless of which bus company's service they get on.</p>
<p>"We are also looking at giving Smartcard holders discounted
fares. All in all it will not only make using public transport even
more convenient but will also greatly simplify the ticketing
process."</p>
<p>The technology has only been installed on buses so far but
Centro is working with ticket machine suppliers to introduce a
handheld Smartcard ticket machine that can be used by conductors on
the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Local rail operator London Midland also has a commitment to
introduce Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as
part of its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the
company to ensure their system is complimentary.</p>
<p>At the heart of the Centro ITSO smartcard scheme is the
Wayfarer200 driver console, one of the world's most advanced and
user-friendly on-bus ticketing systems, developed and supported by
Parkeon in the UK. </p>
<p>Owen Griffith, managing director of Parkeon Transit Limited,
said: "We strongly value the relationship that we have developed
with Centro and the operators in delivering this project and look
forward to the significant benefits it will bring to the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"The ticketing system, which includes ITSO contactless card
reading capability, will make travel easier for passengers, improve
the delivery of customer information, and drive significant
operational efficiencies through smarter transaction processing and
accountability."</p>
<p>Logica supplied ITSO compliant smartcards, associated
hardware and back office services to integrate all parts of the
scheme. The systems and technology provided by Logica will
deliver faster and more efficient travel, reduced fraud and a
quicker and more pleasant journey experience for the customer. The
Logica solution will form the basis of the expansion of Centro's
scheme to become a multi-modal commercial smart ticket
solution.</p>
<p>Jeremy Springall, Logica's Business Director for Transport
commented, "The Centro project is an exciting development in the
use of smartcards for transport, and Logica is proud to have helped
Centro realise their smartcard vision. </p>
<p>"This project is a major step forward in the development of
fully integrated ticketing systems in the West Midlands, extending
the convenience and ease of smartcard technology to millions more
passengers. The success of this partnership reinforces our
reputation as the leading provider of ITSO smart schemes in the
UK.""</p>
<p>"</p>
The completion of a £14 million project to make the West Midlands' buses 'smart' was officially marked by Local Transport Minister Norman Baker.
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Prize-winning performances from Wolverhampton schoolchildren in Car Free Challenge
2010-11-01T00:00:00
2010-11-01T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Picture caption: Janet Baker,</strong> <strong>Deputy
Regional Director of Public Health for the West Midlands, presents
the Car Free Challenge certificate to Mrs Phillippa Cooper of
Highfields School and pupils Robyn Williamson , Martin Newman,
Rachael Stentiford, Kerry Micklewright , Elizabeth Allport,
Tony Ma , Mobeenul Khan and Qais Khan.</strong></p>
<p>Schoolchildren in Wolverhampton took the road to success
after they were set a challenge on how to get to school without
using the car.</p>
<p>The students from Highfields Science and Specialist College in
Penn were overall winners in the West Midlands in the Car Free
Challenge.</p>
<p>The Challenge, laid down by the regional TravelWise group, was
to run a campaign between 26<sup>th</sup> April and 7<sup>th</sup>
May encouraging staff and pupils to think about how they travel to
school and consider travelling car-free at some point during the
period.</p>
<p>Highfields devised the 'If It's Not Far Ditch The Car' campaign,
which used posters, diaries, and even songs and video clips.</p>
<p>They recorded the number of miles saved by each form in Years 7,
8 and 9 every week of the challenge - a grand total of 2,989
miles.</p>
<p>A giant totaliser in the reception area of the school recorded
how many miles were being saved through car sharing, cycling and
walking.</p>
<p>Presentations were also given to assemblies and parents
evenings.</p>
<p>Mrs Phillippa Cooper, the teacher who oversaw the competition at
Highfields, said: "It was a very worthwhile exercise and the
children were delighted to win a prize.</p>
<p>"The children learned how to run a project and about the
environmental impact, and they became more confident in using
public transport."</p>
<p>Runners up in the competition were Barr Beacon Language College
of Barr Beacon, near Walsall, while in third place was St Thomas
Aquinas RC School of Kings Norton in Birmingham.</p>
<p>A total of 10 secondary schools from across the West Midlands
took part in the competition.</p>
<p>As overall winners Highfields received £500 plus £100 for coming
top in Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>The pupils received their prizes and a certificate from Janet
Baker, the Deputy Regional Director of Public Health in the West
Midlands, in an award ceremony at Millennium Point in Birmingham,
where schools who took part in the competition gave their
presentations to each other.</p>
<p>All the schools attending were transported there from New Street
station in shuttle buses provided by the Green Bus Company, which
operates bespoke school shuttle services across Birmingham and the
Black Country.</p>
<p>Ray Hughes, the West Midlands Regional School Travel Advisor,
said: "The Car Free Challenge has shown that, on a shoestring,
students have been able to influence their peers and staff to
change the way they travel to school - to save money, help reduce
congestion and improve health and the environment.</p>
<p>"This has been a successful partnership between schools, the
local authority school travel advisers, Centro and the West
Midlands Department of Health in support of their Change4Life
campaign.</p>
<p>"I look forward to hearing the students' recommendations for an
even better, more successful campaign for next year at the Car Free
Challenge Celebration Event where we will recognise the schools'
fantastic achievements."</p>
<p>"</p>
Schoolchildren in Wolverhampton took the road to success after they were set a challenge on how to get to school without using the car.
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Boost for West Midlands jobs and economy as Metro extension gets go-ahead
2010-10-21T00:00:00
2010-10-21T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Trams are set to return to the streets of Birmingham after the
Government approved plans by transport authority Centro to extend
the Midland Metro through the heart of the city.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The exciting project will also include a fleet of new, bigger
trams bringing major benefits to Metro in the Black Country by
increasing passenger capacity and frequency of service to every six
minutes throughout the day.</p>
<p>In announcing the Government's Comprehensive Spending Review,
Chancellor George Osborne confirmed the Department for Transport's
approval for the £127.1 million scheme which will see the Metro
exit Snow Hill Station and glide down Corporation Street before
terminating at the redeveloped New Street Station.</p>
<p>The joint project by Centro, the region's transport authority,
the Black Country and Birmingham City councils, is expected to
boost the West Midlands economy by £50 million a year and create up
to 1,300 sustainable new jobs.</p>
<p>The extension will revolutionise the way people travel to and
around the city, giving a fast link between Birmingham's two major
rail stations while delivering more than 3.5 million passengers a
year right into the heart of the city's shopping district.</p>
<p>It will also provide a fast link from New Street Station to the
emerging business district at Snow Hill and the unique and historic
Jewellery Quarter and serve as a platform for a future rapid
transit network that can connect and feed into the city's
forthcoming High Speed Rail terminus.</p>
<p>In welcoming today's announcement, Centro chief executive Geoff
Inskip said: "This is fantastic news for Birmingham and the Black
Country as it puts us on the way towards creating a truly world
class public transport system for the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"This Metro extension is exactly what the Government wants to
see from transport schemes, underpinning regeneration, boosting the
economy and creating jobs.</p>
<p>"We intend to waste no time in pressing ahead with this exciting
scheme so we can unlock those jobs and economic benefits as
soon as possible. We plan to have the project completed to coincide
with the opening of the New Street Gateway project in 2015."</p>
<p>This afternoon's approval is seen as an important step forward
in the plan to transform public transport in the city centre and
propel Birmingham towards its goal of becoming a global city. Work
on one of the other key elements, the £600 million Gateway
redevelopment of New Street Station, is already well underway.</p>
<p>Work on the Metro extension will coincide and be closely
co-ordinated with that on Gateway and phased to cause as minimal
disruption as possible.</p>
<p>Infrastructure such as shelters and stops will also be carefully
designed to reflect those at Gateway and the proposed new bus
interchange facilities for the city centre, another key element in
the city centre transport master plan.</p>
<p>The extension will see trams follow a route from the existing
Metro terminus at Snow Hill, along a £9 million viaduct already
built by developer Ballymore, down Upper Bull Street and
Corporation Street and on to Stephenson Street stopping outside a
new entrance at New Street Station.</p>
<p>The extension is expected to take around two years to build with
work starting on street in 2012. Other parts of the project, such
as a major extension to the Metro maintenance depot at Wednesbury,
will start sooner.</p>
<p>Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council, said:
"This is great news for Birmingham and the city region and I warmly
welcome what the Chancellor said during the CRS speech."</p>
<p>Alan Chatham, chairman of Retail Birmingham, the business
improvement district which represents retailers in Birmingham city
centre, said:"This is great news for the retailers and shoppers in
Birmingham. </p>
<p>"It will make travelling to and through the retail area so much
easier and more pleasant. It also fits well with Retail
Birmingham's Retail design strategy which is set to
physically transform the area into a spectacular shopping
environment."</p>
<p>Councillor Neville Patten, the Leader of Wolverhampton City
Council, said he too was delighted at the announcement.</p>
<p>"It is wonderful news, it's not only good for Birmingham it is
also good for the Black Country," he said.</p>
<p>"We look forward to the extension on our line in Wolverhampton
that will follow on from the Birmingham extension. It will open up
the Metro to people who wouldn't otherwise use it and it will open
up access to Wolverhampton and its city centre."</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams, added: "Birmingham is the only
city of its size in Europe without a rapid transit system even
though the economic advantages of having such networks are well
proven. Today's approval will help the West Midlands compete with
its European and world rivals and help safeguard our future
prosperity."</p>
<p>"</p>
Trams are set to return to the streets of Birmingham after the Government this afternoon approved plans by transport authority Centro to extend the Midland Metro through the heart of the city.
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"Upgrade to the 276, 294 and 295 bus routes in Norton"
2010-10-19T00:00:00
2010-10-19T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Norton will see new and improved bus services in the
area thanks to an upgrade to the 276, 294 and 295 routes.</p>
<p>From Sunday October 24 the National Express West Midlands 276
Monday to Saturday daytime service will operate on a new two-way
route to improve reliability and provide better links for
passengers.</p>
<p>It will leave Stourbridge along Worcester Street, travel through
Norton via Whittington Road, Shenstone Avenue and the Broadway then
follow High Park Avenue to Wollaston Junction where it will turn
around and follow the same route back.</p>
<p>The service will pick up passengers for Norton from Stand F on
Birmingham Street while Stourbridge Bus Station is closed for
redevelopment, while people wanting to catch the 276 to Merry Hill
and Dudley can catch it from Stand H on Parkfield Road.</p>
<p>Evening and Sunday journeys on the 294 and 295 will be
renumbered to 276A and 276C to provide simplified service numbers
in the area but there will be no change to the route or
timetable.</p>
<p>They will operate from stand H on Parkfield Road in
Stourbridge while the bus station is closed for redevelopment and
will be run by the Diamond Bus Company.</p>
<p>National Express West Midlands merged the 276 with the 294 and
295 services in July to address declining patronage on the
routes.</p>
<p>Following discussions with Centro, the integrated transport
authority for the West Midlands, the route of the 276 was amended
to ensure a daytime service to the Norton estate continued and that
residents maintained a regular link to the doctor's surgery on
Worcester Street.</p>
<p>However, the service has proved unreliable, having trouble
keeping to schedule because of traffic congestion along the length
of the route.</p>
<p>The new 276 provides new links for the majority of
passengers.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Councillor Angus Adams said of the new route:
"We have listened carefully to the concerns of residents in Norton
and I am delighted that, by working in partnership with the local
bus operators, we have been able to make changes to the services
that access the estate to provide a better bus network for people
living in the area.</p>
<p>"Not only do the changes mean the 276 service should run
reliably with a 20 minute frequency in each direction, but it will
also mean residents have a quicker, more direct link to and from
Worcester Street."</p>
<p>For more information go to <a href="/"
title="">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> or come to the
Network West Midlands exhibitions for Stourbridge bus station
redevelopment on Wednesday 21 October 3pm - 7pm and Saturday 23
October between 10am and 3pm at Stourbridge Bus Station.</p>
<p>"</p>
"People in Norton will see new and improved bus services in the aea thanks to an upgrade to the 276, 294 and 295 routes."
17213
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17 new buses for Ring and Ride users in Walsall
2010-10-13T00:00:00
2010-10-13T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p><strong>Photo caption left to right: Councillors Tom Ansell and
Graham Wilkes, who represent Walsall Council on the board of Centro
and also sit on the board of West Midlands Special Needs Transport,
with some of the new buses.</strong></p>
<p>Thousands of people across Walsall are in line for an even
better Ring and Ride service thanks to 17 new buses.</p>
<p>The state-of-the art Ford Transit vehicles are built to
specifications following consultation with both passengers and
agencies.</p>
<p> The programme is aimed at proving more flexible vehicles
which are better equipped to meet the needs of a growing range of
passenger needs.</p>
<p> The vehicles have been brought in as part of a three year
£35m funding package for Ring and Ride by Centro, the integrated
transport authority for the West Midlands.</p>
<p> Des Rogers, operations manager of West Midlands Special
Needs Transport which has introduced the service said: "The
financial security now provided by Centro ensures we are able to
maintain a modern and flexible fleet.</p>
<p> "We are now better equipped to meet the wide range of
needs our passengers have and whose safety and comfort is our No.1
priority."</p>
<p> Coun Graham Wilkes of Centro said there were 5,000 users
of the service in Walsall who would benefit from the new
vehicles.</p>
<p> "These new buses are invaluable to this fantastic service
which is continuing to grow," he added.</p>
<p> "It is an honour for us to be able to support such a great
service."</p>
<p>Ring and Ride began in Birmingham in 1983 and the service now
covers the entire West Midlands.</p>
<p> Its fleet of 131 vehicles provides around 1.8m trips
a year for more than 70,000 registered users, making it the largest
statutory operated Ring and Ride service in the world.</p>
<p> Users phone a special number to book their journeys giving
details of where they want to be picked up and taken to and the
time they want to travel.</p>
<p>To register for the service ring 01922 402232 or email <a
href="/">walsall@ringandride.org</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Thousands of people across Walsall are in line for an even better Ring and Ride service thanks to 17 new buses.
17213
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0
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Launch of the West Midlands Community Transport Forum
2010-10-13T00:00:00
2010-10-13T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A forum bringing together community transport operators has
been launched in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The West Midlands Community Transport Forum has been introduced
by Centro, the integrated passenger authority for the region.</p>
<p>The aim is to develop a co-ordinated approach for suppliers of
non-mainstream public transport serving some of the most vulnerable
people in society.</p>
<p>This includes the elderly, special education groups, adult
social services and prison visits, plus school and shopper
buses.</p>
<p>The forum was formed following a review of community transport
by Centro and has been launched at a time when operators face a
bumpy road ahead in the coming months.</p>
<p>Much of the operators' funding comes in local authority grants,
which are under threat from the looming spending cuts.</p>
<p>The way in which social care is provided through day-centres is
also changing, moving towards people managing their own care
provision rather than having it done for them - resulting in
potentially fewer bookings being made for transport.</p>
<p>Chris Perry, head of transport operations at Centro, said: "The
Forum will provide a unified voice for community transport in the
area.</p>
<p>"It will develop better links with transport commissioners such
as Centro, NHS bodies and local authorities, and identify best
practice and common quality standards across all operators.</p>
<p>"By enhancing existing services and identifying opportunities
for new community transport we can seek to make best use of
community resources."</p>
<p>The forum is chaired by Centro and the members are Community
Transport, Shencare Community Transport of Birmingham, Walsall
Community Transport, West Midlands Special Needs Transport and
Merlin Venture.</p>
<p>Community Transport is a national social enterprise working
through 10 branches across the West Midlands, north-west and
north-east of England delivering passenger transport, furniture
re-use and training services.</p>
<p>Chief executive Murray Seccombe said: "We see this new forum as
a great opportunity for all those involved in developing and
running transport services for people who miss out on conventional
buses, trains and trams.</p>
<p>"By pooling our knowledge and resources we'll be able to offer
the community more - even in these tough times for everybody."</p>
<p>Walsall Community Transport is a charitable not-for-profit
organisation operating a mixed fleet of 20 minibuses and a coach
providing a range of services including group travel, a delivery of
public sector contracts, shoppers buses for the elderly and less
mobile as well as local bus services.</p>
<p>Chief officer John Elliot said: "We welcome the creation of the
community transport forum and Centro's recognition of the sector's
role.</p>
<p>"At a time when the public purse is being tightened and the
financial support afforded bus services is under the microscope,
the role of community transport in offering an affordable and
accessible alternative will undoubtedly take on greater
importance."</p>
<p>Shencare Community Transport, based in Northfield, Birmingham,
operates 10 wheelchair-accessible buses across the south west of
the city and helps organisations including Age Concern, Mencap,
Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police.</p>
<p>Chief officer Chris Busst said: "We see it as vital that
joined-up working takes place in the world of community
transport.</p>
<p>"We are sure it will lead to a great partnership between
members."</p>
<p>West Midlands Special Needs Transport is a charity that operates
the Ring and Ride service, which provides around two million trips
a year for more than 70,000 registered users with mobility
problems.</p>
<p>Chief executive Peter Maggs said: "We now have a formal process
where operators can sit down together, and if one has a particular
strength then everyone else can benefit."</p>
<p>Merlin Venture is based in Erdington, Birmingham, and operates
services around Castle Vale, Coleshill and north Warwickshire.</p>
<p>Transport manager Kevin Huggins said: "If we are trying to
encourage people out of their cars and on to public transport it is
important we have a co-ordinated approach."</p>
<p>"</p>
A forum bringing together community transport operators has been launched in the West Midlands.
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All change as Stourbridge bus station closes for redevelopment
2010-10-13T00:00:00
2010-10-13T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers were today given details of their alternative
stopping arrangements for when Stourbridge bus station is closed
and demolished to make way for a world class, £7 million public
transport interchange.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, will close the station
at the end of service on Saturday 23 October, so from Sunday
October 24 onwards the 700 buses which use it each day will be
switched to temporary stops in nearby Parkfield Road and Birmingham
Street. All the temporary stops will feature shelters to help
protect passengers from the elements.</p>
<p>More than 28 different services operated by National Express
West Midlands, Diamond, Hansons, Midland and Whittle Coach and Bus
will be affected and passengers can get full details of the
location of their temporary stops by logging on to
networkwestmidlands.com/Stourbridge A map showing people
where they can catch their bus is also featured.</p>
<p>Centro is also holding a series of exhibitions on its Network
West Midlands Exhibition bus which will be at Stourbridge bus
station between 10am and 3pm on Saturday October 16 and 23 and
between 3pm and 7pm on Thursday October 21.</p>
<p>Leaflets detailing the changes have been sent to key outlets
such as libraries and travel shops and posters are going up at 80
venues in and around Stourbridge as well as those areas to which
buses go to from the town. Posters are also in place at relevant
bus stations and interchanges and Centro is arranging with local
traders to display the posters in their stores. Bus operators are
also displaying notices on their vehicles</p>
<p>Extra staff will be on hand at the temporary stops to help
passengers during the first week of the change-over and there will
be on-site bus station staff after that to assist the public.</p>
<p>A free shuttle bus linking the temporary bus stop locations to
Stourbridge town centre will be laid on, initially for three months
with its continuation dependent on passenger demand.</p>
<p>The bus will operate from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and
follow a one way loop along Parkfield Road, Vauxhall Road,
Birmingham Street, St John's Road, High Street, Market Street, Bell
Street, New Street, St John's Road, Church Street and back to
Parkfield Road. The shuttle bus will serve stops at Parkfield Road,
Birmingham Street, High Street and Market Street.</p>
<p>Centro chairman, Cllr Angus Adams, said: "This is going to be a
big but very exciting project which will obviously mean a number of
changes for bus passengers. But we have worked hard to make sure
these alternative stopping arrangements cause as least disruption
as possible.</p>
<p>"Once the new Stourbridge Interchange is finished, passengers
will have a truly world class interchange that will be comfortable
and easy to use, giving Stourbridge the sort of
21<sup>st</sup> century facility its needs and deserves."</p>
<p>The new Stourbridge Interchange, which is due to open on the
site of the existing bus station in early 2012, will boast cutting
edge design features including a focal point canopy to provide a
landmark gateway for Stourbridge.</p>
<p>It will feature a modern and spacious facilities building and
concourse allowing easy passenger circulation with toilets and a
retail unit. There will be electronic passenger information boards
telling passengers when their bus is due, CCTV, help points and an
internal public address system installed throughout the site.</p>
<p>There will be eight, spacious bus stands serving the main
facilities building with doors that automatically open when the bus
arrives. An additional bus stop will be installed on Vauxhall Road
to allow smooth interchange between bus and train services provided
by the People Mover at Stourbridge Town Rail Station.</p>
<p>The rail station itself will remain open throughout the
construction period.</p>
<p>A focus has also being placed on improving walking routes into
the town centre and a new covered walkway will link the new station
building to the existing subway from Foster Street. The subway
itself will be refurbished to become much more open and bright.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Passengers were today given details of their alternative stopping arrangements for when Stourbridge bus station is closed and demolished to make way for a world class, £7 million public transport interchange."
17213
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Your Public Transport Matters roadshow visits Walsall
2010-10-12T00:00:00
2010-10-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People who visit, live or work in Walsall can have their say on
the region's bus and rail services at a special event in the
town.</p>
<p>"Your Public Transport Matters" will give the travelling public
the chance to talk directly with transport chiefs about Network
West Midlands - the region's integrated bus, rail and tram
system</p>
<p>Representatives from all of the partners and some of the other
companies that run public transport services in the region will be
on hand to talk to people visiting the National Express West
Midlands bus when it parks up outside TJ Hughes in Park Street
between 10am and 3pm on Wednesday October 13.</p>
<p>The event has been organised by transport authority Centro, bus
company National Express West Midlands, Passenger Focus and Bus
Users UK.</p>
<p>Feedback from the event will be looked at closely by transport
bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus, tram and
rail network.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Customer Relations Team Leader at Centro, said:
"If we're going to provide people with a public transport system
that provides a real alternative to the car, then we need to make
sure we provide the services they need and want.</p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity to really understand the needs of the passenger and non
public transport user and we will be working with the transport
operators to feed their views into Network West Midlands.</p>
<p>"We look forward to hearing people's views, particularly about
how we can make connections between different services easier,
quicker and more convenient."</p>
<p>Phil Tonks, passenger link executive at Passenger Focus, added:
"Public transport is a lifeline for so many people in Walsall so it
is essential we find out and understand their views. </p>
<p>"We want to get the best deal for passengers and will be urging
bus and rail operators to listen very carefully to what passengers
say."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People who visit, live or work in Walsall can have their say on the region's bus and rail services at a special event in the town."
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£1 million boost for Tile Hill rail passengers
2010-10-12T00:00:00
2010-10-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Commuters using a busy Coventry rail station are in line for a
major boost after work started this week on extending its hugely
popular 'Park and Ride' facility.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, is spending £1 million
adding a further 240 free parking spaces at Tile Hill, bringing the
total to 332.</p>
<p>The extension is being carried out to ease overcrowding in the
station's existing car park which has proved so popular with
commuters that it is often full before the end of the morning rush
hour.</p>
<p>The extra spaces could also see around 210,000 car journeys
taken off local roads each year as commuters drive to Tile Hill,
take advantage of the free parking and then complete their commute
by train.</p>
<p>Cllr Ken Rushen, lead member for rail and Metro at Centro said:
"Park and Ride schemes play a vital role in taking millions of car
journeys off our roads each year which in turn reduces congestion
and carbon emissions.</p>
<p>"But in many ways our free Park and Ride facilities, such as the
one at Tile Hill, have become a victim of their own success with
many becoming full very quickly in the morning.</p>
<p>"That is why we are committed to providing more free spaces at
rail stations. Tile Hill is just the latest in a number of Park and
Ride expansion schemes we have in the pipeline."</p>
<p>The new spaces, which will also help reduce parking on
surrounding streets, will be next to the station's existing car
park and will have upgraded lighting, CCTV cameras and help points
linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre.</p>
<p>Around 70 of the new spaces, which are being built for Centro by
contractor C Spencer Ltd, could be ready by Christmas with the
remainder due for completion by spring 2011.</p>
<p>Centro's congestion-busting Park and Ride facilities have been a
major success in helping to persuade motorists to make the bulk of
their daily commute by rail and there are now more than 6,500 free
spaces at Centro's 53 heavy rail car parks and four of its Metro
stops.</p>
<p>These spaces are calculated to take more than 53,000 journeys
off the road each week, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200
tonnes a year.</p>
<p>Centro and its partners have invested £14 million in Park and
Ride since 1997 and all of the car parks have been awarded Safer
Parking Accreditation for achieving low levels of vehicle crime and
anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Commuters using a busy Coventry rail station are in line for a major boost after work started this week on extending its hugely popular 'Park and Ride' facility.
17213
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Service changes at Walsall bus station during Tesco development
2010-10-11T00:00:00
2010-10-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Passengers are being advised about a number of service changes
at Walsall's St Paul's Bus Station as a result of the work on the
town centre Tesco development.</p>
<p>The work will mean the closure of St Paul's Street from the bus
station to Wisemoor Island, both inbound and outbound, between 8pm
and 6am on Wednesday October 13, Thursday October 14, Monday
October 18 and Tuesday October 19.</p>
<p>As a result Stands M, N and P will be closed from 8pm and the
following changes will be in place; from 8pm onwards National
Express West Midlands services 529 and 370 will depart from Stand
J. The Diamond 332 and 342 services will depart from Stand K.
Departure times will not be affected.</p>
<p>Centro, which operates the bus station, will have at least one
supervisor on site to assist passengers throughout the day and
public notices will also be put up.</p>
<p>Further changes are expected over the coming weeks as work on
the new Tesco store progresses.</p>
<p>Full details of those changes will be circulated to passengers
as soon as they are confirmed.</p>
<p>"</p>
Passengers are being advised about a number of service changes at Walsall's St Paul's Bus Station as a result of the work on the town centre Tesco development.
17213
0
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Centro in joint call over Tax Increment Financing
2010-10-06T00:00:00
2010-10-06T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro joined forces with Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and
Birmingham City Council at the Conservative Party conference to
urge the government to push ahead with plans to introduce Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) to fund infrastructure development.</p>
<p>At a fringe meeting they called for Birmingham to become a
"pilot for turning this ambition into reality".</p>
<p>Jerry Blackett, chief executive of Birmingham Chamber of
Commerce Group, said: "Tax Increment Financing will allow local
councils to keep some of the extra business rates and council tax
they raise to enable new developments to go ahead.</p>
<p>""Infrastructure development is vital to economic growth and
finding a way to maintain crucial investment has never been more
important.""</p>
<p>Stephen Hughes, chief executive of Birmingham City Council,
added: "Following the earlier announcement that councils will be
able to keep some of the extra business rates and council tax they
raise when they enable new developments to go ahead, we now call on
Government to take the next step and allow Birmingham to become the
pilot for turning this ambition into reality.<br />
<br />
"There is no time to delay - Scottish Government and Scottish
Future's Trust last week gave approval to Edinburgh City Council's
plan to borrow £84m through TIF to redevelop the Leith Docks<br />
<br />
"Now we urge Government to retain the £120m ADZ Pilot Programme
announced in the Budget on March 24 and use this money to permit a
small number of TIF supported projects to start immediately."<br />
<br />
Alex Burrows, Head of Strategy at Centro, said: "This Conference
has made clear that the Government has two priorities: the economy
and the low carbon agenda. Transport is a key enabler of both,
driving sustainable economic growth and creating jobs.</p>
<p>"Tax increment financing of schemes like the Birmingham City
Centre to Birmingham Airport Rapid Transit plan will deliver
connectivity between the city centre, BirminghamBusinessPark and
Chelmsley Wood.</p>
<p>"TIF will allow us to fund vital but expensive transport
infrastructure now - allowing us to unlock and realise long-term
benefits in terms of jobs, wealth, skills, education, health and
social inclusion."</p>
<p>Panellists agreed that for the process to move forward quickly,
and deliver the thousands of new jobs which will flow from it,
legislation must:<br />
<br />
o Be permissive to allow for a range of
TIF models<br />
o Be included in The Finance Bill, not
Localism Bill<br />
o Have no caps, but instead agreed
objective criteria for TIF approval<br />
o Support difficult, genuinely
transformational economic change projects<br />
o Offer flexible borrowing - ie not
restricted to local authorities<br />
o Avoid the unworkable elements of 2000
Local Tax Reinvestment Programme</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro joined forces with Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Birmingham City Council at the Conservative Party conference to urge the government to push ahead with plans to introduce Tax Increment Financing to fund infrastructure development.
17213
0
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People urged to have their say on bus services in east Birmingham and north Solihull
2010-10-05T00:00:00
2010-10-05T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in east Birmingham and north Solihull are being urged to
have their say on local bus services as part of plans to improve
public transport in the area.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority is working together
with Birmingham City Council, Solihull Council and local bus
companies to look at the bus network and see what can be done to
provide improved services for existing and prospective
passengers.</p>
<p>The aim is to build on the already good transport network in the
area to provide bus services that better serve modern travel
patterns while also bringing better quality services with improved
buses, waiting facilities and information.</p>
<p>The review covers all or part of the following postcodes: B8,
B9, B10, B25, B26, B33, B36, B37 and B40 south of the M6 to north
of Coventry Road.</p>
<p>In the first part of the bus network review, people who visit,
work and live in the area are being urged to come to a series of
exhibitions during October to give their views on what works well
and what would make bus services in the area better.</p>
<p>This information, along with other research, will then be used
to make improvements and ensure that bus services are taking people
where they want to go, when they want to go.</p>
<p>The work forms part of Centro's groundbreaking Transforming Bus
Travel vision which focuses on improving the quality of bus travel
in the region and provide people with an attractive alternative to
the car.</p>
<p>The improvements, which aim to provide an easier to understand
network of routes and services, particularly to big trip generators
like hospitals and main housing, retail and employment areas, are
due to come into effect during the spring.</p>
<p>People who want to come along and have their say can go to any
of the following exhibitions where representatives from Centro,
Birmingham City Council and bus operators will be on hand to
take comments and questions.</p>
<ul>
<li>Saturday 9 October, 9am to3pm and again on Tuesday 19 October
from 3pm to 7pm, Network West Midlands (NWM) marquee by Marks &
Spencer, High Street, Birmingham city centre</li>
<li>Tuesday 12 October, 1pm to 4pm, NWM marquee in Kingshurst
Parade shopping centre</li>
<li>Wednesday 13 October, 3pm to 7pm, NWM marquee by the Halifax
and Domino's junction of Church Road/Stoney Lane, Yew Tree</li>
<li>Thursday 14 October, 2pm to 6pm, NWM marquee to the side of
Aldi, junction of Coleshill Road, Stechford Lane, Fox and Goose
shopping centre</li>
<li>Saturday 16 October, 10am to 3pm, Chelmsley Wood shopping
centre, walkway through to Asda, Level 1 by lifts</li>
<li>Monday 18 October, 9am to 2pm, NWM Exhibition bus, Coventry
Road in the parking bays outside shops heading towards Coventry
after The Wheatsheaf pub road junction</li>
</ul>
<p>People can also give their views by logging on to <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a> and
clicking on East Birmingham</p>
<p>"</p>
People in east Birmingham and north Solihull are being urged to have their say on local bus services as part of plans to improve public transport in the area.
17213
0
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Tory delegates hear how improved bus network is vital to regional economy
2010-10-05T00:00:00
2010-10-05T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Delegates to the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham
were told of the importance of bus travel in the West Midlands and
its effect on the economy and the environment.</p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, passenger services director for Centro, Nick
Coad, environmental director of National Express, and Stephen
Joseph OBE of the Campaign for Better Transport addressed a fringe
meeting at the Edwardian Team Rooms in Birmingham Museum and Art
Gallery on Tuesday 5th October.</p>
<p>They briefed delegates on Transforming Bus Travel, a
project launched by Centro and partner organisations to drive
forward wholesale improvements for passengers.</p>
<p>They include:</p>
<ul>
<li>An on-going overhaul of the various bus networks in the West
Midlands in partnership with National Express and other bus
operators. These Network Reviews are designed to increase passenger
numbers by modernising services and routes in order to better meet
21<sup>st</sup> century work and leisure needs and travel
patterns.</li>
<li>New accessible vehicles, electronic passenger information and
customer care. Patronage on some routes has already risen by 10%
where the Network Reviews have taken place. Customer satisfaction
has improved from 70% to 75%.</li>
<li>Up to date passenger information at more than 13,000 bus stops,
shelters, stations and interchanges. Extensive SMS timetable text
messages and Real Time Information displays across the
network.</li>
<li>Groundbreaking investment in Smartcard - a £14 million project
- will see more than 2,500 buses in the West Midlands equipped with
21<sup>st</sup> Century Oyster-type ticketing that will
revolutionise bus travel.</li>
<li>A Green Transport Charter - launched in September - bringing
together the whole transport sector within the West Midlands on a
voluntary basis to work towards lowering carbon emissions and
encouraging the development and use of green technologies.</li>
<li>Piloting Smarter Routes to improve journey times for all
road users by identifying congestion hot-spots and developing
solutions for busy routes.</li>
<li>Encouraging walking and cycling. Centro provides more than 600
cycle racks and lockers at train stations, Metro stops and bus
stations across the Network West Midlands area.</li>
</ul>
<p>Centro chairman Coun Angus Adams, who chaired the event,
said: "Buses in the West Midlands carry nearly a million people
every day and account for 90 per cent of all public transport
journeys. They are a critically important mode of transport for our
region."</p>
<p>But Coun Adams said political, demographic and economic changes
were forcing a fundamental shift in the UK bus industry.</p>
<p>"The Competition Commission is currently examining if
competition is working in the best interests of passengers, while
the bus service operators grant is being reviewed," he said.</p>
<p>"The spending cuts programme could have serious implications for
fares and concessions and carbon reductions."</p>
<p>"</p>
Delegates to the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham were told of the importance of bus travel in the West Midlands and its effect on the economy and environment.
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Tory delegates told of benefits of high speed rail link
2010-10-04T00:00:00
2010-10-04T00:00:00
<p>The economic benefits of a high speed rail line between London
and the West Midlands could be doubled, according to an
independent report unveiled at the Conservative Party
conference.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, announced the
findings of the report at a conference fringe event on Monday.</p>
<p>The Centro commissioned study shows how the already substantial
boost to West Midlands economic output, average wages and job
creation can be doubled if the high speed line is combined with
improvements to the region's existing rail network.</p>
<p>The fringe meeting was organised by Centro to
emphasise to Tory delegates the need for a world class, fully
integrated West Midlands transport system to feed into the
Birmingham city centre high speed terminus.</p>
<p>It came as transport secretary Philip Hammond
announced the preferred option for taking high speed
rail north of Birmingham.</p>
<p>The Government has opted for the so-called 'Y' option of
two corridors - one direct to Manchester, then connecting on to the
West Coast Mainline, and the other via the East Midlands and South
Yorkshire before connecting to the East Coast Mainline north of
Leeds.</p>
<p>Mr Hammond described the choice, which will go out to
consultation in the New Year, as being part of ""a strategic
project that will make rail the mode of choice for most inner-city
journeys within the UK and for many beyond.""</p>
<p>The Centro commissioned study has found the high speed link
between London and Birmingham would boost the West Midlands'
economic output by £600m, create 10,000 additional jobs and bring
an average wage increase of £100 a year for each worker.</p>
<p>However, combining the high speed link with enhancements to
local and regional rail service would generate a £1.5 billion
increase in economic output, create 22,000 new jobs and see an
average wage increase of £300 a year.</p>
<p>Speaking at the event was Geoff Inskip, chief executive of
Centro and Julie Mills, of Greengauge 21, a not-for-profit
organisation promoting the implementation of high speed rail as a
national economic priority. The meeting was chaired by
Centro chairman Coun Angus Adams.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Geoff said: "This independent study looks at the economic impact
of improved connections resulting from the capacity freed up on the
existing rail network following the introduction of the high speed
rail link.</p>
<p>"It shows that the high speed link between London and the West
Midlands without regional enhancements would deliver less than half
of the potential economic benefits.</p>
<p>"In order to achieve these greater benefits it is important that
work begins now on a package of investments on the regional rail
network to support growth and improve connectivity into the high
speed rail service from the whole region."</p>
<p>Julie Mills, director of Greengauge 21, added: "Investment in
high-speed rail is one of the most effective things we can do as a
nation to boost economic growth.</p>
<p>"Centro's research highlights convincingly that high-speed rail
is effective not just as a modern and highly efficient new
transport system but also in allowing us to improve rail services
on existing lines."</p>
<p>Coun Timothy Huxtable, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at,
Birmingham City Council said: ""There is little doubt that High
Speed 2 will have a dramatic effect on the local, regional and
national economy, created jobs, inward investment and business
opportunities for all. <br />
<br />
""Having a direct fast link to both London, and Europe beyond, can
only enhance the competitiveness of regional businesses by making
this an even more attractive region to both do business with, and
locate business to.</p>
<p>"This in turn will create jobs, supply chains and spending in
the local economies of the entire area, bringing sustainable growth
throughout.""</p>
<p>"</p>
"The economic benefits of a high speed rail line between London and the West Midlands could be doubled, according to an independent report unveiled at the Conservative Party conference."
17213
Hi-speedMoorStimage011.JPG
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New Street tower demolition starts
2010-09-30T00:00:00
2010-09-30T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Less than 24 hours after the launch of Birmingham's Big City
Plan, preparatory work has begun for the demolition of a landmark
tower block, to be removed as part of the Birmingham Gateway
project.</p>
<p>The project will transform New Street station into an iconic
gateway to Birmingham with more space, better facilities and
improved accessibility for passengers.</p>
<p>Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council commented: "The
redevelopment of New Street Gateway will not only provide the city
with a truly world class station, but also open up a hugely
important area of the city centre to regeneration, job creation and
growth.</p>
<p>"People can see for themselves major regeneration work taking
place in the city right now - proving the Big City Plan is about
far more than ambition, it is about delivery. As projects such as
New Street and the Library of Birmingham take shape before our
eyes, excitement is growing - as people can really begin to feel
how our city is being transformed."</p>
<p>Stephenson Tower has been a city landmark for over 40 years and
was constructed on top of the existing station when it was rebuilt
in the 1960s.</p>
<p>Demolition will pave the way for a new south entrance to the
station, improving connections across the city and allowing a
significant regeneration of the area to the south, one of the key
proposals outlined in the Big City Plan at yesterday's launch.</p>
<p>Andrew Skidmore, principal scheme sponsor for Network Rail
commented: "The start of work to demolish Stephenson Tower is an
important moment for the project and we've planned our work
carefully so that we cause minimal disruption to both passengers
and local residents."</p>
<p>To complete the demolition safely, the project team will
construct a tower crane and encapsulate the structure in
scaffolding. Work to demolish the tower brick by brick will start
in late November and complete next summer. Network Rail is also
working with Birmingham City Council to provide a viable
development opportunity on the south side of the station.</p>
<p>Mark Foley, partnerships director at Advantage West Midlands,
added: "Our £100 million investment in Gateway remains the biggest
single investment of any RDA in the country. The project is of huge
economic importance - and our commitment is helping to create a
legacy from which the city and West Midlands region will benefit in
years to come."</p>
<p>The Gateway project is funded by Network Rail, Birmingham City
Council (with funding from the Department for Transport), Advantage
West Midlands and Centro.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Less than 24 hours after the launch of Birmingham's Big City Plan, preparatory work has begun for the demolition of a landmark tower block, to be removed as part of the Birmingham Gateway project"
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0
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Bike theft victim Val wins new wheels
2010-09-30T00:00:00
2010-09-30T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Val Woodward is back in the saddle thanks to the region's
transport authority Centro after thieves stole her bike.</p>
<p>She won a bike in a Centro competition to encourage people to
cycle to work as part of their public transport policy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Val, aged 57, from Digbeth in Birmingham, had her name pulled
from the hat in a competition that saw more than 200 people take
part.</p>
<p>A researcher with the Workers Education Association in Newhall
Street, Birmingham, Val chose a Globe Vienna 3 hybrid as her
prize.</p>
<p>She said: "It's fantastic news because my old bike was stolen
from the flats where I live.</p>
<p>"I am a very keen cyclist. I use the train and my bike for my
job, which takes me all over the Midlands, and I cycle to and from
the station.</p>
<p>"I've always found cars take up a lot of space but unfortunately
there is a culture of reliance on the car in Birmingham which I
find quite alien."</p>
<p>The competition was featured on trains across the network
directing people to the Centro website where they could apply to
win a free bike.</p>
<p>At the same time entrants could request:</p>
<ul>
<li>Free cycling map</li>
<li>Information on cycle training</li>
<li>Bike maintenance tips</li>
<li>Information on local bike shops</li>
<li>Information on combining cycling with a public transport
journey</li>
</ul>
<p>Stephen Bermingham, Sustainable Travel Officer at Centro said:
"At Centro we are working to make it as easy as possible for people
to leave their car at home and travel using more environmentally
friendly modes.</p>
<p>"Nearly all public transport journeys start and end with a
connection on foot or on bike so if we are to provide people in the
West Midlands with a fully integrated transport system we need to
make sure we give people all the walking and cycling information
and advice they need to travel from door to door.</p>
<p>"This competition was a great way of getting the message out
there and I am really pleased that Val has a bike once more."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Val Woodward is back in the saddle thanks to the region's transport authority Centro after thieves stole her bike.
17213
ValWoodward12.JPG
0
12
0
Centro boss meets new Labour leader
2010-09-28T00:00:00
2010-09-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Newly-elected Labour leader Ed Miliband was left in no doubt
about the importance of investment in the public transport network
in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's integrated transport authority, was at the
party conference in Manchester to highlight the importance of good
co-ordinated public transport and how it is vital to the West
Midlands economy.</p>
<p>Chief executive Geoff Inskip wasted no time in introducing
himself and pressing home the case to Mr Miliband.</p>
<p>He emphasised how public transport will play an increasingly
crucial role in the economic growth of the metropolitan area.</p>
<p>An integrated, world-class transport system would provide
employers with a wider pool of labour while connecting people to
jobs, education, health and leisure facilities.</p>
<p>The re-development of New Street station in Birmingham and the
projected high-speed route between the city and London place the
region at the heart of the national high-speed rail network.</p>
<p>Geoff said after meeting Mr Miliband: "These projects are
fantastic news for the region but what is equally important is that
they are served by an infrastructure of the highest possible
standard.</p>
<p>"It is imperative the right bus, rail and Metro services are in
place so people anywhere in the region can link-up easily with the
high speed lines, while arriving passengers can seamlessly transfer
on to a high-quality local transport network.</p>
<p>"Our over-riding message would be continued investment in an
infrastructure vital to jobs and the economic prosperity of the
region."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Newly-elected Labour leader Ed Miliband was left in no doubt about the importance of investment in the public transport network in the West Midlands.
17213
GeoffEdMilibandJPG.JPG
0
12
0
Nine out of ten buses now 'smart'
2010-09-28T00:00:00
2010-09-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Nearly nine out of every ten buses in the West Midlands are now
'smart' after a being fitted with electronic card readers that pave
the way for a local version of the London Oyster Card.</p>
<p>A total of 188 Diamond buses were kitted out with the technology
this week as part of the Smartcard project being implemented by
Centro, the region's transport authority. They are among 2,500
vehicles across the West Midlands that will eventually have the
card readers.</p>
<p>The technology has been installed on 151 Diamond buses based at
the company's Tividale depot in the Black Country and on a further
37 buses at its Redditch base. The cost of fitting out the Redditch
buses was covered jointly by Centro and Worcestershire County
Council.</p>
<p>The hi-tech readers are programmed to accept free national
concessionary passes for older and eligible blind and disabled
people. Holders simply place their card on the reader when they
board and wait for the green light to show or the audible beep to
be heard.</p>
<p>Only holders of concessionary passes will have to use the
Smartcard readers at the moment and are being urged to make sure
they have their pass ready in their hand when they get on
board.</p>
<p>Long term, the state-of-the-art machines will enable new kinds
of smart ticketing to be introduced which will simplify the
ticketing process and make public transport even more
convenient.</p>
<p>Centro's Smartcard Development and Implementation Manager,
Michael Wevill, said: "The roll out of this complex project is
going really well and the kitting out of these Diamond buses means
that 88 per cent of vehicles in the West Midlands are now
smart.</p>
<p> "We are now looking forward to completing the installation
of Smartcard equipment on all the region's buses in the next few
weeks so passengers can get the full benefit of this world class
ticketing system."</p>
<p>All the buses and depots belonging to the region's bus companies
are scheduled to be fitted out with the Smartcard machines and back
office computer equipment by Centro by the end of the autumn.</p>
<p>The machines read a microchip which is embedded in all
concessionary passes that allow free travel on local buses in
England.</p>
<p>Holders of these passes in the West Midlands enjoy one of the
best concessionary travel schemes in the country, however, with
Centro also providing them with free travel on West Midland trains
and trams.</p>
<p>Centro is working with ticket machine suppliers to introduce a
handheld Smartcard ticket machine that can be used by conductors on
the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Local rail operator London Midland also has a commitment to
introduce Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as
part of its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the
company to ensure their system is complimentary.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Nearly nine out of every ten buses in the West Midlands are now 'smart' after being fitted with electronic card readers that pave the way for a local version of the London Oyster Card.
17213
0
12
0
Work to start on new £7m Stourbridge bus station
2010-09-22T00:00:00
2010-09-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Work on a new and exciting £7 million bus station for
Stourbridge will get underway next month, transport authority
Centro revealed today.</p>
<p>The new "Stourbridge Interchange", which will be built on the
site of the existing bus station, will boast cutting edge design
features to provide passengers with a 'world class' facility.</p>
<p>The design, which has been praised by councillors on Dudley's
planning committee for its striking, contemporary style, includes a
focal point canopy to provide a landmark gateway for
Stourbridge.</p>
<p>The start of work on the project will mean the closure of the
existing bus station from October 24 onwards with the new
interchange due to open to passengers in early 2012.</p>
<p>Alternative stopping arrangements for the 700 buses which use
the station each day will be widely publicised during the run up to
the closure.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "We have spent a lot of
time on the design to make sure Stourbridge gets a truly world
class facility.</p>
<p>"We wanted to make sure the new interchange not only promotes
Stourbridge as a place to visit but also promotes the West Midlands
as a region that has public transport facilities that are striking
to look at and easy for passengers to use.</p>
<p>"We believe the new interchange will achieve that and give
Stourbridge a facility it can be proud of."</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">The development will feature a
modern and spacious station building and concourse with toilets, a
retail unit and electronic passenger information boards telling
passengers when their bus is due. CCTV, help points and an internal
public address system will also be installed throughout the
site.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">There will be eight, spacious bus
stands allowing easy passenger circulation and featuring doors that
automatically open when the bus arrives. An additional bus stop
will be installed on Vauxhall Road to allow smooth interchange
between bus and rail.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">A focus has also being placed on
improving walking routes into the town centre and a new covered
walkway will link the new station building to the existing subway
from Foster Street. The subway itself will be refurbished to become
much more open and bright.</p>
<p dir="">Better links will also be created to the innovative
People Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy
interchange between bus and rail services.</p>
<p>Cllr Adams added: "Inevitably this exciting development will
mean some changes to people's bus services but we have been working
hard to draw up alternative arrangements aimed at minimising any
disruption.</p>
<p>"But the start of work is great news for Stourbridge and I
believe passengers will ultimately have a fabulous facility that is
fit for the 21<sup>st</sup> century."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Work on a new and exciting £7 million bus station for Stourbridge will get underway next month, transport authority Centro revealed today."
17213
Stourbridge2.jpg
0
12
0
Green Bus is a winner with Birmingham girls
2010-09-17T00:00:00
2010-09-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A dedicated, hi-tech bus service ferrying pupils to and from a
Birmingham school has proved so popular with children and parents
that it has now been expanded.</p>
<p>Pupils returning for the new term at St Paul's School for Girls
in Edgbaston can take advantage of a third brightly painted 'Green
Bus' to help them do their bit for the environment and cut
congestion on the school run.</p>
<p>The scheme, a partnership between Centro, the region's transport
authority and private operator The Green Bus, is a 21<sup>st</sup>
century version of America's traditional yellow school buses. It
even offers pupils free, onboard wi-fi so they surf the web.</p>
<p>Centro and The Green Bus laid on two vehicles for St Paul's at
the start of the 2009 school year but demand has rocketed to such
an extent that another bus has now been added for this year.</p>
<p>Cllr Robert Alden, Centro's lead member for the environment,
said: "This new school travel initiative is leading the way in
providing safe and green transport for children and we are
delighted that the pilot scheme has been so successful.</p>
<p>"The Green Bus has helped produce an impressive 30 per cent
reduction in car journeys at those schools where it is
operating.</p>
<p>"It also helps shape young people's present and future travel
behaviour, encouraging them to develop an on-going habit of using
public transport. After all they are the next generation of
commuters."</p>
<p>The innovative scheme, which uses buses painted in a striking
green livery to complement existing commercial bus routes serving
the school, has been expanded as part of Centro's groundbreaking
transport vision Transforming Bus Travel.</p>
<p>The routes of the buses are specially tailored using the home
addresses of pupils so they have as short a walk as possible to get
from their front door to the stop.</p>
<p>The buses are equipped with satellite tracking devices that feed
directly into The Green Bus' interactive website. This allows
parents to log on and see exactly where their child's bus is at any
given moment. It also provides a facility for parents and teachers
to receive instant and free text messages informing them of any
delays or diversions during the journey.</p>
<p>Each bus has its own dedicated driver and free on-board wi-fi
internet service so children can surf the web and communicate with
their friends on the way to and from school.</p>
<p>They accept all valid <strong>n</strong>network and
<strong>n</strong>bus tickets which children will also be able to
use on any other bus service in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Ian Mack, managing director of The Green Bus, said: "The Green
Bus is a tried-and-tested way of reducing car journeys
significantly.</p>
<p>"The way we do that is to design bus services which are as
convenient as possible for parents and as attractive as we can make
them for children. As a result, the shift we get from car to
bus is dramatic.</p>
<p>"Our partnership with Centro has proved itself a very powerful
way of getting cars off the roads in the West Midlands."</p>
<p>Research shows that cars on the school run make up 20 per cent
of all rush hour traffic and produce two million tonnes of carbon
dioxide a year.</p>
<p>A study by Elephant.co.uk estimates that during the school
holidays, West Midland commuters save an average of 12 minutes and
50 seconds on every journey to work thanks to reduced traffic.</p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>ENDS</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: ">More information from Steve Swingler on
0121 214 7073 / 07887 794241/ email; <a
href="/">steveswingler@centro.org.uk</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"A dedicated, hi-tech bus service ferrying pupils to and from a Birmingham school has proved so popular with children and parents that it has now been expanded."
17213
0
12
0
Hi-tech bus is a winner with surf girls
2010-09-17T00:00:00
2010-09-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A dedicated, hi-tech bus service ferrying pupils to and from a
Wolverhampton school has proved so popular with children and
parents that it has now been expanded.</p>
<p>Pupils returning for the new term at Wolverhampton Girls' High
School can take advantage of a third brightly painted 'Green Bus'
to help them do their bit for the environment and cut congestion on
the school run.</p>
<p>The scheme, a partnership between Centro, the region's transport
authority and private operator The Green Bus, is a 21<sup>st</sup>
century version of America's traditional yellow school buses. It
even offers pupils free, onboard wi-fi so they surf the web.</p>
<p>Centro and The Green Bus laid on two vehicles for the school at
the start of the 2009 academic year but demand has rocketed to such
an extent that another bus has now been added for this year.</p>
<p>Cllr Christine Mills, Centro's lead member for integration,
said: "The Green Bus offers a safe, fun and green alternative for
the school run which is why it is proving so successful.</p>
<p> "This popularity has helped bring about a 30 per cent
reduction in car journeys at those schools where The Green Bus
operates, helping to cut congestion and pollution.</p>
<p>"It also helps youngsters get into the habit of using public
transport which hopefully they can carry through as the next
generation of commuters."</p>
<p>The innovative scheme, which uses buses painted in a striking
green livery to complement existing commercial bus routes serving
the school, has been expanded as part of Centro's groundbreaking
transport vision Transforming Bus Travel.</p>
<p>The routes of the buses are specially tailored using the home
addresses of pupils so they have as short a walk as possible to get
from their front door to the stop.</p>
<p>The buses are equipped with satellite tracking devices that feed
directly into The Green Bus' interactive website. This allows
parents to log on and see exactly where their child's bus is at any
given moment. It also provides a facility for parents and teachers
to receive instant and free text messages informing them of any
delays or diversions during the journey.</p>
<p>Each bus has its own dedicated driver and free on-board wi-fi
internet service so children can surf the web and communicate with
their friends on the way to and from school.</p>
<p>They accept all valid <strong>n</strong>network and
<strong>n</strong>bus tickets which children will also be able to
use on any other bus service in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Ian Mack, managing director of The Green Bus, said: "The Green
Bus is a tried-and-tested way of reducing car journeys
significantly.</p>
<p>"The way we do that is to design bus services which are as
convenient as possible for parents and as attractive as we can make
them for children. As a result, the shift we get from car to
bus is dramatic.</p>
<p>"Our partnership with Centro has proved itself a very powerful
way of getting cars off the roads in the West Midlands."</p>
<p>Research shows that cars on the school run make up 20 per cent
of all rush hour traffic and produce two million tonnes of carbon
dioxide a year.</p>
<p>A study by Elephant.co.uk estimates that during the school
holidays, West Midland commuters save an average of 12 minutes and
50 seconds on every journey to work thanks to reduced traffic.</p>
<p style="text-align: "><strong>ENDS</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"A dedicated, hi-tech bus service ferrying pupils to and from a Wolverhampton school has proved so popular with children and parents that it has now been expanded."
17213
0
12
0
Report says high speed rail will be affordable for all
2010-09-15T00:00:00
2010-09-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A new report from Greengauge 21 demonstrates that high-speed
rail will not be expensive for passengers to use, even if a new
line would cost billions of pounds to build.</p>
<p>Greengauge 21 has analysed the fares that will be charged and
the likely income profile of users. The report - High Speed Rail:
Fair and Affordable - explains that both Greengauge 21 and
Government analysis assumes that there will not be premium
fares.</p>
<p>"That's why we can fairly describe high-speed rail as a "Railway
for All", says Greengauge 21 Director Jim Steer.</p>
<p>"We have based our analysis on a breakdown of today's rail fares
for the kind of journeys that will be made in future by
high-speed", says Greengauge 21 Director Jim Steer. He added:
"average fares on high-speed rail will be around £40 for a single
journey and many will actually travel for much less - around the
£20 mark".</p>
<p>The analysis in the report exposes what is not widely known, the
average fare paid on ordinary trains today for long-distance
journeys.</p>
<p>The relevance of today's fares is that the business cases
developed by both Greengauge 21 and HS2 Ltd have assumed that
high-speed prices will be set at the same level on average as
conventional rail ticket prices - and it is now clear what this
would mean in practice.</p>
<p>Dismissing claims that high-speed rail will be the preserve of a
wealthy elite, the report's authors point to the pattern of
existing rail use across the income groups.</p>
<p>"What we see is that the number of rail journeys made across the
lowest income quintile is about the same as the amount of rail
travel in the middle income groups. Higher trip rates in the
highest income groups reflect the preponderance of rail travel in
the South East, especially commuting into London, where average
incomes are well above the national average" Jim Steer said.</p>
<p>"As the National Travel Survey data show, there is also a
remarkable consistency in the average distance of rail trips, which
hardly changes across the five income levels", he added. "Rail
users in the lower income groups are just as likely to travel
longer distances as those with higher incomes."</p>
<p>According to Jim Steer, "high-speed rail will form part of a new
national transport infrastructure, connected into other low-carbon
forms of travel and offering the prospect ahead of an alternative
to ever-growing car and short-haul air use for all sections of the
community".</p>
<p>The findings of the report are of keen interest in the West
Midlands which will benefit from the proposed initial high-speed
route between London and Birmingham.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, the transport authority
for the West Midlands, said: "Whilst we recognise the importance of
HS2 to the West Midlands in terms of regeneration, job creation and
GDP, it's also important that high-speed rail is affordable and
accessible by all. We therefore welcome this report."</p>
<p>Greengauge 21 was established in 2006, to initiate the debate on
high-speed rail in Britain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"A new report from Greengauge 21 demonstrates that high-speed rail will not be expensive for passengers to use, even if a new line would cost billions of pounds to build."
17213
0
12
0
Coventry buses go 'smart'
2010-09-14T00:00:00
2010-09-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 160 Coventry buses went 'smart' this week after they
were fitted with electronic card readers that pave the way for a
West Midlands version of the London Oyster Card.</p>
<p>The Travel Coventry buses, operated by National Express,
represent a major roll out in the city of the Smartcard technology
being implemented by Centro, the region's transport authority. They
are among 2,500 vehicles across the West Midlands that are being
equipped with the technology.</p>
<p>The hi-tech readers are programmed to accept free national
concessionary passes for older and eligible blind and disabled
people. Holders simply place their card on the reader when they get
on board and wait for the green light to show or the audible beep
to be heard.</p>
<p>Only holders of concessionary passes will have to use the
Smartcard readers at the moment and are being urged to make sure
they have their pass ready in their hand when they get on
board.</p>
<p>In the longer term, the state-of-the-art machines will enable
new kinds of smart ticketing to be introduced which will simplify
the ticketing process and make public transport even more
convenient.</p>
<p>Centro's Smartcard Development and Implementation Manager,
Michael Wevill, said: "The roll out of this complex project is
going really well and the kitting out of these 216
Coventry buses shows our commitment to further improve services for
passengers in the city.</p>
<p>"We've had lots of positive comments about how easy and
convenient the new system is from both passengers and bus companies
in those areas which have already gone smart.</p>
<p>"We are now looking forward to completing the installation of
Smartcard equipment on all the region's buses over the coming weeks
so passengers can get the full benefit of this world class
ticketing system."</p>
<p>Centro has scheduled to fit out all the buses and depots
belonging to the region's bus companies with the Smartcard machines
and back office computer equipment by the end of the autumn. The
latest roll out in Coventry now means that every National Express
bus in the West Midlands is now fitted out.</p>
<p>The machines read a microchip which is embedded in all
concessionary passes that allow free travel on local buses in
England.</p>
<p>Holders of these passes in the West Midlands enjoy one of the
best concessionary travel schemes in the country, however, with
Centro also providing them with free travel on West Midland trains
and trams.</p>
<p>As a result Centro is working with ticket machine suppliers to
introduce a handheld Smartcard ticket machine that can be used by
conductors on the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Local rail operator London Midland also has a commitment to
introduce Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as
part of its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the
company to ensure their system is complimentary.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
More than 160 Coventry buses went 'smart' this week after they were fitted with electronic card readers that pave the way for a West Midlands version of the London Oyster Card.
17213
0
12
0
Dudley Mayor to attend transport event
2010-09-14T00:00:00
2010-09-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People who visit, live or work in Dudley can have their say on
the region's bus and rail services at a special event in the town's
Market Place next week.</p>
<p>"Your Public Transport Matters", between 10am and 3pm on
Wednesday September 22, will give the travelling public the chance
to talk directly with transport chiefs about Network West Midlands
- the region's integrated bus, rail and tram system</p>
<p>The Mayor of Dudley, Cllr Peter Miller, will be present from 12
pm to welcome the partnership between transport authority Centro,
bus company National Express West Midlands, Passenger Focus and Bus
Users UK who together have arranged the event.</p>
<p>Representatives from all of the partners and some of the other
companies that run public transport services in the region will be
on hand to talk to people visiting the National Express West
Midlands bus which will be parked in the Market Place.</p>
<p>Feedback from the event will be looked at closely by transport
bosses and used to make improvements to the local bus,tram and rail
network.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Customer Relations Team Leader at Centro, said:
"If we're going to provide people with a public transport system
that provides a real alternative to the car, then we need to make
sure we provide the services they need and want.</p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity to really understand the needs of the passenger and non
public transport user and we will be working with the transport
operators to feed their views into Network West Midlands.</p>
<p>"We look forward to hearing people's views, particularly about
how we can make connections between different services easier,
quicker and more convenient."</p>
<p>Phil Tonks, passenger link executive at Passenger Focus, added:
"Public transport is a lifeline for so many people in Dudley so it
is essential we find out and understand their views. </p>
<p>"We want to get the best deal for passengers and will be urging
bus and rail operators to listen very carefully to what passengers
say."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"People who visit, live or work in Dudley can have their say on the region's bus and rail services at a special event in the town's Market Place next week."
17213
0
12
0
"£400,000 boost for Metro"
2010-09-13T00:00:00
2010-09-13T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People travelling on the West Midlands' most reliable mode of
transport - the Midland Metro - will soon get an even better
service thanks to a £400,000 package of improvements.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Work to upgrade the system's overhead power lines will take
place between October 24 and 31 (inclusive) and during a second
week in spring 2011. The work will require part closures of the
tram route.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and Travel Midland Metro are carrying
out the work to make sure the system's impressive 99.7 per cent
reliability can continue into the future.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The upgrade will replace the supports to the overhead power
lines with new materials that enjoy a lifespan of 20 - 30 years.
This will make the system even more robust and reduce the risk of
delays due to power line issues.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To bring in these improvements the Metro will be closed between
Black Lake and Birmingham Snow Hill from October 25 to 30
(inclusive) and between Wednesbury Parkway and Birmingham Snow Hill
on Sunday October 24 and Sunday October 31.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A normal service will operate between Wolverhampton and Black
Lake from October 25 to October 30 (inclusive) and between
Wolverhampton and Wednesbury Parkway on Sunday October 24 and
Sunday October 31.</p>
<p>Metro tickets will be accepted on National Express West Midlands
bus routes: <strong>74, 79 and 126.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>A second closure between Wednesbury Parkway and Priestfield will
take place in spring next year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A publicity campaign was launched today ( Monday September 13)
to make sure people are aware of the dates of the closure and the
alternative travel options.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sophie Allison, Metro Partnerships Manager at Centro, said:
"Centro and Travel Midland Metro are committed to working together
to make sure Metro passengers get the best tram service
possible.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"It is already the West Midlands' most reliable mode of
transport and this overhead line upgrade will maintain its great
record of almost 100 per cent reliability well into the future.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"It is unfortunate we have to partially close the tram system
for a week this autumn and again next spring to do the upgrades,
but doing the work in any other way would take significantly longer
and cause much more disruption to passengers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We are working closely with Travel Midland Metro to ensure
alternative arrangements are in place while the upgrades are
carried out and we will let passengers have all the information
they need well in advance of the closure."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To help plan your journey go to <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> or phone traveline on 0871
200 22 33.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"People travelling on the West Midlands' most reliable mode of transport � the Midland Metro � will soon get an even better service thanks to a £400,000 package of improvements."
17213
0
12
0
Smartcard now on Pensnett National Express buses
2010-09-06T00:00:00
2010-09-06T00:00:00
<p>"National Express buses in the Dudley area are now fitted with
the Oyster Card style electronic system called Smartcard. On Sunday
5 September 2010 all the buses in the National Express depots in
Pensnett went live which means people with concessionary passes
using the X96, 120, 140, 141, 205, 222, 241, 243, 244, 246, 276,
297 and 297A buses will be able to scan their cards. Transport
authority Centro is kitting out all 2,500 buses in Birmingham,
Coventry, Solihull and the Black Country with new state-of-the-art
ticket machines that allow passengers to quickly and easily scan
their pass when they get on board. The machines are programmed to
accept free national concessionary passes for older and eligible
blind and disabled people To use their pass on a Smartcard machine,
all concessionary travellers need to do is place their card on the
reader when they board the bus and wait for the green light to
show. These passes, which were issued as part of the Government's
national concessionary travel scheme and allow free travel on all
local buses in England, have a smartcard chip embedded in them.
Centro has scheduled to fit out all the buses and depots belonging
to the regions 34 bus companies with the Smartcard machines and
back office computer equipment by the end of the autumn this year.
Centro's Smartcard Development and Implementation Manager Michael
Wevill said: "Following successful live trials of the new Smartcard
machines earlier this year, the roll out of this complex project is
going really well with a large number of buses and depots now
successfully fitted with the technology. "We've had lots of
positive comments from both passengers and bus companies who are
finding the new equipment easy and convenient to use, and look
forward to completing the installation of Smartcard equipment on
all buses in the West Midlands so passengers across the region can
get the full benefit of this world class ticketing system." In one
of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country, people
holding Centro concessionary travel passes can also travel for free
on West Midland's trains and trams. Centro is also working with
ticket machine suppliers to introduce a handheld smartcard ticket
machine that can be used by conductors on the Midland Metro. Local
rail operator London Midland has a commitment to introduce
Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as part of
its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the company to
ensure their system is complimentary. NOTES TO EDITORS Buses at the
following garages are now all fitted with smartcard technology: �
Central Buses � Silverline � Merlin Transport � Valley Travel � A
Line � Finesse and Thandi Transport � Travel Express � Coastal
Liner � Hansons � National Express Yardley Wood � Midland �
Claribel � National Express Acocks Green � National Express
Birmingham Central � National Express Bordesley Green � National
Express Walsall � National Express Perry Barr � National Express
West Bromwich"</p>
National Express buses in the Dudley area are now fitted with the Oyster Card style electronic system called Smartcard.
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New Bus service for High Heath
2010-09-06T00:00:00
2010-09-06T00:00:00
<p>"Transport Authority Centro is trialling a new community bus
service to connect the residents of High Heath estate south to
Walsall town centre via Rushall Medical Centre. Local residents
called for a new bus when the former 360 service was withdrawn
earlier in the year. This meant that there was no longer a direct
link between the estate and Walsall town centre. Centro introduced
the special 360 service on the 1 September, running three buses a
day on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. The new service is free for
concessionary pass holders and costs £2 per trip for non-pass
holders. Andrew Page, transport partnerships manager at Centro,
said: "We are really pleased to be subsidising this trial service
to connect the south of the High Heath estate to Rushall Medical
Centre and the bus network. Now more than ever, it is crucial to
invest in the development of public transport as seemingly endless
traffic jams, longer journey times and increasing pollution become
commonplace on our roads, adding even more stress to our daily
lives." Centro worked with Walsall Community Transport, the service
operator, to find an innovative way to provide access to a direct
local service into Walsall on certain days of the week.
Consultation took place between Centro and local residents through
the High Heath and Shelfield Residents Forum to find out what
people wanted and to create a timetable which would best serve the
community. Margaret Hayes, chairperson of the High Heath and
Shelfield Residents Forum, said: "We are delighted to have a
service once again and hope that in the long term it will grow and
become permanent. We are very grateful for all the work Centro has
put in to bring a bus service back onto the estate." The trial
service will be reviewed in March 2011."</p>
Transport Authority Centro is trialling a new community bus service to connect the residents of High Heath estate south to Walsall town centre via Rushall Medical Centre.
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West Midlands transport industry unites to fight climate change
2010-09-06T00:00:00
2010-09-06T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A pioneering Green Transport Charter, the first of its kind in
the UK, was launched in the West Midlands today (Monday September
6) to help cut carbon emissions and fight climate change.</p>
<p>The Charter, which is being spearheaded by transport authority
Centro, has seen the region's transport industry sign a pledge to
work together in support of the environment.</p>
<p>Companies have agreed a course of actions aimed specifically at
tackling climate change.</p>
<p>Those signing up will pledge to;</p>
<ul>
<li>Reduce carbon emissions and other harmful pollutants</li>
<li>Launch pilot trials of new technology such as electric and
hybrid buses and establish recharging networks for private electric
vehicles.</li>
<li>Share innovative green technology</li>
<li>Support initiatives that encourage people to choose greener
modes of transport</li>
</ul>
<p>The Charter not only brings together rail, bus and tram
operators but also other important areas of the industry such as
freight, haulage, coach travel and the voluntary sector such as
Ring and Ride.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams said: "No other city region in
the UK has done anything like this before but we feel it is crucial
if we are to beat climate change. After all, none of us can do it
alone, we all have to work together on this.</p>
<p>"This is an important moment because the Charter will, for the
first time, see the West Midlands transport industry sit down as a
whole to specifically discuss how we can all cut CO2
emissions."</p>
<p>Sixteen of some of the biggest names in the region's transport
companies formerly launched the Charter with a signing ceremony
outside Centro's headquarters in Birmingham city centre.</p>
<p>All of the companies signing up to the Charter are already
introducing a number of green initiatives. Centro and bus companies
National Express West Midlands and Travel de Courcey are to buy new
low carbon, hybrid and electric buses to operate on routes
throughout the West Midlands.</p>
<p>Centro and National Express West Midlands together with Arriva
Trains Wales, London Midland, Stagecoach Warwickshire and Virgin
Trains are also sending staff on 'Eco Driving' courses which teach
them to operate their vehicles in a way that reduces fuel
consumption and CO2 emissions.</p>
<p>West Midlands Special Needs Transport, which runs the region's
Ring and Ride service, has also signed up for 'Eco Driving'
courses and is looking to introduce electric minibuses on its 'home
to school' contract for children with special needs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Centro chairman Cllr Angus Adams, </em>
<em>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip and Dean Finch, chief
executive of National Express Group, sign up to the Green Transport
Charter infront of a new hybrid energy bus at Centro's headquarters
in Birmingham city centre</em>.</strong></p>
<p>Centro's Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, added: "A number of key
players in the industry have come together to launch the Charter
but in the longer term we would like to involve an even wider
variety of organisations, from those operating and supporting
transport to those campaigning for and developing green policies
and programmes."</p>
<p>The transport companies who have signed up to the Green Charter
are:</p>
<p>Arriva Trains Wales</p>
<p>Centro</p>
<p>Chiltern Railways</p>
<p>Community Transport</p>
<p>Cross Country Trains</p>
<p>Highway Agency</p>
<p>London Midland</p>
<p>National Express West Midlands</p>
<p>Parry People Mover</p>
<p>Road Haulage Association</p>
<p>Rotala Plc / Central Connect</p>
<p>Stagecoach Warwickshire</p>
<p>The Green Bus Company</p>
<p>Travel de Courcey</p>
<p>Virgin Trains</p>
<p>West Midlands Special Needs Transport</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"A pioneering Green Transport Charter, the first of its kind in the UK, was launched in the West Midlands today (Monday September 6) to help cut carbon emissions and fight climate change."
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Greencharter1.JPG
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Smartcard now on Birmingham's National Express buses and Central Connect buses
2010-09-06T00:00:00
2010-09-06T00:00:00
<p>"Over 250 National Express buses in the Birmingham area and 105
Central Connect buses across the region are now fitted with the
Oyster Card style electronic system called Smartcard. All the buses
in the National Express depots in Birmingham Central and Bordesley
went live over the past week which means people with concessionary
passes using the 14/B, 21/A, 22, 23, 24, 29A, 45, 47/S, 54, 55, 56,
57/A, 58, 60, 61, 62, 63, 90, 97, 97A, 97S, 821, 876, 878, 883,
900, 957 and 958 buses will be able to scan their cards. The whole
fleet of Central Connect buses have also been upgraded to accept
Smartcard and these include: S2, S2A, S2C S3, S4, S7, S11, 10, C14,
17, 21, 23, 25, 27, X30, 37, 82, 97, 97A, 108, 119, 123, 167, 168,
192, 292, 322, 600, 650, 654A, 663, 679, 689, 904, and 966/A.
Transport authority Centro is kitting out all 2,500 buses in
Birmingham, Coventry, Solihull and the Black Country with new
state-of-the-art ticket machines that allow passengers to quickly
and easily scan their pass when they get on board. The machines are
programmed to accept free national concessionary passes for older
and eligible blind and disabled people To use their pass on a
Smartcard machine, all concessionary travellers need to do is place
their card on the reader when they board the bus and wait for the
green light to show. These passes, which were issued as part of the
Government's national concessionary travel scheme and allow free
travel on all local buses in England, have a smartcard chip
embedded in them. Centro has scheduled to fit out all the buses and
depots belonging to the regions 34 bus companies with the Smartcard
machines and back office computer equipment by the end of the
autumn this year. Centro's Smartcard Development and Implementation
Manager Michael Wevill said: "Following successful live trials of
the new Smartcard machines earlier this year, the roll out of this
complex project is going really well with a large number of buses
and depots now successfully fitted with the technology. "We've had
lots of positive comments from both passengers and bus companies
who are finding the new equipment easy and convenient to use, and
look forward to completing the installation of Smartcard equipment
on all buses in the West Midlands so passengers across the region
can get the full benefit of this world class ticketing system." In
one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country, people
holding Centro concessionary travel passes can also travel for free
on West Midland's trains and trams. Centro is also working with
ticket machine suppliers to introduce a handheld smartcard ticket
machine that can be used by conductors on the Midland Metro. Local
rail operator London Midland has a commitment to introduce
Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as part of
its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the company to
ensure their system is complimentary. NOTES TO EDITORS Buses at the
following garages are now all fitted with smartcard technology: �
Central Buses � Silverline � Merlin Transport � Valley Travel � A
Line � Finesse and Thandi Transport � Travel Express � Coastal
Liner � Hansons � National Express Yardley Wood � Midland �
Claribel � National Express Acocks Green � National Express Walsall
� National Express Perry Barr � National Express West Bromwich �
National Express Wolverhampton"</p>
Over 250 National Express buses in the Birmingham area and 105 Central Connect buses across the region are now fitted with the Oyster Card style electronic system called Smartcard.
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Back to school with West Midlands Police
2010-09-02T00:00:00
2010-09-02T00:00:00
<p>"AS STUDENTS across Birmingham return to class next week, more
than 100 West Midlands Police officers will be involved with
after-school patrols across the city's bus network. Operation Hay
will run for two weeks from Monday 6 September and see police
officers working in partnership with a range of agencies to conduct
high visibility patrols, offering crime reduction advice to pupils
about how to keep their belongings safe and ensure they are not
vulnerable while travelling to and from school. Statistics show
that electronic gadgets such as mobile phones and i-Pods top the
list of items regularly stolen from people in public places. With
the return of pupils to school in September, there is a rise in the
number of young people carrying and using these items at specific
times. Operation Hay is being co-ordinated by the Safer Travel
Partnership, and all 40 members of its policing team will be out on
the bus network feeding into Birmingham city centre. They will be
supported by Operations Traffic officers, who will be enforcing
traffic regulations along designated corridors into Birmingham, and
Local Policing Unit colleagues. Street wardens, National Express
staff and officers from the city's Educational Welfare Service will
accompany the patrols. Safer Travel Team Sergeant Al Green said:
""Operation Hay is all about ensuring pupils have a safe journey
home during what we recognise is a key period of the school year. A
lot of the children going to and from secondary school may be
travelling on their own for the first time and over the two weeks
we hope to encourage them to be aware of their environment and
behave accordingly." He added: "Certain groups of people recognise
this as a vulnerable period and in the past we have had an increase
in offences related to the theft of property and even issues of
violence involving pupils." On key feeder routes into Birmingham,
officers will meet pupils as they come out of school and travel
with them on city centre-bound buses. Additional officers from
Birmingham West and Central LPU will patrol key terminae in the
city centre � Priory Queensway, Colmore Row, Moor Street Queensway,
Bull Street and Corporation Street � to oversee safe change-overs
on the journey home. Sgt Green said: "This will reduce the window
of opportunity for pupils to become victims of crime." He added:
"The underlying message is one of reassurance and crime prevention
rather than detection. However, if anything does happen the area
will be flooded with officers and this operation will ensure
Birmingham city centre will be an even harder place in which to
commit crime during this period." Passengers are being encouraged
to report nuisance and anti-social behaviour on the bus and Midland
Metro networks, by texting 83010. The 'See Something, Say
Something' campaign enables the Safer Travel Partnership to
pinpoint crime and anti-social behaviour hot spots and target its
response accordingly. Crime on the region's bus network is at its
lowest for five years, in part attributable to the 'See Something,
Say Something' campaign. Figures released in July showed that over
the previous 12 months the average number of recorded crimes had
fallen from 330 to 260 a month across the whole of the West
Midlands. Travellers wanting to report a non-urgent offence can
also phone West Midlands Police on 0845 113 5000. In the case of an
emergency, dial 999. Note to Editors: Safer Travel is a partnership
between West Midlands Police, the Safer Birmingham Partnership,
National Express West Midlands, British Transport Police and
Centro, the region's passenger transport authority. The partnership
works to make public transport even safer for passengers by
deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the
network. Funding for Operation Hay has come from the Safer
Birmingham Partnership and the Youth Crime Action Plan. The key bus
corridors into Birmingham covered by Operation Hay are from
Harborne and Edgbaston (bus routes 9, 11, 23 and 103), Moseley (5
and 6), Bordesley and Eastside (97), Washwood Heath (14), Small
Heath (17), Frankley (61), Perry Barr (47), Kings Heath (2 and 12)
and Handsworth (74 and 79)."</p>
"AS STUDENTS across Birmingham return to class next week, more than 100 West Midlands Police officers will be involved with after-school patrols across the city's bus network."
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Black Country buses go 'smart'
2010-08-25T00:00:00
2010-08-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 200 Wolverhampton buses went 'smart' this week after
they were fitted with electronic card readers that pave the way for
a West Midlands version of the London Oyster Card.</p>
<p>The buses, all based at the Wolverhampton depot of bus company
National Express West Midlands, represent the first large scale
roll out in the Black Country of Centro's Smartcard project. They
are among 2,500 vehicles across the region that are being equipped
with the technology.</p>
<p>The hi-tech readers are programmed to accept free national
concessionary passes for older and eligible blind and disabled
people. Holders simply place their card on the reader when they get
on board and wait for the green light to show or the audible beep
to be heard.</p>
<p>Only holders of concessionary passes will have to use the
Smartcard readers at the moment and are being urged to make sure
they have their pass ready in their hand when they get on
board.</p>
<p>In the longer term, the state-of-the-art machines will enable
new kinds of smart ticketing to be introduced which will simplify
the ticketing process and make public transport even more
convenient.</p>
<p>Centro's Smartcard Development and Implementation Manager,
Michael Wevill, said: "The roll out of this complex project is
going really well and the kitting out of these 216
Wolverhampton buses shows our commitment to further improve
services for Black Country passengers.</p>
<p>"We've had lots of positive comments about how easy and
convenient the new system is from both passengers and bus companies
in those areas which have already gone smart.</p>
<p>"We are now looking forward to completing the installation of
Smartcard equipment on all the region's buses over the coming weeks
so passengers can get the full benefit of this world class
ticketing system."</p>
<p>Centro has scheduled to fit out all the buses and depots
belonging to the region's bus companies with the Smartcard machines
and back office computer equipment by the end of the autumn.</p>
<p>The machines read a microchip which is embedded in all
concessionary passes that allow free travel on local buses in
England.</p>
<p>Holders of these passes in the West Midlands enjoy one of the
best concessionary travel schemes in the country, however, with
Centro also providing them with free travel on West Midland trains
and trams.</p>
<p>As a result Centro is working with ticket machine suppliers to
introduce a handheld Smartcard ticket machine that can be used by
conductors on the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Local rail operator London Midland also has a commitment to
introduce Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as
part of its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the
company to ensure their system is complimentary.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
More than 200 Wolverhampton buses went 'smart' this week after they were fitted with electronic card readers that pave the way for a West Midlands version of the London Oyster Card.
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Passengers get chance to help beat anti-social behaviour
2010-08-23T00:00:00
2010-08-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A successful campaign which gives bus passengers the chance to
help police and transport chiefs crack down on anti-social
behaviour was today (Monday Aug 23) extended on to the Midland
Metro tram system.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>'See Something, Say Something', which enables passengers to
anonymously send information about nuisance behaviour by text
message, has also been given a new, shorter number - 83010.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>All Metro trams and National Express buses across the Network
West Midlands transport system will be advertising the new, easy to
remember 83010 number on internal posters. In addition, the text
messaging service will be promoted on bus shelters and tram
platforms as well as timetable casings and travel card wallets.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hundreds of bus passengers have used See Something Say Something
since it was launched by the Safer Travel Partnership in October
2008. Their text messages have provided crucial information that
has enabled the Partnership to pinpoint crime and anti-social
behaviour hot spots and target its response accordingly.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The success of See Something Say Something has, in part, helped
to see crime on the bus network fall to its lowest level for five
years. Figures released last month (July) showed a fall of 21 per
cent over the previous 12 months and a drop of 54 per cent over the
previous three years.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Inspector Cate Webb-Jones, who leads the West Midlands Police
Safer Travel Team, said: "When members of the travelling public
text in their concerns they can be assured that something IS being
done. Officers use this community intelligence to inform their
patrol strategy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"For example, as a direct response to community intelligence we
recently carried out operations on Soho Hill and Garrison Lane and
'Invariance' operations using handheld CCTV on Hagley Road and
Bristol Road."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Since 'See Something, Say Something' was launched, more than
2,600 texts have been received. A third have generated specific
police action and several arrests have been made as a result. The
most persistent issues on buses are;</p>
<div>
<ul>
<li>smoking - which is dealt with by individual bus companies and
local authority enforcement teams</li>
<li>misuse of drugs</li>
<li>general anti-social behaviour.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>On the Metro, British Transport Police and Travel Midland Metro
staff have been working hard to reduce crime. Over the last five
years the average number of recorded offences each month along the
entire route has fallen from 19 to just 12. This has led to a
reduction in crime levels of 39 per cent- down from 226 offences in
2005 to 138 in 2009.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>See Something Say Something on the Metro was officially launched
at the tram system's control centre in Potters Lane, Wednesbury by
Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro, the region's transport
authority.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro is a member of the Safer Travel Partnership along with
West Midlands Police, National Express West Midlands, the Safer
Birmingham Partnership, the region's six other Community Safety
Partnerships and the British Transport Police. The partnership
works to make public transport even safer for passengers by
deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the
network.</p>
<p>Geoff said: "Crime on the bus and Metro network is at a record
low but when anti-social behaviour occurs we recognise that not
only can it ruin someone's journey but also lead to an unfounded
fear of crime.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"Expanding See Something Say Something onto the Metro gives
passengers the chance to play a key role in helping us tackle
nuisance behaviour and help provide a quiet and relaxing
environment for their journey."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro vice chairman
Cllr Jon Hunt added: "The more
people that use See Something Say Something,
the</p>
<p>more information the Safer Travel Partnership has to
build a detailed picture of what's
happening out on the network , when it's
happening and where . That's why we are urging as many
passengers as possible to use it."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tactics used by the Safer Travel Partnership include high
visibility and covert patrols, the deployment of specially trained
drugs sniffer dogs, 'Gateway' operations to blanket-check specific
bus routes and the use of hi-tech 'Invariance' equipment which
links in to on-board bus CCTV cameras to beam live images to
hand-held screens in nearby police cars.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Safer Travel Partnership also works with schools across the
region to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and
the effects of nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Acting Chief Inspector Chris Hodgkiss of British Transport
Police said: "The See Something Say Something scheme will enable us
to ensure we have our police officers and Police Community Support
Officers (PCSOs) at the right locations at the right times to
prevent crimes being committed, helping to make the system even
safer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"Travelling members of the public are key to making the scheme a
success and I would encourage everybody to use the service."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Neil Barker, Managing Director, National Express bus added:
"We cannot emphasise enough how important it is for passengers to
text 83010 if they witness anti social behaviour while travelling
with us. Buses are a safe and reliable form of transport, but
this annoying behaviour ruins people's journeys and will not
be tolerated. Every text message is logged by National
Express and Safer Travel to identify hotspot routes for
vandalism, loud music and smoking and target offenders through
bus CCTV and police operations."</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Passengers who see any nuisance behaviour during their bus or
Metro journey can say something by texting 'bus' or 'metro'
followed by a space and then details of the incident including
time, date, location and route number to 83010.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Alternatively they can give details by logging on the <a
href="/" title="">www.safertravelinfo</a> website or by telephoning
West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In the case of an urgent crime or an emergency they should dial
999.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Picture caption: Giving anti-social behaviour the red card;
Holding the new See Something Say Something text numbers are
Wednesbury Sports Union Football Club players (left to
right) no8 Trevor Foya, no3 Thomas Prince, no0 Daniel
Majszak, no1 Jake Seager, no0 Ryan Perrins, all aged 15, with
(knealing) Inspector Cate Webb-Jones of the Safer Travel Police
Team, Acting Chief Inspector Chris Hodgkiss of the British
Transport Police and (standing rear left to right) Geoff Inskip,
Chief Executive of Centro, Fred Roberts of Manager of Midland
Metro, Neil Barker, Managing Director of Bus at National Express
and Cllr Jon Hunt, Vice Chairman of Centro.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A successful campaign which gives bus passengers the chance to help police and transport chiefs crack down on anti-social behaviour was today (Monday Aug 23) extended on to the Midland Metro tram system.
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New School Term Signals Green Light for Public Transport
2010-08-17T00:00:00
2010-08-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Parents who are buying their growing kids bigger uniforms and
shoes are being urged not to let their carbon footprint grow bigger
too by driving their children to school when the new term
starts.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro is helping parents cut pollution and
congestion on the roads by encouraging children to walk, cycle or
take the bus, train or tram everyday. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>But what is the best and cheapest way for children to get to
school without creating a big hole in your pocket and an even
bigger one in the ozone layer</p>
<p>Centro is urging parents to take advantage of a whole range of
tickets for children aged 5-15 and holders of the Network West
Midlands 16-18 photocard and there are direct debit options making
the tickets cheaper and spreading the cost out over ten
months. </p>
<p>Rachel Hooper, sustainable travel officer (schools) at Centro
said:</p>
<p>"Getting children to school cheaply while keeping your
environmental credentials in-tact could not be easier.</p>
<p>"By using public transport parents can encourage their children
to be active and independent as well as helping the environment
too."</p>
<p>Fare saving tickets include:</p>
<p>The <strong>n</strong>train Term Extra costs £86.00 and provides
unlimited train travel on standard class services within the
specified Network West Midlands rail zones and as far as Rugeley
Trent Valley. This is also available as a Monthly Direct
Debit <strong>n</strong>train at £25.80 over ten months.</p>
<p>The <strong>n</strong>network Term Extra costs £111.00 and
allows unlimited bus and Metro travel, plus train travel within the
specified Network West Midlands rail zones. Tickets also cover bus
services to and from the following areas outside of the Network
West Midlands area: Baginton, Bilbrook, Codsall, Himley, Hollywood,
Gannow, Keresley, Kinver, Little Aston, Pattingham, Perton, Rubery,
Swindon, Wombourne and Wythall. Additional rail add on tickets to
stations outside of the Network West Midlands area are also
available with this ticket. Parents can also spread the cost
of this ticket over ten months by buying the Monthly Direct Debit
<strong>n</strong>network ticket for £30.00 per month.</p>
<p>The <strong>n</strong>bus Term Extra costs £87.00 and offers
unlimited travel on over 35 different bus operator's services
throughout the Network West Midlands area. Parents can break
down this cost buying the Monthly Direct Debit bus at £23.20 per
month over ten months.</p>
<p>The bus and Metro Term Extra costs £103.00 and offers unlimited
travel on over 35 different bus operator's services throughout the
Network West Midlands area as well as use of the Metro. This
ticket is also available as a Monthly Direct Debit
<strong>n</strong>bus and Metro ticket at £28.20 per month for 10
months.</p>
<p>Young people can also visit <a href="/">www.letzgogreen.org</a>,
Centro's interactive educational website where they can play a
range of interactive games, listen to stories and read comic strips
about travelling to school and using public transport for leisure
activities. It also covers walking and cycling to encourage
kids to think about the impact their journeys have on the
environment.</p>
<p>For more information about fare saving tickets visit <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>.</p>
<p>"</p>
Parents who are buying their growing kids bigger uniforms and shoes are being urged not to let their carbon footprint grow bigger too by driving their children to school when the new term starts.
17213
TheGreenbus.jpg
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Offenders clean up their act (and a Metro stop)
2010-08-17T00:00:00
2010-08-17T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Lodge Road Metro stop, West Bromwich has had a make over with a
difference. Over the past week offenders made amends for
their crimes by clearing the vegetation around the area.</p>
<p>Centro joined forces with Travel Midland Metro, Sandwell Police
and Sandwell Community Payback after PC Andy Ward of the Greets
Green & Lyng neighbourhood police team highlighted the
issue of anti-social behaviour in the area to the West Bromwich
Town Tasking meeting.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Vegetation including high bushes were cleared over two days in
order to make the area more visible and to deter nuisance
behaviour.</p>
<p>Cllr Ken Rushen, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro
operations, said:</p>
<p>"This is an excellent piece of teamwork between Centro, Travel
Midlands Metro and the Sandwell Community Payback scheme and the
results look good. It's great news that this work has had a
practical effect in improving the area for both residents and
passengers and to see offenders putting something back into the
community."</p>
<p>Martin Walton at Sandwell Community Payback commented:</p>
<p>"This project is a great example of partnership working as the
work was completed just one week after the initial site visit.</p>
<p>"The offenders worked really hard to make a difference in this
area. Community Payback is a highly credible form of
punishment for offenders; tough, challenging and highly visible to
the public. In excess of 53 000 hours of Community Payback
have been completed on 280 individual projects"</p>
<p> </p>
<p>PC Andy Ward, said:</p>
<p>"We are extremely please with the work that has been undertaken
by the Sandwell Community Payback Team. We hope this makes a real
difference to local residents and Metro users who use the pathway
by Lodge Road."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Lodge Road Metro stop, West Bromwich has had a make over with a difference. Over the past week offenders made amends for their crimes by clearing the vegetation around the area."
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Commpayback30810.jpg
0
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Young offenders clean up their act (and Solihull bus routes)
2010-08-12T00:00:00
2010-08-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus routes in North Solihull are getting a make over with a
difference. Between July and October young offenders are
making amends for their crimes by carrying out litter picks along
bus routes in the North Solihull area.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, joined forces with
Solihull Youth Offending Services' reparation team, and the local
police to help improve the bus routes in Chelmsley Wood and
Kingshurst areas of Solihull.</p>
<p>Work started on 9<sup>th</sup> June 2010 and will continue until
mid October 2010.</p>
<p>Cllr David Jamieson who represents Solihull at Centro said:</p>
<p>"This is an excellent piece of teamwork between Centro, the
Council's Youth Offending Services, and the local police. It
is great news that this work is having a practical effect in
improving the area for both residents and passengers on these bus
routes and to see offenders putting something back into the
community."</p>
<p>Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Cllr Norman Davies
said:</p>
<p>"This project is a fantastic example of community payback work,
which aims at dissuading the young people from reoffending, as well
as delivering benefits to the local community. There are a variety
of payback schemes being carried out across Solihull and I would
like to thank all partners, such as Centro and the police, who help
with these." </p>
<p>Inspector Keith Portman, Sector Inspector for the Meriden
Constituency, said:</p>
<p>"We welcome the Community Payback scheme because not only is it
a great way for offenders to do something worthwhile, it also has a
productive outcome which benefits the local community."</p>
<p>Photo caption left to right: Sgt Jim Wallace, Cllr. David
Jamieson and PCSO Allan Cameron supervise young
people carrying out community payback.</p>
<p>"</p>
Bus routes in North Solihull are getting a make over with a difference. Between July and October young offenders are making amends for their crimes by carrying out litter picks along bus routes in the North Solihull area.
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West Midlands Smartcard milestone reached
2010-08-10T00:00:00
2010-08-10T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Work to provide West Midland's public transport users with an
Oyster Card style electronic ticketing system reached a major
milestone last weekend with Smartcard machines now live on a third
of all buses that run in the region.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro is kitting out all 2,500 buses in
Birmingham, Coventry, Solihull and the Black Country with new
state-of-the-art ticket machines that allow passengers to quickly
and easily scan their pass when they get on board.</p>
<p>On Sunday (August 1, 2010) all the vehicles in the National
Express West Midlands Perry Barr depot went live with the
technology which, along with the previous installations, now means
one in three of all buses in the region are now officially
smart.</p>
<p>Centro has scheduled to fit out all the buses and depots
belonging to the regions 34 bus companies with the Smartcard
machines and back office computer equipment by the end of the
autumn this year.</p>
<p>Centro's Smartcard Development and Implementation Manager
Michael Wevill said: "Following successful live trials of the new
Smartcard machines earlier this year, the roll out of this complex
project is going really well with over a third of buses and depots
now successfully fitted with the technology.</p>
<p>"We've had lots of positive comments from both passengers and
bus companies who are finding the new equipment easy and convenient
to use, and look forward to completing the installation of
Smartcard equipment on all buses in the West Midlands so passengers
across the region can get the full benefit of this world class
ticketing system."</p>
<p>At the moment the machines are programmed to accept free
national concessionary passes for older and eligible blind and
disabled people.</p>
<p>These passes, which were issued as part of the Government's
national concessionary travel scheme and allow free travel on all
local buses in England, already have a smartcard chip embedded
within them.</p>
<p>In one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country,
people holding Centro concessionary travel passes can also travel
for free on West Midland's trains and trams.</p>
<p>To use their pass on a Smartcard machine, all concessionary
travellers need to do is place their card upon the reader when they
board the bus and wait for the green light to show.</p>
<p>Centro is also working with ticket machine suppliers to
introduce a handheld smartcard ticket machine that can be used by
conductors on the Midland Metro.</p>
<p>Local rail operator London Midland has a commitment to introduce
Smartcard technology on the West Midlands rail network as part of
its franchise agreement and Centro is working with the company to
ensure their system is complimentary.</p>
<p>Buses at the following garages are now all fitted with smartcard
technology:</p>
<ul>
<li>Central Buses</li>
<li>Silverline</li>
<li>Merlin Transport - Valley Travel</li>
<li>A Line</li>
<li>Finesse and Thandi Transport</li>
<li>Travel Express</li>
<li>Coastal Liner</li>
<li>Hansons</li>
<li>National Express Yardley Wood</li>
<li>Midland</li>
<li>Claribel</li>
<li>National Express Acocks Green</li>
<li>National Express Walsall</li>
<li>National Express Perry Barr</li>
</ul>
<p>"</p>
Work to provide West Midland's public transport users with an Oyster Card style electronic ticketing system reached a major milestone last weekend with Smartcard machines now live on a third of all buses that run in the region.
17213
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Hundreds of Shirley families sign up for greener and smarter travel
2010-08-10T00:00:00
2010-08-10T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">More than 2,000 homes
across Shirley have signed up for free customised travel
advice to get leaner and greener and beat soaring petrol prices in
the process.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">Expert travel advisers have
spent the last eleven weeks visiting more than
7,000 homes near the Stratford Road and Shirley Railway
Station to tell families how they can take advantage of the full
range of travel options on their doorstep. </p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">Of those visited, a total of 2,073
have sat down with advisers from the Smarter Travel Solihull
project to receive free personalised travel plans showing
exactly how residents can get from their own front door to their
destination without having to jump in the car. </p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">And with the Retail Motor Industry
Independent Petrol Retailers Association warning only this
week that the cost of filling up at the pumps could rise three per
cent by the forthcoming August Bank Holiday weekend and by eight
per cent early next year, more households are expected to sign up
for personal journey plans before the scheme ends next
week. </p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">The project, which is being led by
transport authority Centro in partnership with Solihull Council and
local bus and train operators, has involved the seven
travel advisers providing a wealth of information and advice
about greener, healthier travel options.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">The individual travel plans,
designed to encourage residents to switch to local bus and
rail services and to make more local trips on foot or bike, have
been well received by residents, according to Kerry Swingler,
Centro's project manager for the Smarter Travel Solihull
project.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">""We've had a fantastic response
from people who have been quick to recognise the benefits of
getting personalised advice and information to help make
them switch to cheaper, healthier and more environmentally
friendly forms of travel,"" she said.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">"The advisers have also been
helping to support the local economy by highlighting the wide
range of local facilities available, many of which are quicker to
reach on foot, bike or bus than by car. ""</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">Between now and the end of the
project on August 20, the team of Travel Advisers will
visit at least another 500 homes in
the Cranmore area to invite householders to discuss the
travel options that may be available.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">There will also be the opportunity
for householders to feedback any comments they have about
travelling around Solihull. </p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">The project is being
endorsed by Solihull councillors David Jamieson (Lab
Kingshurst and Fordbridge) and Ken Rushen (Lib Dem Lyndon) who both
represent Solihull on Centro.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">Meanwhile families are bracing
themselves for an expected rises in petrol prices.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">The Retail Motor Industry
Independent Petrol Retailers Association warned on Monday (August
9) that currency movements and world oil price increases
could leave drivers paying as high as 125.9p per litre in the New
Year, smashing the current record high of 121.61p. This increase
would take into account the rise in VAT and the planned hike in
fuel duty. </p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: ">Residents wanting further
information on the Smarter Travel Solihull project can contact
the travel advisers on Tel: 0121 214 7184 or by e-mail: <a href="/"
title="">smartertravelsolihull@centro.org</a>.</p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: "> </p>
<p dir="" style="text-align: "> </p>
<p>"</p>
"More than 2,000 homes across Shirley have signed up for free customised travel advice to get leaner and greener and beat soaring petrol prices in the process."
17213
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100 years young and still using his bus pass
2010-08-09T00:00:00
2010-08-09T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>At the ripe old age of 100 Arthur Taylor of Erdington is still
using his free bus pass to get about. As well as a
telegram and birthday card from the Queen Arthur also received a
golden bus pass from transport authority Centro.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Arthur, who has never driven, has had a lifelong relationship
with public transport. Both his wife and her mother cleaned
the trams and his wife helped clean the last tram in Birmingham
before it made its final journey.</p>
<p>He has been using his free bus pass since 1975 when he turned
65. He uses the 28 to get to Erdington High Street, the 65 and 7 to
get into Birmingham city centre and the 80 buses to get to
CityHospital.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>PHOTO CAPTION:</strong> 3A left to right - National
Express driver Carl Gauntett, Arthur Taylor, Sue Kennedy
from Centro and Lynn Murtagh (Arthur's granddaughter)</p>
<p>On receiving his gold bus pass Arthur said:</p>
<p>"This really is something. I have always used the buses
and I used the trams in the past. I remember when it cost
just 1p for the tram. </p>
<p>"Without the buses my granddaughter wouldn't be able to get over
to look after me and I wouldn't be able to get out and about
without my pass."</p>
<p>Like every other pensioner in England, Arthur's pass entitles
him to free travel on local buses. Yet because he lives in
the West Midlands he benefits from one of the best free travel
schemes in the country. That's because Centro tops up the scheme to
also give West Midlands pass holders free travel on the region's
trains, trams and Ring and Ride services.</p>
<p>Sue Kennedy, who leads the concessions department at Centro,
said the free passes were a lifeline for many older people in the
region, giving them even greater freedom to travel.</p>
<p> "We are thrilled that Mr Taylor is still making use of his
bus pass at 100 years of age." Sue said.</p>
<p>"He is a great example of why this is such a fantastic scheme
for many older people, who rely on free bus, train and tram travel
to visit friends, family or tourist attractions in the West
Midlands."</p>
<p>"</p>
At the ripe old age of 100 Arthur Taylor of Erdington is still using his free bus pass to get about. As well as a telegram and birthday card from the Queen Arthur also received a golden bus pass from transport authority Centro.
17213
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0
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0
Easily the Best Ticket
2010-08-09T00:00:00
2010-08-09T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro has introduced a new ticket search facility on its
website to make finding the right travel ticket quicker and
easier.</p>
<p>Whether passengers are looking to travel for one day or longer
the new ticket search facility will help them discover the
best option for their bus, rail or Metro journey. </p>
<p>With one of the most comprehensive public transport networks in
the country, getting around the West Midlands has never been
easier. </p>
<p>By using this new facility passengers can search for tickets
across all transport types and operators to find the best value
tickets and the ones that best suit their travel needs.</p>
<p>Cllr Christine Mills, lead member for integration at Centro
said:</p>
<p>"This is a great innovation as people can plan their journey
across all transport modes as well as working out which tickets
provide the best value.</p>
<p>"Our aim is to provide passengers with one of the most
easy-to-use, integrated public transport networks in the
world. It also ties in perfectly with the Network West
Midlands initiative which aims to give clear and up-to-date
timetable, journey and ticketing information to make using buses
and other modes of sustainable transport easier for the travelling
public."</p>
<p>If a customer wants to travel across the region and needs to use
both train and bus or tram it might be cheapest to buy a
<strong>n</strong>network one day ticket which offers unlimited
bus, train and Metro travel for one day throughout the West
Midlands area for £6.50.</p>
<p>Alternatively it might make more sense to buy an
<strong>n</strong>bus ticket which offers flexibility to passengers
as they can be used on nearly every bus service in the West
Midlands, including those run by National Express, Diamond, Choice
and Arriva. It is a steal at £3.70 for an adult or £2.45 for
a child and it can be used all day and provides excellent
value.</p>
<p>All <strong>n</strong>network tickets can be purchased on line
and there are also links to operator's websites.</p>
<p>For more information about tickets or about Network West
Midlands people can visit <a
href="/">http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/CT_TicketSearch.aspx</a>.
Alternatively, they can pick up information leaflets from train
stations and Centro and Travel West Midlands information
centres.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Centro has introduced a new ticket search facility on its website to make finding the right travel ticket quicker and easier.
17213
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Five arrested in 'Gateway' operation
2010-08-09T00:00:00
2010-08-09T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A Safer Travel 'Gateway' operation at the junction of Hockley
flyover and Soho Hill in Birmingham earlier this week resulted in
five arrests and issuing of fines totalling more than £1,600.</p>
<p>The operation - on Monday 2 August - was in response to local
concerns, community intelligence gathered through the 'See
Something, Say Something' text messaging service and reports from
bus operator National Express.</p>
<p>Almost 40 buses on the number 74 and 79 routes were targeted,
with members of the Safer Travel Policing Team working in
partnership with officers from Birmingham West and Central local
policing unit, two dog handlers, revenue inspectors and
representatives from the UK Border Agency.</p>
<p>In the space of two hours more than 1,400 passenger tickets were
inspected. Five arrests were made: two for possession of cannabis,
one for failing to appear at court on a charge of causing an affray
and two for immigration offences. In addition, 15 out-of-date
travel cards were confiscated.</p>
<p>Acting Sergeant Karen Taylor said: "The 'See Something, Say
Something' text service - 83010 - enables us to listen to community
concerns and subsequently respond by pinpointing anti-social
behaviour hot spots and targeting our response accordingly."</p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police, the
Safer Birmingham Partnership and Centro, the region's passenger
transport authority. The partnership works with the region's bus
operators to make bus travel even safer for passengers by deterring
crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the network.</p>
<p>"</p>
"A Safer Travel 'Gateway' operation at the junction of Hockley flyover and Soho Hill in Birmingham earlier this week resulted in five arrests and issuing of fines totalling more than £1,600."
17213
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Saddlers Special scores with supporters
2010-08-06T00:00:00
2010-08-06T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A new bus service for Saddlers fans is kicking off at the start
of the new season. </p>
<p>The Midland buses WFC1 Saddlers Special service runs from
Walsall Wood to Bank's Stadium via Walsall on home match days.</p>
<p>At the end of last season transport authority Centro, bus
company Midland and Walsall Football Club teamed up to fund and run
a trial of Saddlers Specials bus services to get football fans
living in north Walsall to the Banks' Stadium for Saddlers games on
match days.</p>
<p>The service from Walsall Wood proved so successful that Midland
buses are running the buses during the 2010/2011 season on a
commercial basis.</p>
<p>It means people living in the outer areas of the borough can get
to home matches and back again quickly, easily and cheaply with
tickets costing up to £1.70 single or £3 return for adults
travelling from stops between Walsall Wood and Walsall. From
Bradford Place Bus Station an adult return is only £2. Children and
concessionary pass holders travel at only half price!</p>
<p>Midland has also announced a special offer for family groups, up
to two children can travel for FREE with two full paying
adults.</p>
<p>The buses will serve every stop on a carefully designed route,
taking Saddlers fans right into the Banks' Stadium car park by 2pm
for afternoon matches and 6.40pm for evening matches, giving them
plenty of time to get something to eat and drink, buy a programme
and take their seat before kick-off.</p>
<p>Return services will depart from the same spot, leaving the
ground at 5.05pm for afternoon matches and 21.45 for evening
matches, ensuring passengers don't need to wait around and get home
quickly after the game. </p>
<p>Stephen Rhodes, passenger services director said:</p>
<p>"I'm delighted that that the people from north Walsall, who
previously had no direct transport links to the Banks' Stadium, can
travel to see their team play easily and affordably.</p>
<p>"The new service will give more people the opportunity to enjoy
watching live Walsall games and I am delighted that the service is
becoming a long term fixture for Saddlers fans."</p>
<p>The services will start for the Saddlers home game against MK
Dons on Saturday 7 August 2010 and the Tuesday evening game against
Tranmere Rovers, and will continue to run for the Banks' Stadium
home matches throughout the rest of the season.</p>
<p>"We hope that the Saddlers Special bus service will encourage
more and more people to attend Walsall FC home games," said
Saddlers' Chief Executive, Roy Whalley.</p>
<p>"We are thankful for the support we have received on this
venture and are really pleased that Saddlers Specials are become
part and parcel of supporters' match day routines."</p>
<p>Assistant Depot Manager Neil Snook from Midland added: "We are
delighted to that the trial was such a success and that we can run
a service for Saddlers fans.</p>
<p>"With the retail park nearby, there has been a problem with
traffic congestion before and after the match. The Saddlers
Specials will not only provide a direct link to the Banks' Stadium
from the north of Walsall for fans already using public transport,
but hopefully will entice people out of their cars to use these
services to see the match.</p>
<p>"We have re-structured our ticket prices at the request of fans
and now offer great deals on all our fares. This is excellent value
for money and will cut out the hassle for fans trying to find a
parking place, as well as reducing the amount of traffic congestion
in the area.""</p>
<p><strong>WFC1 Walsall Wood - Brownhills - Pelsall - High
Heath - Walsall - Banks's Stadium</strong></p>
<p>Outward:</p>
<p>Walsall Wood, High Street, Lichfield Road, Shire Oak, Chester
Road, Brownhills, High Street, Pelsall Road, Lichfield Road,
Pelsall, Norton Road, Vicarage Road, Ford Brook Lane, High Heath,
Mill Road, Lichfield Road, Lichfield Street, Lower Rushall Street,
Upper Rushall Street, Peal Street, Dudley Street, Caldmore Road,
Bradford Street, Bradford Place, Bradford Street, Wednesbury Road,
Bescot Crescent, Banks's Stadium.</p>
<p>Inward:</p>
<p>Banks's Stadium, Bescot Crescent, Wednesbury Road, Bradford
Street, Bradford Place, Bradford Street, Caldmore Road, Dudley
Street, Peal Street, Upper Rushall Street, Lower Rushall Street,
Lichfield Street, Lichfield Road, Mill Road, High Heath, Ford Brook
Lane, Vicarage Road, Norton Road, Pelsall, Lichfield Road, Pelsall
Road, High Street, Brownhills, Chester Road, Shire Oak, Lichfield
Road, High Street, Walsall Wood.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A new bus service for Saddlers fans is kicking off at the start of the new season.
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Children's art posters brighten up Bilston Bus Station
2010-08-05T00:00:00
2010-08-05T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Giant colourful posters about travelling safely and responsibly
on public transport have been designed by local school children and
put up at Bilston Bus Station to brighten up passengers journeys
over the summer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Safer Travel Police Team joined forces with Transport
Authority Centro to challenge Year 6 children at four Wolverhampton
schools to create a piece of artwork about helping make bus, train
and tram travel even safer and more pleasant.</p>
<p>Over 90 entries were submitted by 10 and 11 year old pupils at
Oak Meadow, Danecourt, St Patrick's and Loxdale primary schools
with three chosen to adorn the walls at Bilston Bus Station.</p>
<p>The artwork focuses on the successful Safer Travel See Something
Say Something campaign, which encourages people to phone or text if
they see any incidents of anti-social behaviour on the West
Midland's public transport network.</p>
<p>Many of the children who submitted entries also included no
smoking messages in their design, urging people not to light up on
board the bus as it sets a bad example and means other people have
to breathe in the smoke.</p>
<p><strong>PHOTO CAPTION :</strong> Back row L - R: Runner up Remy
Evans (aged 11), Bilston Bus Station Manager Sue McCormack, PCSO
Khalid Akhtar and runner up Liam Newman-Sharkey (aged 11) Front row
L-R: Winner Kelsea Betts (aged 11) and Acting Police Sergeant Karen
Taylor.</p>
<p>Kelsea Betts, aged 11 from OakMeadowPrimary School, created the
winning poster and was awarded her prize of an iPod touch by Acting
Police Sergeant Karen Taylor at Bilston Bus Station on Tuesday
(August 3, 2010).</p>
<p>Kelsea said: "I'm really happy to have won the competition. I
hope my poster helps to brighten up Bilston Bus Station and also
encourages people not to smoke on the buses."</p>
<p>The runners up were Remy Evans, aged 11 from OakMeadowPrimary
School who won a family day out at WestMidlandSafari Park and Liam
Newman-Sharkey, aged 11 from St Patrick's Primary School who won a
driving experience at Wolverhampton Speedway.</p>
<p>Acting Police Sergeant Karen Taylor, who works within the Safer
Travel Police Team said: "We were absolutely delighted by the high
number and standard of entries we received from children across
Wolverhampton for the art competition.</p>
<p>"We have already made great strides in making the bus network
even safer for passengers, and we hope that the bright and
colourful artwork helps people to take even more pride in their bus
station and public transport services.</p>
<p>Sue McCormack, Centro's Bilston Bus Station Manager added: "All
the entries were really creative and showed that the younger
generation really do recognise the importance of behaving safely
and responsibly on public transport.</p>
<p>"They winning designs have really helped to add more colour and
life to the bus station. I hope that people take the opportunity to
have a look at them and enjoy their presence as much as I do."</p>
<p>People who see a minor crime, anti-social or nuisance behaviour
on their bus or Metro journey can let the Safer Travel Police Team
know by texting <strong>bus</strong>or<strong>Metro</strong>,
leaving a space and then adding the details with time, date,
location and route number to 83010.</p>
<p>They can also phone 0345 113 5000 or log on to <a href="/"
title="">www.safertravel.info</a></p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police, the
6 West Midlands Community Safety Partnerships, regional bus
operators and Centro, the region's transport authority. </p>
<p>The team works to make bus journeys even safer for passengers by
deterring crime and anti-social behaviour. Five years
on from its launch, this reduction demonstrates how Safer Travel's
combined operations and specialist expertise - supported by an
ever-growing intelligence database - are helping to pinpoint crime
hotspots and persistent offenders.</p>
<p>"</p>
Giant colourful posters about travelling safely and responsibly on public transport have been designed by local school children and put up at Bilston Bus Station to brighten up passengers journeys over the summer.
17213
art5.jpg
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"Transport bosses all ears at bus, rail and Metro event"
2010-08-03T00:00:00
2010-08-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People, who visit, live or work in Oldbury can have their say on
bus, rail and Metro services across the West Midlands at a special
"Your Public Transport Matters" event taking place next to the war
memorial on Halesowen Street on Wednesday (August 11, 2010).</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, passenger groups Bus Users UK and
Passenger Focus, and some of the companies that run bus and Metro
services in the region will be available on two buses parked next
to the war memorial outside Sainsbury's to take people's views.</p>
<p>Feedback from the event, which is taking place between 10am and
3pm, will then be looked at closely by transport bosses and used to
make improvements to the local bus, rail and Metro network.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Customer Relations Team Leader at Centro, said:
"If we're going to provide people with a public transport that
provides a real alternative to the car, we need to make sure we
provide the services they want.</p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity to really understand the needs of the passenger and
non-user, and we will be working with the transport operators to
feed them into the region's public transport network.</p>
<p>"We look forward to people giving us their views,
particularly about how we can make connections between different
services easier, quicker and more convenient."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People, who visit, live or work in Oldbury can have their say on bus, rail and Metro services across the West Midlands at a special "Your Public Transport Matters" event taking place next to the war memorial on Halesowen Street on Wednesday (August 11, 2010)."
17213
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Offenders clean up their act (and a metro stop)
2010-08-03T00:00:00
2010-08-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Loxdale Metro stop has had a make over with a difference.
Over the past month and a half offenders made amends for their
crimes by clearing the vegetation around the area.</p>
<p>Centro joined forces with Travel Midland Metro and Wolverhampton
Community Payback after receiving requests from local residents
asking if the vegetation could be removed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Work started on 10<sup>th</sup> June 2010 and was completed on
30<sup>th</sup> July 2010.</p>
<p>Cllr Ken Rushen, lead member for rail and Metro operations,
Centro said:</p>
<p>"This is an excellent piece of teamwork between Centro, National
Express Midlands Metro and the Wolverhampton Community Payback
scheme and the results look good. It's great news that this
work has had a practical effect in improving the area for both
residents and passengers and to see offenders putting something
back into the community."</p>
<p>Trevor Coley, Deputy Manager Netherton & Wolverhampton
Community Payback commented:</p>
<p>"The offenders have worked really hard to make a difference in
this area and have completed in excess of 200 hours of Community
Payback. Community Payback is a highly credible form of
punishment for offenders; tough, challenging and highly visible to
the public"</p>
<p>Sergeant Chris Casey, based at Wolverhampton BTP station on
Railway Drive, said:</p>
<p>"We welcome the Community Payback scheme because not only is it
a great way for offenders to do something worthwhile, it also has a
productive outcome which benefits the community.</p>
<p>"While crime on the Metro is low, the work that has been done
will give the stop a cleaner feel and help reduce fear of crime,
making sure that passengers are not only safe, but feel safe.</p>
<p>"</p>
Loxdale Metro stop has had a make over with a difference. Over the past month and a half offenders made amends for their crimes by clearing the vegetation around the area.
17213
CommunityPaybackimage.jpg
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It's just the ticket for a fantastic summer for families
2010-07-29T00:00:00
2010-07-29T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Network West Midlands has produced a fun packed summer of events
for children this year and has organised fantastic ticket offers to
some of the region's top attractions when people travel with a
<strong>n</strong>network daytripper or an <strong>n</strong>bus
one day ticket.</p>
<p>Families looking for entertainment on a budget can use the fun
packed 'Just the ticket' leaflets for great discounts at some of
the best attractions in the West Midlands as well as go to free old
fashioned sports days in local parks.</p>
<p>Discounts range from:</p>
<ul>
<li>2 for 1 admission at the <strong>Black Country</strong>
<strong>Living Museum</strong> and the <strong>National SEA LIFE
Centre</strong>.</li>
<li>30% off admission at <strong>Cadbury World</strong> and the
<strong>Thinktank</strong> <strong>Birmingham Science
Museum</strong></li>
<li>Up to 30% off admission at the <strong>IMAX
Cinema</strong></li>
<li>2 for 1 cinema tickets at the <strong>Lighthouse
Cinema</strong></li>
<li>Kids go free at <strong>Dudley Zoological Gardens</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>The <strong>n</strong>network daytripper allows people to use
buses, trains and the Metro all day. Children can travel for only
£3.30, adults for £5.20 and a family of up to six people for
£8.60.</p>
<p>An <strong>n</strong>bus one day ticket gives people a choice to
use over 35 bus operator services within the Network West Midlands
area. This ticket also allows people to hop on and off whenever
they wish for just £2.45 for a child and £3.70 for an adult.</p>
<p>In several parks and out door areas across the region, Network
West Midlands and Heart FM are hosting a series of free fun family
days throughout the summer.</p>
<p>Events will be carried out with an old-fashioned sports day
theme which includes a range of exciting sports using skipping
ropes, hula hoops, Frisbees and lots of other good traditional
activities which will keep the children entertained for hours. Mums
and dads can also get a free pampering session when they come along
to the days out.</p>
<p>All events will run from12pm to 4pm.</p>
<p><strong>Date </strong>
<strong>Venue</strong></p>
<p>Friday 30th
July
Mary Steven's Park - Stourbridge</p>
<p>Saturday 31 July
Malvern/Brueton Park - Solihull </p>
<p>Wednesday 4th
AugustWestPark - Wolverhampton </p>
<p>Saturday 7th August
WarMemorial Park - Coventry</p>
<p>Wednesday 11th August
SandwellValley - West Bromwich</p>
<p>Saturday 14th
August Arboretum
- Walsall</p>
<p>Wednesday 18th August
WoodgateValleyCountryPark - South Birmingham</p>
<p>Saturday 21st
August Pype
Hayes - North Birmingham </p>
<p>Wednesday 25th August
Himley Hall - Staffordshire</p>
<p>Saturday 28th
August Aston
Hall - Birmingham</p>
<p>Wednesday 1st September Fox Hollies -
Solihull </p>
<p>Saturday 4th September
CannonHillPark - Central
Birmingham</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Theo, the new kid's public transport mascot will also be
attending the free Network West Midlands summer events to meet the
youngsters and join in with the fun activities.</p>
<p>Theo also has a new Facebook page so kids can easily follow him
and find out what events he will be at. Children can find out more
about Theo at Letzgogreen.org, a website that encourages children
to go green and use public transport more often.</p>
<p>The website has lots of stories, quizzes and games, so the
little ones will have something fun and exciting to do no matter
what the weather outside.</p>
<p>Network West Midlands has also got five family tickets to some
of the region's top attractions and ten family network daytripper
tickets to give away! Families can enter online or at one of the
summer events.</p>
<p>Journey planners are available on networkwestmidlands.com to
help find the best way to travel to family days out at parks, out
door areas and to the attractions.</p>
<p>Rinku Banerjee, Marketing Executive at Centro said: "I am
delighted that our brilliant new summer scheme allows children to
have endless fun, without their parents worrying about the
financial side of things. We also have managed to come up with a
new, exciting way to encourage children to use public transport
more often. By using the new mascot for Letzgogreen.org Theo to
promote our free summer events, we hope it will persuade children
to attend them."</p>
<p>"We have also successfully partnered up with Heart FM to produce
a fun packed calendar this year for children all over the West
Midlands. We hope they enjoy their summer with all the fun sports
activities we are providing for them, while using green and healthy
transport to get around."</p>
<p>"</p>
Network West Midlands has produced a fun packed summer of events for children this year and has organised fantastic ticket offers to some of the region's top attractions when people travel with a nnetwork daytripper or an nbus one day ticket.
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Extra services added to new west Birmingham network
2010-07-26T00:00:00
2010-07-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People living in Allens Cross, Bartley Green and WeoleyCastle
received an even better bus network from Sunday (July 25, 2010)
thanks to the introduction of some extra services on top of the bus
improvements that were already happening in west Birmingham at the
weekend.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and bus company National Express West
Midlands listened to residents' feedback about the some of the
changes happening in the area, and arranged for some extra buses to
run for passengers.</p>
<p>People in Allens Cross asked for more frequent buses and better
links to local centres including Northfield, so the 49 bus now
travels all the way through the estate, via Borrowdale Road,
Norrington Road and Trescott Road.</p>
<p>This provides residents with new connections to Kings Norton
station, Cotteridge, Kings Heath, Shirley and Solihull, and more
buses to Longbridge, Rubery and WeoleyCastle. It also means they
retain their links to Northfield.</p>
<p>In Bartley Green and WeoleyCastle, people asked for extra early
morning services on the new 448/448A service to the
QueenElizabethHospital, which would be of particular benefit to
people working there.</p>
<p>National Express West Midland arranged to put on an extra bus on
Monday to Saturday mornings starting at 5:55am from Bartley Green -
half an hour earlier than was originally planned.</p>
<p>On Sundays, the first bus from Bartley Green on the 448A
was scheduled to start at 10:10am but services now starts
from 0620 after Centro offered to provide financial backing to
National Express West Midlands to run the earlier buses. Services
will now run at 0620, 0700, 0740, 0825 and 0910 from Bartley
Green and 0640, 0720, 0800 and 0845 from the
QueenElizabethHospital</p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Area Manager for Birmingham at Centro said: "Last
weekend saw the introduction of lots of improved services across
west and south Birmingham as part of our work with National Express
West Midlands to modernise the bus network across the area for
residents.</p>
<p>"We've had lots of people attending our exhibitions and giving
positive comments as well as useful feedback on how we can make
these services even better. I'm really pleased we've been able to
act on some of these comments to provide services that meet
people's needs even more closely."</p>
<p>More information on the services and the west and south
Birmingham review is available at <a href="/"
title="">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"People living in Allens Cross, Bartley Green and Weoley Castle received an even better bus network from Sunday (July 25, 2010) thanks to the introduction of some extra services on top of the bus improvements that were already happening in west Birmingham at the weekend."
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Bus crime at five-year low
2010-07-26T00:00:00
2010-07-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>CRIME on the region's bus network is at its lowest for five
years.</p>
<p>Figures released this week by Safer Travel show that over the
past 12 months the average number of recorded crimes has fallen
from 330 to 260 a month across the whole of the West Midlands - a
reduction of 21 per cent. And in June there were just 163 recorded
bus related crimes, a decrease of 51 offences - 24 per cent - on
the previous month.</p>
<p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police, the
6 West Midlands Community Safety Partnerships, regional bus
operators and Centro, the region's transport authority. </p>
<p>The team works to make bus journeys even safer for passengers by
deterring crime and anti-social behaviour. Five years
on from its launch, this reduction demonstrates how Safer Travel's
combined operations and specialist expertise - supported by an
ever-growing intelligence database - are helping to pinpoint crime
hotspots and persistent offenders.</p>
<p>West Midlands Police Safer Travel Team Inspector Cate Webb-Jones
said: "Crime on the bus network has never been so low. This is the
result of all the hard work of the partnership, in particular the
introduction of corridor policing in March 2009.</p>
<p>"Our policing response is aligned to intelligence from the
public and statistics which demonstrate where the most crimes and
incidents of anti-social behaviour occur. This has led us to
provide extra patrols on 12 main travel corridors across the West
Midlands, together with the three 'hotspots' of Birmingham city
centre and Coventry and Wolverhampton Local Policing Unit areas as
well as doing our normal operations in other areas."</p>
<p>Passengers are urged to report concerns regarding anti-social
and nuisance behaviour on the bus network via the 'See Something,
Say Something' text Bus or metro then a space and their message to
83010 or to call 0345 113500.</p>
<p>"That way, we are able to focus our policing resources in areas
of greatest need," added Insp Webb-Jones.</p>
<p>Policing tactics include high visibility and covert patrols, the
deployment of specially trained drugs sniffer dogs, 'Gateway'
operations to blanket-check specific routes and the use of hi-tech
'Invariance' equipment which links in to on-board bus CCTV cameras
to beam live images to hand-held screens in nearby police cars. The
team also works with schools to raise awareness among pupils about
personal safety and the effects of nuisance behaviour and
crime.</p>
<p>Councillor Christine Mills, Centro's lead member for
integration, said: "Crime and anti-social behaviour on the buses is
already very low and this further drop in incidents is due to the
hard work of the Safer Travel team and to the information supplied
to them by the public which has helped them target crime hotspots
and persistent offenders.</p>
<p>"I would also like to thank all the members of the public who
have contacted us when things happen as this has helped us focus
our resources and reduce the number of incidents taking place."</p>
<p>Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager for National Express West
Midlands, said: ""The latest reduction in crime further emphasises
how safe the bus network in the West Midlands is. At National
Express customer safety is our primary concern and all new vehicles
are fitted with CCTV for reassurance and to help identify
problem passengers. We work daily with the Safer Travel police team
and have close contacts with schools and colleges throughout the
region to help prevent and deter crime.""</p>
<p>Passengers who want to report a non-urgent offence can phone
West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000 with information such as the
number of the bus, the location where the offence happened and the
time. In the unlikely case of an emergency people should phone 999
as usual.</p>
<p>"</p>
"CRIME on the region's bus network is at its lowest for five years. Figures released this week by Safer Travel show that over the past 12 months the average number of recorded crimes has fallen from 330 to 260 a month across the whole of the West Midlands � a reduction of 21 per cent. And in June there were just 163 recorded bus related crimes, a decrease of 51 offences � 24 per cent � on the previous month."
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Kids City Art Adorns Pool Meadow Bus Station
2010-07-26T00:00:00
2010-07-26T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Six local primary schools have expressed their creative flare
and their love for Coventry when they joined with Coventry Police
and local transport authority, Centro to brighten up Pool Meadow
Bus Station with colourful artwork.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Children from Frederick Bird Primary, Bablake Pre-Prep School,
Saint Mary and Saint Benedict Roman Catholic School, Southfields
Primary, All Saints Primary and Gosford Park Primary were
challenged to create a piece of artwork showing what Coventry means
to them.</p>
<p>Mike Hudson, Pool Meadow bus station manager, Centro said:</p>
<p>"The work is of an amazing standard and gives the bus station a
real splash of colour and life. It is lovely to see the
positive way that the young people view their city and the talented
way they covey it.</p>
<p>I am really proud to have their work in Pool Meadow and I hope
that people passing through the bus station enjoy it as much as I
am."</p>
<p><strong>Photo caption left to right -</strong> Keianna Akpabot
aged 11 from Gosford Park School, Nickie Dryden - PCSO in St
Michaels Ward Coventry, Mike Hudsone - Bus Station manager for
Centro, Alec Lopez aged 11 from St Mary and St Benedict Catholic
Primary School, Deb Harley - PCSO in St Michaels Ward Coventry and
Rebecca Ashfield aged 10 from All Saints Primary School.</p>
<p>As part of the Coventry Partnership works, Centro and Coventry
Police have identified this project as a wonderful way to enhance
public perception of the bus station and to engage young people to
take pride in their bus station and the local area.</p>
<p>PCSO Nickie Dryden from Coventry Police said:</p>
<p>"The kids have been so enthusiastic about the project they were
so excited about seeing their work on display for everyone to
appreciate. We would like to thank the schools and Pool Meadow for
working with us on this project."</p>
<p>Six large canvasses were sent to the schools and the race to get
creative commenced. With only two weeks until the end of the
school term and the year six pupils getting ready for their move to
secondary school, paint flew to get the work complete and on
display in the bus station. </p>
<p>The six pieces of work are on display in Pool Meadow Bus
Station.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Six local primary schools have expressed their creative flare and their love for Coventry when they joined with Coventry Police and local transport authority, Centro to brighten up Pool Meadow Bus Station with colourful artwork."
17213
Poolmeadowartpicture1small.JPG
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Twelve young apprentices: one job
2010-07-23T00:00:00
2010-07-23T00:00:00
"Picure caption: Geoff Inskip, Centro chief executive congratulates apprenticeship winner Matthew Atkins"
<p>"</p>
<p>Matthew Atkins aged 22 from The Prince's Trust has pipped 11
other apprentices to the post to secure a 12 month paid
apprenticeship at transport authority Centro.� Four other young
people were awarded four week temporary contracts.</p>
<p>The 12 young apprentices are part of the Get into Transport
programme that Centro has been running with The Prince's Trust over
the last few weeks.�</p>
<p>�</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, chief executive at Centro said,</p>
<p>""This has been a fantastic initiative and I am delighted to
welcome Matthew to work with Centro fulltime over the next year.�
The young people have worked really hard over the past four weeks
and I hope that we have helped them gain and develop skills and
experience that will aid them to find permanent employment.""��</p>
<p>The four week programme supports young people who have been
long-term unemployed, have struggled at school, have been in
trouble with the law or have been in care. It gives them practical
skills in transport services and hands on experience from work
experience placements with Centro.</p>
<p>Matthew previously worked in a call centre but has been out of
work for over a year.� Throughout the four weeks he grew in
confidence and proved himself to be the right man for the job.�� On
receiving the news he said:</p>
<p>""I am really shocked, but it is fantastic news.� I would
encourage anyone who gets the opportunity to do one of these
programmes.� I've had a great time and am really excited about
starting work with Centro full time.� Thank you Cento and thank you
Prince's Trust.""</p>
<p>The training programme gave the apprentices the opportunity to
experience a number of different job roles including Customer
Service, Transport Information Surveyors, Bus Stations and
Interchange, Smartcard, and Business Administration.� They learnt
how Centro promotes and develops public transport across theWest
Midlands.� They also got the opportunity to improve their teamwork
and communication skills and boost their confidence, interview
skills and CV at the same time; as well as receiving six months
progression support.</p>
<p>Saleem Hussain, Aurangzeb Basharat, Wasim Rehman and Tania
Thompson were offered a four week temporary contracts working in
the concessionary travel team.</p>
<p>Kathy Williams, Prince's Trust West Midlands regional director
said:</p>
<p>""These young people have been struggling to find work and the
Get into Transport course has given them vital skills which will
help them to find employment. We seek to support young people who
are hardest to reach and our work is more relevant than ever at a
time when youth unemployment still remains at high levels.""</p>
<p>The Prince's Trust supports 14-30 year-olds to help them into
work, education and training. The Trust supported more than 4,000
young people last year to turn their lives around.�</p>
<p>The12 apprentices were handpicked for the programme.� Matthew
was selected to get a 12 month paid apprenticeship at Centro
working on the Smartcard scheme.� The interviews took place this
morning (Thursday 22 July 2010) and the successful applicant was
announced at a celebration event which took place this afternoon.�
Another of the apprentices has already secured a job outside of the
organisation.</p>
<p>"</p>
Matthew Atkins aged 22 from The Prince's Trust has pipped 11 other apprentices to the post to secure a 12 month paid apprenticeship at transport authority Centro. Four other young people were awarded four week temporary contracts.
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GeoffInskippandMatthewAtkinssmall2.JPG
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Birmingham bus improvements taking place this weekend
2010-07-22T00:00:00
2010-07-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in west and south Birmingham were today reminded that
some bus services in the area are changing from Sunday (July 25,
2010) to provide better links to shops, education, leisure and
health facilities and the city centre.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and bus company National Express West
Midlands have worked together to build on the already good network
of bus routes in the area to provide more modern, high quality
services that take people where they want to go.</p>
<p>The changes are the result of extensive consultation with
passengers, non bus users, councillors and focus groups together
with local research to see what opportunities are available to make
the existing bus network better.</p>
<p>They will provide benefits for many people living in the area
including more links to the city centre, improved connections to
rail stations and better evening and Sunday services.</p>
<p>The bus network review forms part of Centro's Transforming Bus
Travel vision which aims to provide the region with quality bus
services that reflect modern travel patterns and encourage more
people to catch the bus instead of using their car.</p>
<p>Improvements in west and south Birmingham include:</p>
<ul>
<li>New links to Birmingham city centre for Welsh House Farm in
Quinton and for Leach Green Lane in Rubery</li>
<li>New evening and Sunday services for Shenley Fields, Welsh House
Farm, EdgbastonPark and the Rednal Triangle</li>
<li>Extra buses from WeoleyCastle, Selly Oak, Rubery, Quinton,
Harborne, Frankley and Gannow to the city centre</li>
<li>New links to the Post Office and Fairfax Road Community Centre
on the 19 bus route in West Heath</li>
<li>New direct limited stop services from WeoleyCastle, Rednal,
Longbridge, Northfield and Selly Oak to the city centre providing
much quicker journeys</li>
<li>Links to QE Hospital from across west and south Birmingham and
the city centre</li>
<li>Better transport connections in Birmingham city centre</li>
<li>New links between Northfield, WeoleyCastle, Shenley Lane,
Somerford Road, Longbridge rail station, Frankley, West Heath,
Cotteridge, Hawkesley, Pool Farm, Kings Heath, Maypole, Shirley and
Solihull</li>
<li>Brand new environmentally friendly hybrid buses will be
introduced on the 22 and 23 routes between Bartley Green, Harborne
and Birmingham city centre early next year</li>
<li>New links from West Bromwich and Bearwood to west and south
Birmingham</li>
</ul>
<p>As a result of the review, there will be some changes to bus
stopping locations in Birmingham city centre by the Town Hall.</p>
<ul>
<li>The X62 and X64 will now stop at the Town Hall.</li>
<li>Hagley Roadservices will now stop on Great Charles Street
Queensway.</li>
<li>Dudley Roadservices will now pick up and drop off passengers
outside Snobs round the corner from the Town Hall</li>
<li>Services 1 and 24 will still stop at the Town Hall</li>
<li>The 636, which now serves the city centre for the first time,
will pick up passengers on Upper Dean Street.</li>
</ul>
<p>A leaflet detailing the changes was posted to every home in the
review area in early July, with more detailed information and
timetables available at public transport website <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>Centro, National Express West Midlands and Birmingham City
Council have also arranged eight exhibitions across the city for
people to pick up timetables and ask questions about the
changes.</p>
<p>The final two exhibitions are taking place towards the end of
this week, one on Thursday from 10am - 3pm at Arden Road Shops in
Frankley and one on Saturday from 10am - 3pm at St Mary's Parish
Centre in Harborne.</p>
<p>"</p>
"People in west and south Birmingham were today reminded that some bus services in the area are changing from Sunday (July 25, 2010) to provide better links to shops, education, leisure and health facilities and the city centre."
17213
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Statement on Chase Line rail service from Centro
2010-07-22T00:00:00
2010-07-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>London Midland, the train company that holds the franchise to
operate local rail services in the West Midlands, has a
responsibility to provide a minimum level of train services as set
out in a contract with the Department for Transport.</p>
<p>West Midlandstransport authority Centro, London Midland and the
Department for Transport currently provide funding for some
additional train services to run over and above those specified by
the Department for Transport in this contract.</p>
<p>The DfT has advised that its funding for these additional
services will cease in December 2010. The Walsall to
RugeleyTrentValley off peak day time additional service currently
provides two trains an hour from Walsall to Cannock, Hednesford,
RugeleyTown and RugeleyTrentValley stations rather than just an
hourly service. Centro and London Midland have undertaken a cost
benefit analysis of providing this additional service.</p>
<p>The cost of providing a half hourly service in 2011 would be
almost £290,000, which works out at an eye-watering subsidy of
£7.18 per passenger. Furthermore following the withdrawal of the
Department for Transport funding, all funding to continue this
extra service would have to be found locally. All of the stations
served by this extra train per hour except Walsall are in
Staffordshire. Cannock Chase District Council and Staffordshire
County Council have only offered to provide up to a maximum of £50k
between them towards the cost of providing both this and an
additional evening service on the Chase line.</p>
<p>Given the current economic climate, Centro feels that it is not
appropriate for West Midland's taxpayers to pick up the bill to
subsidise services for Staffordshire residents especially when the
service offers such poor value for money. When Centro determined it
could not afford to fund the services, we thought we should give
Staffordshire County Council and Cannock Chase District Council the
opportunity to buy in these extra services from London Midland if
they felt that they wished to retain this service for the benefit
of their residents.</p>
<p>Centro has agreed to continue to fund the extra evening services
that operate between Birmingham, Walsall and RugeleyTrentValley,
although we remain in talks with Staffordshire County Council and
Cannock Chase District Council regarding the level of their
contribution.</p>
<p>Furthermore Centro is continuing to work with London Midland to
see whether a half hourly service on the Chase Line between Walsall
and RugeleyTrentValley can be retained on Saturdays when most
people use the extra services. There will still continue to be an
hourly day time off peak service Monday to Friday.</p>
<p>(Centro is the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority, a
public body responsible for promoting and developing public
transport in the West Midlands. The majority of its funding comes
as a levy from council tax payments from the seven city and
metropolitan borough councils of the West Midlands - Birmingham,
Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and
Wolverhampton).</p>
<p>"</p>
Centro statement on funding for rail services on the Cannock Chase Line between Rugeley and Walsall
17213
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£1m Metro work to improve service for tram passengers
2010-07-22T00:00:00
2010-07-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People travelling on the West Midlands most reliable mode of
transport - the Midland Metro - will soon get an even better
service thanks to a series of improvements taking place over the
next year.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and Travel Midland Metro are working
together to make enhancements to the current tram system to make
sure it keeps it's 99.7 per cent reliability in the future.</p>
<p>The work taking place includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>An upgrade to the over head power lines with new materials with
a lifespan of 20 - 30 years making the system more robustso they
will not require the same level of maintenance work therefore
reducing the risk of delays on the tram system for passengers</li>
<li>Improvements to the communications system, installing the
latest technology to provide better passenger information
announcements and enhanced help point facilities at stops.</li>
<li>Enhanced communication and management of tram movements to
ensure a consistent and dependable service into the future</li>
<li>An update of the CCTV control system to make it easier for
staff to monitor the system from the depot.</li>
</ul>
<p>To bring in these improvements in a way that causes least
disruption for passengers, the tram network will be closed for one
week in the autumn between Birmingham Snow Hill and BlackLake.</p>
<p>A second closure between BlackLake and Priestfield will take
place in spring next year.</p>
<p>The work will be undertaken at the same time as other
improvements and operational work to make sure that disruption to
the public is kept to a minimum.</p>
<p>Centro and Travel Midland Metro are working together to put in
place alternative travel arrangements to ensure passengers can
still easily complete their journeys.</p>
<p>A publicity campaign will take place nearer the time to make
sure people are aware of the dates of the closure and alternative
travel options with plenty of notice.</p>
<p>Sophie Allison, Metro Partnerships Manager at Centro said:
"Centro and Travel Midland Metro are committed to working together
to make sure Metro passengers get the best tram service
possible.</p>
<p>"It is already the West Midlands most reliable mode of
transport, and this overhead line upgrade will maintain its great
record of almost 100 per cent reliability well into the future.</p>
<p>"The communications upgrade will provide better announcements,
and make it much easier for depot staff to respond to passengers'
comments and monitor CCTV, improving our customer service.</p>
<p>"It is unfortunate we have to partially close the tram system
for a week this autumn and again next spring to do the upgrades,
but doing the work in any other way would take significantly longer
and cause much more disruption to passengers.</p>
<p>"We are working closely with Travel Midland Metro to ensure
alternative arrangements are in place while the upgrades are taking
place, and will make sure we let passengers have all the
information they need well in advance of the closure."</p>
<p>"</p>
People travelling on the West Midlands most reliable mode of transport � the Midland Metro � will soon get an even better service thanks to a series of improvements taking place over the next year.
17213
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New bus service for the residents of Friezland Lane to provide new links to Walsall and Lichfield
2010-07-22T00:00:00
2010-07-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>From Monday 26<sup>th</sup> July people who live on Friezland
Lane in Walsall will see the 61 bus route change to travel down
their road after transport authority Centro stepped in with
financial backing.</p>
<p>Following consultation with local residents and Walsall Council,
Centro has stepped in to provide funding to bus company Arriva to
change the 61 bus route to travel down the road after people asked
for better links to Walsall.</p>
<p>It means people living on Friezland Road will get three buses an
hour instead of one to Brownhills, and new direct services into
Walsall town centre and Lichfield removing the need to change buses
or walk to the end of the road.</p>
<p>From 26<sup>th</sup> July the 61 bus will travel along its
existing route, but will turn down Friezland Road instead of Lindon
Road. It will then travel along its normal route down Brownhills
Road on to Lichfield Road and into Walsall town centre.</p>
<p>Lindon Roadwill continue to have buses 10, 10A and 32 to
Brownhills and Walsall every 10 minutes.</p>
<p>The 61 service runs towards Lichfield from 08:50am until 5:50pm
Monday to Saturday every half an hour.</p>
<p>Towards Walsall it operates a twice hourly service from 6:30am
until 6:10pm Monday to Friday, and runs at the same frequency on
Saturday but starting slightly later at 7:40am.</p>
<p>The route change will also enable residents of Friezland Lane to
connect to train services on the local and national rail network at
Walsall and Lichfield rail stations.</p>
<p>Until 25 April 2010, National Express West Midlands used to
provide a bus service on Friezland Lane to Walsall a tight corner
and parked cars often led to buses struggling to turn out of the
road.</p>
<p>An investigation into the road layout by Walsall Council
determined that it would not be possible to alter the corner to
enable larger buses to use Friezland Lane.</p>
<p>The Arriva 61 bus service is operated by smaller vehicles than
the previous service so the road layout should no longer cause a
problem.</p>
<p>Stephen Tongue, Network Coordination Manager at Centro said: "We
have listened carefully to the concerns of residents from Friezland
Lane and I'm very happy that, through working in partnership with
the Arriva bus company, we have arranged a successful diversion of
the 61 bus to suit the needs of residents and give them the
transport links they deserve."</p>
<p>"</p>
From Monday 26th July people who live on Friezland Lane in Walsall will see the 61 bus route change to travel down their road after transport authority Centro stepped in with financial backing.
17213
0
12
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Fleet of state-of-the-art buses expanded for Solihull residents
2010-07-22T00:00:00
2010-07-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A fleet of brand new executive, state-of-the-art buses launched
in Solihull last month have proved so popular that they will be
running on even more routes in the area from this Sunday (July 25,
2010).</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and bus company Central Connect are
introducing the environmentally friendly, eye-catching silver and
black vehicles on the S4 route between Cheswick Green and Solihull
town centre.</p>
<p>The new buses, which have ergonomically designed leather seats,
customer care trained drivers and a free Wi-Fi service for
passengers, will also take a new route from Cheswick Green to
Solihull via the Woodlands Estate.</p>
<p>This will provide people living in these areas with more direct,
faster buses into the town while maintaining the quick and easy
interchange with train services at Solihull rail station.</p>
<p>The changes come after Centro, local councillors and residents
of Cheswick Green met to discuss the area's bus services after the
current operator announced it could no longer run the S4 due to
very low passenger numbers.</p>
<p>It is hoped the new buses and the amended S4 route will help
encourage more people to get on board, therefore securing the long
term future of bus services in the village.</p>
<p>Cllr Chris Noble, chairman of Cheswick Green Parish Council and
nicknamed locally as The Bus Man welcomed the new services for the
village.</p>
<p>He said: "I'm really pleased for the bus passengers in Cheswick
Green. When the new Signature buses were launched last month we all
said how nice it would be to see them here, little knowing that
they would soon be running on the S4.</p>
<p>"I'd like to thank Centro and Central Connect, and hope that the
new buses are successful and well supported by people in Cheswick
Green and Shirley so they remain viable services into the
future."</p>
<p>Cllr Len Cresswell, vice chairman of Cheswick Green Parish
Council and Blythe ward councillor added: "It's nice to see buses
fitting for the 21<sup>st</sup> Century running locally for
passengers in Solihull, especially as they are also more
environmentally friendly."</p>
<p>Special offer tickets are also available for passengers to try
out the new services, with single fares at £1.10, day returns at
£1.50, day tickets for just £2.50, a weekly pass for £6.50 and a
monthly ticket for just £20.00.</p>
<p>Cllr Brian Burgess, Blythe ward councillor concluded: "I'm
delighted that the residents of Cheswick Green will have these
wonderful new buses, which are easily accessible for people with
wheelchairs and pushchairs.</p>
<p>"I would like to congratulate Centro and Central Connect for
putting the specification together for these fantastic vehicles,
and hope the residents will make full use of the excellent new
service."</p>
<p>A new S14 service will also be introduced at the end of August
in time for the start of the school year will provide the link from
Cheswick Green to SolihullCollege via Monkspath and Widney Manor
rail station.</p>
<p>This will be operated by Grosvenor Coaches, not by Central
Connect, and therefore will not be operated by Signature buses.</p>
<p>More information on the new services is available at <a href="/"
title="">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"A fleet of brand new executive, state-of-the-art buses launched in Solihull last month have proved so popular that they will be running on even more routes in the area from this Sunday (July 25, 2010)."
17213
0
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New Coventry to Solihull Bus � number 82
2010-07-22T00:00:00
2010-07-22T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A new bus service will run between Coventry and Solihull from
the 25<sup>th</sup> July 2010 providing a faster more direct
service.</p>
<p>Two state of the art buses will run on the route which goes via
Meriden and Millison's Wood from 6am to 6.30pm. The first of
these will be introduced on 25<sup>th</sup> July along with a
temporary vehicle which will be replaced by another new bus in the
autumn.</p>
<p>Chris Perry, head of transport operations at Centro said:</p>
<p>"We're really pleased to work with Central Connect to provide a
new direct link between Coventry and Solihull for residents of
these areas and the Meriden Gap with brand new state-of-the-art
buses.</p>
<p>"The service will replace the existing 82 bus route between
Balsall Common and Solihull which could not continue on its current
route due to low passenger numbers which provided poor value for
money to the local council tax payer.</p>
<p>"The new route will provide new links between Solihull, Coventry
and many villages across the Meriden Gap. We hope that the new
vehicles and new route will encourage more people to get on board
to ensure the long term future of this bus service."</p>
<p>The new buses will be Mercedes Citaros which will have the
latest environmentally friendly Euro 5 Low Emission Engines, high
quality leather seats, CCTV and free Wi-Fi so passengers can access
the World Wide Web on the move.</p>
<p>Ian Pollard, commercial manager at Central Connect said:</p>
<p>"The buses used on the Signature network are bought new for the
services. They are chosen to have a light and airy feel so
passengers are ensured a pleasant journey and are all designed to
be accessible to less able users. The large windows, subtle and
refined colour scheme and recessed lighting all play their part in
giving the buses an executive feel".</p>
<p>We hope our passengers on the number 82 service will enjoy the
seating in the Signature network buses which really is something
special. They will be able to relax in comfortable
high-backed leather seats that are ergonomically designed to be
comfortable to passengers."</p>
<p>The new route will also mean that both Millison's Wood and
Parkhill Estate retain a service following the decision made by
National Express West Midlands to reroute the number 900.</p>
<p>Balsall Common will retain its link to Coventry with new
National Express route 81 with a regular hourly service and this
Centro subsidised service will be extended to provide a link to
Berkswell station.</p>
<p>"</p>
A new bus service will run between Coventry and Solihull from the 25th July 2010 providing a faster more direct service.
17213
0
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Midland Metro even safer
2010-07-15T00:00:00
2010-07-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Midland Metro has always been safe, but it has become even safer
over the past year with a 19% drop in crime since the introduction
of police community support officers (PCSOs).</p>
<p>Over five million passenger journeys are made on the Metro per
year and incidents of crime are few and far between. From
April 2009 to 2010 163 offences were recorded compared with 200
offences between 2008 and 2009. That is one incident for
every 30675 passenger journeys. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>However Centro is determined to reduce this number further and
will continue to work with British Transport Police to make it even
safer.</p>
<p>Sophie Allison, metro transport partnerships manager at Centro
said:</p>
<p>"There are relatively few incidents of crime on the Midland
Metro and it is good to see that they have reduced even further
over the past year. I would like to thank the British
Transport Police and Travel Midland Metro for working with
us. This partnership is really important and is providing
excellent results."</p>
<p>There has been an increased presence and visibility of PCSOs and
police officers over the past year which has had a significant
impact in deterring crime. This dedicated team of British
Transport Police officers provide 24 hour cover on the
Metro. </p>
<p>Sergeant Chris Casey, based at Wolverhampton BTP station on
Railway Drive, said:</p>
<p>"The officers that cover the Metro have delivered a great
success; the additional visibility delivered by the PCSO's has had
a great impact by reducing crime and making people feel even safer.
Across the force we've put a real focus on boosting highly visible
evening time patrols and targeting low level antisocial behaviour.
Our aim for this year coming is to build more community
partnerships to ensure our service delivery matches what the
community want."</p>
<p>As well as the physical presence of police officers all tram
stops have CCTV fitted which is linked to the Metro control centre
in Wednesbury via an intercom system, so if passengers need
information or help they can get it on the platform.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Midland Metro has always been safe, but it has become even safer over the past year with a 19% drop in crime since the introduction of police community support officers (PCSOs)."
17213
metrocrimechart.JPG
0
12
0
"Transport bosses all ears at bus, rail and Metro event"
2010-07-14T00:00:00
2010-07-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People who visit, live or work in Birmingham can have their say
on bus, rail and Metro services across the West Midlands at a
special "Your Public Transport Matters" event taking place in the
city centre on Wednesday (July 14, 2010).</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, passenger groups Bus Users UK and
Passenger Focus, and some of the companies that run bus, rail and
Metro services in the region will be available on two buses parked
in Victoria Square to take people's views.</p>
<p>Feedback from the event, which is taking place between 12 noon
and 6pm, will then be looked at closely by transport bosses and
used to make improvements to the local bus, rail and Metro
network.</p>
<p>Staff will also be on hand in a Network West Midlands marquee to
answer questions and hand out timetables for the west and south
Birmingham bus network
review. </p>
<p>Centro and National Express West Midlands with the support of
Birmingham City Council, are making a series of changes to the bus
network between the Bristol and Pershore Road to provide better
services that take people where they want to go.</p>
<p>The improvements, which include more evening and Sunday services
and better links to Birmingham city centre and local facilities,
come into affect on 25 July 2010.</p>
<p>Kerry Meredith, Customer Relations Team Leader at Centro, said:
"If we're going to provide people with a public transport that
provides a real alternative to the car, we need to make sure we
provide the services they want.</p>
<p>"The Your Public Transport Matters events are the perfect
opportunity to really understand the needs of the passenger and
non-user, and we will be working with the transport operators to
feed them into the region's public transport network.</p>
<p>"Last year the event was really popular, and we hope lots of
people attend this year and give us their views, particularly about
how we can make connections between different services easier,
quicker and more convenient."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People who visit, live or work in Birmingham can have their say on bus, rail and Metro services across the West Midlands at a special "Your Public Transport Matters" event taking place in the city centre on Wednesday (July 14, 2010)."
17213
0
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Ring & Go � getting kids out and about over the holidays
2010-07-12T00:00:00
2010-07-12T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Young people with disabilities in the Birmingham area can get
around more easily and have more fun this summer using a brand new
service from Ring and Ride called Ring & Go.</p>
<p>The Ring & Go service has been introduced to help disabled
children get to their favourite places over the summer holidays
(23<sup>rd</sup> July until 5<sup>th</sup> September). It
means they are able to travel independently in a safe environment
and provides a better opportunity to get involved in activities in
the community.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The service is completely free for children with a
ConcessionaryPass, nNetwork Card or Busmaster Card or a Blind or
Disabled pass. Young people without a pass will only be
charged half the equivalent local bus fare.</p>
<p>Des Rogers, operations manager of wmsnt (West Midlands Special
Needs Transport) which has introduced this service said:</p>
<p>"We are really proud of this new service which is aimed at young
people between 5 - 19 yrs old and enables them to get about during
the summer break.</p>
<p>"We hope it will stop people thinking of Ring and Ride as a
service just for older people and will raise awareness of the
benefits of the service so that they can use Ring and Ride when
they are back at school. "</p>
<p>This service has been made possible through the £35m funding
transport authority Centro is contributing to Ring and Ride over
the next three years.</p>
<p>Centro chairman Angus Adams said:</p>
<p>"Ring & Go is a fantastic initiative - getting young people
out and about during the long school break. The Ring and Ride
service is already the largest privately operated service in the
world and it is great that they are maximising their funding by
reaching out to new younger users across the region.</p>
<p>The fully accessible minibuses will pick young people up from
their front doors and take them where they want to go. They
are available anytime including evenings and weekends and friends
and family can come a long too.</p>
<p>To book a Ring & Go bus call 0121 446 6172 or visit <a
href="/">www.ringandride.org</a></p>
<p><strong>Photo caption: Driver Tony White helps Rachel Bennett to
get from</strong> <strong>Victoria</strong> <strong>School</strong>
<strong>to the</strong> <strong>Hollywood</strong> <strong>Bowl in
Rubery using Ring & Go</strong></p>
<p>"</p>
Young people with disabilities in the Birmingham area can get around more easily and have more fun this summer using a brand new service from Ring and Ride called Ring & Go.
17213
RingandGo1pic.JPG
0
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Centro nominated for five awards at transport 'Oscars'
2010-07-05T00:00:00
2010-07-05T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>The spotlight will be firmly on Centro when the curtain goes up
at this year's transport industry 'Oscars'. </p>
<p>The region's transport authority has been nominated for no less
than four separate titles at the National Transport Awards in
Manchester next month.</p>
<p>Centro, which develops and promotes public transport across the
West Midlands, has been nominated for;</p>
<ul>
<li>Integrated Transport Authority of the year Award</li>
<li>Improvements to Bus Services Award</li>
<li>Dedication to Access for All Award: Centro's Equalities
Commitment</li>
<li>Dedication to Access for All Award: "The Ring and Ride Service
in the West Midlands"</li>
<li>Technology Award</li>
</ul>
<p>The awards, now in their tenth year, roll out the red carpet for
the initiatives and successes in the transport sector.</p>
<p>Centro's efforts were recognised last year when it won the
coveted Integrated Public Transport Authority of the Year award and
is aiming to put up a stout defence of the title at this year's
event.</p>
<p>Over the past year Centro has built on its success by developing
wide-ranging plans aimed at reducing congestion and bringing wider
economic, environmental and social benefits by attracting more
people on to public transport. </p>
<p>Rail has seen a 5.9 per cent increase in users during 2008/2009
with 37.6m passenger journeys. There has been a 0.4 per cent
increase in bus passenger journeys - up from 325.4m to 326.7m and
Midland Metro has seen five million passenger journeys.</p>
<p>Centro's chairman Cllr Angus Adams said:</p>
<p>"I am really proud of Centro's achievements over the last year
and its dedication to making public transport better and more
accessible.</p>
<p>"The people of the West Midlands are voting with their feet and
opting to leave their cars at home and take the bus, train or tram
instead.</p>
<p>"I am especially pleased that the initiatives to make transport
more accessible to all members of society have been recognised
through the UK's largest "Ring and Ride" service and through the
introduction of assistance cards, special tickets, bus hailers and
Real Time Information (RTI) displays."</p>
<p>Judges will hear how Centro has worked hard over the last year
to deliver innovative projects which contribute to the sustainable
transport agenda and have helped make great strides forward in
integrating different forms of public transport.</p>
<p>They will also be told how Centro has excelled at effective
partnership working to improve public transport as a whole across
the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The winners of each category will be announced at the Awards
Ceremony at the Palace Hotel, Manchester on July 15.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>NOTES TO EDITORS</strong></p>
<p><strong>Public Transport Authority of the year
Award</strong></p>
<p>In the West Midlands there has been a 5.9% increase in rail
users during 2008/2009 to 37.6m passenger journeys and a 0.4%
increase in bus patronage with passenger journeys growing from
325.4m to 326.7m. There has also been steady patronage on
Midland Metro with 5 million passenger journeys over the past
year.</p>
<p>Achievements in rail</p>
<ul>
<li>Work started on the £600m redevelopment of New Street
Station.</li>
<li>£900,000 to upgrade the Walsall-Rugeley line</li>
<li>Developing a scheme to re-open the Camp Hill Line</li>
<li>Backing calls for High Speed 2</li>
<li>6% increase in people using our park and ride scheme.</li>
</ul>
<p>Achievements on the buses</p>
<ul>
<li>Launch of "Transforming Bus Travel" task force in 2009 with
National Express West Midlands, implementing improvements which are
already getting people voting with their feet.</li>
<li>A review of the bus network in Dudley resulting in a 4 per cent
increase in bus users.</li>
<li>Further reviews in Solihull, South Bham, North Walsall and West
Birmingham - simplifying routes and connecting passengers to key
work places, retail centres and housing developments.</li>
<li>Simplification of traffic junctions, upgrading shelters.</li>
<li>Working with partners to get funding for green buses.</li>
<li>Expanding Real Time Information boards at bus shelters and
stops. Improved printed timetables which are clearer.</li>
<li>Crime on buses fell by 41 per cent last year marking a four
year low due to the work of the Safer Travel Team, a partnership
between Centro, West Midlands Police, Birmingham Community Safety
Partnership and National Express West Midlands.</li>
</ul>
<p>Achievements on the Midland Metro</p>
<ul>
<li>Business case submitted for extension of Metro through the city
centre from Snow Hill Station to the New Street Gateway
Station. Initial funding was approved for programme entry by
the Department for Transport.</li>
</ul>
<p>Concessions and Ticketing</p>
<ul>
<li>Sales of multi modal tickets has risen by 8.1% in the last
year.</li>
<li>Pre: 09:30 ticket sales grown by 66%</li>
<li>Child Term Extra ticket up by 31%</li>
<li>Adult Daytripper up by 26%</li>
<li>Student Term Extra up by 10%</li>
<li>Overall nNetwork tickets up by 7.6%</li>
<li>NBus sales grown by 14%</li>
<li>nBus Child 1 day ticket are up by 26%, Adult 1 Day tickets grew
by 23% and the Child 4 Week ticket increased by 11%</li>
</ul>
<p>Promoting Sustainable Travel</p>
<ul>
<li>Centro's WorkWise and TravelWise schemes have been hugely
successful and received high acclaim. WorkWise provides
tailored journey plans and public transport information, free day
tickets for interviews, and free travel passes for up to three
months after starting a new job.</li>
</ul>
<p>Over 6,100 tickets have been issued, helping people to attend
interviews and over 4,300 people to travel to a new job. 70% of
WorkWise users are still in their jobs after 6 months.
WorkWise has also been successful in promoting sustainable travel
with more than 89% of its customers still using public transport
after starting work.</p>
<ul>
<li>Letzgogreen - website aimed at teaching children to use public
transport, walk or cycle instead of travelling by car and learning
about climate change and congestion, has become a real success
story, winning the Chartered Institute of Public Relations Pride
Award for Best Website and the Modeshift Award for Best Curriculum
Initiative.</li>
</ul>
<p>Since its launch in January 2008 it has received almost 200,000
hits.</p>
<p><strong>Dedication to Access for All Award: Centro's Equalities
Commitment</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Assistance cards- messages which slot into travel pass holder
with messages such as "Please speak slowly I am hard of hearing",
"please be patient, I have difficulty speaking", "Please wait for
me to sit down"</li>
<li>"Ticket please" 50 tear off slips to add travel info to hand to
the driver</li>
<li>Annual "Getting Around Access Guide" gives info about
facilities at station and on transport</li>
<li>Bus Hailer- A5 board with large numbers so driver knows when to
stop</li>
<li>Travel training manual - teaches young people how to use public
transport</li>
<li>Real Time Information displays and a key fob with activates
audio message of the information on the display.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Dedication to Access for All Award: "The Ring and Ride
Service in the West Midlands"</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Allows thousands of people to maintain their independence since
it birth in 1983. Since then the service has grown from
operating in a small area of north Birmingham to spreading across
the whole of the West Midlands. We now operate 130 buses,
providing 2 million trips a year for over 70,000 registered
users.</li>
<li>It is the primary service for people with limited mobility in
the West Midlands.</li>
<li>The most successful in the UK and is the fourth largest service
in the world.</li>
<li>Primarily funded my Centro to the tune of £11m per year.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Technology Award</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>For the user-friendly website <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> which was launched in Jan
09 to support the £7million public transport initiative.</li>
<li>The site enables people to plan their journeys using the
cutting edge journey planner which connects all means of transport
including bus, train, tram, and walking. </li>
<li>It looks at the complete network of transport to provide a more
accessible, interchangeable, efficient and user-friendly
system.</li>
<li>Special reader speaker function - a whole page is read out at
the click of a button.</li>
<li>Nearly 3m hits in 9 months</li>
<li>Finalist at the National Gov awards</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Improvements to Bus Services Award</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Championing the £41.5million PrimeLines partnership project
which has transformed bus travel in Coventry.</li>
<li>6% increase in passenger numbers.</li>
<li>One fifth of people on the road now travel into the city by bus
in the morning peak.</li>
<li>Funded by West Mids Local Transport Plan, Centro and bus
operators in Cov.</li>
<li>5.3km of bus lanes and 4.9 km of red routes have been built to
reduce delays.</li>
<li>13 new bus gates and bypasses.</li>
<li>70 new bus shelters with real time info and seats and 19 new
bus stop poles with real time displays</li>
<li>Bus fleet upgrades</li>
<li>Consultation of what people wanted to see.</li>
<li>Months free bus travel to some residents who showed an interest
in switching from car to bus on number 12 route.</li>
<li>91% of people who made changes stuck with them.</li>
<li>Being used a role model to role out elsewhere</li>
</ul>
<p>"</p>
The spotlight will be firmly on Centro when the curtain goes up at this year's transport industry 'Oscars'. The region's transport authority has been nominated for no less than four separate titles at the National Transport Awards in Manchester next month.
17213
0
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Better bus services for west and south Birmingham
2010-07-01T00:00:00
2010-07-01T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People visiting, living and working in west and south Birmingham
are to get new and improved bus services that provide better links
to retail, leisure and health facilities from the end of July.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and bus company National Express West
Midlands have worked together with Birmingham City Council to look
at the local bus network to see if it could better serve people in
the area.</p>
<p>The three organisations asked for feedback from existing
passengers, non bus users, councillors and focus groups during a
public consultation in March as well as doing research to see what
opportunities were available on the existing bus network.</p>
<p>This information has been used to create a new network of modern
bus services that are easy to understand and reflect the journeys
people want to make today.</p>
<p>The changes, which will come into effect from 25 July, will
provide a series of key improvements for passengers including:</p>
<ul>
<li>New links to Birmingham city centre for Welsh House Farm in
Quinton and for Leach Green Lane in Rubery</li>
<li>New evening and Sunday services for Shenley Fields, Welsh House
Farm, EdgbastonPark and the Rednal Triangle</li>
<li>Extra buses between WeoleyCastle, Selly Oak, Rubery, Quinton,
Harborne, Frankley, Gannow and the city centre</li>
<li>New links to the Post Office and Fairfax Road Community Centre
on the 19 bus route in West Heath</li>
<li>New direct limited stop services from WeoleyCastle, Rednal,
Longbridge, Northfield and Selly Oak to the city centre providing
much quicker journeys</li>
<li>Links to QE Hospital from across west and south Birmingham and
the city centre</li>
<li>Better transport connections in Birmingham city centre</li>
<li>New links between Northfield, WeoleyCastle, Shenley Lane,
Somerford Road, Longbridge rail station, Frankley, West Heath,
Cotteridge, Hawkesley, Pool Farm, Kings Heath, Maypole, Shirley and
Solihull</li>
<li>Brand new environmentally friendly hybrid buses will be
introduced on the 22 and 23 routes between Bartley Green, Harborne
and Birmingham city centre early next year</li>
<li>New links from West Bromwich and Bearwood to west and
south Birmingham</li>
</ul>
<p>The bus network review forms part of Centro's groundbreaking
Transforming Bus Travel vision which focuses on improving the
quality of bus travel in the West Midlands and providing people
with an attractive alternative to the car.</p>
<p>Guy Craddock, Area Manager for Birmingham at Centro said: "There
has been a lot of new development in west and south Birmingham
lately, including the recently opened Queen Elizabeth Hospital and
new areas of employment, housing, and retail and leisure
services.</p>
<p>"We've listened carefully to the public's feedback about what
they think would make their transport network better, and have
worked closely with our partners to ensure the existing bus network
provides better access to the area's new facilities and makes it
quick and easy for people to change between transport
services."</p>
<p>Centro and National Express West Midlands will be holding a
series of exhibitions during July to make sure people know about
the changes. This will take place as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday 13 July, 10am - 3pm, St Francis Community Centre,
WoodgateValley</li>
<li>Thursday 15 July, 12pm - 4pm, Quinborne Community Centre,
Quinton</li>
<li>Saturday 17 July, 10am - 3pm, Price's Square, Bristol Road
South, Northfield</li>
<li>Monday 19 July, 3pm - 7pm, WeoleyCastle Library</li>
<li>Tuesday 20 July, 10am - 3pm, QueenElizabethHospital main
lobby</li>
<li>Thursday 22 July, 10am - 3pm, Arden Road Shops, Frankley</li>
<li>Saturday 24 July, 10am - 3pm, St Mary's Parish Centre,
Harborne</li>
</ul>
<p>Every home in the area will be getting a leaflet through the
door in early July explaining the changes. More information
including timetables and exhibition dates is also available at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"People visiting, living and working in west and south Birmingham are to get new and improved bus services that provide better links to retail, leisure and health facilities from the end of July."
17213
0
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0
Share a Space at Kings Norton Station
2010-06-29T00:00:00
2010-06-29T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Kings Norton is the first station in the West Midlands to have
specially designated car parking spaces reserved for people who car
share.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The new parking bays came into use this week (wc Monday 28 June
2010). The car share spaces are very close to the station
entrance and are marked with the Network West Midlands' car share
icon and signs on the fencing at the end of the bays informing
people to not park in them if they have driven alone. It is
hoped this initiative will encourage people to car share and help
reduce the number of cars on the road. </p>
<p>The new spaces form part of the Station Travel Plan at Kings
Norton is a pilot scheme being run over three years with London
Midland, Network Rail, Birmingham City Council and local bus
operators to put better facilities and information in place at the
station to enable customers to access rail travel more easily and
be less reliant on driving. It forms part of a national
scheme to encourage people to make green, healthy, congestion
busting travel choices on their journey to the station.</p>
<p>Cllr Tim Huxtable, the lead member for Birmingham at Centro said
"It's great to see the pilot travel plan at Kings Norton coming
into practice as it is a great way to encourage people to choose a
healthy, environmentally friendly way to get to the station and
make their journey a sustainable one from start to finish."</p>
<p>Other initiatives being undertaken at the station include
real-time bus information inside the station, walking and cycling
routes with enhanced lighting and CCTV, new cycle storage and
improved signage for pedestrians and cyclists.</p>
<p>"</p>
Kings Norton is the first station in the West Midlands to have specially designated car parking spaces reserved for people who car share.
17213
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0
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0
New Centro chairman elected
2010-06-28T00:00:00
2010-06-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Conservative Cllr Angus Adams was voted in as transport
authority Centro's new chairman within minutes of the start of
Centro's AGM (Monday 28<sup>th</sup> June 2010, 11am.) </p>
<p>His appointment was shortly followed by that of Liberal Democrat
Cllr Jon Hunt as Centro's vice chairman.</p>
<p>On accepting the position of Centro chairman Cllr Adams
said:</p>
<p>"I would like to thank everyone who has made it possible for me
to chair of this excellent body and I will strive to maintain its
position as the best ITA (Integrated Transport Authority) in the
country.</p>
<p>"I would like to pay tribute to my predecessor Cllr Gary Clarke
who in his six years at the helm moved this organisation in a very
positive direction forward and his tenure ought not to go
unrecognised.</p>
<p>"We have some tough times ahead with funding restrictions but
with the help and advice of an excellent team of officers, a
committed and enthusiastic membership and the help of our partners
we shall move forward and deliver our pledge of a world class
transport system. This will make sure that the local agenda
is at the forefront of our efforts."</p>
<p>Cllr Adams was welcomed onto the Integrated Transport Authority
on 24<sup>th</sup> June 2005 by out going chairman Cllr Gary
Clarke. He has had a keen interest in improving transport
across the West Midlands for many years. </p>
<p>Until his appointment today he was Centro's lead member for Rail
and rapid transit development and played a pivotal role in
developing, promoting and delivering both light and heavy rail
projects and services. In his new role he will take on the
post of lead member for policy and district liaison.</p>
<p>From June 2008 until June 2010 he was chairman of the West
Midlands Planning and Transportation Sub-Committee, but continues
in his roles on the West Midlands Road Safety Partnership Board and
the Stourbridge Area Housing Panel. He is also the cabinet
member for Transportation at Dudley Council. </p>
<p>He is one of three councillors for Norton Ward, which covers the
areas of Norton, part of Wollaston, part of Oldswinford and part of
Pedmore and has been a councillor since 2000.</p>
<p>He represents his constituents in Norton, the people of
Stourbridge and the people of Dudley Metropolitan Borough. He
is a member of the Stourbridge Area Committee and works to
represent the views of local people on the Council. </p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt is the Liberal Democrat group leader and has been
the lead member for buses and highways where he has shown himself
to be passionate about reviewing and improving bus routes and about
safety on public transport. </p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, Centro's vice chairman said:</p>
<p>"Our two groups [Liberal Democrats and Conservatives] will be
working together closely and we have welcomed some talented new
members of all parties to the transport authority. </p>
<p>"I am delighted to have this opportunity to over see the
implementation of public transport in the region.</p>
<p>"We have a number of challenges including bus, rail and metro
services in Birmingham city centre."</p>
<p>In his new responsibility as vice chairman he will also take on
the role of lead member for communications and will oversee
development of the Local Transport Plan. He will chair the new
Birmingham city centre steering group which is being formed with
senior members of Centro and Birmingham city council.</p>
<p>Cllr Hunt is the Birmingham city councillor for PerryBar ward
and is the chairman of the education scrutiny committee.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Conservative Cllr Angus Adams was voted in as transport authority Centro's new chairman within minutes of the start of Centro's AGM (Monday 28th June 2010, 11am.)"
17213
0
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Better buses for Tipton thanks to new tunnel
2010-06-28T00:00:00
2010-06-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People visiting, living and working in Tipton town centre are
getting new and improved public transport links from today (June
28, 2010) thanks to the introduction of a new day time bus service
to the area.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro has arranged for the 610 bus to take
a new route through the town using the recently built tunnel on
Owen Street to provide better transport links to the shops and
facilities in the town.</p>
<p>It also means people will get better connections to nearby key
centres by providing a brand new bus link to Wednesbury and two
extra services an hour to GreatBridge and Dudley during the
day.</p>
<p>Before the tunnel was built, buses had problems serving the town
due to significant traffic congestion caused by the level crossing
which was often closed for 45 minutes in every hour leading to big
delays for passengers.</p>
<p>Since the tunnel opened, businesses and residents in Tipton
asked Centro, Sandwell Council and the local bus operators if there
was the opportunity for more buses to serve the town.</p>
<p>Centro undertook a series of surveys across the area to find out
exactly what local people thought would improve transport services
while also investigating what opportunities were available on the
existing bus network.</p>
<p>After looking at the results of the consultation, which showed
people wanted more buses to serve Tipton, new links to Wednesbury
and extra services to Dudley, Centro saw the opportunity to meet
these needs by altering the current 610 bus route.</p>
<p>The service, which is operated by bus company Midland under
subsidy from Centro, will now travel all the way along Alexandra
Road, go under the Owen Street tunnel into Tipton town centre, then
travel along Dudley Road and Tipton Road into Dudley bus
station.</p>
<p>The change will also mean the bus service will no longer go via
BurntTreeIsland, where ongoing road works have led to the service
having trouble keeping to the timetable leading to passengers
having to wait longer for their bus.</p>
<p>The service will operate more regularly now, with a bus every
half an hour.</p>
<p>Chris Perry, head of transport operations at Centro said: "We're
delighted that, thanks to the opportunities provided by the new
road tunnel on Owen Street, we have been able to work with our
partners to provide extra buses for people in Tipton.</p>
<p>"The new services provide a quick and easy way to visit the
leisure and retail facilities in the town, connect to national rail
services at Tipton station and link to bus and Metro services
across the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"We hope that people visiting, living and working in the area
take the opportunity to leave the car at home and choose to sit
back and relax on the great range of public transport services
available to them instead."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People visiting, living and working in Tipton town centre are getting new and improved public transport links from today (June 28, 2010) thanks to the introduction of a new day time bus service to the area."
17213
0
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Departing Centro chairman praised for his work on behalf of passengers
2010-06-25T00:00:00
2010-06-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Centro chairman Cllr Gary Clarke is to leave the region's
transport authority after more than six years at the helm.</p>
<p>The change follows Cllr Clarke's recent appointment as Mayor of
Walsall where he has been a borough councillor for more than 12
years.</p>
<p>Cllr Clarke was today praised for his unstinting work as
chairman and for the numerous improvements he has introduced for
passengers.</p>
<p>Centro's chief executive Geoff Inskip, said: "I would like to
thank Cllr Clarke for his commitment to public transport as
chairman and pay tribute to his achievements. Everyone here at
Centro has a very high regard for Gary and we wish him well in his
year as Mayor of Walsall."</p>
<p>During his time as chairman, Centro has achieved numerous
industry awards not least the prestigious Integrated Transport
Authority of the Year title.</p>
<p>Other big projects under his chairmanship include the creation
of Network West Midlands, the region's integrated bus, rail and
tram system, the roll out of Smartcard ticketing which will see a
West Midlands version of London's highly successful Oyster Card and
the start of work on the £600 million refurbishment of New Street
Station.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Cllr Clarke, who is Walsall born and bred and whose uncle was
also Mayor of Walsall in 1970, said: "I've had six fantastic years
as chairman and believe we have made great strides towards our goal
of creating a world class public transport system for the West
Midlands.</p>
<p>"There are a number of big projects ready to move forward such
as the Gateway refurbishment of New Street Station, the
introduction of Smartcard technology and the extension of the
Midland Metro. All these projects put the passenger first.</p>
<p>"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the
region's Metropolitan councils and all the members of the
Integrated Transport Authority for their wonderful cross party
support during my chairmanship.</p>
<p>"I'm obviously sad to be leaving Centro but I have a very
exciting and busy year ahead as Mayor of Walsall, a role which is
an immense honour for me and one I'm relishing."</p>
<p>A new Centro chairman will be chosen by the Integrated Transport
Authority at its Annual Meeting on Monday (June 28).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Centro chairman Cllr Gary Clarke is to leave the region's transport authority after more than six years at the helm.
17213
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0
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Birmingham Gateway progress revealed
2010-06-25T00:00:00
2010-06-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<div>
<p>The transformation of Birmingham New Street station is underway
and after the Government reiterated its support for the project in
the emergency budget.</p>
<p>The key backers of the Gateway project, including Centro,
visited the site (yesterday 24 June 2010) to see how work is
progressing.</p>
<p>Construction on site started in April and Network Rail's project
team is currently removing more than 7,500 tonnes of concrete from
the car park next to the station to create a new concourse.
Work has also started to refurbish the first of New Street's 12
platforms.</p>
<p>Centro's vice chairman Cllr Christine Mills, added: "The
thousands of people using New Street Station each day would have a
real shock if they saw the scale of work going on just a few yards
away behind the scenes.</p>
<p>"It's certainly exciting to see so much activity on a project
that will ultimately give passengers the sort of iconic, 21st
century station they need and deserve."</p>
<p>Andrew Skidmore, scheme sponsor at Network Rail added:
"Britain relies on rail and the Government has this week
acknowledged the importance of investing in our transport
infrastructure and backed the rebuilding of New Street. </p>
<p>"Gateway will deliver a world class station and is at the heart
of our plans to restore pride in Britain's stations. We've
planned the work to minimise disruption so while we're working hard
behind the scenes to deliver a new station, train services will
continue to operate."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Pictured left to right Laverty, chief executive of Advantage
West Midlands, Cllr Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council,
Cllr Christine Mills, vice chairman of Centro, Geoff Inskip, chief
executive of Centro and from Network Rail.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On site, the project team are using cutting edge technology
including diamond tipped saws and concrete chewing "brock" machines
to cut up and remove an entire floor of the old car park. </p>
<p>The concrete is then removed progressively with more than 1,000
pieces of concrete being removed, some weighing up to 10 tonnes at
a time. Around 85 per cent of the material taken out will be
recycled. </p>
<p>The space created will form a new station concourse which will
open in 2012 as Phase 1 of the project completes. Phase 2
will see the old concourse redeveloped with the project due to be
fully completed in 2015.</p>
<p>The project will double passenger capacity and deliver:</p>
<p>* a concourse that is
three-and-a-half times bigger than at present and enclosed by a
giant, light-filled atrium</p>
<p>* more accessible,
brighter and clearer platforms, serviced by over 30 new escalators
and over 15 new public lifts</p>
<p>* a stunning new
station façade</p>
<p>* better links to and
through the station for pedestrians, with eight new entrances</p>
<p>* the stimulus for the
physical regeneration of the areas surrounding the station</p>
<p>The Gateway project is funded by Network Rail, Birmingham City
Council (with funding from the Department for Transport), Advantage
West Midlands and Centro.</p>
<p>More than £600m is being invested into the redevelopment of New
Street station to transform it into an icon for Britain's second
city.</p>
<p>It will transform the experience for passengers, improve links
to and throughout the city centre and act as a catalyst for growth
in the regional economy.</p>
<p>Further details on the project can be found at:
www.newstreetnewstart.co.uk</p>
</div>
<p>"</p>
The transformation of Birmingham New Street station is underway and after the Government reiterated its support for the project in the emergency budget.
17213
0
12
0
Pupils Launch 'Travellin' to School' DVD
2010-06-23T00:00:00
2010-06-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Students from four Walsall schools today (Wednesday June 23)
launched an innovative short film in a bid to raise awareness about
travelling to class without using the car.</p>
<p>The DVD film - 'Travellin' to School' - shows how pupils across
the West Midlands can help reduce congestion and fight climate
change by choosing more sustainable travel options.</p>
<p>The students worked with a production company to create the DVD
which is aimed at Year 6 children who are about to move to
secondary school. The film gives them the information they
need to make an educated choice about how they will get there in
the mornings. </p>
<p>The Walsall students were joined by Cllr Tom Ansell, who is
cabinet member for transport on Walsall Council and represents the
borough on Centro, the region's transport authority.</p>
<p>He was joined by members of Walsall Council's road safety team,
the West Midlands Regional TravelWise Group
and Wolverhampton City Council to launch the brand
new DVD at ShelfieldCommunityAcademy in Pelsall. </p>
<p>Rachel Hooper, sustainable travel officer at Centro said: "This
has been a great project to work on and the DVD will provide a
fantastic resource for schools and pupils learning about the
importance of using greener types of transport. </p>
<p>"As a result the commuters of tomorrow will have the confidence
to make healthier and more environmentally friendly travel
choices."</p>
<p>Pupils from Cooper and Jordan C of E Primary, Short Heath Junior
School, Shelfield Academy and St Francis of Assisi Catholic
Technology College took part in filming the DVD at various
locations across Walsall in March and the final version features
children and parents discussing their daily school journey.</p>
<p>Centro, Walsall Council's road safety team
and Wolverhampton City Council have led on the
project to help children find out about
the sustainable ways of travelling to
school. </p>
<p>The DVD will be used to support the curriculum for pupils and
Years 6 and 7.</p>
<p>The project was funded through the West
Midlands Regional TravelWise Group and has been developed in
conjunction with Centro, school travel advisers from the Regional
West Midlands group and Wolverhampton Council.</p>
<p>Councillor Tom Ansell, Walsall Council's cabinet member for
transport said: ""It's wonderful that four of our schools have been
involved in this project and to hear local youngsters relate their
experiences of getting to and from school.</p>
<p>""Improving the safety of our children during their school
journeys is paramount for Walsall Council. It's our goal to
maintain a steady increase in walking to school while achieving a
reduction of one per cent per year in car use by 2011.</p>
<p>""Walking to school is an excellent way for children to get some
physical activity and enjoy the fresh air.""</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Students from four Walsall schools today (Wednesday June 23) launched an innovative short film in a bid to raise awareness about travelling to class without using the car.
17213
0
12
0
Shirley families urged to get green and lean
2010-06-21T00:00:00
2010-06-21T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>More than 8,500 homes across Shirley are to be offered
customised travel advice to help them get leaner and greener and
beat soaring petrol prices in the process.</p>
<p>Expert Travel Advisers are visiting homes close to the Stratford
Road and Shirley Station between now and August 6 to tell families
how they can take advantage of the full range of travel options on
their doorstep.</p>
<p>The Smarter Travel Solihull project will see advisers draw up
personalised travel plans for each home, laying out exactly how
residents can get from their own front door to their destination
without having to jump in the car.</p>
<p>The aim of the individual travel plans is to encourage residents
to switch to local bus and rail services and to also make more
local trips on foot or bike.The project, which is being led by
transport authority Centro in partnership with Solihull Council and
local bus and train operators, will see the seven Travel Advisers
provide a wealth of information and advice about healthier, greener
options</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Cllr David Jamieson, Smarter Travel Solihull project
manager Kerry Swingler (standing), travel adviser Lindsey Darby and
Cllr Ken Rushen launch the Smarter Travel Solihull
campaign.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The advisers will also highlight the health, financial and
environmental benefits that using public transport, walking or
cycling can bring.</p>
<p>Centro's Kerry Swingler, project manager for Smarter Travel
Solihull, said; "This project is a great opportunity to provide
people with tailored travel information and support and encourage
them to make the switch to cheaper, healthier and more
environmentally friendly forms of travel.</p>
<p>"The advisers will also help support the local economy by
highlighting the wide range of local facilities available, many of
which are quicker to reach on foot, bike or bus than by car. "</p>
<p>The project was officially launched at Shirley Park on Saturday
(June 19) by Solihull councillors David Jamieson (Lab Kingshurst
and Fordbridge) and Ken Rushen (Lib Dem Lyndon) who both represent
Solihull on Centro.</p>
<p>Over the next seven weeks the team of Travel Advisers will
continue to visit homes in the area to invite householders to
discuss the travel options that may be available.</p>
<p>There will also be the opportunity for householders to feedback
any comments they have about travelling around Solihull.</p>
<p><br />
Residents wanting further information can contact the Travel
Advisers on Tel: 0121 214 7184 or by e-mail:
smartertravelsolihull@centro.org.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"More than 8,500 homes across Shirley are to be offered customised travel advice to help them get leaner and greener and beat soaring petrol prices in the process."
17213
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0
12
0
Help afoot for walkers and cyclists
2010-06-18T00:00:00
2010-06-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People wanting to get greener and leaner over the summer can now
get all the latest news, maps and leaflets on walking and cycling
in the West Midlands from Travel Information Centres across the
region.</p>
<p>Transport Authority Centro is working with the region's local
authorities to provide route information and advice for people
wanting to travel by bike or on foot ready for the start of Team
Green Britain Bike Week on 19 June 2010.</p>
<p>The information is available at Network West Midlands Travel
Information Centres at Birmingham New Street, Coventry Pool Meadow
bus station and on Queen Street in Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>Staff at the centres have been trained to give advice on walking
and cycling in the region and provide information including local
authority walking and cycling maps, details of national cycle
routes and maps of the canal network across the region.</p>
<p>Leaflets are also available on how people can connect to public
transport on bike or on foot, and the cycling facilities available
in and around bus and rail stations including bike lockers and
stands.</p>
<p>They also have details of useful websites like <a href="/"
title="">www.walkit.com</a>, the Sustrans website and
www.networkwestmidlands.com where people can use a specially
designed Google mapping system to plan their journeys by any
mode.</p>
<p>The aim is to encourage people across the West Midlands to use
environmentally transport options like walking and cycling for the
whole of their journey or to access bus, rail or Metro
services.</p>
<p>Stephen Bermingham, Sustainable Travel Officer at Centro said:
"At Centro we are working to make it as easy as possible for people
to leave their car at home and travel using more environmentally
friendly modes.</p>
<p>"Nearly all public transport journeys start and end with a
connection on foot or on bike so if we are to provide people in the
West Midlands with a fully integrated transport system we need to
make sure we give people all the walking and cycling information
and advice they need to travel from door to door."</p>
<p>"</p>
"People wanting to get greener and leaner over the summer can now get all the latest news, maps and leaflets on walking and cycling in the West Midlands from Travel Information Centres across the region."
17213
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0
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0
Safer Travel success brings world crime experts to Birmingham
2010-06-18T00:00:00
2010-06-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Crimefighters from around the world have converged on Birmingham
to see first hand how the West Midlands has halved the number of
offences on its bus network.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Experts from more than a dozen countries including the USA,
Canada and Russia chose to stage the International Association of
Public Transport (UITP) conference in Birmingham after hearing
about the Safer Travel Partnership's success in tackling bus crime
and anti-social behaviour.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The two-day event, which ends today (Friday June 18) is being
hosted by the region's transport authority Centro at its city
centre headquarters.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The conference should have been held earlier this year but had
to be postponed at the last minute after delegates' flights were
grounded by the Icelandic volcano eruption.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro, West Midlands Police, National Express and the Safer
Birmingham Partnership are all members of Safer Travel which was
launched five years ago to make bus travel even safer for
passengers by deterring crime and nuisance behaviour.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Using a number of tactics including targeted patrols based on
intelligence, random checks such as Gateway operations and
undercover patrols, the Safer Travel Partnership has succeeded in
cutting offences by 54 per cent over the last three years.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With more than 900,000 bus journeys being made every day in the
West Midlands it means that excluding vandalism there is only one
crime in every 126,000 bus rides.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> The 25 UITP delegates have heard how the Safer Travel
team goes into schools to teach children the importance of good
behaviour on public transport and about its increasingly successful
'See Something Say Something' campaign.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Launched 18 months ago, See Something Say Something gives
passengers the chance to play their part in helping to stamp out
nuisance behaviour such as playing loud music and
smoking. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> Passengers can use an interactive website and text
messaging service or simply phone the Safer Travel team to give
details about incidents. The team uses the information to pinpoint
hotspots and take action.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> UITP, whose previous conferences have been held in Dubai,
Moscow and Milan, have been discussing and sharing best practice in
tackling crime on public transport and were today given a
presentation on Safer Travel operations.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro's crime reduction manager, Mark Babington, said: "Centro
was asked to host the conference after UITP heard about some of the
unique and innovative work being carried out here in the West
Midlands by the Safer Travel Partnership.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"They have been particularly interested in the See Something Say
Something campaign, the use of CCTV in bus shelters to curb
vandalism and remote access of on-board CCTV cameras.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"The international recognition that Safer Travel has generated
is a real tribute to the Partnership's hard work in tackling crime
and anti-social behaviour across the West Midlands."" </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Crimefighters from around the world have converged on Birmingham to see first hand how the West Midlands has halved the number of offences on its bus network.
17213
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TV cameras target bus crime technology
2010-06-15T00:00:00
2010-06-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Crimewatch Roadshow TV cameras have been out on the bus routes
of Birmingham with the Safer Travel Police Team, filming the
use of hi-tech surveillance equipment.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Camera crews have accompanied police teams on two recent
operations - one on the Hagley Road, the other along the Bristol
Road - filming a feature for a week-long series of Crimewatch
Roadshow programmes from the West Midlands that are due to air
later this month.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Results from these operations included the arrest of a
13-year-old youth for breach of CRASBO conditions on the buses,
littering and drugs and alcohol searches.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Inspector Cate Webb-Jones, who leads the Safer Travel Police
Team, said: "Anti-social behaviour crimes are main areas of concern
to West Midlands bus travellers and the routes along the two
targeted corridors had been brought to our attention.</p>
<p>Operations such as these reassure the public that we are
listening and responding to their concerns, and the work
highlighted by the TV cameras reflects the community intelligence
captured via the 'See Something, Say Something' text service."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The hi-tech equipment currently being used by West Midlands
Police officers across the region's bus network enables them to
link in to on-board CCTV cameras from unmarked cars some distance
away. Officers can monitor the images on hand-held screens and send
uniformed teams on to buses to deal with nuisance, vandalism and
serious crime.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Insp Webb-Jones said: "Just because passengers can't see a
uniformed presence, doesn't mean that West Midlands Police aren't
watching and ready to respond."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>She added: "The Crimewatch team are keen to showcase this
technology nationally to show how it enhances our tactical toolkit
and enables us to combat crime and ASB on the region's bus
network."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager for National Express
said: "Anti-social behaviour is unacceptable to us and unfair
on fellow passengers. This technology allows us to target the
minority who cause problems on our bus network."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, has helped fund the
cost of the equipment. Councillor Jon Hunt, Centro's lead member
for bus and highways, said: "The level of crime on the region's bus
network is relatively low, just one offence in every 126,000 bus
journeys. But we know that nuisance behaviour can put people
off using the buses and is also bad for the reputation of public
transport at a time when it is critical we improve it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"This technology not only gives us another tool in deterring and
apprehending offenders but can also help to reassure
passengers."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Passengers who have any concerns to report, should text the 'See
Something, Say Something' service on 07624 818332.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"Crimewatch Roadshow TV cameras have been out on the bus routes of Birmingham with the Safer Travel Police Team, filming the use of hi-tech surveillance equipment."
17213
0
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0
City's transport future on a solid footing
2010-06-11T00:00:00
2010-06-11T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>This was the moment when Wolverhampton's former bus station
ceased being just a demolition site and work began on the actual
construction of the world class facility that will replace
it.<br />
<br />
In a twist on the traditional sod cutting ceremony,
representatives from the partners behind the project gave the
signal for a 45 tonne, 21 metre high piling rig to start boring out
the deep footings that will form the foundations of the new bus
station.<br />
<br />
Putting the huge machine into action were Cllr Paddy Brady,
Wolverhampton City Council's cabinet member for regeneration and
environment, Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Transport Authority
Centro, Steve Parry, chief executive at Neptune Developments
and Mark Foley, partnership director at Advantage West Midlands.
Also on hand was Paul Goodall, commercial director for the Midlands
at BAM Construction Ltd which is carrying out the work.<br />
<br />
Geoff Inskip said: "It's very exciting to see the first elements
of the new bus station actually going in to place, marking the
start of what I believe will be a tremendous asset for both
passengers and the city.<br />
<br />
"Together with the council and Neptune we have strived to make
sure this new bus station not only gives the people of
Wolverhampton the sort of facility they need and deserve but also
one they can be proud of as an iconic gateway into their
city."<br />
<br />
The new bus station, together with a pedestrian footbridge linking
it with the rail station forms part of the £22.5 million Phase One
of the wider £177 million Wolverhampton Interchange project.<br />
<br />
Over the next week, the piling rig will continue to sink the
foundations of the new station which is expected to take around
another 15 months to build.<br />
<br />
Once completed it will boast a stylish glass entrance, 19 bus
stands, three glass enclosed waiting areas, multi-modal electronic
information and safety and security features including CCTV and
help-points.<br />
<br />
Safety will be further enhanced by having no pedestrian crossings
within the bus station. Instead passengers will access their bus
stand via covered pedestrian walkways equipped with glass doors
that automatically open when the vehicle arrives.<br />
<br />
The new station will also have public toilets, offices for Centro
staff, retail and leisure space and drivers' accommodation.<br />
<br />
Councillor Bradley, said: ""This is a momentous day for
Wolverhampton, marking the start of construction of our brand
new bus station. It will be a superb facility that really will be
fit to meet the needs of 21st century passengers linking the bus
station to the railway station. The design process has been
painstaking and we are confident that this new station will be a
landmark that the city can be proud of."<br />
<br />
Steve Parry, added: ""We are delighted to be here at the start of
construction work on the new bus station which welcomes a new era
of public transport to Wolverhampton. It is the result of hard work
and commitment by all parties involved in a difficult economic
climate.""<br />
<br />
Mark Pearce, Corporate Director for Economic Regeneration at
Advantage West Midlands identified the project as a priority for
Regional Infrastructure Funding through the Department for
Transport. He said: "AWM has identified Wolverhampton as one of the
top priority areas in the region for investment. High quality,
efficient transport infrastructure is critical to the city's wider
development by improving access to jobs and services, not just
locally, but regionally."</p>
<p>"</p>
Construction has now officially started on the project to create a new world class bus station in Wolverhampton.
17213
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0
Dudley jobseekers get ticket to employment
2010-06-08T00:00:00
2010-06-08T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Jobseekers in Dudley are being given an extra boost in their bid
to get back to work thanks to a new scheme being launched in the
borough today (June 8).</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, JobCentre Plus and
Dudley Council have joined forces to give local residents a ticket
to employment by bringing the West Midlands' award winning WorkWise
initiative to the area.</p>
<p>The innovative scheme, which was officially launched in Dudley's
Market Place, helps jobseekers by offering free travel together
with advice on sustainable transport options for getting to job
interviews. If successful in those interviews they can then get
free travel to their new job for the first three months of
employment.</p>
<p>The WorkWise scheme has already proved extremely successful in
Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton,
providing 7,000 passes for interviews and helping more than 6,000
people with travel costs for their new job.</p>
<p>Now, more than £190,000 of European Regional Development funding
has been allocated by Advantage West Midlands, together with
£43,000 from Centro, to extend the scheme to help jobseekers living
in the Brierley Hill, Castle and Priory, Netherton, Woodside and St
Andrews', St Thomas's and St James's wards of Dudley.</p>
<p>Cllr Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation at Dudley
Council and lead member on Centro, said: "We all know how tough the
economic situation is at the moment so it's more important than
ever that we can make this excellent scheme available in
Dudley.</p>
<p>"For many jobseekers one of the difficulties in finding and
starting a new job is the cost of getting to interviews and to
work, especially in the weeks before they receive their first
paycheck. WorkWise plays a vital role in helping individuals
overcome this."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Just the ticket: (left to right) Dudley WorkWise officer
Leslie Howell, Neil Bunch, local partnership manager for Black
Country JobCentre Plus, Cllr Angus Adams, member for transportation
at Dudley Council and lead member on Centro, Stephen Copley,
partnerships manager at Advantage West Midlands and Jobeda Shahed,
WorkWise team leader.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>AWM Partnerships Manager Stephen Copley added: "This is about
breaking down the barriers throughout the Black Country which stop
people getting to work and playing their part in boosting the
region's economy. WorkWise gets to the people that other schemes
can't reach and shows how diverse agencies working together
can make a real change to people's lives."</p>
<p>The scheme has proved highly successful in other areas of the
West Midlands, with positive feedback from the people who have
benefited from the initiative.</p>
<p>It has boosted environmentally friendly, congestion busting
travel, with 89 per cent of people continuing to use public
transport after six months in their new job.</p>
<p>Today's launch in Dudley also means that WorkWise is now
available across the Black Country.</p>
<p>Those interested in benefiting from the scheme should contact
Leslie Howell in the WorkWise team on 07825 531 399 or email <a
href="/" title="">workwisedudley@centro.org.uk</a>Alternatively
they can make an appointment to see their Personal Adviser at their
local Jobcentre Plus office for more information.</p>
<p>To get free travel for the first three months of their new job
applicants must contact the WorkWise team before starting their new
employment.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Jobseekers in Dudley are being given an extra boost in their bid to get back to work thanks to a new scheme being launched in the borough today (June 8).
17213
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0
12
0
Footings go in
2010-06-07T00:00:00
2010-06-07T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Construction has started on the foundations of a lift tower as
part of preparatory works for a Snow Hill passenger stop.</p>
<p>The work, which is being carried out by contractor Balfour
Beatty on behalf of project partners Centro, the region's transport
authority, and Birmingham City Council, marks the start of material
operations for an extension of the Midland Metro through Birmingham
city centre.</p>
<p>Watching the concrete footings go in were Centro chief executive
Geoff Inskip and Cllr Angus Adams, Lead Member on Centro for
District Liaison and Metro Extensions.</p>
<p>Geoff said: "This work forms part of the advance works programme
as set out in the initial funding approval from Government in
March.</p>
<p>"The Metro extension has a very strong business case offering
good value for money and will also feed into future high speed rail
services which all political parties have pledged to support."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Centro chief executive Geoff Inskip (left) and Cllr Angus Adams,
Centro's lead member for District Liaison and Metro, inspect the
footings.</p>
<p>"</p>
Construction has started on the foundations of a lift tower as part of preparatory works for a Snow Hill passenger stop.
17213
GreatCharlesStreetliftwebby1.JPG
0
12
0
Park boost for passengers and nature lovers
2010-06-03T00:00:00
2010-06-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Commuters and nature lovers have been given a major boost this
week with the opening of a new £450,000 Park and Ride facility at a
key suburban rail and bus interchange.</p>
<p>A total of 55 spaces have been created at SheldonCountryPark so
that passengers using the nearby Marston Green rail and bus
interchange can park their car for free before jumping on
board.</p>
<p>The new Park and Ride has been built by transport authority
Centro in partnership with Solihull Council to ease overcrowding in
the rail station's existing 96 space car park which has proved so
popular with commuters that it is often full before the end of the
morning rush hour.</p>
<p>The new car park, which also includes softened lighting and
safety and security measures including CCTV, will also be available
free of charge to visitors to Sheldon Country Park.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Solihull councillor Alan Martin, Bickenhill Parish
councillor Linda Poulson and Centro's lead member for Rail and
Metro Operations, Cllr Tim Huxtable, open the new Park and Ride
facility at Marston Green Interchange.</strong></p>
<p>Cllr Tim Huxtable, Centro's lead member for Rail and Metro
Operations, said: "This new Park and Ride facility is a significant
boost for passengers using the Marston Green Interchange where the
existing car park can often fill up very quickly in the
morning.</p>
<p>"This is the latest in a number of Park and Ride expansions we
are carrying out in the West Midlands to meet soaring demand.</p>
<p>"We now provide more than 6,500 free parking spaces at rail and
Metro stops across the region which together help take more than
3.2 million journeys off our roads each year."</p>
<p>The new car park, whose entrance is off Elmdon Lane, was
officially opened by Cllr Huxtable, Solihull councillor Alan Martin
(Con Bickenhill) and Bickenhill Parish Councillor Linda
Poulson.</p>
<p>Cllr Martin said: "I'm very glad the car park is now open as it
should get rid of unnecessary congestion in Elmdon Lane and that's
good news for the residents living there."</p>
<p>Meanwhile Centro is continuing work on plans for more than
£370,000 of improvements to the area around Marston Green
Interchange itself.</p>
<p>Work is scheduled to start later this year on the installation
of new bus shelters and bays immediately infront of the rail
station to improve the movement of vehicles and passengers.</p>
<p>The work will also include a Ring and Ride bay, a drop off "kiss
and ride" bay, a new lay over and drop off point for buses and a
designated pedestrian crossing.</p>
<p>The interchange's CCTV system will also be upgraded along with
lighting while electronic passenger information screens will be
installed at the station and in the new bus shelters.</p>
<p>"</p>
"Commuters and nature lovers have been given a major boost this week with the opening of a new £450,000 Park and Ride facility at a key suburban rail and bus interchange."
17213
prev8(2).JPG
0
12
0
Kids' mascot provides green family fun this summer
2010-06-03T00:00:00
2010-06-03T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A fun and funky cartoon character has been created by transport
authority Centro to encourage children across the West Midlands to
use buses, trains and trams or walk and cycle during the summer
holidays.</p>
<p>Green transport mascot Theo will be touring Birmingham,
Coventry, Solihull and the Black Country during June, July and
August, at a series of entertaining and interactive Network West
Midlands summer events for families.</p>
<p>Some of the West Midlands top attractions including the National
Sea Life Centre, Dudley Zoo, Cadbury World and the Lighthouse
Cinema have also teamed up with Theo and are offering discounted
entry for people who travel by public transport.</p>
<p>All people need to do is show a valid <strong>n</strong>network
daytripper or <strong>n</strong>bus one day ticket at the front
desk with a voucher from the summer travel guide - available from
travel shops or to download at networkwestmidlands.com - to get
their special offer admission.</p>
<p>Children can meet Theo at Network West Midlands summer
events at several parks across the region, where there will be
music and sporting activities for children and pampering sessions
for parents all absolutely free!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>He will also feature on different modes of public transport
across the region.</p>
<p>Youngsters can collect a Summer Holiday Diary from the events,
travel shops and at several family attractions to record where they
see him.</p>
<p>The diaries, which can also be ordered from
networkwestmidlands.com, are filled with fun games, puzzles and
activities, and allow kids to stick in photos and souvenirs from
their holidays and trips out over the summer.</p>
<p>Children can also collect special diary stickers from
attractions and the summer events if they spot a big sticker of
Theo somewhere nearby.</p>
<p>Rinku Banerjee, Marketing Executive at Centro said: "Theo is a
friendly and funky character that children will be able to see out
and about all over the West Midlands this summer.</p>
<p>"He'll be taking part in sports activities in the region's
parks, can be spotted at our top attractions and will give children
the chance to build knowledge, experience and confidence in using
green travel modes in an entertaining and enjoyable way.</p>
<p>"We hope families will come and join Theo and the Network West
Midlands team for a series of fun and enjoyable sports days during
June, July and August."</p>
<p>The first event is taking place in CannonHillPark on Wednesday
June 2. Then, throughout the main summer holiday, there will be 13
events at different parks across the region, details of which can
be found at <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>Theo has been created to link into Centro's award winning
Letzgogreen website, where a series of similar colourful characters
feature in animated cartoon strips, games and puzzles.</p>
<p>The website has been designed to show children how to use green
travel modes, be streetwise and behave responsibly on the transport
network across the West Midlands while also linking in to the
school curriculum.</p>
<p>"</p>
"A fun and funky cartoon character has been created by transport authority Centro to encourage children across the West Midlands to use buses, trains and trams or walk and cycle during the summer holidays."
17213
DudleyZoo(2).JPG
0
12
0
Walsall school girl wins design competition for eco-friendly website
2010-05-28T00:00:00
2010-05-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A ten year old Walsall school girl has won a regional
competition to design a cartoon strip for the award winning
eco-friendly travel website <a href="/">www.letzgogreen.org</a></p>
<p>Catherine Radburn, a year 5 pupil at St Michael's C of E Primary
School, was among hundreds of youngsters to create a public
transport story for the fun and interactive congestion busting
website.</p>
<p>Transport Authority Centro selected her creative and engaging
design out of over 800 entries from across the West Midlands and
has turned it into an animated story board for the website.</p>
<p>The comic strip has now been given pride of place on the
letzgogreen.org home page.</p>
<p>The website, which was developed by Centro and Resources for
Learning two years ago, uses cartoons and interactive games linked
to the curriculum to encourage children in the West Midlands to use
green and healthy travel on their journeys.</p>
<p>There are zones for students to help build their confidence in
using public transport, walking and cycling, and teach them how to
be streetwise and travel safely.</p>
<p>Letzgogreen.org also has a free internet resource centre for
teachers in the UK with downloadable lesson plans and worksheets so
they can structure their own lessons around key curriculum topics
such as literacy and numeracy.</p>
<p>Centro launched the comic strip competition in March to
encourage Key Stage 2 students across the region to use their
creative and literacy skills to come up with a story that shows the
benefits of using green and healthy travel to their fellow
pupils.</p>
<p>Catherine was presented with her prize of a certificate, a
poster of her cartoon characters and £20 of high street vouchers at
the school's Celebration Assembly this week by Centro's Sustainable
Travel Officer Helen Osborn.</p>
<p>Her winning cartoon features a little girl called Amelia who
catches the train to Yorkshire to go on holiday with her mum.</p>
<p>While there, the pair travel around by bike and boat, giving
them the opportunity to see different wildlife and get some
valuable exercise.</p>
<p>Three other year 5 pupils, Jacob Jones, Ellie Williams and Reece
Coles, also received a special commendation at the assembly for the
quality of their entries and were awarded with goody bags and the
Head Teacher's gold star for their stories.</p>
<p>Helen said: "We were absolutely delighted by the response we had
to the competition, receiving hundreds of really excellent entries
that were full of imaginative stories about using public transport,
walking and cycling in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>"We found Catherine's design really inspiring especially her use
of different modes of travel as well as links to the environment
and health. We are sure her cartoon will help encourage other
children to use green transport for their journeys."</p>
<p>Mrs Hutchinson, head teacher at St Michael's C of E Primary
School said: "The Letzgogreen website is a really valuable resource
for our school, giving us lesson ideas and interactive activities
that show children why it's important to use public transport, walk
and cycle in an interesting, exciting and educational way.</p>
<p>"The comic book competition really engaged our students and got
them thinking about different ways in which they can get about in a
more environmentally friendly way and we're absolutely delighted
that Catherine has had her design chosen to feature on the
website."</p>
<p>To view the cartoon go to <a href="/"
title="">www.letzgogreen.org</a> and click on the "design a comic
book competition winner" box on the left hand side.</p>
<p>"</p>
A ten year old Walsall school girl has won a regional competition to design a cartoon strip for the award winning eco-friendly travel website www.letzgogreen.org
17213
1(2).JPG
0
12
0
New era for bus travel in Solihull
2010-05-28T00:00:00
2010-05-28T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People in Solihull will see a new era for bus travel in the area
from Monday June 7, when a fleet of new executive buses with
leather seats and free wifi hit the road.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro and bus company Central Connect have
teamed up to provide new state-of-the-art Signature services on the
S2 and S3 routes that link Knowle, Dorridge, Dorridge rail station
and Balsall Common to Solihull Town Centre. </p>
<p>The exclusive deal means new high quality vehicles with some of
the greenest and cleanest bus engines in Europe will operate on the
routes. </p>
<p>The new buses, which have all been painted in a striking silver
and black Signature brand, will allow passengers to travel in
luxury and style with ergonomically designed leather seats, regular
cleaning and uniformed, customer care trained drivers. </p>
<p>People on board can get free access to the internet on their
mobile phone, iPod or laptop thanks to the complementary wifi
connection installed on the buses. </p>
<p>All the buses are low floor easy access to make it easy for
people with limited mobility or pushchairs to get on
board. </p>
<p>Centro is also planning to install electronic displays at
several stops along the routes that tell passengers exactly how
many minutes until their service is due by linking into satellite
navigation technology installed on board the buses. </p>
<p>The new vehicles will start running on the routes a week on
Monday, but people can get a taster of the buses and find out
details of special offers and timetables at a special event next
week. </p>
<p>Between 9am and 3pm on Friday June 4, a new Signature bus will
be parked up in Mell Square and staff will be on hand to answer any
questions and give out information on the new services. </p>
<p>For a limited period passengers will be able to get special
price fares from £1.10 single, £1.50 return or £2.50 all day on all
Signature services. A weekly ticket will cost £6.50 and a
monthly pass just £20 as part of the offer. </p>
<p>The move comes after National Express West Midlands told Centro
that it could no longer run the S2 and S3 services due to falling
passenger numbers. </p>
<p>The transport authority then stepped in with financial backing
to find a bus company that could take over and provide the best
possible service for passengers, while also offering value for
money for the taxpayer. </p>
<p>Thanks to the new deal with Centro, Central Connect will be
starting its new high quality signature services the day after
National Express stops operating on the routes to make sure there
is no gap in service for passengers. Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead
Member for Bus Highways said: "This really is an exciting
development for bus services in the West Midlands. The
Signature services really demonstrate the kind of world class
public transport options we are looking to provide to existing and
prospective passengers. </p>
<p>"They incorporate new technology, modern environmentally
friendly vehicles, top quality information and striking yet
practical design to provide the best possible journey experience
for people on board. </p>
<p>"It is our aspiration through our Transforming Bus Travel vision
to continue working with local bus operators like Central Connect
to make sure people across the West Midlands can benefit from this
high standard of public transport." </p>
<p>The buses will operate on the same route and timetable they do
now up through Knowle, Dorridge, Hockley Heath and Balsall Common
to Solihull town centre where they will terminate. This will make
it much easier to keep the buses to time, something they have
struggled with in the past. </p>
<p>Bus company Silverline will continue to operate the evening and
Sunday service with its own vehicles. </p>
<p>North of the town, National Express West Midlands will be
providing a new 30 service between Solihull and Acocks Green via
Olton, running along the same route and timetable as the S3 down to
the town centre where it will terminate. </p>
<p>More information on the new services is available at <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
"People in Solihull will see a new era for bus travel in the area from Monday June 7, when a fleet of new executive buses with leather seats and free wifi hit the road."
17213
GeneralPics010sml(2).JPG
0
12
0
Best way to travel Bard none
2010-05-25T00:00:00
2010-05-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Day-trippers heading to historic Stratford or shopaholics
travelling in the opposite direction to Birmingham's flagship
stores are to get more Saturday train services this summer.</p>
<p>Centro, the region's transport authority, and train company
London Midland are to double the number of services running between
Birmingham Snow Hill and Stratford-upon-Avon each Saturday.</p>
<p>Starting on May 29, those heading to the world renowned Royal
Shakespeare Company or for a day out in the Bard's home town will
now get two trains an hour instead of one.</p>
<p>Meanwhile those in outlying areas coming into Birmingham for
some retail therapy can avoid the traffic jams by jumping onboard
the new services.</p>
<p>Cllr Tim Huxtable, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro
operations, said: "Birmingham and Stratford are both major
destinations and these extra trains will make it even more
convenient for people to visit them.</p>
<p>"With research showing that Saturday is now the worst day of the
week for road congestion in and around central Birmingham, these
new half hourly services mean people can avoid the jams as well as
the frustration of finding a parking space."</p>
<p>London Midland managing director, Mike Hodson, said: "This is
great news for passengers travelling between Birmingham and
Stratford-upon-Avon, especially as the summer season approaches.
Punctuality at London Midland is at its best ever levels so we're
looking forward to seeing more people on our trains." </p>
<p>Passengers getting off at Stratford-upon-Avon will be greeted by
a revamped station this summer.</p>
<p>Network Rail has just completed a £560,000 refurbishment
including a new Platform 1 canopy to protect them from the
elements.</p>
<p>London Midland is also introducing extra stops on the 0733
Longbridge to LichfieldTrentValley service, which will additionally
call at Butlers Lane and Blake Street.</p>
<p>Passengers in Barnt Green will get an extra stop on the 0759
Birmingham New Street to Great Malvern service.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Day-trippers heading to historic Stratford or shopaholics travelling in the opposite direction to Birmingham's flagship stores are to get more Saturday train services this summer.
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Bus crime drops by 19 per cent
2010-05-25T00:00:00
2010-05-25T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has plummeted
by 19 per cent over the last year, new figures from the Safer
Travel partnership reveal.</p>
<p>This means that crime on and around the region's bus network has
fallen by 54.5 per cent over the last three years and excluding
vandalism, there is now just one offence in every 126,187 bus
rides.</p>
<p>Safer Travel, which works to make bus journeys even safer for
passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour, said the
reduction showed how the team's operations and growing expertise
since its launch five years ago were proving successful. Their ever
growing intelligence database is also helping to pinpoint crime
hotspots and persistent offenders.</p>
<p>The figures from Safer Travel, a partnership between West
Midlands Police, Safer Birmingham Partnership and Centro show a
drop in bus crime last year of 32 per cent in Walsall, 28 per cent
in Dudley, 28 per cent in Wolverhampton, 20 per cent in Birmingham,
12 per cent in Sandwell and 10 per cent in Solihull.</p>
<p>Inspector Cate Webb-Jones, head of the Safer Travel Police Team,
said: ""These figures are very encouraging and show an ongoing
decline in bus crime, but we will not rest here. We will continue
to work hard to build on this success and reduce crime still
further both on board buses and at stops and shelters. This will
require us to work closely with our partners and to act on the
vital intelligence provided by bus operators and, crucially,
the travelling public.</p>
<p>"Increasing trust and confidence is one of my main objectives
and our aim is for every commuter to travel in a safe environment,
free from anti-social behaviour and crime.</p>
<p>"We rely on community intelligence and encourage members of the
public to speak with our police teams and provide them with
information about matters such as drugs misuse or criminal damage.
Members of the public can also provide us with information via
www.safertravel.info or via a text service on 07624 818332.'</p>
<p>Police Operations have involved a range of tactics including
high visibility and covert police patrols, special transmitters
which "tap" into live bus CCTV, the deployment of a specially
trained drugs sniffer dog to check passengers and the mounting of
covert surveillance at crime hot spots.</p>
<p>Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus and highways on Centro, said:
""It's good news that the investment in reducing crime and
anti-social behaviour on the buses is paying off and
congratulations are due to all.</p>
<p>""Some people may still have concerns and I would urge them not
to suffer in silence but to let the Safer Travel Team know if there
are problems on their buses.""</p>
<p>The team has also continued working with schools to raise
awareness among pupils about personal safety and the effects of
nuisance behaviour and crime.</p>
<p>Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager for National Express West
Midlands, added: ""Last year more than 18,000 schoolchildren took
part in a Safer Travel presentation which helps to prevent and
deter crime on the bus network. These new figures are testament to
the commitment of schools and colleges across the region who have
partnered with us to ensure pupils travel safely and responsibly
with fellow passengers."</p>
<p>Bus users who want to report a non-urgent offence can phone West
Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000 with information such as the
number of the bus, the location where the offence happened and the
time. In the unlikely case of an emergency people should phone 999
as usual.</p>
<p>For more information about safer Travel visit: <a href="/"
title="">www.safertravel.info</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has plummeted by 19 per cent over the last year, new figures from the Safer Travel partnership reveal."
17213
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Youngsters give thumbs up to bus travel
2010-05-19T00:00:00
2010-05-19T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A record number of children and young people from across Dudley
borough have given their views on safer bus travel.</p>
<p>Members of Dudley Youth Council (DYC) recorded a total of 998
responses from young bus passengers in a recent safer bus travel
online survey.</p>
<p>The DYC, which is supported by Dudley Council's youth service,
worked with Dudley safe & sound and Centro, the region's
transport authority, which developed and hosted the survey.</p>
<p>Mark Babington, Centro's crime reduction manager, said: "The
response is the highest that our research team has ever received
for an online survey. It is great that the young people of Dudley
are willing to be positively involved in helping us further improve
people's bus journeys.</p>
<p>"Dudley has seen an impressive 28 per cent fall in crime on its
bus network over the last year, which is a credit to both the Safer
Travel Partnership and Dudley safe & sound. </p>
<p>""We are now using the views of the young people who took part
in the survey to help make bus travel even safer for passengers and
importantly make them feel safer."</p>
<p>Responses showed that the vast majority of young people felt
safe or very safe when using the bus network in Dudley with recent
improvements including CCTV and the Safer Travel Police Team
providing significant reassurance.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Left to right Dudley youth council members, Liam Ward, Billy
Heeks, Nadia Hathaway with PCSOs Matt Quick and Kayleigh Perry.</p>
<p>Councillor Adrian Turner, cabinet member responsible for
community safety, said: "It's great to see young people getting
actively involved in projects such as this and I am pleased to see
that crime on the bus network is falling. </p>
<p>""Although the survey showed that most young people already feel
safe when travelling by bus the feedback will help further
improvements."</p>
<p>Centro sponsorship included prizes of £200 worth of cinema
tickets as well as iPod shuffles and an iPod touch and winners of
the survey competition will be announced by DYC shortly.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
A record number of children and young people from across Dudley borough have given their views on safer bus travel.
17213
DYCstourbridgebusyouthcouncil_3_small1.JPG
0
12
0
£1.6 million improvements to Chase Line stations
2010-05-18T00:00:00
2010-05-18T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Rail passengers are set to benefit from a £1.6 million package
of improvements to six West Midlands stations on the Chase
Line.</p>
<p>The joint project by transport authority Centro, rail operator
London Midland, Network Rail and Staffordshire County Council, will
provide significantly improved facilities for passengers including
new waiting shelters, seating and CCTV.</p>
<p>Other improvements for the stations at Bloxwich, Bloxwich North,
Landywood, Cannock, Hednesford andRugeleyTowninclude help points,
enhanced lighting, new ticket machines and better signage,
including electronic information boards.</p>
<p>The project is due for completion by the autumn and work has
been planned to minimise disruption for passengers.</p>
<p>Cllr Tim Huxtable, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro
operations, said: "We know from talking to passenger groups how
highly valued this railway line is.</p>
<p>"This work will give them a more comfortable and safer waiting
environment and improved travel information, making their journeys
even more pleasant and convenient."</p>
<p>London Midland services on the Chase Line operate into the heart
of Birmingham and have connecting services with the TrentValley
line which means passengers can travel on from RugeleyTrentValley
to London Euston or north to Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent and
Liverpool.</p>
<p>London Midland commercial director, Alex Hynes, said: "This
significant investment is great news for passengers using the Chase
line.</p>
<p>"Punctuality and passenger satisfaction is at its best-ever
level at London Midland so we hope to see more people leaving the
car at home and travelling on the Chase Line."</p>
<p>Jo Kaye, Network Rail route director, added: "Every station
between Stafford and Walsall on this key commuter route into
Birmingham is being upgraded and we hope that this will encourage
even more people onto the rail network."</p>
<p>The project is the first to be funded by the West Midlands Rail
Programme in conjunction with the National Station Improvement
Programme.</p>
<p> Councillor Roger Philips, co-chair of the Joint Strategy
and Investment Board, said "This is an early example of how we can
use locally managed funding from the Department for Transport to
improve facilities for passengers. </p>
<p>"I'm delighted that this first scheme will benefit one of the
areas in the West Midlands that has been badly hit by the
recession"</p>
<p>"</p>
Rail passengers are set to benefit from a £1.6 million package of improvements to six West Midlands stations on the Chase Line.
17213
0
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Bus improvements for Wolverhampton city centre
2010-05-10T00:00:00
2010-05-10T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>A number of bus services will use new routes and stops in
Wolverhampton city centre from Sunday (May 16, 2010) to provide
passengers with better access to shops and leisure facilities, the
market and the rail station.</p>
<p>Buses began using temporary stops on streets around the city
centre on Easter Sunday to make way for the redevelopment of
Wolverhampton's bus station into a £22.5m state-of-the-art
passenger facility.</p>
<p>National Express West Midlands, transport authority Centro, and
Wolverhampton City Council have listened carefully to feedback on
stopping locations in the city and how they could be improved for
passengers and local businesses.</p>
<p>As a result, a series of changes to bus routes and stops have
been planned and will come into effect from Sunday.</p>
<p>Services 501, 510, 525, 535, 543 and 682, which currently
terminate on Darlington Street, will instead travel in a loop
around the city centre, stopping at locations including Salop
Street, Cleveland Street, Market Street and Lichfield Street.</p>
<p>The new routes mean passengers will be able to get on and off
the bus closer to the markets, the shops and facilities to the east
of the city centre, the Travel Information Centre on Queen Street
and will also have a much shorter walk to the rail station.</p>
<p>Lawrence Wilson, Area Manager for National Express said: "I am
delighted to announce that services 501, 510, and 543, which
currently terminate on Darlington Street, will be extended across
the city. We are also extending services 525, 535 and 682,
which will enter the city centre via Stafford Street and call at
WolverhamptonArtGallery. These extensions take customers much
closer to the markets and shops while also providing connections to
the Midland Metro and coach services."</p>
<p>Chris Perry, Head of Transport Operations at Centro said: "We
are working closely with the local community in the city centre to
try and keep disruption to a minimum and ensure people know that
it's business as usual while Wolverhampton's new world class bus
station is being built.</p>
<p>"While the majority of new stopping locations for buses have
worked well, we have taken on board feedback from passengers and
traders about how the services that currently terminate to the west
of the centre could better serve the city.</p>
<p>"I am delighted that we have been able to address peoples'
comments by providing these new routes and stops, giving people
better access to the fantastic range of retail and leisure
facilities near to the bus station site."</p>
<p>As a result of the route extension, some other stopping
locations in the city centre will also change.</p>
<p>Information on the new routes and bus stops is detailed in a new
Wolverhampton Map & Guide which will be available at the Travel
Information Centre on Queen Street, the city information point at
the ArtGallery, the Civic Centre and local libraries from Saturday
15 May.</p>
<p>It is also available now to download from <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>Posters will also be on buses and at stops to let people know
about the changes, and staff will be available on street over the
weekend and early next week to direct passengers.</p>
<p>Chris added: "This really is an exciting time for Wolverhampton.
Work is well underway on the demolition of the old bus station, and
the new facility will provide a fantastic state of the art gateway
to the modern and vibrant city it serves.</p>
<p>"Over the next 18 months, Centro, Wolverhampton City Council and
National Express West Midlands will continue to closely monitor the
temporary stopping locations and listen to feedback to see where
further improvements can be made."</p>
<p><strong>Details of the new stopping locations:</strong></p>
<p><strong>501, 510, 543:</strong> Routes changed to
ChapelAshIsland, Salop Street, Cleveland Street, Garrick Street,
Market Street, Princess Street, Lichfield Street, Queen
Square, Darlington Street, ChapelAshIsland. Pick up and set
down locations: CQ, CF, AS, BB (501/510), BC (543), BF,
BG. No longer serving BQ (510), BH (501), BJ (543).</p>
<p><strong>525:</strong> Route changed to Bath Road, Ring Road,
Stafford Street, Lichfield Street, Queen Square, Darlington Street,
Chapel Ash. Pick up and set down locations: BA, BD, BG.
No longer serving BL.</p>
<p><strong>535, 682/A:</strong> Route changed to Waterloo Road,
Ring Road, Stafford Street, Lichfield Street, Queen Square,
Darlington Street, Waterloo Road. Pick up and set down
locations: BA(682/A only), BC (535 only), BD, BJ. 682/A no
longer serving BQ.</p>
<p><strong>512, 513, 514 and 515:</strong> 512, 513, 514 and
515: route unchanged but will no longer serve
BA. Alternative stops are ZG (514/515), ZH (512/513),
CA (512/514/515), BF (513)</p>
<p><strong>126:</strong> Route is unchanged but will no longer
serve BB. Alternative stops are ZD
and CB. </p>
<p><strong>504, 505, 506, and 507/A:</strong> Routes travel
through Waterloo Road, School Street, Salop Street, Cleveland
Street, Garrick Street, Market Street, Princess Street,
Lichfield Street, Queen Square, Victoria Street, Skinner
Street, School Street, Waterloo Road. Pick up and set down
locations BL, CS, CF, AS, AU, CT, BK. No longer serving
BC.</p>
<p>The new 908 service from Wolverhampton to Walsall via High Heath
and Bloxwich, will stop on Stafford Street, Market Street and
Bilston Street at AD, AV and AK.</p>
<p>For a copy of the stopping locations please visit: <a
href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"A number of bus services will use new routes and stops in Wolverhampton city centre from Sunday (May 16, 2010) to provide passengers with better access to shops and leisure facilities, the market and the rail station."
17213
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West Midland's schools take up Car Free Challenge
2010-04-30T00:00:00
2010-04-30T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Pupils at 33 secondary schools across the West Midlands are
pledging to go green and beat school run congestion by travelling
to lessons without using the car this fortnight.</p>
<p>HighfieldsScienceSpecialistSchool in Wolverhampton,
AshGreenSchool & ArtsCollege in Coventry, St Thomas Aquinas
Catholic School in Birmingham, HaywoodEngineeringCollege in
Stoke-on-Trent and ChristopherWhiteheadLanguageCollege in
Worcestershire are among the schools across the region taking part
in TravelWise's Car Free Challenge.</p>
<p>It is hoped that the initiative will help encourage children to
use greener, healthier and more sociable forms of travel to get to
lessons and help reduce the one billion school run car trips a year
that make up 20 per cent of rush hour congestion.</p>
<p>Each of the schools involved has taken up the challenge to
produce an innovative campaign to encourage pupils to walk, cycle
or use public transport on their way to and from school this
fortnight.</p>
<p>The West Midlands TravelWise team, the region's metropolitan and
district councils and transport authority Centro are supporting the
schools with advice and information during the campaign, which also
has backing from the Department for Health's Change for Life
initiative.</p>
<p>The school with the best initiative in its area will win £100
and the chance to win the top prize of £500 for the best campaign
in the West Midlands.</p>
<p>The ideas from that campaign will then be used to encourage
sustainable travel in all secondary schools across the region.</p>
<p>Some of the campaign ideas being used as part of the challenge
include walking and cycling groups, podcasts, video documentaries,
competitions, posters, leaflets and newsletters aimed at staff,
parents and students.</p>
<p>TravelWise representative Karen Hall said: "One fifth of cars
that travel during the morning peak are taking children to school,
often leading to significant congestion and causing over two
million tonnes of carbon emissions a year.</p>
<p>"By working with schools, students and parents through
initiatives like the Car Free Challenge we hope to be able to give
our next generation of commuters the confidence and information
they need to use environmentally friendly, healthy, congestion
busting transport not just on their way to school, but also in
their leisure time and when they are older."</p>
<p>HighfieldsScienceSpecialistSchoolhas organised its Car Free
Challenge campaign through its Eco-action Team - a group of
students and staff formed in 2008 to organise activities to help
the local, national and global environment.</p>
<p>The team has been involved in lots of events including promoting
recycling and litter removal and holding a week of Green Day events
which included raising money to buy a strip of rainforest in
Borneo.</p>
<p>For their Car Free Challenge, the school has created its own
slogan: "If it's not far, dump the car, take a hike or ride your
bike!" and aims to save 7100 car miles which is the distance from
the school to its area of rainforest in the East Indies.</p>
<p>Sixth form student Catharine Pschenyckyj, Chair of the school's
Eco Action Committee said: "Being a member of the eco action
committee has been a major highlight of my life in sixth form and a
great opportunity. It has allowed me to make a real difference
around the school, which in turn has made a difference to the
environment.</p>
<p>"For example, we have worked hard to reduce the school's energy
consumption, and therefore have reduced our carbon dioxide output.
Other activates I have been able to be involved in is raising our
profile through events such as Green Day. This event in particular
was a major success and I was proud that our huge efforts paid
off and that we made such a difference on a global scale.</p>
<p>"The best thing about being a part of the committee is that the
pupils play a major role and we are given vast opportunities to put
forward our ideas and are given the power to make a difference to
our learning environment. However, it wouldn't all be possible
without the fantastic work of numerous staff around the school.</p>
<p>"We will continue our hard work in order to achieve our overall
goal of achieving the green flag and becoming an EcoSchool. I have
really enjoyed taking part in events such as the Car Free
Challenge, and will greatly miss the whole team when I leave
school this year."</p>
<p>For more information on the Car Free Challenge and School
TravelWise, go to <a href="/"
title="">www.schooltravelwise.org.uk/carfreechallenge</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Pupils at 33 secondary schools across the West Midlands are pledging to go green and beat school run congestion by travelling to lessons without using the car this fortnight.
17213
0
12
0
Work starts on Wolverhampton's new bus station
2010-04-30T00:00:00
2010-04-30T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Construction work to redevelop Wolverhampton Bus Station into a
new £21m world class passenger facility got underway this week (w/c
26 April 2010).</p>
<p>Excavators and Munchers are currently demolishing the West
Midlands' biggest bus interchange to clear the site for the new
building work to start.</p>
<p>Construction workers from leading contractor BAM have started
pulling down the long rows of shelters that formed the old bus
station and will soon start taking up the pavement and removing the
lighting columns.</p>
<p>At the same time, the team will be setting up a site compound
and continue making trial holes around the bus station site to
detect gas, telecommunications, water and electric services.</p>
<p>Pipers Row House, formerly home to retail and business outlets
and a bus station office, will also be taken down during the two
month demolition period.</p>
<p>Project partners Wolverhampton City Council, Centro and National
Express West Midlands closed the old bus station on Easter Sunday,
with all services now picking up passengers from temporary bus
stops on city centre streets.</p>
<p>Steve Boyes, Wolverhampton City Council's Director of
Sustainable Communities said: ""The demolition of the old
bus station is a significant milestone in the
regeneration of our city. This will bring jobs, provide better
transport links and encourage more investment in Wolverhampton.</p>
<p>"Its importance cannot be underestimated, and to actually see
the development finally starting is a real confidence boost for the
city and people of Wolverhampton. It is an exciting time"".</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, said: "We are delighted
that work has started on this first class project which will not
only provide a world class facility for passengers, but will also
create a modern and iconic gateway to the city, kick-starting
regeneration and bringing more businesses, visitors, jobs and trade
to the area.</p>
<p>"We understand that the start of this fundamental project has
led to big changes for the city and would like to take this
opportunity to thank people for their patience and helpful
feedback.</p>
<p>"We will continue working closely with our partners and
residents, traders and visitors in Wolverhampton and monitor
arrangements to try to keep disruption to a minimum and help
business continue as usual during the time the bus station is
closed."</p>
<p>More information on the temporary stopping arrangements is
available at the Travel Information Centre on Queen Street, at
networkwestmidlands.com or by phoning Traveline on 0871 200 22
33.</p>
<p>It is anticipated that the new bus station will open in
approximately 18 months time.</p>
<p>"</p>
Construction work to redevelop Wolverhampton Bus Station into a new £21m world class passenger facility got underway this week (w/c 26 April 2010).
17213
demolitionsmall.jpg
0
12
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Landmark Agreement to provide top quality bus services
2010-04-23T00:00:00
2010-04-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in north Walsall are set to get top quality
environmentally friendly services with excellent standards of
punctuality and customer care thanks to the signing of a
groundbreaking document today (April 23, 2010).</p>
<p>Signalling their intent to provide better bus services in the
area, transport authority Centro, Walsall Council and four local
bus companies have all signed a voluntary agreement pledging
improvements for passengers.</p>
<p>It is the first time in the UK that several different bus
operators (Arriva Midlands, Midland, Midland Rider and National
Express West Midlands) have volunteered to work together to bring
in quality enhancements to a metropolitan area's bus network.</p>
<p>The work will build on a series of improvements to bus routes
and timetables taking place this Sunday across north Walsall,
including more evening and weekend buses, easier to understand
services and better connections between key centres.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, said: "Public transport
users want a consistent high quality service from the start to the
end of their journey including clean, modern buses and shelters,
excellent information and fast, reliable services.</p>
<p>"This agreement shows that bus operators and local authorities
in the West Midlands are committed to working together to deliver
improvements that enhance the whole journey experience for bus
users in the region and provide a quick, easy and attractive
alternative for people who presently travel by car."</p>
<p>Thanks to the agreement passengers will see a phased
introduction of new or refurbished low floor buses running along
every route in the area, with electronic displays to make it easy
for people to see which bus is approaching.</p>
<p>Drivers and other passenger facing staff will be given customer
care training to make sure passengers get a high level of service
and there will be regular cleaning and litter removal on vehicles
and at stops and shelters.</p>
<p>To improve traffic flow and help ensure buses are punctual and
reliable, highways improvements will be introduced including
traffic lights that turn green as a bus approaches, other junction
enhancements and bus priority lanes.</p>
<p>To support this, the partners have all signed up to a customer
charter so that passengers can obtain refunds if the high standards
of punctuality set out in the agreement are not met.</p>
<p>Passengers will also see improved waiting facilities with raised
kerbing to make it easier for people to get on and off their bus,
and enhanced safety and security measures throughout the journey
including extra CCTV.</p>
<p>In a greater focus on the whole journey experience, measures
will be introduced to make it easier for people to transfer between
bus and rail services, and facilities and information will be
provided to encourage walking and cycling in the area.</p>
<p>As part of the agreement any new buses must have environmentally
friendly Euro 5 engines. Information at stops will be improved with
more Real Time displays which show passengers exactly how many
minutes until their bus is due.</p>
<p>Dean Finch, Chief Executive National Express Group, said,
""Voluntary partnerships with businesses and local authorities are
the way forward to create genuine improvements for bus
users. National Express West Midlands is committed to continually
improving and this partnership will bring faster and more
efficient bus services for our customers."" </p>
<p>Bob Hind, managing director of Arriva Midlands said: ""Arriva
Midlands has welcomed the opportunity to work in
partnership with Centro and other local bus operators in
this agreement, this is the first time in the UK that several
bus operators have volunteered to work together to introduce a raft
of improvements to a bus network in a metropolitan area.""</p>
<p>""We're sure the new network being introduced will assist in
increasing the number of local bus users in the Walsall
area and further a field.""</p>
<p>"</p>
"Bus passengers in north Walsall are set to get top quality environmentally friendly services with excellent standards of punctuality and customer care thanks to the signing of a groundbreaking document today (April 23, 2010)."
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Spooks technology sends bus crime plummeting
2010-04-23T00:00:00
2010-04-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Police armed with 'Spooks'-style gadgets have cut bus crime in
half on one of Birmingham's busiest routes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Officers from the Safer Travel unit saw offences along the
Stratford Road plummet by 56 per cent in just six weeks after they
equipped themselves with futuristic surveillance equipment.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Officers are using high tech transmitters to tap into the
on-board CCTV systems of passing buses and then beaming the live
images to their nearby police car.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Using handheld TV screens, the officers can observe what is
happening on the bus and respond instantly to any incidents.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It's the first time the innovative technology has been used on
buses outside London and can be fitted to any National Express West
Midlands vehicle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Police have spent six weeks trialling the system under the
codename 'Operation Invariance.' They targeted bus routes along the
Stratford Road between February 17 and March 28 following reports
of crime and anti-social behaviour from passengers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A team of 14 police officers were involved in the operation.
Plain clothed officers tapped into bus CCTV and pictures were
beamed up to 700 yards away to unmarked police cars. If an incident
occurred police and PCSO's were on hand to immediately board the
vehicle. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Overall, crime along the Stratford Road plummeted by 56 per cent
during the six week operation, with robberies falling by 75 per
cent.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Inspector Cate Webb Jones from the Safer Travel police team
said: "Just because passengers can't see a uniformed presence
doesn't mean that West Midlands Police are not watching and ready
to respond.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We've spent six weeks trialling the kit along the Stratford
Road and the results are extremely promising. We've seen all types
of crime fall along the corridor and now plan to use the technology
on a routine basis across the whole of the West Midlands."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager for National Express, said:
"Anti social behaviour is unacceptable to us and unfair on fellow
passengers. This technology allows us to target the minority who
repeatedly cause problems on our bus network."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Half of the £8,000 cost of the equipment was funded by Centro,
the region's transport authority. Mark Babington, Centro's Crime
Reduction Manager said: "The level of crime on the region's bus
network is extremely low but a handfull of incidents can lead to an
unfounded fear of crime. This technology is another powerful weapon
in deterring and apprehending offenders."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>During the six week operation 11 people were arrested, 34 were
stopped and searched and a further 57 spoken to by officers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Police armed with 'Spooks'-style gadgets have cut bus crime in half on one of Birmingham's busiest routes.
17213
0
12
0
Landmark Agreement to provide top quality bus services
2010-04-23T00:00:00
2010-04-23T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Bus passengers in north Walsall are set to get top quality
environmentally friendly services with excellent standards of
punctuality and customer care thanks to the signing of a
groundbreaking document today (April 23, 2010).</p>
<p>Signalling their intent to provide better bus services in the
area, transport authority Centro, Walsall Council and four local
bus companies have all signed a voluntary agreement pledging
improvements for passengers.</p>
<p>It is the first time in the UK that several different bus
operators (Arriva Midlands, Midland, Midland Rider and National
Express West Midlands) have volunteered to work together to bring
in quality enhancements to a metropolitan area's bus network.</p>
<p>The work will build on a series of improvements to bus routes
and timetables taking place this Sunday across north Walsall,
including more evening and weekend buses, easier to understand
services and better connections between key centres.</p>
<p>Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, said: "Public transport
users want a consistent high quality service from the start to the
end of their journey including clean, modern buses and shelters,
excellent information and fast, reliable services.</p>
<p>"This agreement shows that bus operators and local authorities
in the West Midlands are committed to working together to deliver
improvements that enhance the whole journey experience for bus
users in the region and provide a quick, easy and attractive
alternative for people who presently travel by car."</p>
<p>Thanks to the agreement passengers will see a phased
introduction of new or refurbished low floor buses running along
every route in the area, with electronic displays to make it easy
for people to see which bus is approaching.</p>
<p>Drivers and other passenger facing staff will be given customer
care training to make sure passengers get a high level of service
and there will be regular cleaning and litter removal on vehicles
and at stops and shelters.</p>
<p>To improve traffic flow and help ensure buses are punctual and
reliable, highways improvements will be introduced including
traffic lights that turn green as a bus approaches, other junction
enhancements and bus priority lanes.</p>
<p>To support this, the partners have all signed up to a customer
charter so that passengers can obtain refunds if the high standards
of punctuality set out in the agreement are not met.</p>
<p>Passengers will also see improved waiting facilities with raised
kerbing to make it easier for people to get on and off their bus,
and enhanced safety and security measures throughout the journey
including extra CCTV.</p>
<p>In a greater focus on the whole journey experience, measures
will be introduced to make it easier for people to transfer between
bus and rail services, and facilities and information will be
provided to encourage walking and cycling in the area.</p>
<p>As part of the agreement any new buses must have environmentally
friendly Euro 5 engines. Information at stops will be improved with
more Real Time displays which show passengers exactly how many
minutes until their bus is due.</p>
<p>Dean Finch, Chief Executive National Express Group, said,
""Voluntary partnerships with businesses and local authorities are
the way forward to create genuine improvements for bus
users. National Express West Midlands is committed to continually
improving and this partnership will bring faster and more
efficient bus services for our customers."" </p>
<p>Bob Hind, managing director of Arriva Midlands said: ""Arriva
Midlands has welcomed the opportunity to work in
partnership with Centro and other local bus operators in
this agreement, this is the first time in the UK that several
bus operators have volunteered to work together to introduce a raft
of improvements to a bus network in a metropolitan area.""</p>
<p>""We're sure the new network being introduced will assist in
increasing the number of local bus users in the Walsall
area and further a field.""</p>
<p>"</p>
"Bus passengers in north Walsall are set to get top quality environmentally friendly services with excellent standards of punctuality and customer care thanks to the signing of a groundbreaking document today (April 23, 2010)."
17213
0
12
0
Companies urged to travel wise to tackle climate change
2010-04-16T00:00:00
2010-04-16T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Companies and organisations across the West Midlands region are
attending a special event in Birmingham next week in a bid to
tackle climate change and congestion.</p>
<p>Sustainabilitylive!, a three day event taking place at the
National Exhibition Centre from Tuesday (20 April), will be home to
a series of exhibitions, events and seminars to help local and
national organisations be more environmentally friendly.</p>
<p>A major part of the exhibition will be dedicated to showing
companies how they can change their travel habits to save money,
reduce delays, lower their carbon footprint and create a healthier
workforce.</p>
<p>Representatives from the region's metropolitan, city and
district councils and transport authority Centro, will be on hand
at a dedicated TravelWise stand to show organisations how to
develop and deliver a Travel Plan to fit it into their wider
business strategy.</p>
<p>Companies will be able to see how to make business journeys and
staff travel quicker, healthier and more efficient by providing
journey plans and raising awareness of the region's public
transport, walking, cycling and car sharing options</p>
<p>TravelWise representative Gill Hunt said: "At the moment,
more than 30 per cent of weekday traffic is caused by commuters
travelling to and from work. Together with unnecessary business
traffic this causes significant delays which cost the regional
economy more than £2.2bn every year.</p>
<p>"Often companies and staff don't realise how easy it is to
travel by other, more environmentally friendly modes. By attending
Sustainabilitylive! we hope to encourage a step change in the way
businesses and their staff get around the region by showing all the
options that are available and offering advice and journey
plans."</p>
<p>It is hoped that the event will help to reduce congestion across
the West Midlands for essential road users, helping businesses to
operate more efficiently, contributing to better air quality and
health.</p>
<p>Reducing congestion and improving traffic flow will also help to
make bus travel more reliable and attractive, and create a nicer
environment for walkers and cyclists.</p>
<p>There will also be a series of seminars on environmentally
friendly transport options including one by Heather McInroy from
the National Business Travel Network on Greener Business Travel on
Tuesday (20 April).</p>
<p>The team will be at the West Midlands TravelWise stand AWM23 in
the Environmental Technology section.</p>
<p>The TravelWise team already works with a large number of
businesses across the region to organise company Travel Plans and
public transport passes for staff. More information is available at
<a href="/">www.travelwisewestmids.org.uk</a></p>
<p>For more information on Sustainabilitylive! people can go to <a
href="/">www.sustainabilitylive.com</a></p>
<p>"</p>
Companies and organisations across the West Midlands region are attending a special event in Birmingham next week in a bid to tackle climate change and congestion.
17213
0
12
0
End of season rallying cry for Saddlers fans
2010-04-15T00:00:00
2010-04-15T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>Saddlers fans are being urged to get behind their team and the
environment for the final two home games of the season.</p>
<p>Three special match day bus services are being laid on to give
supporters living in the outer areas of north Walsall a direct link
to the Banks's Stadium for the games against Hartlepool United on
Saturday April 24 and MK Dons on Saturday May 8.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, bus company Midland and Walsall
Football Club have teamed up to fund and run the Saddlers Specials
so fans can get to and from home matches quickly, easily and
cheaply with tickets costing just £1.70 single or £3 return.</p>
<p>The buses are being run on a trial basis and have already
operated for the games against Colchester United, Wycombe Wanderers
and Tranmere Rovers. If they prove popular enough then Midland will
keep running them next season.</p>
<p>Centro's director of passenger services, Stephen Rhodes, said:
"People from north Walsall didn't have a direct transport link to
the stadium before these services were introduced. With just two
home games left we are urging as many fans as possible to take
advantage of these easy and affordable services.</p>
<p>"If enough people get on board then the Saddlers Specials can
become a permanent and environmentally-friendly fixture for next
season."</p>
<p>Mr Shaz Ali, Director of Operations at Midland added: "We have
been very encouraged by the growing number of passengers but would
love to see even more people discover the benefits of these bus
services for themselves.</p>
<p>"Fans already using them have found them an extremely reliable
way of getting to the stadium and very good value for money."</p>
<p>The services cover areas including Bloxwich, Mossley, Lower
Farm, Walsall Wood, Brownhills, Pelsall, Rushall, Coalpool, Shire
Oak, Blakenall, Dudley's Fields and Beechdale.</p>
<p>The buses serve every stop on three carefully designed routes,
dropping off fans in the Banks's Stadium car park at around 2pm so
they have plenty of time to grab some refreshments and soak up the
pre-match atmosphere. Return services depart from the same point at
5.05pm.</p>
<p>More information including timetables and route details are
available at networkwestmidalnds.com/saddlersspecials and leaflets
are available on Midland buses, at the Banks's Stadium and at the
travel shop at Walsall Bus Station.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>"</p>
Saddlers fans are being urged to get behind their team and the environment for the final two home games of the season.
17213
0
12
0
New bus services for North Walsall
2010-04-14T00:00:00
2010-04-14T00:00:00
<p>"</p>
<p>People living in several parts of North Walsall will get new bus
services from 25 April as part of a review of transport links in
the area.</p>
<p>Transport authority Centro, Walsall Council and local bus
operators asked residents, councillors and businesses for their
views back in January on how to improve bus services in the area as
part of the North Walsall bus network review.</p>
<p>The partners have used people's feedback to offer an improved
network of services in the area which take people where they want
to go when they want to go.</p>
<p>New services and improvements include:</p>
<ul>
<li>A new hourly daytime bus service 25 operated by bus company
Midland for the Forest Estate and Goscote Lane</li>
<li>New daytime links for the High Heath area to Pelsall and
Bloxwich and a brand new Saturday service to Aldridge.</li>
<li>New links from High Heath, Pelsall, Pelsall Wood, Shellfield
and Little Bloxwich to Wolverhampton and New Cross Hospital on the
908 daytimes, evenings and Sundays.</li>
<li>A new evening and Sunday service every 20 minutes and a new
Sunday evening service every half an hour for the 302 (Lower Farm
to Walsall via Bloxwich and Lichfield Road) which currently only
has a Monday to Saturday daytime service</li>
<li>The replacement of the 373 and 361 around Lower Farm in the
evenings and Sundays by the 302 to provide a higher frequency for
the area. It also means Lower Farm gets the same, more direct
service all day every day, making it easier for passengers.</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition, Centro has worked with local bus operators Midland
and National Express West Midlands to address some concerns raised
by residents in the Barns Lane area of the borough after details of
the changes were revealed.</p>
<p>The new bus network will see the 997 service replace the 355
service through Daw End, providing better links to Birmingham, a
more regular daytime service and a new evening and Sunday service
for people living in the area.</p>
<p>The new 35 service, operated by Midland, will provide a
replacement service to the 997 along Barns Lane, Westgate, Wharf
Approach and Leighfield Road, running every 30 minutes during the
day and hourly on Sunday between Walsall, Aldridge and Druids
Heath.</p>
<p>Following feedback from residents, National Express West
Midlands will be providing new commuter journeys from Barns Lane to
Birmingham on the 935A.</p>
<p>In the morning, these will depart from Barns Lane 7:15am and
7:45am and arrive on Birmingham High Street at 8:18am and
8:48am.</p>
<p>Return journeys will depart from Birmingham High Street at
5:42pm and 6:12pm, arriving at Barns Lane at 6:36pm and 7:06pm
respectively.</p>
<p>Midland will also be providing a new early morning journey on
the 35 which will leave Walsall Bus Station at 6:20am and serve the
Redhouse Industrial Estate.</p>
<p>Several other improvements and changes to bus services are also
taking place across the area including new bus numbers for services
that use the same corridors to make them easier to understand and
recognise for passengers.</p>
<p>People can find out more details about the changes and access
timetables at <a href="/">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a>
or by attending one of a series of exhibitions taking place over
the next two weeks.</p>
<p>These will take place as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>Friday 16 April, 10am - 3pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition
Bus, Park Road end of Bloxwich High Street</li>
<li>Saturday 17 April, 10am - 3pm, Community Hall, Streetly Youth
Club and Sports Hall, Foley Road East</li>
<li>Thursday 22 April, 1pm - 6pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition
Bus, Tesco Car Park, Silver Street, Brownhills</li>
<li>Saturday 24 April, 10am - 3pm, Network West Midlands Marquee,
The Crossing by Walsall Bus Station, WalsallTown Centre</li>
</ul>
<p>"</p>
People living in several parts of North Walsall will get new bus services from 25 April as part of a review of transport links in the area.
17213
0
12
0
Improvements set to start on major Black Country bus route
2010-04-09T00:00:00
2010-04-09T00:00:00
9369
<p>"</p>
<p>Work is set to start on improvements to a major Black Country
bus route which will provide better facilities and faster services
for bus passengers, enhanced traffic flow for motorists and a nicer
urban environment for people living in and visiting the area.</p>
<p>Sandwell Council, Dudley Council, transport authority Centro and
bus operator National Express West Midlands are working together on
the £8.5m Smart Route scheme to enhance the A457 corridor.</p>
<p>The work, due to start at the end of the month, will cover the
10km Sandwell and Dudley sections of the road which serves several
bus routes including the 87 which runs from Birmingham to Dudley
via Smethwick.</p>
<p>The improvements, which have been developed using responses from
an extensive public consultation, include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Over 50 bus shelters replaced with new waiting facilities,
including seating, timetables and lighting where possible</li>
<li>Eight new bus shelters and one stop pole in new locations</li>
<li>Ten new pedestrian crossings linking bus stops and four
upgraded crossings</li>
<li>Upgraded traffic lights that work more efficiently and turn
green as a bus approaches</li>
<li>Raised kerbs at stops to make it easier for people to get on
and off the bus</li>
<li>Better information at stops</li>
<li>New parking facilities and restrictions to keep the road clear
to improve traffic flow</li>
<li>Part-time 20mph speed limit by TiptonGreenJuniorSchool</li>
<li>Various highways improvements including bus priority measures
and Red Routes to improve traffic flow</li>
<li>Junction improvements to improve traffic flow and safety</li>
</ul>
<p>The work is being done as a Smart Route scheme which means all
aspects of the work are done to complement each other and minimise
disruption to residents and road users while they are
implemented.</p>
<p>Andy Middleton, head of bus and highway projects at Centro said:
"The aim of this project is to improve the whole journey experience
for people using the A457 particularly bus passengers by providing
better waiting facilities, faster and more reliable buses, easier
to use services and better pedestrian access to bus stops.</p>
<p>"We hope that these enhancements for bus users will help to
encourage more people living near the road to use the bus instead
of their car, which in turn will work hand in hand with the
highways improvements to improve traffic flow along the road."</p>
<p>The work will also improve the environment along the route for
residents, making the area a nicer place to live, work and
visit.</p>
<p>It is anticipated that work on the project will be completed in
spring 2011. For more information about the scheme people can go to
<a href="/">www.A457Route87.co.uk</a></p>
<p>"</p>
"Work is set to start on improvements to a major Black Country bus route which will provide better facilities and faster services for bus passengers, enhanced traffic flow for motorists and a nicer urban environment for people living in and visiting the area."
19802
0
12
0
Free cycling events for south Birmingham rail users
2010-04-07T00:00:00
2010-04-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail users in south <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> are being encouraged to travel to Kings Norton station on two wheels instead of four at a series of special cycling events taking place on Thursday (08 April 2010).</p> <p >Transport Authority Centro and Birmingham cycle campaigners Push Bikes UK, have teamed up to offer people travelling by rail in the Kings Norton and Cotteridge area free cycling accessories and advice, and the chance to win a GT Hybrid Bike.</p> <p >During the morning peak, staff will be at Kings Norton station to hand out leaflets to commuters, offering information on cycle training, puncture repairs and bike maintenance, cycling journey plans, maps, local bike shops and cycling events.</p> <p >In the evening peak, between 4pm and 6:30pm, people returning to the station will be able to hand in their completed forms to staff highlighting what information they would like and will receive a free water bottle.</p> <p >The first five cyclists to hand in their form will receive a top of the range Kryptonite lock for their bike.</p> <p >Everyone who fills in a leaflet will be entered into a free prize draw for the chance to win a state-of-the-art GT Hybrid Bike or £50 of Evans Cycles vouchers. People can also give their details at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/stationtravelplan"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/stationtravelplan</a></p> <p >Additionally, on Thursday between 10am and 2pm, Push Bikes UK will be holding a free family cycling event and bike ride at Hawkesely Community Centre.</p> <p >The session includes free advice and minor repairs to bikes, information on buying the right bike for your needs and road safety skills, police anti-theft tagging, free fruit drinks on the Smoothie Bike and a Trikeybike which plays music as you pedal.</p> <p >The guided bike ride will take families along the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Rea</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Valley</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> walking and cycling route and then connect with Kings Norton station.</p> <p >The events are part of the Kings Norton station Travel Plan initiative - part of a national scheme to encourage people to make green, healthy, congestion busting travel choices on their journey to the station.</p> <p >The pilot scheme is being run over three years to put better facilities and information in place at the station to enable customers to access rail travel more easily and be less reliant on driving. </p> <p >Helen Osborn, sustainable travel officer at Centro said: "We are trying to make it as easy as possible for people to use environmentally friendly, healthy, congestion busting modes of transport to get to their local rail station.</p> <p >"We hope that by holding free cycling events and offering free information and advice, more people will make the decision to leave their car at home and beat the queues by choosing to cycle, walk, or hop on the bus instead."</p>"
Rail users in south Birmingham are being encouraged to travel to Kings Norton station on two wheels instead of four at a series of special cycling events taking place on Thursday (08 April 2010).
9369
0
12
0
Improved bus network for North Walsall
2010-03-31T00:00:00
2010-03-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> are to benefit from an improved bus network which will provide better links between communities, more evening and Sunday services and more connections to local centres and hospitals.</p> <p >Using comments and feedback from the public and local stakeholders, transport authority Centro, local bus operators and Walsall Council have worked together to finalise a series of changes to improve the area's bus services.</p> <p >They will build on <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place>'s already extensive transport network, making sure bus services are easier to understand and take people where they want to go, when they want to go.</p> <p >The changes, which come into effect on April 25, follow Centro's Transforming Bus Travel strategy which aims to provide people across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a more attractive network of high quality bus services.</p> <p >Improvements include:</p> <p > </p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Easier to understand service numbers on key bus corridors</li> <li >New day time bus service for <st1:Street ><st1:address >Goscote Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chestnut Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hawbush Road</st1:address></st1:Street></li> <li >More regular buses from <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> to Blakenall, Bloxwich, Pelsall, High Heath and Aldridge</li> <li >A new service linking Bloxwich and Pelsall with Aldridge</li> <li >New links to Wolverhampton and New Cross Hospital for High Heath, Pelsall, Pelsall Wood, Shellfield and Little Bloxwich</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Better evening and Sunday services for Lower Farm</li> <li>More regular daytime buses, a new evening and Sunday service and a new link to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> for Daw End</li> <li>More regular bus services between Burntwood, Brownhills and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place></li> </ul> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Head of Operational Services at Centro, said: "Together with our partners we have taken on board peoples' comments and used them to create a more modern bus network for the <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> area.</p> <p >"This includes providing more evening and Sunday services to reflect 21<sup>st</sup> Century shopping and working hours, better links between communities and simplified route numbers to make services between key centres more recognisable for passengers.</p> <p >"We understand that these changes will take some time to get used to but, given a few weeks, we believe people living in the area will feel the full benefits of their new bus network and the better links and services it will provide."</p> <p >The changes were finalised using feedback from a public consultation in January as well as comments from schools, community groups, local councillors and other stakeholders.</p> <p >To make sure people are aware of the new network, Centro is sending nearly 100,000 leaflets detailing the bus service changes to every household in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place>. The details are also available online at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p> <p >A series of exhibitions will also be held across <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> in the coming weeks where members of staff will be on hand to provide timetables and answer any questions from the public.</p> <p >These will take place as follows:</p> <p > </p> <ul> <li>Friday 16 April, 10am – 3pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Park Road</st1:address></st1:Street> end of Bloxwich High Street</li> <li>Saturday 17 April, 10am – 3pm, Community Hall, Streetly Youth Club and Sports Hall, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foley Road East</st1:address></st1:Street></li> <li>Thursday 22 April, 1pm – 6pm, Network West <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> Exhibition Bus, Tesco Car Park, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Silver Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, Brownhills</li> <li>Saturday 24 April, 10am – 3pm, Network West Midlands Marquee, The Crossing by Walsall Bus Station, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Walsall</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Town</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> Centre</li> </ul> <p >In what will be one of <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region>'s first Voluntary Multi-lateral Agreements, the new network will be signed up to by bus operators Arriva Midlands, <st1:City ><st1:place >Midland</st1:place></st1:City>, Midland Rider and National Express West Midlands which run the majority of services in the area.</p> <p >Each will commit to providing quality improvements including new or refurbished vehicles and improved customer services for passengers.</p> <p >Centro and Walsall Council will also pledge to put in place better facilities for bus users including new or upgraded shelters, better information and bus friendly highway improvements.</p> <p >Research shows that where bus networks have been simplified and improved in other parts of the country it has attracted significantly more people out of their cars and onto the buses, helping to cut congestion and carbon emissions.</p>"
"People in North Walsall are to benefit from an improved bus network which will provide better links between communities, more evening and Sunday services and more connections to local centres and hospitals."
9369
0
12
0
Revamped station to reopen for rail users this weekend
2010-03-26T00:00:00
2010-03-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail passengers in Tipton will be able to catch their train from the town's newly refurbished rail station from this Sunday (28 March 2010), a month ahead of schedule.</p> <p >The station closed in September 2009 while the £2.5m renovation project was undertaken by J Murphy & Sons Ltd on behalf of Network Rail, London Midland and transport authority Centro.</p> <p >It was due to reopen at the end of April, but the project team managed to complete the work early.</p> <p >Passengers using the station will now be able to wait for their train on new platforms which have been created to make it easier for people to get on and off their train by reducing the gap between the train and the platform edge.</p> <p >There are also new access ramps to the subway and station and anti-slip tactile paving on the platform edge making it easier for all passengers, including those with limited mobility or who are blind or partially sighted, to access their local rail services.</p> <p >Furthermore the station, which serves trains on the Wolverhampton, <st1:address ><st1:Street >Birmingham New Street</st1:Street>, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:address> International and <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> line, has a new glass and steel waiting shelter on the <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> bound platform.</p> <p >Centro has worked closely with the project team to provide a larger 71 space Park & Ride car park for rail users, as the land from the old car park was required for the new bypass road.</p> <p >The facility has been created to meet the strict criteria of the Park Mark Safer Parking Award, providing CCTV, a public address system and Help Points for users. The walking route from the station to the car park has also been improved.</p> <p >It has been estimated that the car park will take over 35,000 car journeys off the region's roads every year.</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, Lead Member for Rail & Rapid Transit Operations at Centro said: "It is excellent news that the refurbishment of Tipton rail station has been completed ahead of schedule for rail passengers visiting and living in the town.</p> <p >"The work will really help to provide access to rail services in the area by providing better facilities for people with limited mobility and by offering a larger free and secure Park & Ride facility to encourage people to travel into our main town and city centres by train."</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Sandwell at Centro added: "The work that has been completed to improve Tipton rail station will play an important role in making rail travel more attractive and easier to use for people in the area.</p> <p >"It will also create a much more pleasant first impression for people coming into the town, helping to put Tipton on the map as a place for people across the region to visit to do their shopping or access the local leisure facilities including the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Black Country</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Living</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Museum</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>."</p> <p >Centro provides more than 6,400 free Park & Ride spaces at the majority of rail stations across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>. These are estimated to take more than 3.2 million car journeys off the region's roads every year.</p>"
"Rail passengers in Tipton will be able to catch their train from the town's newly refurbished rail station from this Sunday (28 March 2010), a month ahead of schedule."
9369
0
12
0
"Rea of light shows way for walkers, cyclists and bus users"
2010-03-26T00:00:00
2010-03-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People using a major walking and cycling route in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> can now find their way along the path at night thanks to the installation of more than three hundred environmentally friendly solar light studs.</p> <p >Birmingham City Council and transport authority Centro have worked in partnership to place lines of high-tech coloured lights into the ground along the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Rea Valley Millennium Route</st1:address></st1:Street> to guide pedestrians, public transport users and cyclists from dusk until dawn.</p> <p >The pilot scheme covers the section of the path between <st1:Street ><st1:address >Fordhouse Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> in Stirchley and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Dogpool Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> in Ten Acres, providing a traffic-free alternative to the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Pershore Road</st1:address></st1:Street> through Stirchley.</p> <p >The route, along the River Rea, forms part of National Cycle Network Route 5 which links <st1:PlaceName >Rubery</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Great</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType> to the city centre and continues all the way to Holyhead in <st1:place >Anglesey</st1:place> .</p> <p >The section of the path with solar studs provides an important direct link to major bus services including the 76, 27 and the outer circle route 11, and to shops, schools and employment opportunities.</p> <p >Additionally, the route offers an environmentally friendly way for families to access the new Green Bus school services to Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Technology and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Bournville</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Sixth Form Centre launched by Centro and The Green Bus in January.</p> <p >The solar lighting studs are bike, wheelchair and mobility scooter friendly as they are flush to the ground. They have been installed 10m apart and allow people to see the course of the path for some way ahead.</p> <p >If the trial is successful, more walkers and cyclists across <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> could benefit from having the high-tech solar studs installed on routes near to them.</p> <p >Councillor Tim Huxtable, lead member for <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> at Centro said: "This solar lighting along the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Rea Valley Millennium Route</st1:address></st1:Street> will provide major benefits to local residents, a third of which have no car and rely on local walking and cycling routes to connect to bus and rail services.</p> <p >"Not only will this project make it much more pleasant to walk and cycle along the <st1:PlaceName >Rea</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Valley</st1:PlaceType> after dark, it will also make users feel safer and improve access to Stirchley Local Centre, <st1:PlaceName >Stirchley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Community</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType>, Reameadow Childrens' Centre, Hazelwell Trading Estate and the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Hazelwell</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> play area.</p> <p >"In turn this will give people in the area better access to jobs both locally and further a field, and help encourage public transport use. It really is a great scheme, and I hope the trial is successful so more people across the city can benefit on routes near them."</p> <p >Cllr Len Gregory, Cabinet Member for Transportation and Street Services added: ""This route will be a great feature for residents and highlights how, alongside large scale projects such as New Street Station, High Speed Rail and the Airport extension, we are also looking to improve very local transport links on the doorstep of individual residents.""  </p> <p >The solar studs work by taking energy from the sun during the day and storing it in a battery. During a sunny day, the studs can reach full charge in four hours, enough to provide 10 days of lighting which is enhanced by special reflectors in the light.</p>"
People using a major walking and cycling route in Birmingham can now find their way along the path at night thanks to the installation of more than three hundred environmentally friendly solar light studs.
9369
ReaValleyweb.JPG
0
12
0
Have your say on Solihull public transport
2010-03-26T00:00:00
2010-03-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> can find out more about their local public transport network and have their say about the area's bus services at two events this Tuesday (March 30).</p> <p >The first, ""Your Bus Matters"", will take place aboard a National Express West Midlands bus parked outside Marks and Spencers in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Mell Square</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, between 10pm and 3pm.</p> <p >Senior managers from National Express West Midlands, Centro, Bus Users UK and the Safer Travel Police Team will be on hand to talk about local bus services and answer questions.</p> <p >The second event, the Transport Users Forum, will start at 6pm in the Civic Centre offering passengers the chance to discuss both bus and rail issues with transport chiefs.</p> <p >The Forum will also feature a presentation by bus operator Central Connect about the new <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> services it will be launching on Monday   June 7.</p> <p >These will involve running state-of-the-art buses with free wi-fi and leather seats on the S2 and S3 routes south of the town centre.</p> <p >No appointment to attend the Forum is necessary.</p> <p> </p>"
People in Solihull can find out more about their local public transport network and have their say about the area's bus services at two events this Tuesday (March 30).
9369
0
12
0
Specially designed bus shelters are just the ticket for Wolverhampton passengers
2010-03-25T00:00:00
2010-03-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> will be able to wait for their bus in comfort during the redevelopment of the city's bus station thanks to the creation of unique, specially designed shelters being installed this week.</p> <p ><st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>'s existing bus station is closing at the end of service on Saturday 03 April to make way for the building of the new state-of-the-art passenger facility which forms the £21m Phase One of the city's Interchange scheme.</p> <p >During the construction period, transport authority Centro, Wolverhampton Council and the local bus operators have arranged for the services that usually use the bus station to pick up and drop off passengers at temporary stops on streets around the city centre.</p> <p >However, due to telecommunications, gas, electric and water services running very close to the pavement, it was deemed impossible to install normal bus shelters on Tower Street, Pipers Row, Stafford Street, Darlington Street and Queen Street without the foundations disrupting the utilities.</p> <p >Rather than just providing stop poles at the temporary locations, Centro approached its bus shelter provider to come up with a unique new bus shelter solution that takes away the need to set the waiting facilities into the floor.</p> <p >The design will provide shelters with concrete foundations above the ground and the glass surround sat on top. Seating and information will also be provided for passengers while they wait for their bus.</p> <p >Cllr Neville Patten, Leader of Wolverhampton City Council said: "Starting work on the development of our new world class bus station marks an exciting time for Wolverhampton and an important milestone in our plans to provide a more attractive and vibrant city centre.</p> <p >"We are working hard to bring in measures to keep disruption to a minimum and make it as easy as possible for people to travel around the city centre while construction work takes place. The development of these new shelters is a sign of our commitment to do that."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "It is vital that we provide people with the best possible solution for temporary facilities especially as they will be in use for over 15 months. We want to make sure it's business as usual in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> as far as possible while the city's new bus station is created."</p> <p >Cllr Judith Rowley, Lead Member for <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> on Centro added: "I'm delighted that we have been able to develop a bus shelter design which will make it easier, more comfortable and more accessible for people of all ages and mobility to use buses in the city centre by providing suitable shelter, seating and information for passengers."</p> <p >People wanting more information on where to catch their bus in the city centre can pick up a special Wolverhampton Map & Guide which provides details of where all services will stop while the bus station is closed for redevelopment.</p> <p >It is available to pick up libraries, the Travel Shop at the bus station and the visitor information centre in the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Art</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Gallery</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>, and can also be viewed online at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidladns.com/wovlerhampton"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidladns.com/wovlerhampton"">www.networkwestmidladns.com/wovlerhampton</a></p> <p >The Travel Shop, where people can also buy bus and coach tickets, will relocate to <st1:Street ><st1:address >22 Queen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> when the bus station closes.</p> <p >There will also be a series of exhibitions in the city centre starting on 27 March, where people can go along and get details of bus stopping locations, pick up and Map & Guide and ask questions to staff.</p> <p >Customer service staff will also be on hand at key locations around the city centre while the existing bus station s closed to assist passengers on where to board their bus.</p> <p >Preparatory work on the interchange scheme started in mid-November and it is hoped that the new bus station will be open for business during 2011 after a 15 month construction period.</p>"
"People in Wolverhampton will be able to wait for their bus in comfort during the redevelopment of the city's bus station thanks to the creation of unique, specially designed shelters being installed this week."
9369
Shelter1web.JPG
0
12
0
Striking state-of-the-art buses to revolutionise Solihull travel
2010-03-19T00:00:00
2010-03-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in the Knowle, Dorridge and Balsall Common areas of Solihull are to get state-of-the-art buses with free wi-fi and leather seats thanks to a deal to enhance bus services in the area.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has teamed up with bus company Central Connect to improve the S2 and S3 services south of the town with elite vehicles painted in a striking new black and silver "Signature" brand.</p> <p >The services will offer free wi-fi on board allowing people to connect to the internet for free on their laptops and mobile phones and all buses will be low floor allowing easy access for people with wheelchairs, pushchairs and shopping trolleys.</p> <p >Friendly uniformed drivers will work on the route, all being customer care trained to ensure they provide a top quality service for passengers.</p> <p >Regular users will be able to sign up for free text alerts, join bespoke Facebook and Twitter groups and will be entitled to a loyalty card giving them the opportunity to win a selection of prizes.</p> <p >The move comes after bus company National Express West Midlands told Centro that it could not run the services any more due to low passenger numbers.</p> <p >The transport authority then stepped in with financial backing and spoke to all the bus companies in the area to see who could provide the best services for local passengers, while also offering value for money for the taxpayer.</p> <p >Central Connect will start running the S2 and S3 with the new buses from Monday 07 June 2010, straight after National Express West Midlands comes off the routes so there will be no gap in service for passengers.</p> <p >The buses will follow the same route and timetable they do now up to <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> town centre where they will terminate. This will make it much easier to keep the buses to time, something they have previously struggled with due to traffic north of the town.</p> <p >Centro and Central Connect are also investigating the possibility of providing Real Time Information on the services so passengers can find out exactly when the bus will arrive, and the bus company can track the buses to make sure they stick to the timetable.</p> <p >North of the town, National Express West Midlands will be providing a new number 30 service between Solihull and Acocks Green via Olton, running along the same route and timetable as the S3 down to the town centre where it will terminate.</p> <p >Centro is currently speaking with local operators to replace the S2 between <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> town centre and Olton.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, head of operational services at Centro said: "I'm delighted that, thanks to Central Connect, we have not only been able to keep these services running for passengers, but are also providing local residents with a much more attractive public transport service which provides a real alternative to the car.</p> <p >"These new buses really will lead the way in top quality bus travel, not just in Solihull but in the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> by using the latest in technology, comfort and information to provide a great service for all passengers."</p> <p >Central Connect will be providing a presentation on the new services at the Solihull Transport Users Forum meeting on Tuesday 30 March  - this meeting is held in the Civic Centre and will commence at 6pm. It's open to all, so passengers and prospective users can go along and hear about the new services and ask any questions they may have.</p>"
"People living in the Knowle, Dorridge and Balsall Common areas of Solihull are to get state-of-the-art buses with free wi-fi and leather seats thanks to a deal to enhance bus services in the area."
9369
0
12
0
Government approval for trams through Birmingham city centre
2010-03-19T00:00:00
2010-03-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Exciting plans to run 21<sup>st</sup> century trams through the streets of Birmingham city centre took an important step forward today after being given initial funding approval by the Government.</p> <p >The announcement shows the Department for Transport's commitment for the £127.1 million scheme which will see Midland Metro trams exit Snow Hill Station and glide through the heart of the shopping district before terminating outside a rebuilt and futuristic New Street Station.</p> <p >The joint project by Centro, the region's transport authority, <st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >City</st1:PlaceType> and the Black Country councils, will revolutionise the way people travel around the city giving a fast link between <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s two major rail stations.</p> <p >It will also provide a much needed quick and easy connection from <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> to the emerging business district at Snow Hill, the unique and historic Jewellery Quarter and out into the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> on the existing Midland Metro line.</p> <p >In welcoming today's announcement, <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro said:</p> <p >"This announcement is good news for people living in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> as it shows the Government's support for the project and their backing of the business case which is an important first part of the approval process.</p> <p >"We're very keen to start work so we can bring the massive benefits of Midland Metro tram system through the city to residents and visitors to the West Midlands - transforming public transport in Birmingham and helping to create an even more attractive, modern and vibrant environment in the city centre.</p> <p >"We will continue our close working with the Department for Transport so we can finalise the funding. We look forward to the Government's support to achieve this in the very near future."</p> <p >The extension will play a key role in linking <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre's main stations including the new High Speed rail station announced by the Government last week, making it much easier for people to access all rail services.</p> <p >The extension is forecast to boost the regional economy by £50 million a year and create up to 1,300 sustainable new jobs.</p> <p >Additionally, the project is set to see a fleet of cutting edge trams, replacing those presently running on the line between Snow Hill and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>, the construction of a new maintenance depot at Wednesbury and platform lengthening at existing Metro stops.</p> <p >The new trams will bring major benefits to Metro in the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place>, increasing passenger capacity and frequency of service.</p> <p >The announcement is an important step forward in the plan to transform public transport in the city centre and propel <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> towards its goal of becoming a global city. One of the other key elements, the £600 million Gateway redevelopment of New Street Station, was given the go-ahead last year.</p> <p >Cllr Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council said: "Metro is the just the latest piece in the jigsaw which when complete will see the total overhaul of how transportation works in Birmingham, making the city easier to navigate and more appealing to everyone who lives, works or plays in it.<br /> <br /> "Operating alongside the £600m New Street Gateway, the airport extension, High Speed Rail, our £2.7bn highways Pfi, and improvements to bus services and secondary rail services, Metro will play a key role in making the city more accessible to residents and even more attractive to the global investors that are already noticing <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s potential."</p> <p >The trams will follow a route from the existing Metro terminus at Snow Hill, along a £9 million viaduct already built by developer Ballymore, down <st1:Street ><st1:address >Upper Bull Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Corporation Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and on to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Stephenson Street</st1:address></st1:Street> stopping outside a new entrance at New Street Station.</p> <p >Cllr Neville Patten, West Midlands Transport Champion and Leader of Wolverhampton City Council said: "This is fantastic news that will provide a major boost to the whole region. The Metro extension in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> will provide wider benefits for the whole of the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place>. The brand new trams will provide increased capacity and greater frequency, making it easier and convenient for passengers to use the service."</p> <p >These latest developments in bringing forward the Metro extension have also been welcomed by Birmingham City Centre's Retail Business Improvement District'.</p> <p >Alan Chatham, Chairman of Retail <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> said: "We welcome this announcement as the extension will deliver 3.5 million passengers a year right into the heart of the city's shopping district. It will also improve connectivity across the city centre, making it easier for people to explore more of <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>'s retail district."</p>"
Exciting plans to run 21st century trams through the streets of Birmingham city centre took an important step forward today after being given initial funding approval by the Government.
9369
ballymoreweb.JPG
0
12
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All change for buses in Wolverhampton city centre
2010-03-19T00:00:00
2010-03-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> will need to catch their bus from temporary stops in the city centre from Easter Sunday (04 April 2010) to make way for the redevelopment of the existing bus station into a new state-of-the-art passenger facility.</p> <p >Bus stops and shelters are being installed on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Queen Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, Pipers Row, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Stafford Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Tower Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Princess Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Darlington Street</st1:address></st1:Street> to provide drop off and pick up points for the bus and coach services that normally use the bus station.</p> <p >A special Wolverhampton Map & Guide has been produced for passengers giving details of where all buses will stop in the city centre while the bus station is closed for redevelopment.</p> <p >It is available to view now at www.networkwestmidlands.com and will be available from libraries, the Travel Shop at the bus station and the visitor information centre in the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Art</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Gallery</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> from 22 March 2010.</p> <p >The Travel Shop, where people can pick up public transport information and buy bus and coach tickets will relocate to <st1:Street ><st1:address >22 Queen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> when the bus station closes.</p> <p >There will also be some changes to the stopping locations for buses that normally serve <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>'s main streets, ensuring everyone has access to a nearby bus stop and traffic continues to flow effectively around the city centre.</p> <p >The existing bus station is closing end of service on 3<sup>rd</sup> April to allow for the construction of a new high quality passenger facility and associated works for <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> which forms the £21m Phase One of the city's Interchange scheme.</p> <p >Project partners Wolverhampton City Council, transport authority Centro and developer Neptune are working together with local bus operators to ensure minimum disruption for people and businesses while the redevelopment takes place.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro said: "I'm delighted that work on <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>'s new state-of-the-art bus station is about to begin. It marks the important first phase of the project to provide a vibrant world class transport interchange for the city centre.</p> <p >"<st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> has the busiest bus station in the region and we have worked closely with Wolverhampton City Council and the bus operators to provide the best possible stopping solutions on street for people in the city to try and keep disruption to a minimum while the new high-quality passenger facility is created."</p> <p >Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and <st1:place ><st1:City >Enterprise</st1:City></st1:place>, Councillor Paddy Bradley, also welcomed the news that work is starting.</p> <p >"Spring is traditionally a time for new growth and new beginnings and the bus station is a prime example of our commitment to make even more progress in improving the city centre.</p> <p >"I hope that people will be patient with the inevitable disruption whilst this huge project takes shape because the end result will be well worth it.</p> <p >"Our new bus station will be a high quality landmark development that will lead to further regeneration in the city centre and beyond," she added.</p> <p >There will also be a series of exhibitions in the city centre during week commencing 22 March, where people can go along and get details of bus stopping locations, pick up Map & Guide and ask questions to staff.</p> <p >These will take place at the bus station on 27, 29 and 31 of March, 01, 02, 03 and 04 April, in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Queens Square</st1:address></st1:Street> on 05, 06 and 11 of April, and at the Wulfrun Centre on 10 April.</p> <p >Customer service staff will also be on hand at key locations around the city centre while the existing bus station is closed to assist passengers on where to board their bus.</p> <p >Information about the bus stop arrangements, the public information exhibitions and other details of the Wolverhampton Interchange scheme are available at local travel information website networkwesmidlands.com</p> <p >Preparatory work on the interchange scheme started in mid-November and it is hoped that the new bus station will be open for business during 2011 after a 15 month construction period.</p>"
People in Wolverhampton will need to catch their bus from temporary stops in the city centre from Easter Sunday (04 April 2010) to make way for the redevelopment of the existing bus station into a new state-of-the-art passenger facility.
9369
0
12
0
High Speed Rail triumph for local and national transport in the West Midlands
2010-03-11T00:00:00
2010-03-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bosses at the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> transport authority have applauded new Government plans unveiled today which show the region at the heart of a national High Speed Rail network.</p> <p >Centro Chief Executive <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName> was with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Regional Minister for the West Midlands Ian Austin MP this morning when they revealed the proposals.</p> <p >The plans would see 54,000 people a day travelling to two <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> stations - one in the city centre by <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station transporting people to <st1:City >London</st1:City> in under 50 minutes, and the other near <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Airport</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> providing passengers with a 38 minute rail link to the capital.</p> <p >They will also provide major opportunities to improve the local transport network.</p> <p >The planned High Speed lines will provide a massive boost to the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s regeneration prospects, competitiveness and national and international transport connections, while bringing an estimated 60,000 jobs to the region.</p> <p >They will also free up much needed capacity on the local rail network, providing the opportunity to offer a wider range of high quality local and national train services for passengers.</p> <p >Together with the high speed rail connections, these enhanced local services will play a key part in making the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> more attractive to business, visitors and redevelopment.</p> <p >Geoff said: "The High Speed rail proposals unveiled today are excellent news for the region, and vitally important not only for boosting our economy and competitiveness, but by allowing us to provide better local rail services.</p> <p >"These exciting plans are the culmination of the partnership working between Lord Adonis' HS2 and Centro and we're delighted to see them being progressed.</p> <p >"Our priority now is to work with our regional partners to make sure the right bus, rail and Metro services are in place to connect with the high speed rail lines so people anywhere in the region can connect easily with High Speed rail, and arriving passengers can seamlessly transfer on to a high quality local transport network.</p> <p >"Taking the opportunity to make these local transport improvements before High Speed Rail comes to the region is vital if we are to make the most of being at the heart of the national network for business, residents and visitors to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p> <p >One of Centro's key transport projects that would complement High Speed Rail is the extension of the Midland Metro through Birmingham City Centre, the business case for which is currently with the Government for approval.</p> <p >The creation of new rail lines into <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station, known as the Camp Hill Chords, would also be part of a package of rail network improvements which would be essential in making the most of the High Speed Rail link in the city centre.</p> <p >Centro has also welcomed the Government's plans for two stations in the region, a terminal station in the city centre at by Moor Street Station, and one for through trains near to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >International</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Airport</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and the NEC.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "The proposal in today's strategy for two high speed stations in the West Midlands is absolutely the right choice for the region and means we can get maximum benefits from these plans.</p> <p >"They tie in perfectly with our vision to provide the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a world class public transport system, with high quality interchanges, better connectivity in town and city centres, fast and frequent links between high quality bus, rail and Metro services and state-of-the-art information and ticketing."</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, lead member for <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and rail and metro operations at Centro added: "These plans for High Speed Rail will play a key role in making <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> a truly global region, allowing us to compete more effectively with our European neighbours that already have the benefits of High Speed train links.</p> <p >"Plans for a station at the airport and a high speed hub by Moor Street station in the city centre will make high speed rail much easier to get to and from for the vast majority of people in the West Midlands and will also attract major redevelopment to the area."</p> <p >HSR will nearly halve journey times to <st1:City >London</st1:City>, Leeds, Sheffield and <st1:City >Manchester</st1:City> from the West Midlands and significantly reduce the time it takes to get to <st1:place >Europe</st1:place> by rail.</p> <p >Centro will be studying the Government's plans in detail and will respond to the consultation later in the year.</p>"
Bosses at the West Midlands transport authority have applauded new Government plans unveiled today which show the region at the heart of a national High Speed Rail network.
9369
PM3(2)web.JPG
0
12
0
Lifeline bus service better than ever thanks to £35m funding agreement
2010-03-11T00:00:00
2010-03-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Tens of thousands of people across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> are in line for an even better Ring and Ride service thanks to a new funding arrangement between the charity and Centro, the region's transport authority.</p> <p >The arrangement will see Centro contributing around £12 million a year for the next three years, giving the West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT) charity the financial security it needs to press ahead with a package of improvements.</p> <p >The service provides a lifeline for more than 70,000 people with limited mobility, many of whom would be unable to leave their homes to visit day centres, family and friends without it.</p> <p >The rolling three year Business Plan means users of all ages, who enjoy door to door transport in specially adapted minibuses, will now benefit from a new computerised system allowing a greater number and more flexible journeys to be booked. Evening operating hours will also be extended beyond the existing 10pm finish.</p> <p >The rolling three year Business Plan means users of all ages, who enjoy door to door transport in specially adapted minibuses, will now benefit from a new computerised system allowing a greater number and more flexible journeys to be booked and a pilot scheme extended evening hours operating beyond the existing 10pm finish.</p> <p >Ways of improving access to work, training and education for younger disabled people will also be explored and a pilot scheme is set to be launched in Coventry to enable Ring and Ride users to transfer between the service and a high frequency low floor bus service.</p> <p >The scheme, in partnership with National Express Coventry, will enable passengers to travel further a field than their local Ring and Ride operating area for visiting, shopping or leisure.</p> <p >Peter Maggs, chief executive of West Midlands Special Needs Transport, which runs the service, said: "We are delighted to have reached this arrangement with Centro. It provides WMSNT with the financial security to make long term plans for improvements to the quality and quantity of the Ring and Ride service for the benefit of our passengers.'</p> <p >Centro chairman Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> added: "Ring and Ride is a real lifeline for thousands of people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and therefore plays an extremely important role in our region's public transport system.</p> <p >"It is for that reason that we have worked in close partnership with WMSNT for a number of years and why we are delighted to see this funding arrangement put in place. It will help give WMSNT a good financial foundation on which to further improve the marvellous Ring and Ride service and to meet the challenges of a rising elderly population."</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Centro's lead member for bus and highways, said: "The new deal opens up the opportunity to further develop Ring and Ride in a way not possible previously.</p> <p >"We're now looking forward to improved services for users of this much-prized service."</p> <p >Ring and Ride, which began in 1983 with two minibuses operating out of a Victorian building in Park Lane, Hockley provides around two million trips a year in the West Midlands making it the largest privately operated Ring and Ride service in the world.</p> <p >Passengers phone a special number to book their journeys giving details of where they want to be picked up and taken to and the time they want to travel.</p> <p >But with an ageing population and greater expectations among disabled people both young and old, demand for the service continues to grow.</p> <p >Figures show that the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region will see the number of people aged 60 and over rise from 1.2 million in 2006 to 1.7million by 2029.</p> <p >The funding arrangement with Centro is designed to help the charity meet this increased demand and those growing expectations.  </p>"
"Tens of thousands of people across the West Midlands are in line for an even better Ring and Ride service thanks to a new funding arrangement between the charity and Centro, the region's transport authority."
9369
Rfundingnews.jpg
0
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New Saddlers buses are Swifty way to get to Walsall matches
2010-03-11T00:00:00
2010-03-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Getting to the Banks's Stadium for Saddlers games has never been easier for football fans living in north <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> thanks to the launch of three special match day bus services.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro, bus company Midland and Walsall Football Club have teamed up to fund and run the trial <i>Saddlers Specials</i> bus services for the last five games of the season.</p> <p >It means people living in the outer areas of the borough can get to home matches and back again quickly, easily and cheaply with tickets costing just £1.70 single or £3 return.</p> <p >The services will cover areas including Bloxwich, Mossley, Lower Farm, Walsall Wood, Brownhills, Pelsall, Rushall, Coalpool, Shire Oak, Blakenall, Dudley's Fields and Beechdale.</p> <p >The buses will serve every stop on three carefully designed routes, taking Saddlers fans right into the Banks's Stadium car park by 2pm giving them plenty of time to get something to eat and drink, buy a programme and take their seat before kick-off.</p> <p >Return services will depart from the same spot, leaving the ground at 5.05pm ensuring passengers don't need to wait around and get home quickly after the game.</p> <p >If the trials are successful and enough people get on board <st1:place ><st1:City >Midland</st1:City></st1:place> has pledged to keep running the buses during the 2010/11 season.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "I've been a Saddlers fan all my life and have always enjoyed going to games both during my childhood and as an adult.</p> <p >"I'm delighted that we have been able to help fund these trial match day services which mean people from north <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, who previously had no direct transport links to the Banks's Stadium, can travel to see their team play easily and affordably.</p> <p >"They really will give more people the opportunity to enjoy watching live Walsall games like I have over the years and I hope the trials are successful and well used so the services can become a long term fixture for Saddlers fans."</p> <p >The trial services will start for the Saddlers home game against Colchester United on Saturday 20 March 2010, and will also run for the Banks's Stadium matches against Wycombe Wanderers, Tranmere Rovers, Hartlepool United and MK Dons.</p> <p >"We hope that the Saddlers Special bus service will encourage more and more people to attend Walsall FC home games," said Saddlers' Chief Executive, Roy Whalley.</p> <p >"We are thankful for the support we have received for this venture and hope that the people of <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> get behind this trial so that Saddlers Specials become part and parcel of supporters' match day routines for many years to come."</p> <p >Asst Depot Manager Neil Snook from <st1:place ><st1:City >Midland</st1:City></st1:place> added: "We are delighted to be associated with Centro and Walsall FC in providing this valuable service for fans from the north of the borough.</p> <p >"With the retail park nearby, there has been a problem with traffic congestion before and after the match. The Saddlers Specials will not only provide a direct link to the Banks's Stadium from the north of Walsall for fans already using public transport, but hopefully will entice people out of their cars to use these services to see the match.</p> <p >"At just £3 return, this is excellent value for money and will cut out the hassle for fans trying to find a parking place, as well as reducing the amount of traffic congestion in the area."</p> <p >More information including timetables and route details are available at networkwestmidalnds.com/saddlersspecials and leaflets are available on <st1:place >Midland</st1:place> buses, at the Banks's Stadium and at the travel shop at Walsall Bus Station.</p> <p >People using any of the Saddlers Specials bus services to get to the Colchester United game on 20 March will receive a free 50/50 ticket for the chance to win a large cash prize in the 50/50 half time prize draw.</p>"
Getting to the Banks's Stadium for Saddlers games has never been easier for football fans living in north Walsall thanks to the launch of three special match day bus services.
9369
0
12
0
West Midlands gets £2.3m for beating congestion targets
2010-02-26T00:00:00
2010-02-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> is being rewarded with more than £2.3m of Government funding for congestion busting improvements after exceeding its targets to tackle jams and improve traffic flow in the region.</p> <p >Transport Authority Centro and the seven metropolitan authorities have cut congestion by making enhancements to 19 of the region's busiest commuter routes using previous funding from the Department for Transport's Urban Congestion Performance Fund.</p> <p >These improvements together with other road and travel initiatives have seen local journey times fall by 2.4 per cent while the average level of travel has reduced by 5.2 per cent, significantly beating the targets set by the Government.</p> <p >Transport minister Sadiq Khan has now announced that, thanks to its success, the region will be rewarded with more money to tackle congestion along the 19 routes which cover <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >This means the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> has now been granted more than £4.9m from the Urban Congestion Performance Fund.</p> <p >The reward money will be used to build on the improvements already made to further tackle congestion and provide an enhanced urban environment for people living, working and travelling in the region.</p> <p >The improvements include:</p> <ul> <li>Traffic busting improvements to key junctions including highways work to improve traffic flow</li> <li>Enhancements to traffic signals to make junctions with traffic lights more efficient</li> <li>Real time traffic monitoring with SCOOT and MOVA, allowing traffic signals to be more responsive to traffic flow</li> <li>New loading and parking facilities off the carriageway</li> <li>Bus lane enforcement</li> <li>Walking and cycling improvements including improved information and safety initiatives</li> <li>Travelwise initiatives including residential and business travel advice and journey plans, and marketing of car sharing and other congestion busting schemes</li> <li>Park & Ride provision</li> </ul> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, lead member for district liaison at Centro and Chair of the West Midlands Planning and Transportation Sub-committee said: "We're delighted that we have exceeded our target for reducing congestion in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> metropolitan area, cutting journey times by 2.4 per cent for road users along 19 of the region's busiest routes.</p> <p >"The additional funding we have been allocated today is a direct reward for the hard work we have done to improve traffic flows and encourage people to use sustainable travel modes using our previous allocations from the Government's Urban Congestion Performance Fund.</p> <p >"This has worked hand in hand with other congestion busting improvements we have been working with partners to bring in across the region. These have included improving public transport services, implementing Smart Routes and Bus Showcase schemes, bringing in Quick Wins by making small scale junction improvements suggested by the business community and encouraging people to make smarter journey choices by providing better services and information."</p>"
The West Midlands is being rewarded with more than £2.3m of Government funding for congestion busting improvements after exceeding its targets to tackle jams and improve traffic flow in the region.
9369
0
12
0
New hospital bus link provides transport antidote for residents
2010-02-24T00:00:00
2010-02-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Bentley and Wednesfield will get a new bus link between two major <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> hospitals from Monday (01 March 2010).</p> <p >Bus company Midland has worked closely with transport authority Centro to provide a much needed service between New Cross Hospital and the £170m redevelopment of Walsall Manor Hospital which is due to be completed this year.</p> <p >The move comes following several requests from councillors and passengers, particularly living in the Pool Hayes area of Willenhall, for better connections to the two major health facilities.</p> <p >The new 549 service will run half hourly between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday, providing the first ever bus link between the two hospitals as well as Bentley Wednesfield, and Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> centres.</p> <p >Like all <st1:place >Midland</st1:place> services, all vehicles running along the route will be operated by low floor buses, providing easy access for people with limited mobility or pushchairs.</p> <p >A single bus ticket costs just £1.70 allowing users to make major savings compared to the cost of petrol and parking or taxi rates which can be up to £20 each way for a journey between the two hospitals.</p> <p >As with all local bus services, drivers will accept National Concessionary Travel Passes allowing over 60s and eligible blind and disabled people to travel free of charge.</p> <p >Managing Director of Midland, David Reeves said: "We realised that there was no easy way of travelling from Wednesfield into Walsall, from Pool Hayes into <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> or between the two hospitals without having to change buses.</p> <p >"We're delighted to provide the new 549 service which will fill those gaps in the network and provide a fast link between Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> too."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro added: "This new service is excellent news for local people by providing affordable and easy transport to two of the region's main hospitals from major residential areas.</p> <p >"This will be a major benefit to all people living along the route, but especially elderly people and those with limited mobility by making it easier than ever to access the hospital, attend appointments or visit family and friends."</p> <p >The service also benefits passengers travelling into Walsall from Cannock on <st1:City ><st1:place >Midland</st1:place></st1:City>'s 351 service, which will provide through travel for passengers to the two hospitals without changing buses.</p> <p >For the first week of operation a special offer fare of £1.00 for adults and 50p for children will apply. A special trial run will be departing from Walsall bus station at 10:30am on Friday 26 February, travelling along the whole route to <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> and straight back again. People are welcome to come along and try out the service on Friday free of charge.</p> <p >For more details and the full timetables go to <a title=""http://www.midlandbus.net/"" href=""http://www.midlandbus.net/"">www.midlandbus.net</a> or pick up a leaflet from libraries along the route.</p>"
"People living in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Bentley and Wednesfield will get a new bus link between two major Black Country hospitals from Monday (01 March 2010)."
9369
GeneralPics033web.jpg
0
12
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Views sought on West Birmingham buses
2010-02-24T00:00:00
2010-02-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >West Birmingham</st1:place> were today reminded that they have until this Friday (26 February 2010) to give their views on bus services in the area as part of plans to improve the local transport network.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro is working with bus company National Express West Midlands and Birmingham City Council to build on the area's existing good bus network to make sure it provides the high-quality services people want and need.</p> <p >The partners are looking closely at bus services between the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hagley Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:place ><st1:City >Bristol</st1:City></st1:place> road to see what can be done to provide better transport links for existing and prospective passengers in the area.</p> <p >The aim is also to provide improved links to the new Queen Elizabeth super hospital which is due to open in June this year.</p> <p >A series of public exhibitions have taken place over the last fortnight with a large number of people who visit, work and live in <st1:place >West Birmingham</st1:place> coming along to give their views on what would make their bus network better.</p> <p >Those who were unable to attend are now being encouraged to have their say at www.networkwestmidlands.com where the consultation will close on Friday.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus & Highways at Centro said: "Input from the people who visit, work and live in <st1:place >West Birmingham</st1:place> is vital if we are to make the right improvements to bus services in the area.</p> <p >"All the feedback we receive will be looked at closely over the coming weeks and taken into account to decide what enhancements will be made to the local transport network.</p> <p >"I would therefore like to encourage anyone in the area who has not yet had their say to go to networkwestmidlands.com and fill out the survey so we can make sure we give people the bus services they want and need."</p> <p >The information from the consultation together with other research will be used to draw up a number of key improvements with the aim of providing an easier to understand network of routes and services particularly to big trip generators like hospitals and main housing, retail and employment areas.</p> <p >The improvements are due to come into effect during the summer.</p> <p >The work forms part of Centro's groundbreaking Transforming Bus Travel vision which aims to improve the quality of bus travel for residents and visitors to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> to make services even better for existing bus users and help to attract car users on to public transport.</p> <p >The online survey can be found at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a> by clicking on <st1:place >West Birmingham</st1:place>.</p>"
People in West Birmingham were today reminded that they have until this Friday (26 February 2010) to give their views on bus services in the area as part of plans to improve the local transport network.
9369
0
12
0
Metro extension chimes with MPs
2010-02-19T00:00:00
2010-02-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The economic and social benefits of extending the Midland Metro through the heart of the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> have been endorsed in a high level report by MPs.</p> <p >The concept behind plans by regional transport authority Centro to reopen the disused <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> to Stourbridge freight line, incorporating it into the Metro network, should become a cornerstone of Government rail policy according to the House of Commons Transport Select Committee.</p> <p >In their ""Priorities for Investment in the Railways"" report, the influential group of MPs have called on the Government to take a more pro-active policy position that encourages schemes bringing old lines back into service. The Committee also said the Government should continue to encourage the expansion of the rail freight network.</p> <p >At the same time, the methodology applied by Government to prioritise schemes needs to become more dynamic to integrate wider social, environmental and economic considerations, including the impact of transport investment on the GDP of regions like the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: ""We're extremely pleased that the Select Committee has endorsed the approach we've been taking towards implementing the region's transport priorities and in particular the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> rapid transit spine.</p> <p >""The committee's report calls for the reopening of disused rail lines, expanding the rail freight network and for schemes that aid economic regeneration and improve social inclusion.</p> <p >""Our plans to reopen the Walsall to Stourbridge freight line and also run trams on it would do all these things, acting as an economic catalyst and a lifeline for the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place>."" </p> <p >Centro's proposal involves using innovative European technology to run both freight trains and trams on the proposed Metro extension between Wednesbury, Merry Hill and Stourbridge.</p> <p >This would remove the need to build a separate track for freight alongside the Metro rails, cutting overall construction costs by around 20 per cent.</p> <p >Detailed studies are continuing into the track sharing concept and an Outline Business Case seeking Government funding for the extension is being prepared.</p> <p >Launching the Select Committee's report, chairman, Louise Ellman (Lab: Liverpool Riverside) said: ""It's paramount we do not deprive future generations of a lasting legacy of good transport services.</p> <p >""Investments made now or in the near future should reflect long-term needs of the economy and society.""</p> <p >Independent research by the Centre for Economic and Business Research (CEBR) found that the proposed Metro extensions through <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre and from Wednesbury to Stourbridge could create up to 5,300 sustainable new jobs and boost the region's economy by an extra £178 million a year.</p> <p >This would help the West Midlands close the economic gap with <st1:City >London</st1:City>, as called for by the Select Committee which also wants to see a re-alignment in the balance between rail investment in <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place> and the South East and elsewhere in the country.</p>"
The economic and social benefits of extending the Midland Metro through the heart of the Black Country have been endorsed in a high level report by MPs.
9369
0
12
0
Centro steps in to replace bus service
2010-02-11T00:00:00
2010-02-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Families across Hall Green and Acocks Green are to get a new replacement bus service after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing.</p> <p > </p> <p >Centro has agreed to use taxpayers' money to lay on the new 40 bus service between The Baldwin pub in Hall Green and Acocks Green after residents asked for a replacement for the 41 service which was withdrawn by bus company National Express West Midlands last week.</p> <p > </p> <p >The new 40 service will cover much of the original 41 route between Hall Green and Acocks Green but, at the request of residents and councillors, will also branch off to serve the Hall Green Health Centre on the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Stratford Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p > </p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus and highways on Centro, said: "There has been a lot of strong feeling about the withdraw of the 41 and residents and councillors turned to us for help.</p> <p > </p> <p >"We listened carefully to what they said and to what they wanted most from a replacement service and have used this to draw up the route of the 40.</p> <p > </p> <p >"We really do encourage people to use the bus, however, as we will be monitoring passenger figures closely to make sure it provides value for money for the taxpayer."</p> <p > </p> <p >The new service, which will initially be subsidised until the end of October, will be operated on behalf of Centro by bus company AM PM Travel.</p> <p > </p> <p >It will run every hour between 7.30am and 5pm Monday to Friday and 8.30am to 5pm on Saturday.</p> <p > </p> <p >Centro is now making the necessary changes to bus stops along the route and will launch the 40 on Monday February 22.</p> <p> </p>"
"Families across Hall Green and Acocks Green are to get a new replacement bus service after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing."
9369
0
12
0
Your Bus Matters� in Walsall
2010-02-10T00:00:00
2010-02-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> can have their say on the borough's bus services at a series of special events taking place next Tuesday (February 16, 2010).</p> <p >Transport authority Centro, passenger champion Bus Users UK, the Safer Travel Police team and local bus companies have set up a day of interactive sessions for existing and prospective passengers.</p> <p >The aim is to give people the chance to discuss their bus services and suggest how to make the bus network easier to use with the people that deliver the borough's bus services.</p> <p >The day starts in the bus station travel shop, where a 'Meet the Manager' session is taking place between 7.30am to 9am.</p> <p >The event then continues outside TJ Hughes on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Park Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in the town centre from 10am to 3pm, where a National Express West Midlands bus will be parked.</p> <p >Here shoppers, workers and commuters can speak to the people that work to provide a high-quality, attractive and safe network of local bus services, including passenger representatives, bus companies, the Safer Travel Police Team and Centro.</p> <p >In the evening there will be a Transport Users' Forum (TUF), which is a more formal public meeting taking place at the Council House between 6pm and 8pm.</p> <p >Everyone is welcome to come along to the meeting and present their public transport questions and comments to the panel, made up of bus, rail and Metro operators, Centro and the Safer Travel Police Team.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Director of Bus and Highways at Centro, said: "Events like these are vital if we are to understand the wants and needs of local bus users, providing an excellent opportunity for Centro and the bus operators to hear the views of the people that buses are being provided for, take on board their feedback and use it to improve services where necessary.</p> <p >"Following other successful Your Bus Matters days in the region, we are delighted to be able to offer <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> residents the chance to come along and have their say on their local bus services at the series of events taking place next Tuesday."</p> <p >Phil Tonks, Operations Officer for <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region> at Bus Users UK, added: "Your Bus Matters has been designed to give local people their say so we can see a continued improvement in bus services and ensure they meet local needs.</p> <p >"Similar events have been held, with great success, in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> and <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>. In <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> alone, over 400 people turned up to offer their views."</p> <p >All events are drop in sessions.</p>"
"People in Walsall can have their say on the borough's bus services at a series of special events taking place next Tuesday (February 16, 2010)."
9369
0
12
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Birmingham jobseekers get ticket to employment
2010-02-10T00:00:00
2010-02-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An award-winning travel scheme which has already helped thousands of West Midland's jobseekers in their search for work has been re-launched in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> thanks to a successful bid for more than £800,000 of funding.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has joined forces with Birmingham City Council's Regeneration Services (Employment Development Team) to renew the region's celebrated WorkWise initiative and make it more widely available in the city after being awarded money from Be Birmingham's Working Neighbourhoods Fund.</p> <p >The innovative scheme helps jobseekers by providing transport advice, journey plans and free travel passes for interviews and during the first three months of a new job.</p> <p >WorkWise has already proved very successful across the region, with other schemes up and running in Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Since the initiative started, more than 6,300 passes have been provided for interviews and more than 5,200 people have been given help with travel costs for their new job.</p> <p >The scheme has won national awards for the role it has played in getting people back in to work and encouraging green, congestion busting travel with 88 per cent of people continuing to use public transport after six months in the job.</p> <p >Thanks to the successful funding bid, WorkWise will now be available from Jobcentre Plus offices and other employment and training providers for people living in even more areas of the city.</p> <p >These include qualifying postcodes in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre, Edgbaston, Erdington, Hall Green, Handsworth, Hodge Hill, Kings Heath, Ladywood, <st1:City ><st1:place >Northfield</st1:place></st1:City>, Perry Barr, Selly Oak, Sparkhill, Sutton Coldfield, Washwood Heath and Yardley</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, lead member for <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> at Centro, said: "WorkWise has proved to be a huge success since it first started in the region seven years ago.</p> <p >"Not only does it offer much needed help to jobseekers by removing one of the main difficulties they face in their bid to get back to work, but it also provides a major boost to the local community and employers by improving access to jobs and workers.</p> <p >"I'm delighted we have been able to re-launch this fantastic scheme and make it more widely available across the city thanks to this vital funding being granted through the Working Neighbourhoods Fund."</p> <p >Councillor Neville Summerfield, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at Birmingham City Council said:</p> <p >"Removing barriers to employment is a priority for Birmingham City Council, particularly in the current economic climate. I am pleased that we are able to work with partners to bring forward innovative proposals to use the Working Neighbourhoods Fund to help local people to get jobs.</p> <p >"The WorkWise programme is one of a series of important local initiatives to help jobseekers in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> to gain and retain work."</p> <p >People who are interested in benefiting from the scheme can contact Lateef or Bharat in the WorkWise team on 0121 480 3816. They will then be advised whether they are eligible and how to apply for travel support.</p> <p >John Wright from Jobcentre Plus said: "Jobcentre Plus is proud to be associated with WorkWise in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>.  The project helps us to assist unemployed people to access interviews and jobs by overcoming transport barriers to employment. </p> <p >"It provides valuable support for people to broaden their job search by increasing their awareness of local public transport services near to them."</p> <p >Jackie Mould, director of Be Birmingham, the city's local strategic partnership, said: ""The Working Neighbourhoods Fund is being used to overcome the barriers that can prevent unemployed people getting back into work. The WorkWise scheme is an excellent example of the way organisations working together can give practical help to local people looking for work.""</p> <p >Recent research done in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> has shown that WorkWise has boosted job search and retention rates in the area and provided a more positive view of public transport in the local community. More than 90 per cent of users said the scheme had made a significant impact on their life.</p> <p >Users of the scheme said it gave them wider access to jobs and helped reduce money worries during their first few months back at work, while employers applauded the initiative for boosting staff availability and encouraging green and healthy travel for employees.</p>"
"An award-winning travel scheme which has already helped thousands of West Midland's jobseekers in their search for work has been re-launched in Birmingham thanks to a successful bid for more than £800,000 of funding."
9369
0
12
0
People urged to have say on West Birmingham buses
2010-02-10T00:00:00
2010-02-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >West Birmingham</st1:place> are being urged to have their say on local bus services as part of plans to improve public transport in the area and provide better links to the new Queen Elizabeth super hospital.</p> <p >Centro, the region's transport authority is working together with Birmingham City Council and bus company National Express West Midlands to look at the bus network between the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hagley Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bristol Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and see what can be done to provide improved services for existing and prospective passengers.</p> <p >The aim is to build on the already good transport network in the area to provide bus services that better serve modern travel patterns while also bringing better quality services with improved buses, waiting facilities and information.</p> <p >The work will also look closely at improving transport links to the new Queen Elizabeth hospital which is due to open in June this year.</p> <p >In the first part of the bus network review, people who visit, work and live in the area are being urged to come to a series of exhibitions during February to give their views on what works well and what would make bus services in the area better.</p> <p >This information along with other research will then be used to make improvements and ensure that bus services are taking people where they want to go, when they want to go.</p> <p >The work forms part of Centro's groundbreaking Transforming Bus Travel vision which focuses on improving the quality of bus travel in the region and provide people with an attractive alternative to the car.</p> <p >The improvements, which aim to provide an easier to understand network of routes and services, particularly to big trip generators like hospitals and main housing, retail and employment areas, are due to come into effect during the summer.</p> <p >People who want to come along and have their say can go to any of the following exhibitions where representatives from Centro, Birmingham City Council and National Express West Midlands will be on hand to take comments and questions.</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Thursday 11 February, 3:30pm to 7pm, Quinborne Community Centre, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Ridgacre Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Quinton</li> <li >Friday 12 February, 10am – 3pm, <st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType> Library, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Beckbury Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></li> <li >Saturday 13 February, 10am – 3pm, Bartley Green Community Leisure Centre, Adams Hill, Bartley Green</li> <li >Saturday 20 February, 10am – 3pm, St Mary's Parish Centre, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Vivian Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Harborne</li> </ul> <p >People can also give their views by logging on to <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a> and clicking on <st1:place >West Birmingham</st1:place></p>"
People in West Birmingham are being urged to have their say on local bus services as part of plans to improve public transport in the area and provide better links to the new Queen Elizabeth super hospital.
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Your bus matters� In Wolverhampton
2010-02-03T00:00:00
2010-02-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> can have their say on the city's bus services at a series of special events taking place in the city centre on Tuesday (9 February 2010).</p> <p >Transport authority Centro, passenger champion Bus Users UK, local bus companies and the Safer Travel Police team have set up a day of interactive sessions for existing and prospective passengers.</p> <p >The aim is to understand from people in the city what can be done to make the bus network more attractive and easier to use.</p> <p >The day starts at Wolverhampton Bus Station where a "Meet the Manager" session is taking place between 7:30am and 9am in the coach lounge, allowing commuters to come along and chat to the staff that run the bus interchange.</p> <p >From 10am to 3pm, a National Express West Midlands bus will be parked outside the bus station where representatives from Centro, Bus Users UK, the Safer Travel Police Team and local bus operators will be available to take questions and comments.</p> <p >It is hoped that residents, workers and shoppers will come along and give their views on what they think will make bus services even better in the city.</p> <p >In the evening, a formal public meeting will take place at the Civic Centre starting at 7pm, where officers from a range of transport organisations will answer people's queries on local bus, Metro and rail services.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Director of Bus & Highways at Centro said: "People living and travelling through <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> are our eyes and ears when it comes to understanding what can be done to make the city's bus network even better.</p> <p >"We hope people will come along to the events taking place on Tuesday and give us their views so we can work with our partners to put in place the improvements that matter most to the people of <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>."</p> <p >Phil Tonks, Operations Officer for <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> at Bus Users UK added: ""Getting people's views on public transport in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> is essential if we are to see a continual improvement in the service provided.</p> <p >""These events have been designed to allow local people to have their say whether on their way to work, during the daytime or into the early evening. All the comments received will be looked at to see where improvements can be made"".</p> <p >Similar events held across the region have proved very popular, with over 400 people attending Your Bus Matters in Birmingham, and have provided valuable feedback which will be used to further enhance public transport in the West Midlands.</p>"
People in Wolverhampton can have their say on the city's bus services at a series of special events taking place in the city centre on Tuesday (9 February 2010).
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0
12
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People urged to have say on North Walsall buses
2010-01-25T00:00:00
2010-01-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> were today reminded that they only have until this Friday (29 January 2010) to give their views on bus services in the area as part of plans to improve the local transport network.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro is working with local bus operators and Walsall Council to build on the area's existing bus network to make sure it provides the high-quality services people want and need.</p> <p >A series of public exhibitions have taken place over the last fortnight with a large number of people who visit, work and live in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> coming along to give their views on what would make their bus network better.</p> <p >Those who were unable to attend are now being encouraged to have their say at www.networkwestmidlands.com where the consultation will close on Friday.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "Over the next month we'll be looking very closely at the existing bus network in North Walsall and seeing what we can do to make using the bus easier and more attractive for people in the area.</p> <p >"The website and exhibitions have already proved very popular, providing lots of useful feedback which we will use over the coming weeks to put together a plan of action to improve services.</p> <p >"I'd like to take this opportunity to encourage people who haven't yet had a chance to have their say to log on to networkwestmidlands.com and fill out the survey so we can make sure we have a full picture and give people the bus network they deserve."</p> <p >Councillor Tom Ansell, Walsall Council cabinet member for transport, said: "All the partners are working hard together to improve the service available to the people of <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >"This is all about listening to the public and trying to implement as much of what they want as possible and therefore it is vital that if people have points they want to raise they get in touch with us now before the consultation ends."</p> <p >The information from the consultation together with other research will be used to draw up a number of key improvements.</p> <p >The aim is to provide an easier to understand network of routes and services, as well as pledges from Centro, Walsall Council and local bus operators Arriva Midlands, Diamond, <st1:place ><st1:City >Midland</st1:City></st1:place>, Midland Rider and National Express West Midlands to provide high quality bus travel.</p> <p >The route improvements are likely to come into effect in late April and will also take into account the opening of the redeveloped <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Walsall</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Manor</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in the spring,</p> <p >The work forms part of Centro's groundbreaking Transforming Bus Travel vision which aims to improve the quality of bus travel for residents and visitors to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and help to attract people out of their cars.</p> <p >The online survey can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p>"
People in North Walsall were today reminded that they only have until this Friday (29 January 2010) to give their views on bus services in the area as part of plans to improve the local transport network.
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0
12
0
Travel boost for jobseekers
2010-01-19T00:00:00
2010-01-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Jobseekers in Wolverhampton are being given an extra boost in their bid to get back to work thanks to a new scheme being launched in the city today (19 January 2010).</p> <p >Centro, the region's transport authority and Wolverhampton City Council have joined forces to give local residents a ticket to employment by bringing the ' award winning WorkWise initiative to the city.</p> <p >The innovative scheme helps jobseekers by offering free travel passes, transport advice and journey plans for interviews during the first three months of a new job.</p> <p >The WorkWise scheme has already proved extremely successful in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Sandwell, Solihull and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, providing 6,300 passes for interviews and helping more than 5,200 people with travel costs for their new job.</p> <p >Now more than £170,000 funding has been allocated in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>'s Working Neighbourhood Fund to extend the scheme to help jobseekers in the city.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "I'm delighted that, by working with our partners, we can now offer the excellent benefits of WorkWise to jobseekers in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >"Not only does it play a vital role in helping individuals back to work by removing the costs of travel in those difficult first few months of a new job, it also helps employers by giving them better access to staff and provides a real boost to the local community."</p> <p >Councillor Paddy Bradley, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and <st1:City >Enterprise</st1:City> said: "Wolverhampton City Council fully supports Workwise and I am pleased that we have been able to fund this successful project in order for it to now help jobseekers in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>."</p> <p >The scheme has proved a great success in other areas of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, with positive feedback from the people who have benefited from the initiative.</p> <p >It has also boosted environmentally friendly, congestion busting travel, with 88 per cent of people continuing to use public transport after six months in the job while also encouraging family and friends to do the same.</p> <p >Those interested in benefiting should contact Carl or Idris in the WorkWise team on 01902 427 679 or at <a title=""mailto:workwisewolverhampton@centro.org.uk"" href=""mailto:workwisewolverhampton@centro.org.uk"">workwisewolverhampton@centro.org.uk</a> or make an appointment to see their Personal Adviser at their local Jobcentre Plus office for more information.</p> <p >The team is currently working with a range of employment and training providers in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>, so that WorkWise will be available at more outlets in the city.</p> <p >Recent research done in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> has shown that WorkWise has boosted job search and retention rates in the area and provided a more positive view of public transport in the local community. More than 90 per cent of users said the scheme had made a significant impact on their life.</p> <p >Users of the scheme said it gave them wider access to jobs and helped reduce money worries during their first few months back at work, while employers applauded the initiative for boosting staff availability and encouraging green and healthy travel for employees.</p> <p> </p>"
Job seekers in Wolverhampton are being given an extra boost in their bid to get back to work thanks to a new scheme being launched in the city.
9369
0
12
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Passengers up last year on both bus and rail
2010-01-15T00:00:00
2010-01-15T00:00:00
9369
"The growth in the number of people using the West Midlands commuter rail network continued unabated last year with more than 37.6 million passengers getting onboard - two million more than during the previous 12 months. <p >Centro's Annual Statistical Report 2008/9, highlighting trends in the region's public transport, shows that the number of people catching the bus also rose by 0.4 per cent to nearly 327 million – the first increase in passengers since 1999.</p> <p >The report, which covers the period from April 2008 to March 2009, points to evidence of a switch by motorists to both bus and rail, with local train passenger numbers up six per cent.</p> <p >The document, released by the region's transport authority this week, shows that the number of people using the Midland Metro tram held steady at five million with the system running close to its passenger capacity during the morning and early evening peak times.</p> <p >The Metro was also successful in attracting greater numbers of car owners with use of its popular park and ride facilities running at 94 per cent capacity – up from 84 per cent on the previous year. Meanwhile reliability on the Metro remained high during 2008/9 at 99.7 per cent.</p> <p >Centro Chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, said: "The annual increase in rail passengers shows no signs of letting up which is why we are working closely with Network Rail and London Midland on ways to expand the network and meet this demand – not least with the rebuilding of New Street Station.</p> <p >"The rise in rail and bus passengers, together with the popularity of the Metro, suggests that public transport is becoming a more appealing and viable option especially for those fed up with being stuck in congestion during their daily commute."</p> <p >Centro Chief Executive <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName> added: "The increase in passengers reflects the hard work we have undertaken to enhance public transport facilities and help bus and rail operators to further improve services.</p> <p >"But there's no doubt that the coming months are going to be financially challenging for all of us. It is therefore important that we further galvanize our existing resources in order to secure the public transport improvements that the people and businesses of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> need and deserve."</p> <p >Other encouraging figures in the report include a decrease in the number of people choosing to drive into a number of our town and city centres. Private car trips into <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> were down by six per cent while those into Sutton Coldfield fell by nine per cent.</p> <p >There was also a four per cent increase in bus passengers in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> where Centro, together with operator National Express West Midlands and the borough council, carried out a major overhaul of the bus network in April 2008. The modernisation was carefully designed to make the network easier to understand and provide passengers with more frequent services to the borough's key destinations.</p> <p >The rise in rail, bus and Metro passengers has come despite an on-going increase in car ownership. The report shows that the percentage of West Midlands households with no car fell from 51 per cent in 1971 to just  34 per cent in 2001 with Department for Transport projections showing only 22 per cent of households having no car by 2035.</p> <p >The report also includes a factsheet which highlights the effect transport has on the environment. Travel by private car as opposed to public transport emits the greatest level of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) with an average of 180 grams per passenger km, compared with 89 by bus, 65 by light rail and 60 by rail.</p> <p >The full report can be viewed by logging on to <a title=""http://www.centro.org.uk/corporateinformation/publications.aspx"" href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/corporateinformation/publications.aspx"">www.centro.org.uk/corporateinformation/publications.aspx</a></p>"
The growth in the number of people using the West Midlands commuter rail network continued unabated last year with more than 37.6 million passengers getting onboard - two million more than during the previous 12 months.
9369
0
12
0
Transport Secretary launches new high-tech school buses for Birmingham
2010-01-14T00:00:00
2010-01-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Secretary of State for Transport, Lord Adonis was in Birmingham today (15 January 2010) to launch the city's own high-tech version of America's Yellow School Buses which have taken to the road for pupils at two Bournville schools.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has teamed up with The Green Bus, <st1:PlaceName >Dame</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Cadbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Technology</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Bournville</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Sixth Form Centre to provide each school with two bespoke state-of-the-art bus services.</p> <p >It means pupils can now travel to classes at the south <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> schools with their fellow students using safe, environmentally friendly, congestion busting transport and without having to rely on lifts from family or friends.</p> <p >Today, students from <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Dame</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Cadbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Technology</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> met up with Lord Adonis in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Victoria Square</st1:address></st1:Street> to officially launch their new services, which use the latest technology to provide reassurance to parents and a state-of-the-art service for pupils.</p> <p >Each service has a specially designed route, created using input from parents and staff to ensure stops are within close walking distance of pupils' homes while also aiming to reduce the number of cars on congested corridors during the school run.</p> <p >Parents can see the exact location of all services using a live tracking tool on The Green Bus' interactive website so they can be safe in the knowledge of knowing exactly where their child's bus is.</p> <p >Additionally, a free instant text message service is provided for students, parents and teachers to keep them informed of any delays or diversions.</p> <p >Each high-tech service also has its own dedicated driver and a free WiFi service on board, allowing pupils to access the internet when travelling to and from school.</p> <p >Rt Hon Lord Adonis, Secretary of State for Transport, said: "With a billion car trips a year being made exclusively for the school run, providing safe, attractive and reliable transport for pupils has real potential to free up our roads and reduce our carbon emissions.</p> <p >"These new services from Centro and The Green Bus go even further by embracing new technology to reassure parents and giving students state-of-the-art incentives to travel sustainably."</p> <p >The new services have been developed under Centro's Transforming Bus Travel strategy, which aims to make bus travel easier and more attractive for people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro teamed up with The Green Bus, a Birmingham-based firm set up by a teacher, to enable parents to leave cars at home by providing their children with attractive, bespoke bus services to school.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro added: "Delivering safe, accessible and attractive school transport is a key part of our vision to transform bus services in the West Midlands and reduce congestion, particularly during peak times, for the benefit of public transport users, cyclists, pedestrians and motorists.</p> <p >"In addition, we hope that these new services will give children the opportunity to gain experience and confidence in using public transport, so it becomes a natural progression for them to keep using green, congestion busting transport in their leisure time and when they become our future commuters."</p> <p >The services use buses painted in a striking green livery and will complement existing bus services that serve the school.</p> <p >They will accept all valid <strong>n</strong>network and <strong>n</strong>bus tickets, which children will also be able to use on any other bus service in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> at any time.</p> <p >Ian Mack, Managing Director of The Green Bus concluded: "The Green Bus removes huge numbers of unnecessary car journeys from the roads in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> every day.</p> <p >"Centro has worked with us to create a visionary scheme to enable many more pupils to get to school easily and quickly by bus. The Green Bus is a cost-effective antidote to the Yellow School Bus, offering affordable transport to parents and helping to reduce climate change at the same time.</p> <p >"The beauty of our model is that it can be funded in a variety of ways, from fully-funded by parents to partly-funded or wholly-funded by other bodies, such as Centro."</p> <p >The new services follow the introduction of pilot schemes at Wolverhampton Girls' High School and Paul's School for Girls, where four new bus routes were launched in September 2009.</p> <p >These four services alone have proved to be a huge success, carrying around 300 pupils every day and taking hundreds of car journeys off the regions road's every week.</p>"
"Secretary of State for Transport, Lord Adonis was in Birmingham today (15 January 2010) to launch the city's own high-tech version of America's Yellow School Buses which have taken to the road for pupils at two Bournville schools."
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0
12
0
Views sought to enhance North Walsall bus network
2010-01-08T00:00:00
2010-01-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> are being asked for their views on local bus services as part of plans to improve and modernise the area's public transport network.</p> <p>West Midlands transport authority Centro is working together with local bus operators and Walsall Council to look at all the different bus services in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> to see if they need to be altered to provide better transport links for passengers.</p> <p>In the first part of the process, people who visit, work and live in the area are being encouraged to come to a series of exhibitions being held throughout January to give their views on what could be done to improve the area's bus network.</p> <p>This information, along with other research, will then be used to make improvements to the already extensive transport network in the area to ensure people have quality bus services that take them where they want to go, when they want to go.</p> <p >Councillor Tom Ansell, Walsall Council cabinet member for transport, said: "Input from the passengers who use the buses is crucial to making the service as effective as possible in the years ahead.</p> <p >"The responses received from these exhibitions and via the website address will be vital in helping all the partners modernise the area's public transport network for the benefit of the people who use it."</p> <p>The work forms part of Centro's groundbreaking Transporting Bus Travel vision which aims to improve the quality of bus travel for residents and visitors to the region and help to attract people out of their cars.</p> <p>Walsall councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "Several bus routes in North Walsall have been in place for many years and don't serve 21<sup>st</sup> century travel patterns or areas of new development as well as they could.</p> <p>"People in <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> are our eyes and ears when it comes to understanding what bus services are needed in the area and what improvements would encourage them to use public transport more often, and would make their journey more pleasant.</p> <p>"I would like to urge people to give us their views, either at the exhibitions or online at networkwestmidlands.com so we can work with our partners to provide <st1:place >North Walsall</st1:place> with the bus network that existing and prospective passengers want and deserve."</p> <p>The improvements will form the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s first Voluntary Multilateral Agreement, an official arrangement through which Centro, Walsall Council and all local bus operators will formally pledge to bring in and maintain quality bus improvements for passengers.</p> <p>The route improvements are likely to come into effect in late April, and are aiming to provide an easier to understand network of routes and services throughout the day particularly to major employment, housing and retail centres.</p> <p>They will also take into account the opening of the redeveloped <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Walsall</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Manor</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in the spring.</p> <p>The improvements will be followed up with commitments from local bus operators Arriva Midlands, <st1:City ><st1:place >Midland</st1:place></st1:City>, Midland Rider and National Express West Midlands to provide new and refurbished vehicles and improved customer service for passengers.</p> <p>Centro and Walsall Council will also pledge to put in place better facilities for bus users including new or upgraded shelters and bus friendly highway improvements.</p> <p>Details of the exhibitions are as follows:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Thursday 14 January, 3:30pm – 7pm, Streetly Youth Club and Sports Hall, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foley Road East</st1:address></st1:Street></li> <li >Saturday 16 January, 10am – 3pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition bus, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Park Street</st1:address></st1:Street>. <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Walsall</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Town</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> Centre</li> <li >Tuesday 19 January, 9:30am – 1pm, Network West <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> Exhibition Bus, Brownhills Senior Citizen Centre (car park), <st1:Street ><st1:address >Pier Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, Brownhills</li> <li >Friday 22 January, 10am – 3pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Park Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, end of Bloxwich High Street</li> <li >Saturday 23 January, 10am – 3pm, Aldridge Community Centre, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Middlemore Lane</st1:address></st1:Street></li> </ul> <p>Views can also be given at www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview until 29 January 2010.</p>"
People in North Walsall are being asked for their views on local bus services as part of plans to improve and modernise the area's public transport network.
9369
0
12
0
More bus and tram services offer Christmas cheer for travellers
2009-12-21T00:00:00
2009-12-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Drivers in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can enjoy the festive spirit and avoid the risk of drink driving by taking advantage of more bus and tram services than at any Christmas time since the early 1980s.</p> <p>With police warning of a tough, high profile campaign to catch over-the-limit drivers, a full timetable of public transport during the holidays has been published by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p> <p>Boxing Day in particular will see a comprehensive network of frequent bus and tram services arriving in city centres as early as 8am so shop staff can get to work and shoppers can bag an early bargain in the sales. The last services will depart around 8pm.</p> <p><st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName><st1:PlaceType >City</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>councillor and Centro's lead member for bus and highways Jon Hunt said: "With office parties and other festive events getting into full swing many people like to have a small tipple to get into the Christmas spirit. Yet even a couple of small drinks can put you over the limit so it's important that people take advantage of the public transport services in place over the next couple of weeks.</p> <p >"Retailers also told us that because Boxing Day falls on a Saturday they are expecting it to be one of their busiest weekends of the year and were keen that workers and shoppers could get into the main retail centres early and easily. We have been working closely with National Express West Midlands and Travel Midland Metro and are grateful to them for recognising the need for extra services on Boxing Day."</p> <p >National Express West Midlands will run Boxing Day buses on 44 key routes into Birmingham city centre and a further 14 services in the Black Country and nine in Coventry.</p> <p >Centro will bolster the Boxing Day network further by subsidising extra services right across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> in those places where there are no buses being run on a commercial basis.</p> <p >Centro and National Express West Midlands have also arranged to run a normal Sunday bus service on December 27 and again on Monday December 28.</p> <p >Meanwhile, the Midland Metro will operate a 20 minute service between 10am and 6pm on Boxing Day and there will be a Sunday service on December 27 and on Monday December 28.</p> <p >On top of the bus and tram services, Ring & Ride, the charity which provides transport for elderly and disabled people who cannot use conventional public transport, will run every day including Christmas Day when it will be available to wheelchair users who are registered with the organisation.</p> <p >Trains will have a two day scheduled break on December 25 and 26 but will operate a Sunday service on December 27 and a Saturday service on Monday December 28.</p> <p >Centro started paying for Boxing Day bus services on key routes seven years ago. Before that there had been no services for more than two decades.</p> <p >The move has proved extremely popular and passenger numbers are now so high that National Express West Midlands operates many of the routes on a commercial basis without the need for a subsidy from the public purse.</p> <p >Full details of public transport services over the entire festive period including Boxing Day timetables are available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>  under Christmas Service Alterations. Leaflets containing the details are also available at local travel shops throughout the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p > </p>"
Drivers in the West Midlands can enjoy the festive spirit and avoid the risk of drink driving by taking advantage of more bus and tram services than at any Christmas time since the early 1980s.
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0
12
0
Bus passengers help combat anti-social behaviour
2009-12-18T00:00:00
2009-12-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>HUNDREDS of passengers have taken advantage of an anonymous information hotline to help police and transport chiefs combat anti-social behaviour aboard the region's buses.</p> <p >Safer Travel, a partnership between West Midlands Police, the Safer Birmingham Partnership, National Express West Midlands and Centro, launched See Something Say Something in October last year. In the 12 months following the launch, a total of 1,747 calls were logged through the scheme's internet, text and phone reporting system.</p> <p >The information from passengers has helped the Safer Travel Partnership stage a series of operations which have helped deter nuisance behaviour and led to a number of arrests.</p> <p >Inspector Catherine Webb-Jones, who leads the Safer Travel police team, said: "It's been very encouraging to see a growing number of passengers using See Something Say Something in order to play their part in fighting back against anti-social behaviour.</p> <p >"The useful intelligence forwarded by these passengers has helped us stage a number of successful operations targeting specific areas.</p> <p >"It's been a case of "you said it, we did it" and we are very grateful to all those people who have used the reporting system."</p> <p >Crime on the region's buses has been cut by 43 per cent over the last two years and with bus crime now at its lowest level for four years, the main concern for many passengers is combating nuisance behaviour.</p> <p >Figures for the first 12 months show that smoking on the bus has been the biggest anti-social issue amongst passengers with graffiti and the playing of loud music also highlighted.</p> <p >The information submitted through See Something Say Something has helped the Partnership build a picture of hotspots and take appropriate action.</p> <p >Bus operator National Express West Midlands has carried out more than 100 anti-smoking covert operations in the first year which has resulted in 70 offenders being taken to court and fined.</p> <p >The Safer Travel team has also followed up reported incidents by studying CCTV footage, launching regular patrols along hot spot routes and mounting undercover, plain clothes operations.</p> <p >Under the See Something Say Something scheme, passengers can give details about incidents of anti-social behaviour by logging on to <a title=""http://www.safertravel.info/"" href=""http://www.safertravel.info/"">www.safertravel.info</a></p> <p >Alternatively they can text 07624 818332 or simply phone West Midlands Police on 0845 113 5000.</p> <p >If a passenger witnesses a crime they should phone 999 as usual</p>"
HUNDREDS of passengers have taken advantage of an anonymous information hotline to help police and transport chiefs combat anti-social behaviour aboard the region's buses.
9369
0
12
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West Midlands free range travel is just the ticket
2009-12-17T00:00:00
2009-12-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the West Midlands can now hop on and off any bus in the region all day for just £1.63 thanks to the launch of a new ticket this week.</p> <p > </p> <p >Transport Authority Centro has unveiled its new nbus direct debit pass which can be used on buses run by over 35 companies in the West Midlands, so people no longer need to wait for a particular operator to come along.</p> <p > </p> <p >It means that passengers can travel anywhere in and between Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton on any bus service all day every day for less than the cost of two litres of petrol.</p> <p > </p> <p >The ticket costs just £49.50 a month, saving passengers around £150 a year if they normally buy a four weekly pass over the counter or a massive £720 if they usually buy a day ticket when they board the bus.</p> <p > </p> <p >The new pass also means passengers don't need to look around for change when they board the bus, or worry about renewing their four weekly ticket every 28 days as the new nbus direct debit is delivered straight to customers doors.</p> <p > </p> <p >Additionally people applying for the ticket will get automatic membership to Centro's exclusive NetworkClub which provides customers with regular discount vouchers and offers for leisure and retail outlets, competitions, travel updates and transport news.</p> <p > </p> <p >Centro has worked closely with over 35 bus operators across the region to provide the ticket and make using the bus even easier, cheaper and more convenient for passengers.</p> <p > </p> <p >Matthew Lewis, Concessions and Commercial Ticketing Manager at Centro, said: ""Whether people are commuting to work, going shopping, visiting family and friends or accessing leisure and health facilities, they will usually need to catch at least two buses on a return trip.</p> <p > </p> <p >""The new nbus direct debit ticket means people can now travel all day every day on any bus operators' service in the West Midlands for less than it often costs for a single bus trip when purchasing a ticket from the driver.</p> <p > </p> <p >""We want to make it as easy as possible for people to use buses in the region, and this new ticket means people can travel affordably without having to wait around for specific buses or worrying about having change for tickets on the day.""</p> <p > </p> <p >People who apply for the ticket now will receive their new pass early in January, perfect for those pledging to do more to save money and the environment as a New Year's resolution.</p> <p > </p> <p >A range of tickets Network West Midlands tickets are also available for buses, trains and trams in the region, allowing people to easily and conveniently change across different modes of public transport for their journey.</p> <p > </p> <p >More information on tickets, timetables and services is available at networkwestmidlands.com. People wanting to discuss applying for a direct debit pass can call 0121 214 7088.</p>"
People in the West Midlands can now hop on and off any bus in the region all day for just £1.63 thanks to the launch of a new ticket this week.
9369
0
12
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Confused Good Samaritan in mystery shopper plea
2009-12-08T00:00:00
2009-12-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Good Samaritan Sue Bridges thought she was doing her bit for the season of good will when she leapt off a <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> bus and chased after a fellow passenger who had left her Christmas shopping behind.</p> <p >But when Sue finally caught up with the woman her festive cheer quickly turned to confusion as the woman told her "Sorry it's not mine."</p> <p >A bemused Sue, who was left holding the bags of gifts in cold wet weather until the next bus arrived, today appealed to the army of Express and Star readers to help track down the true owner so she can return the presents in time for Christmas.  </p> <p >Sue, a 44-year-old Public Relations officer with transport authority Centro, said: "I was on the No 99 bus in Quarry Bank when another passenger pointed out that a woman had just got off the bus and left her bags behind.</p> <p >"I grabbed them, told the driver to put the brakes on and went after the woman. It just felt the right thing to do and I was in a particularly festive mood because I'd just come back from a Christmas carol concert at Merry Hill.</p> <p >"I certainly wasn't expecting the woman to turn round and say they weren't her bags. Now I'm left with all these presents and no idea whose they are. It's a real shame because someone out there is probably really upset, thinking they've lost the presents they'd bought for their loved ones."</p> <p >Sue, from Burton on Trent contacted lost property at bus company National Express West Midlands and at the Merry Hill shopping centre but neither had received any inquiries.</p> <p >Now Sue is hoping readers can help her track down the mystery owner.</p> <p >"It would be fantastic if the person would contact us so we can reunite them with their gifts," she added.</p> <p >The owner should phone Centro on 0121 200 2787 with a list of the bags' contents and ask for Sue Bridges.</p> <p> </p>"
Good Samaritan Sue Bridges thought she was doing her bit for the season of good will when she leapt off a Black Country bus and chased after a fellow passenger who had left her Christmas shopping behind.
9369
0
12
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Pupils get their careers on track on Metro depot day out
2009-12-07T00:00:00
2009-12-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Five pupils from a Black Country school got into the driving seat for their future careers on Thursday (December 3, 2009) during a special day out at the Midland Metro tram depot in Wednesbury.</p> <p>The year 10 students, from George Salter Collegiate Academy in West Bromwich, were given the chance to drive a tram and see all of the work that's involved in running the Metro system.</p> <p>Transport authority Centro, tram operator Travel Midland Metro and West Midlands Police laid on the event for the 14 and 15 year olds as a reward for writing a report about the Midland Metro for their BTEC course in Public Services.</p> <p>Their work formed part of the national initiative 11 MILLION TAKEOVER DAY where children take on the jobs of adults for 24 hours so that they have a greater understanding of people's roles in the community.</p> <p>For their project, the pupils shadowed Police Community Support Officers (PCSO) and saw the work that they do to create a nicer environment in and around the tram network.</p> <p>They spoke to local residents and tram users about the network and made their own observations along the route, so that they could suggest improvements.</p> <p>They produced a report, which said people found the network to be very safe and recommended reducing litter by having more bins and advising people to take their rubbish with them, providing dog waste disposal facilities and bringing in initiatives to stamp out graffiti.</p> <p>The report was submitted to Centro and Travel Midland Metro by the pupils. Both were pleased by the effort the pupils had made to suggest improvements for the network and pledged to work together to look at actions they could take based on the students' findings.</p> <p>The pupils also impressed at Sandwell Borough Tasking Meeting where local partners including Centro, Travel Midland Metro, West Midlands Police and Sandwell Council were given a presentation about their report.</p> <p>Derek Taylor, from Travel Midland Metro, was so pleased with the work they did that he invited them to the depot to have a look around the workshop and control room, see the tram engineers in action, with the highlight being driving the tram.</p> <p>Scarlett Harris, 14, was the only girl so got to go first on the basis of 'ladies first.' The four boys then had to take it in turns, with the winner of 'rock, paper, scissors' getting the next go.</p> <p>Scarlett said: ""Driving the tram is easy to start off with, but gets more difficult to stay in control as the tram speeds up.</p> <p>""I really enjoyed the experience and would definitely consider doing it full time after I leave school.""</p> <p>Sophie Allison, Centro's Metro Operations Manager, added ""The Midland Metro really forms part of the local community, and I'm really pleased that these young people have given their input into enhancing the local environment along the line.</p> <p>""It's a busy network that many people rely on and we are always looking to improve it for passengers. It's great that we've had help with this work.</p> <p>""Perhaps today has been a chance to see the tram drivers of tomorrow.""<br /> </p>"
"Five pupils from a Black Country school got into the driving seat for their future careers on Thursday (December 3, 2009) during a special day out at the Midland Metro tram depot in Wednesbury."
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Metri2web.jpg
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Top West Midlands' organisations lead the way in tackling climate change
2009-12-03T00:00:00
2009-12-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Leading West Midlands' businesses and organisations are coming together at a high level meeting on Friday (December 4, 2009), to create a dedicated plan to reduce the region's greenhouse gas levels.</p> <p>The convention, organised by the transport authority Centro, comes ahead of the Copenhagen Summit to be held later this month, in which World leaders will agree a series of methods and targets to reduce global carbon emissions.</p> <p>The UK has pledged to reduce CO2 emissions by 34% by 2020 and by 80% by 2050, based on 1990's emission levels.</p> <p>At Friday's meeting ""Moving Ahead: A Green Transport Charter for the West Midlands"" leading regional organisations will create an official plan which will see the West Midlands leading the way in reaching these national targets.</p> <p>The UK is Europe's second largest polluter and eighth in the World. 24% of the UK's emissions are from transport pollution, 80% of which comes from road users.</p> <p>It is estimated that in order for the transport sector to contribute to the UK carbon reduction  targets, transport emissions will have to stop rising by 2010, with a reduction of 30% by 2020.</p> <p>At Friday's summit, Centro will outline the issues affecting the region's transport with proposals for how to develop sustainable transport in the region and how this can contribute to the national emissions reduction targets.</p> <p>Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro said: ""The West Midlands has a key role to play in meeting the Government's pledge on reducing greenhouse gases, with transport being at the forefront of any likely progress.</p> <p>""At Friday's meeting we will be working together with local partners in the public, private and third sectors to develop a charter in which we all commit to a step-change in our cultures and processes to ensure we go about our business in the most environmentally friendly way possible.</p> <p>""This will also involve looking at the issues affecting the region's transport with proposals for how to develop a sustainable transport solution for the region.""</p> <p>It is envisaged that, once the charter is in place, Centro will continue to co-ordinate, review and monitor the region's progress on behalf of the charter's signatories and the region.</p> <p>Centro will also provide advice for organisations and create a forum for discussing environmental issues.</p> <p>It is hoped that the scheme will lead to better informed, better sourced and more focused organisations in the West Midlands as well as a channel through which the Government could direct funds for developing new technologies and services.</p> <p>The event will take place at Sustainability West Midlands' offices in Millennium Point, Birmingham. Organisations attending include regional transport operators, local authorities, environmental groups, business and regeneration groups, the West Midlands Fire Service and Government organisations.</p> <p>It is hoped that the charter will have wider benefits for the region, beyond a reduction in CO2 emissions.</p> <p>Increased use of sustainable transport would also alleviate congestion, which is estimated to cost the region £2.3bn per year; reduce the number of accidents on the road; make city centres and communities more attractive places to work, visit and live; as well as help businesses to develop and grow.</p> <p>A proactive role is already being taken in encouraging sustainable transport in the region. Centro's proposal for sustainable transport in the West Midlands is in the final shortlist for a ""Sustainable Cities"" grant from the Department for Transport, which would greatly increase walking and cycling facilities if successful.</p> <p>Many of the West Midlands' bus stops have also been fitted with solar lighting, which is both ecological and economical, saving £100 a year on running costs compared to those powered by mains electricity.</p> <p>There has also been an expansion Park & Ride spaces across the region, taking over 2.8m journeys off the road every year, while cycling facilities at 25 railway stations were launched last year.</p> <p>Centro's TravelWise team also works with schools, businesses and large trip generators, such as hospitals, to develop transport plans. As part of this, Centro set up the award winning website, letzgogreen.org, to teach our next generation of commuters about travelling in green and healthy ways.</p> <p>Geoff added: ""I'm delighted that Centro has taken a lead in creating a more sustainable future for the region.</p> <p>""This scheme will directly affect the lives of people in the West Midlands, creating a more pleasant environment for us all to enjoy. Changes in our transport and business habits are essential and this charter allows us to be proactive in driving change forward for the benefit of business and residents.</p> <p>""Big decisions are being made in Copenhagen, but it's just as important to confront transport issues at a regional level.""</p> <p>In November 2008, Centro signed the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) Charter on Sustainable Development. The Moving Ahead charter is part of Centro's continuing contribution to sustainable transport solutions.</p> <p>Centro will host an annual conference for the charter's signatories and to champion the good practice being achieved in the region.</p>"
"Leading West Midlands' businesses and organisations are coming together at a high level meeting on Friday (December 4, 2009), to create a dedicated plan to reduce the region's greenhouse gas levels."
9369
0
12
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Low carbon hybrid buses set to hit Birmingham streets
2009-12-03T00:00:00
2009-12-03T00:00:00
9369
"Thousands of passengers in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> are set to climb aboard a fleet of super green buses after the region won a £1.3 million Government contribution towards the cost of buying the latest hybrid vehicles. <p >A joint bid for the cash by bus operator National Express West Midlands (NXWM)and transport authority Centro has been given the go ahead by the Department for Transport as part of its Green Bus Fund.</p> <p >The money will enable a fleet of 20 buses equipped with the latest fuel efficient, low polluting engines to be put into operation on the 22 and 23 routes operating to the south of the city.</p> <p >The new buses are due to be introduced in early 2011 as part of the two organisations' Transforming Bus Travel partnership. This sets out a vision of high quality bus services playing a key role in the world class public transport system that Centro is striving to deliver.</p> <p >Martin Hancock,  Commercial  Director at National Express, said: "We are continually investing in our bus services in the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> and this project is very exciting as not only will we have brand new buses for the city, they will use at least 30 per cent less fuel than equivalent conventional buses. We look forward to working with Centro on the implementation of the buses."</p> <p >Centro's lead member for bus and highways, Councillor Jon Hunt (Lib Dem Perry Barr), added: "It's great to see our local public transport leading the way in the use of these next generation hybrid buses.</p> <p >"These vehicles will help us to achieve the reduction in carbon emissions that have been laid down."</p> <p >The new low carbon buses not only use far less fuel but also emit more than a third less carbon than a conventional bus and have the potential to significantly reduce the impact of road transport on climate change. Their electric/diesel hybrid engines will also meet the most stringent emission standards to help improve air quality. </p> <p >The £1.3 million for the West Midlands is part of a total £30 million Green Bus Fund announced for <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region> today (Thursday December 3) by Transport Minister Sadiq Khan.</p> <p >Experts believe that as more low carbon buses are produced and sold, costs will reduce. This in turn will further encourage bus technology and stimulate the market for low carbon buses, an industry in which the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> is a world leader.</p> <p >Industry estimates that up to 1000 jobs around the country will be safeguarded as a result of the investment.</p>"
Thousands of passengers in Birmingham are set to climb aboard a fleet of super green buses after the region won a £1.3 million Government contribution towards the cost of buying the latest hybrid vehicles.
9369
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12
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Centro workers swap travel passes for dancing shoes
2009-12-02T00:00:00
2009-12-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The glitter and sparkle of Strictly Come Dancing came to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> on Tuesday (December 1, 2009) as staff from the region's transport authority, Centro, took part in their own dance off to raise money for charity.</p> <p >After weeks of anticipation and lunchtime practice, Tuesday's 'Strictly Centro Dancing' competition went down a storm, raising over £350, half of which will go towards treatment to help local girl Kaitlan Rogers walk again.</p> <p >Tuesday was World AIDS day so the other half of the proceeds will go to the National AIDS Trust which helps with the education, prevention and care of people in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> living with HIV and AIDS.</p> <p >Six couples took part in the coveted competition, completing dances including the jive, salsa, samba, cha cha cha and tango with Rail Operations Manager, Toby Rackliff and Sustainable Travel Officer Helen Osborn being crowned the winners and taking home the Strictly Centro Dancing trophy.</p> <p >All the dancers were trained voluntarily by Centro's in house choreographer, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Research & Intelligence</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Analyst</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Chris</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Cave</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> during their lunch break.</p> <p >Chris is a national dancing champion, winning the over-35s Latin title in <st1:place >Blackpool</st1:place>'s Danceworld Champions of Tomorrow competition in January this year.</p> <p >Staff from across Centro bought tickets to watch their colleagues in the Strictly Centro Dancing event, with all the proceeds going towards the two charities.</p> <p >Kaitlan, age ten from <st1:City >Northfield</st1:City> in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>, has a very rare neurological disorder called Transverse Myelitis which left her paralysed from the neck down and affects only one in a billion people.</p> <p >After significant hard work and determination Kaitlan has managed to regain movement in her hands, arms and upper body, and it is hoped that with additional treatment she may one day be able to walk again independently.</p> <p >The therapy that Kaitlin needs can only be offered at one of the world's best hospitals, the <st1:PlaceName >Johns</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hopkins</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType> in <st1:place ><st1:City >Baltimore</st1:City>, <st1:country-region >USA</st1:country-region></st1:place> and her family is working to raise £38,000 to send her there for treatment.</p> <p >Kaitlan has already been to the hospital and had a taster of the aqua therapy that could see her walk again. Kaitlan's visit to the centre allowed her to complete the first steps of her life, with water supporting her body weight.</p> <p >Centro staff have already raised thousands of pounds towards Kaitlan's fund and it is hoped that the proceeds of Strictly Centro Dancing could help her reach her £38,000 fundraising target.</p> <p >People wanting to donate money to Kaitlan's fund can do so at <a href=""http://www.justgiving.com/magsrogers1"">www.justgiving.com/magsrogers1</a></p> <p ><strong>Photo caption:</strong> <strong>Dancing: L-R Strictly Centro Dancing runners up Senior Project Manager Dave Niblett and Finance Officer Racquel Holness, and winners Sustainable Travel Officer Helen Osborn and Rail Operations Manager Toby Rackliff strut their stuff for charity.</strong></p>"
"The glitter and sparkle of Strictly Come Dancing came to the West Midlands on Tuesday (December 1, 2009) as staff from the region's transport authority, Centro, took part in their own dance off to raise money for charity."
9369
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New landmark for travel pass holders reached
2009-12-02T00:00:00
2009-12-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A record 520,073 people living in the West Midlands are now enjoying free bus, train and tram travel in the region new figures have revealed this week.</p> <p>Over half a million National Concessionary Travel Passes have been issued by Centro to over 60s and eligible blind and disabled people living in the county.</p> <p>This makes it the highest number the transport authority has ever handed out, enough to give a pass to everyone living in Britain's fourth biggest city, Sheffield.</p> <p>Since April 2008, pass holders have been able to use their pass on local buses throughout England after 9:30am and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.</p> <p>Councillor Gary Clarke, chairman of Centro, said: ""I'm delighted that so many people in the West Midlands benefit from free travel.</p> <p>""We are very lucky in this region to have such a comprehensive public transport network that is available to so many people free of charge. As a Centro National Concessionary Travel Pass holder myself, I know how useful the card is in allowing many members of the community to have the freedom to travel easily without any financial barriers while also helping to reduce congestion on our roads.""</p> <p>Holders of a Centro National Concessionary Travel Pass (a card with a Centro logo in the top right hand corner) can also use theirs on local rail services and the Metro tram, making it one of the most generous schemes in the country.</p> <p>In the Network West Midlands area, the 11pm deadline is extended to the end of daytime service for those with a Centro travel pass, including the Metro tram and local rail services.</p> <p>Anyone wishing to use their pass before 9:30am can buy an nnetwork Pre-9:30 ticket, extending the validity of their National Concessionary Travel Pass to morning peak journey times too.</p> <p>In addition to these services, travel pass holders who find using conventional public transport difficult can use the UK's largest Ring and Ride service free of charge.</p> <p>Ring and Ride provides door-to-door travel in specially adapted buses for people with restricted mobility. The charity organisation, with over 500 dedicated drivers, is primarily funded by Centro.</p> <p>Ring and Ride can be used for a variety of journeys including shopping, leisure and visiting friends, family or the doctor.</p> <p>Patients with hospital appointments can ask their hospital for details of transport or reimbursement of travel costs, as Ring and Ride is unable to offer this service. This includes those who need to travel before 9:30am, before their travel pass is valid.</p> <p>Over 60s who have not yet claimed their travel pass, can apply straightaway and start saving on public transport costs.</p> <p>They simply need to fill in a form at one of Centro's Check & Send outlets throughout the West Midlands and bring proof of status (for example a passport to prove their age), proof of address and a recent passport-sized photograph.</p> <p>A trained advisor will then check their application, send it off to Centro free of charge, and the pass will be delivered to their door within 28 days. People can apply up to four weeks before their 60th birthday.</p> <p>People requiring any further information on the services Centro offers, locations of Check & Send outlets, public transport, pre-9:30 travel or hospital transport, can visit the website at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> or ring the concessionary ticketing team on 0845 303 6760.</p>"
"A record 520,073 people living in the West Midlands are now enjoying free bus, train and tram travel in the region new figures have revealed this week."
9369
11web.jpg
0
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Ring and Ride stars pick up top awards
2009-11-26T00:00:00
2009-11-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>When Ring and Ride users get on board Ray Pickering's mini bus they can sit back and relax, safe in the knowledge they are in good hands.</p> <p >That's because Ray, from Great Barr, has just been voted the charity's Driver of the Year, beating more than 500 rivals in a series of tricky practical and theory driving tests.</p> <p >The 58-year-old celebrated his award along with colleague Lin Harvey, who landed the Non-Driver of the Year title at the West Midlands Special Needs Transport Awards held at the Clarendon Suite in Edgbaston.</p> <p >Lin, aged 58 and from Hednesford, won her award after answering a series of questions about the Ring and Ride business and for her dedication as Administration Controller at the charity's <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> depot in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Croxstalls Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Bloxwich.</p> <p >As well as being presented with a silver cup the pair also won a crystal trophy, a watch and £400 in travel vouchers.</p> <p >It was the second year that West Midlands Special Needs Transport, which is the organisation that runs the charity, had held awards for its 670 employees, who provide door to door transport for thousands of local people with limited mobility.</p> <p >Ray, who is based at the charity's Aston depot and is a former driving instructor, said: "This award is the icing on the cake for me because I love this job and the chance it gives you to help people.</p> <p >"You really get to know your passengers and I can tell when they are feeling down or something isn't right. It means I can keep an eye out for them."</p> <p >Ray, who has 12 years service with Ring and Ride plans to put his travel vouchers towards a dream trip for himself and wife Judy to celebrate their 35<sup>th</sup> wedding anniversary next year.</p> <p >Lin, who has been working for the charity for 18 years helping people to register as Ring and Ride users and sorting out any queries they may have, added: "I get a lot of satisfaction working here and love talking to our customers although you realise just how lonely and vulnerable some of them are. Ring and Ride is a real lifeline for them."</p> <p >Among those attending the awards were regular users of the Ring and Ride service which provides around two million trips a year in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> for more than 70,000 registered users. Passengers phone a special number to book their journeys giving details of where they want to be picked up and taken to and the time they want to travel.</p> <p >Peter Maggs, chief executive of WMSNT, said: "These awards recognise the hard work and dedication of our staff in looking after our passengers.</p> <p >"They provide an incredibly important service transporting people to the doctor's, to the shops, to visit friends and family and to day centres. Without it, many of our users would not be able to continue living independent lives in their own homes."</p> <p >The service is primarily funded by Centro, the region's transport authority, which provides more than £11 million a year. WMSNT also contributes towards the cost of providing Ring and Ride from its contract operations and training.</p>"
"When Ring and Ride users get on board Ray Pickering's mini bus they can sit back and relax, safe in the knowledge they are in good hands."
9369
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Sandwell's bus users get early Christmas present
2009-11-25T00:00:00
2009-11-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers waiting for the bus on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in Sandwell can rest their legs after new seats were installed at one of the street's bus shelters.</p> <p >Elderly people living nearby had found standing at the shelter difficult and asked local councillor Gurcharan Sidhu if seats could be provided.</p> <p >The councillor then spoke to Centro, the region's transport authority, on behalf of the bus shelter's users.  </p> <p >After hearing the residents' concerns, Centro installed six new seats at the stop, ensuring that everyone can wait for their bus in comfort.</p> <p >Olive Southall, 73, who lives in Braybrook House on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and is a frequent user of the bus shelter, said: "I'm so pleased that seats have been fitted here.</p> <p >"The stop is used by a lot of elderly people, and before we'd have to stand while we waited for the next bus, which could be tiring especially if we'd just missed one.</p> <p >"I asked Cllr Sidhu if we could have seats here and I'm thrilled that we got them so soon. Now I can save my energy for shopping at Merry Hill."</p> <p >Councillor Sidhu added: "Sandwell residents have had an early Christmas present. I'm delighted that Centro responded to the needs of local residents so quickly.</p> <p >"Both Centro and I are determined to guarantee the comfort of local bus users and this is especially important at stops that are used by elderly and disabled people."</p> <p >The bus stop is served by the 238, 404, 404A, 417 and 688 bus services, which take passengers to Merry Hill, Blackheath, Cradley Heath, Hayley Green and Dudley.</p> <p >Passengers were given the chance to test out the new seats this Wednesday (25 November 2009) and were pleased with the opportunity to take a break before a hard day's Christmas shopping.</p>"
Passengers waiting for the bus on Moor Street in Sandwell can rest their legs after new seats were installed at one of the street's bus shelters.
9369
Shelter404aweb.JPG
0
12
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Website lands Centro top award
2009-11-25T00:00:00
2009-11-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A revolutionary website set up by transport authority Centro to help school children fight congestion and climate change has landed a coveted award.</p> <p>Letzgogreen was voted Best Website or Microsite at the prestigious Chartered Institute of Public Relations PRide Awards during a glitzy ceremony at <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s International Convention Centre.</p> <p >Judges gave the site the top award after being impressed by the way it teaches children in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton why it's good to use public transport, walk or cycle, instead of travelling by car. Judges also praised it for raising at an early age the importance of sustainable travel amongst society's next generation of commuters.</p> <p >Once logged on to <a title=""http://www.letzgogreen.org/"" href=""http://www.letzgogreen.org/"">www.letzgogreen.org</a>  youngsters can read interactive stories and comic books with colourful cartoon characters and take part in games and puzzles. The site also teaches them about issues such as climate change, congestion and health.</p> <p >Set up by Centro's Marketing Department and Sustainable Travel Team, with the support of local transport providers and councils, the Letzgogreen website beat off strong competition from two other shortlisted finalists - Derbyshire County Council, and North East Derbyshire District Council, who came second.</p> <p >The award was presented to Centro Marketing Executive <st1:PersonName >Rinku Banerjee</st1:PersonName> and PR Executive <st1:PersonName >Matthew Finn</st1:PersonName>.</p> <p >Rinku said: "Winning this award is a real achievement and shows just how innovative the Letzgogreen website is.</p> <p >"It offers the only free internet public transport resource centre for teachers in the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> and has proved extremely popular, clocking up more than 258,000 hits with children using it not just in school but also at home."</p> <p >Sarah Burton, Chair of CIPR Midlands, added:"A CIPR PRide Award is a hallmark of professionalism and success – it identifies, recognises and rewards the outstanding achievements of those working in the PR industry outside of <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place>.  To win a CIPR PRide Award is a tremendous achievement and I congratulate Centro."</p>"
A revolutionary website set up by transport authority Centro to help school children fight congestion and climate change has landed a coveted award.
9369
0
12
0
£16.2m Walsall Road improvements get Cinderella to the ball
2009-11-24T00:00:00
2009-11-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Cinderella is leaving her pumpkin coach behind this Christmas and using the 51 bus instead following the completion of a £16.2m route improvement project which has made it quicker than ever to get to work and the shops on the <st1:Street ><st1:address >A34 Walsall Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The pantomime beauty and her handsome prince are shunning the Fairy Godmother this year and making their own way into town on the 51 bus after learning they can travel between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Sandwell and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> in less the 40 minutes on the upgraded route.</p> <p >Now residents living along the route are being urged to follow suit and try out the enhanced bus service which benefits from congestion busting enhancements that allow buses to bypass jams and have improved traffic flow for all road users.</p> <p >As an early Christmas present National Express are offering customers 2 for 1 Daysaver offer to try out the 51 bus service to do their festive shopping, travel in to work or visit family and friends.</p> <p >The improvements mean passengers can travel into town quickly, relax on their journey and avoid the hassle of driving, getting stuck in traffic and finding a parking space.</p> <p >It also gives people more flexibility as they do not have to keep an eye on the parking meter or worry about having a drink on their way home.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro worked in partnership with <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> and Sandwell Councils and bus operator National Express West Midlands on the multi-million pound project.</p> <p >It ties in with the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s Smart Routes programme which combines initiatives like Bus Showcase, Red Routes and walking and cycling improvements to improve traffic flow and the urban environment along some of the region's key commuter corridors.</p> <p >The traffic easing measures, including the installation of over 5km of new bus lanes and 7.5km of Red Routes, have already taken 10 minutes off the journey time for bus users between Walsall, Sandwell and <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >There have also been improvements to eight key traffic junctions including some with traffic lights that turn green as a bus approaches, new bus gates and over a kilometre of road widening work along the13km route.</p> <p >This has been complemented by 42 upgraded bus shelters to provide a more comfortable and well-lit waiting environment for passengers, and better walking facilities including improved footpaths, 22 new or upgraded pedestrian crossings.</p> <p >Additionally transport bosses have planted over 40 semi-mature trees and filled in ten subways as part of the scheme.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro and Walsall councillor, said: "We are delighted that this team effort between Centro, National Express West Midlands and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, Sandwell and Birmingham Councils has provided a high quality bus route which gives passengers the frequent, safe, clean and accessible services they want while also improving traffic flow along this key transport artery.</p> <p >"The 2 for 1 Daysaver offer provides the ideal opportunity for those who travel along the A34 to give the 51 bus service a try, particularly in the run up to Christmas. We hope the enhanced service will persuade people to choose to relax on the bus on a regular basis instead of going by car, doing their bit to reduce congestion and carbon emissions at the same time."</p> <p >Cllr Tom Ansell, Cabinet Member for Transportation at Walsall Council added: "These improvements to the A34 are already providing a much better transport experience for business traffic, motorists and bus users who are benefiting from increased reliability and faster services into and out of <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >"They have also helped to improve the local environment along the route, making it a nicer place for people to visit, live, work and shop, and improving accessibility to local businesses, shops and residential areas."</p> <p >The 51 service runs every 7 – 8 minutes Monday to Saturday and every 12 minutes on a Sunday, complemented by the X51 service which provides an even faster limited stop service along the route every 15 minutes.</p> <p >It is hoped that the improvements will encourage people to use the green and healthy option of the bus this Christmas instead of going by car, freeing up the essential <st1:Street ><st1:address >Walsall Road</st1:address></st1:Street> corridor for essential road traffic.</p> <p >Centro is also doing a <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> wide pantomime Christmas campaign to encourage people to take it easy and travel without the drama by using public transport during the festive period.</p> <p >Some special competitions have also been organised for bus train and tram users including the chance to win a family ticket for four ( 2 adults and 2 children) to see Sleeping Beauty at the Birmingham Hippodrome, and a competition to win 2 prizes of £50 of high street shopping vouchers.</p> <p >More information on the campaign, competitions, Christmas public transport services and the 51 bus service is available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>"
Cinderella is leaving her pumpkin coach behind this Christmas and using the 51 bus instead following the completion of a £16.2m route improvement project which has made it quicker than ever to get to work and the shops on the A34 Walsall Road.
9369
28web.JPG
0
12
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West Midlands urged to travel without the drama this Christmas
2009-11-24T00:00:00
2009-11-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Theatre beauty Cinderella and transport authority Centro have joined forces to urge people to travel without the drama this Christmas by ditching the car and using the region's fabulous bus, train and tram services instead.</p> <p >The pantomime princess has agreed to give her fairy godmother a break this year, ditch her pumpkin coach and use the excellent range of public transport services on offer across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> over the festive period.</p> <p align=""center""></p> <p >And, she has found using the bus, train and tram so quick, easy and relaxing that she has decided to leave her coach behind and let the bus, tram and train take her together with her ugly sisters, the handsome prince and even the pantomime horse.</p> <p >Now they are all recommending people living in and visiting the region to avoid the hassle of driving and parking and sit back and relax on the bus or train, doing their bit for the environment at the same time.</p> <p >This year the West Midlands has its best ever network of festive public transport services making it easier than ever for people do their Christmas shopping, visit family and friends or go for a seasonal tipple after work.</p> <p >On Boxing Day the region has more buses running than ever before, with services starting before 8am and finishing just after 8pm to make sure bargain hunters can get to the post-Christmas sales.</p> <p >For theatre goers and party revellers enjoying a few drinks with their friends, special tickets are available for travel after 18:30, with £1.50 adult return tickets on all train services in the region or £4 for a group of up to four people.</p> <p >It means a party of four adults could travel from <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> to <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> and back in the evening for just £1 each, while saving nearly an hour in journey time as the train takes just 25 minutes each way compared to 50 minutes by car.</p> <p >People can go to <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>, which has timetables, maps, festive service and ticket details and journey planners to make it really easy to work out how to get about by public transport this Christmas.</p> <p >The website also has Christmas competitions for public transport users including the chance to win a family ticket for two adults and two children to see Sleeping Beauty at the Birmingham Hippodrome or two prizes of £50 of high street shopping vouchers.</p> <p >Passengers can also access Real Time Information on the website or on their mobile phone which gives an up-to-the-minute count down, meaning they know exactly when to leave their house, the pub, work or the shops to get their bus, train or tram home.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Rinku Banerjee</st1:PersonName>, Marketing Executive at Centro said: "This Christmas we've shown that using the bus, train and tram is so easy that even Cinderella and her pantomime pals are using it to get to the ball.</p> <p >"We'd like to urge people to take advantage of the great ticket offers and the excellent range of public transport available this year, saving time, money and the environment, and leaving the hassle of the car firmly behind them."</p>"
"Theatre beauty Cinderella and transport authority Centro have joined forces to urge people to travel without the drama this Christmas by ditching the car and using the region's fabulous bus, train and tram services instead."
9369
Panto2web.JPG
0
12
0
Findings of Tamworth and Sutton Park Lines Study welcomed
2009-11-24T00:00:00
2009-11-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses today welcomed the findings of a study looking into the possibility of building new stations and introducing local passenger rail services between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and Tamworth and on the Sutton Park Line between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Sutton Coldfield and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro, Birmingham City Council, Warwickshire County Council, Walsall Council and Staffordshire County Council asked consultants Halcrow to look at whether there would be enough demand to justify reopening stations for people living, working and visiting in the areas along the two routes.</p> <p >The study found that reopening the <st1:place >Tamworth</st1:place> line to passenger services, with trains stopping at new stations at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Fort Parkway</st1:address></st1:Street>, Castle Bromwich and Kingsbury, as well the existing stations at Water Orton, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Coleshill Parkway</st1:address></st1:Street> and Wilnecote would bring significant benefits and the passenger demand needed to achieve a good business case.</p> <p >The Sutton Park Line between Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield and Walsall would also attract reasonable passenger numbers, but not as many as the Tamworth Line as people living along much of the route already have good access to rail services on the Cross City Line between Lichfield and Birmingham New Street.</p> <p >The study has highlighted the need to create more rail capacity in central <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> to accommodate these services. This will require the construction of a new route into the currently unused platforms at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station, including new link lines in the Bordesley area known as the Camp Hill Chords. These new lines are also necessary if new local services on the Camp Hill Line through Kings Heath are to be introduced.</p> <p >This route was subject to a previous study in 2007 which estimated that approximately one million car journeys per year could be removed from <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>'s roads by the Camp Hill Line services, and similar benefits are predicted for the <st1:place >Tamworth</st1:place> and Sutton Park Lines.</p> <p >There appears to be a strong overall business case for a package of schemes including constructing the chord lines, diverting services into <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> from <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, and introducing local services on the Tamworth, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Sutton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Camp Hill lines. However, the case for the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Sutton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> line is not as strong as other elements of the package.</p> <p >The study's findings are welcomed by Birmingham City Council and Centro, which are working with neighbouring Authorities to look at all the options for taking forward the schemes. The next focus will be undertaking more detailed work on the Camp Hill chords, and also a further study into providing new services to Aldridge.</p> <p>Councillor Len Gregory, Cabinet Member for Transportation and Street Services at Birmingham City Council, said:</p> <p>"It is pleasing that this study has shown there is considerable demand for local passenger rail services on the <st1:place >Tamworth</st1:place> and Sutton Park Lines.  We look forward to working with partners in exploring changes in rail capacity into Birmingham City Centre."</p> <p >Councillor Timothy Huxtable, Lead Member for Rail and Metro Operations at Centro, said:</p> <p >"The conclusions of the study are welcomed, and the projects need to be taken forward as a major component of the West Midlands Region Rail Development Plan, as a regional transport priority."</p>"
"Transport bosses today welcomed the findings of a study looking into the possibility of building new stations and introducing local passenger rail services between Birmingham and Tamworth and on the Sutton Park Line between Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield and Walsall."
9369
0
12
0
Boxing Day bus and tram bonanza
2009-11-18T00:00:00
2009-11-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Shoppers heading for the sales this Boxing Day will have more buses and trams to take them to the bargains than at any Christmas time since the early 1980s.</p> <p >Centro, the region's transport authority, and bus operator National Express West Midlands have unveiled a comprehensive network of bus services for December 26.</p> <p >Services will also start earlier in the morning than in previous years and end later at night.</p> <p >The decision to increase the number of services and extend the operating hours follows talks with major retailers who are hoping for a double Boxing Day bonanza this year.</p> <p >Key shopping areas such as Birmingham city centre and Merry Hill have been keen to see as many buses laid on as possible so people can easily get to the shops not just on December 26, which this year falls on a Saturday, but also on the Monday which is the official Boxing Day Bank Holiday.</p> <p ><st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>city councillor and Centro's lead member for bus and highways, Cllr Jon Hunt, said: "These extra services will help make Boxing Day a special day for shoppers, businesses, people visiting family and other travellers. We are grateful to the bus and tram operators for recognising the public need for a decent service on this important day."</p> <p >National Express West Midlands will run buses on 44 key routes into Birmingham city centre with the first services of the day arriving shortly before 8am and the last leaving just after 8pm. The company, the biggest bus operator in the West Midlands, will operate a further 14 services in the Black Country and nine in <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >Alex Perry, Operations Director for National Express Bus and Coach, said: "We're putting on extra bus services across the region this Boxing Day to make shopping and socialising over the Christmas period affordable for even more people. The retailers are expecting a bumper year for the sales so the additional services will allow shoppers to spend more on bargains and less on parking."</p> <p >Centro will bolster the Boxing Day network further by subsidising extra services right across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> in those places where there are no buses being run on a commercial basis.</p> <p >Centro and National Express West Midlands have also arranged to run a normal Sunday bus service on December 27 and again on Monday December 28.</p> <p >Meanwhile, the Midland Metro will operate a 20 minute service between 10am and 6pm on Boxing Day and there will be a Sunday service on December 27 and on Monday December 28.</p> <p >Alan Chatham, Chair of Retail Birmingham Business Improvement District said: "Boxing Day is expected to be one of the most important trading days for retailers, with winter sales in Birmingham attracting hundreds of thousands of shoppers. We have been working hard with public transport providers to ensure that visitors, retailers and their staff can travel into the city centre easily and safely, and are pleased that Centro and National Express are supporting this approach by confirming these additional services."</p> <p >On top of the bus and tram services, Ring & Ride, the charity which provides transport for elderly and disabled people who cannot use conventional public transport, will run every day including Christmas Day when it will be available to wheelchair users who are registered with the organisation.</p> <p >Trains will have a two day scheduled break on December 25 and 26 but will operate a Sunday service on December 27 and a Saturday service on Monday December 28.</p> <p >Centro started paying for Boxing Day bus services on key routes seven years ago. Before that there had been no services for more than two decades.</p> <p >The move proved extremely popular and passenger numbers are now so high that National Express West Midlands operates many of the routes on a commercial basis without the need for a subsidy from the public purse.</p> <p >Full details of public transport services over the entire festive period including Boxing Day timetables will be available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>  from Monday December 7.</p>"
Shoppers heading for the sales this Boxing Day will have more buses and trams to take them to the bargains than at any Christmas time since the early 1980s.
9369
0
12
0
Double joy for Coventry bus passengers as pioneering PrimeLines wins two national awards
2009-11-17T00:00:00
2009-11-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A £41.5m project which has revolutionised bus travel for people in Coventry has won two prestigious national transport awards in the space of just 24 hours.</p> <p >The pioneering PrimeLines initiative has won the UK Bus Award for Infrastructure and the RTIG Inform Award for Innovation, formally confirming that Coventry passengers have one of the best, most ground breaking bus networks in the UK.</p> <p >Judges chose the scheme - a partnership between Coventry City Council, transport authority Centro and bus company National Express Coventry - thanks to the work it has done to enhance the whole bus passenger experience, cut journey times and boost punctuality.</p> <p >The awards celebrated the way PrimeLines has used state-of-the-art technology to transform bus travel in the city, already leading to a six per cent rise in passenger numbers, with one fifth of people on the road now travelling into the city by bus during the morning peak.</p> <p >This includes £7m of new low floor buses introduced by National Express Coventry and a series of highways improvements including 5.3km of bus lanes, 13 bus gates and 4.9km of other bus priority measures allowing passengers to bypass traffic jams on their journey.</p> <p >Judges also recognised the installation of Real Time Information displays at over 200 bus stops in the city and throughout Pool Meadow Bus Station.</p> <p >These electronic boards link into Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) technology on the buses to show passengers exactly how many minutes until their service is due*. The information is also available at all 1,500 stops across Coventry via the internet and mobile phones.</p> <p >In addition, traffic lights at 80 junctions across the city have been configured to recognise the AVL and change to green as the bus approaches, helping to ensure that services keep to time and travel into the city quickly to provide an attractive and realistic alternative to the car.</p> <p >The PrimeLines project is part of ongoing work to improve the quality of public transport across Coventry which continues to be a priority even though these awards have been won.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Ridley, Cabinet Member for City Development at Coventry City Council, said: "Coventry City Council is determined to work towards improving the quality of public transport in this City, whether it be improving the quality of bus transport or through its campaign to get a train station at the Ricoh Arena and I am delighted that this award recognises those efforts."</p> <p >Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro added: "PrimeLines success at these awards shows that, through partnership working, Coventry really is leading the way for bus travel in the UK, giving people in the city the best in vehicles, information and services, and setting a benchmark for other areas to aspire to.</p> <p >"Key to this has been the enthusiasm by project partners to break new ground and embrace new technology to provide top quality services fit for 21<sup>st</sup> century passengers. This includes using the latest satellite, mobile phone and radio technology, new modern vehicles and electronic displays to provide high quality cutting edge bus services for the city."</p> <p >Alex Perry Operations Director for National Express bus and coach, said: "These awards recognise the ongoing success of the Primelines project. National Express Coventry buses now transmit up to the minute arrival details to bus stops throughout the city, helping to reduce passenger waiting times and allow us to closely monitor traffic. We also have a 100%  low floor, easy access fleet - making Coventry the first city in the West Midlands to have a fully accessible bus fleet.""</p>"
A £41.5m project which has revolutionised bus travel for people in Coventry has won two prestigious national transport awards in the space of just 24 hours.
9369
0
12
0
Stourbridge rail user takes a step forward for green and healthy travel
2009-11-12T00:00:00
2009-11-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A Stourbridge resident is celebrating winning a walking challenge at her local rail station after taking an amazing 340,000 steps - the equivalent of walking from Dudley to <st1:place >Brighton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Jacqueline Inman covered an impressive 175 miles on foot during the four week competition launched by transport authority Centro to encourage rail users to walk to Stourbridge Junction rail station instead of going by car.</p> <p >Participants were given free pedometers and entry forms for the challenge so they could count their steps over four weeks, with the promise of prizes for those covering the most distance on foot.</p> <p >The aim was to give rail users an incentive to use green and healthy travel to and from the station, helping to cut congestion on local roads and help the environment at the same time.</p> <p >Jacqueline won the competition by making sure she walked to and from the station every day during her commute as well as taking the opportunity to travel on foot on other journeys.</p> <p >She was presented with her prize of £80 worth of JJB Sports vouchers by local radio presenter and passenger champion Phil Tonks, who hosts regular programmes on Stourbridge's community radio station 102.5 The Bridge.</p> <p >Jacqueline said: "I entered the Stourbridge Junction Walking Challenge as I saw it as an ideal opportunity to be 'Green and Lean'.</p> <p >"My exercise regime had lapsed completely and my only excuse was that I didn't have time, so I decided to get up a little earlier each day and walk to the station.</p> <p >"A brisk walk uphill left me energised and certainly helped to tone my legs! I am extremely pleased to have won the sports vouchers and now intend to buy a new swimming costume and pace up and down at my local pool!"</p> <p >The walking challenge links into Centro's Station Travel Plan initiative which focuses on providing the right facilities and information to make it easy for people to travel to rail stations in environmentally friendly ways.</p> <p >Helen Osborn, Centro's Sustainable Travel Officer said: "We're delighted so many rail passengers are taking the opportunity to travel using green travel modes to catch their train, and that our walking challenge has inspired people to make the journey on foot.</p> <p >"As part of the Station Travel Plan work we will continue to run events and competitions to encourage sustainable travel across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, so keep a look out for posters and leaflets at your local station!"</p> <p >Phil Tonks, from 102.5 The Bridge and who also works within the passenger transport industry said: "Using trains, trams and buses combined with walking not only helps the environment but improves personal fitness levels. Of course, it also cuts down on traffic congestion too."</p>"
"A Stourbridge resident is celebrating winning a walking challenge at her local rail station after taking an amazing 340,000 steps - the equivalent of walking from Dudley to Brighton."
9369
0
12
0
Congestion busting scheme opens for Solihull residents
2009-11-12T00:00:00
2009-11-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A congestion busting Park & Ride scheme in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> which could take over 23,000 journeys off the region's roads every year and cut commuters' journey times by half is being officially opened this week.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has extended the car park at <st1:place ><st1:City >Hampton-in-Arden</st1:City></st1:place> rail station off <st1:Street ><st1:address >Meriden Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, nearly doubling the number of spaces from 67 to 124.</p> <p >It allows an extra 57 commuters to Park & Ride from the station, and will save those who normally drive into <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> over 20 minutes each way as the journey by train takes just 17 minutes compared to 38 by car.</p> <p >Additionally, people who normally take the 37 minute journey by car into <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> could also save a massive 25 minutes by using the new car park and catching the train.</p> <p >The facility has been extended due to high demand for parking at the station causing the original spaces to fill up early in the morning. This meant people often had to leave their cars in the undesignated area next to the authorised parking spaces.</p> <p >Centro therefore took the opportunity to remodel and resurface this additional land to create a new car park layout providing local rail users with an extra 57 formal parking bays.</p> <p >The original car park has already achieved the renowned Park Mark Safer Parking award for low crime and high safety standards, so Centro has installed new safety and security features to ensure the new spaces conform to the award's strict criteria.</p> <p >These include extra CCTV cameras, new lighting and a Help Point facility linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre.</p> <p >This means Centro retains its record of having all 53 of its free heavy rail Park & Ride car parks certified by the coveted award.</p> <p >New cycle storage facilities and security fencing have also been installed in the new car park extension, together with new areas of landscaping.</p> <p >Cllr Timothy Huxtable, Lead Member for Rail and Rapid Transit Operations at Centro said: "Our Park & Ride facilities are very popular with local residents as they provide free, convenient, safety accredited parking for rail users, and often allow for a quicker commute into key centres than going by car.</p> <p >"Research shows that these schemes take over 2.8 million journeys off West Midlands roads every year, confirming how important they are in encouraging people to use public transport and the vital role they play in reducing congestion and carbon emissions in the region.</p> <p >"We're delighted to have been able to provide these extra spaces for Solihull residents at Hampton-in-Arden station, and will endeavour to continue to increase the facilities at all our stations – not just for car drivers but for cyclists, walkers, bus users and car sharers too."</p> <p >Centro now has over 6,600 Park & Ride spaces in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> which collectively take over 24.5 million car miles off the region's roads – the equivalent to nearly £75m in car running costs.</p>"
"A congestion busting Park & Ride scheme in Solihull which could take over 23,000 journeys off the region's roads every year and cut commuters' journey times by half is being officially opened this week."
9369
0
12
0
Interchange preparatory works mean Sunday bus changes for Stourbridge
2009-11-12T00:00:00
2009-11-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers using Stourbridge Bus Station on Sunday 15 and Sunday 22 November may need to catch their bus from a different stand as detailed ground investigation work takes place ready for the construction of the town's new world-class bus station in 2010.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro will be doing an investigation of the bus station land to gather further information on the ground conditions to allow the detailed design work to be completed - a standard procedure on redevelopment projects of this size.</p> <p >Centro will need to close half the bus station to carry out the essential preparatory work, and transport bosses have chosen to do the work this Sunday and next Sunday to ensure minimum disruption to passengers and buses.</p> <p >On Sunday 15 November stands F to L at the bus station will be closed. The X96 to Merry Hill, the 256 to Wolverhampton, and the 257 and 297A to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> will instead drop off and pick up passengers from stand B.</p> <p >The 311 and 311A to Walsall, the 142 to Halesowen and the 276 to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> will arrive and depart from stand E.</p> <p >Buses that normally use stands A – E will continue to depart from the same stands as normal.</p> <p >On Sunday 22 November the other half of the bus station will be closed meaning stands A – E will be unavailable. The 9 to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> will instead serve stand K, the X96 to Wollaston will use stand L and the 294 and 295 to Norton will drop off and pick up passengers from stand G.</p> <p >Buses that normally use stands F – L will continue to depart from the same stands as normal.</p> <p >Information on the stand changes is available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> and staff will be on site to help passengers during the work.</p> <p >Centro unveiled the world class designs for Stourbridge's new interchange in July. The plans were approved by <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>'s Development Control Committee in September with councillors praising the "contemporary, splendid design" and adding it is "an exciting development for people in the Stourbridge area".</p> <p >The new bus station is the first major project to benefit from the new quality benchmark set out in Centro's vision to transform bus travel in the region, and will include environmentally friendly design ideas and the best in state-of-the-art passenger facilities.</p> <p >The Interchange entrance will include a landmark canopy focal point and new covered walkway which will link the existing subway from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foster Street</st1:address></st1:Street> - which will be enhanced to become more open and bright - to the main facilities building.</p> <p >A modern, striking and spacious facilities building and concourse will include toilets, a retail unit (which could provide passenger information and tickets) and electronic passenger information boards which will tell passengers when their bus is due.</p> <p >There will be eight bus stands served by high quality waiting areas of spacious design which will allow easy passenger circulation, with doors that open for passengers when the bus arrives. There will also be an additional bus stop on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Vauxhall Road</st1:address></st1:Street> allowing easy interchange between bus and rail.</p> <p >The whole facility has been designed to allow easy access for all users, and Ring & Ride services will have facilities to drop off and pick up passengers at the Interchange.</p> <p >Throughout the new Interchange there will also be CCTV, help points, and a public address system.   </p> <p >A focus has also being placed on improving walking routes into the town centre and creating better links to the innovative Parry People Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy interchange between bus and rail services.</p> <p >To ensure the new facility has as little impact on the environment as possible, the new plans will look to use as many sustainable systems as possible. These could include maximising the use of natural ventilation and lighting, and using natural products.</p>"
Passengers using Stourbridge Bus Station on Sunday 15 and Sunday 22 November may need to catch their bus from a different stand as detailed ground investigation work takes place ready for the construction of the town's new world-class bus station in 2010.
9369
0
12
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Your bus matters� In Dudley
2009-11-04T00:00:00
2009-11-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in Dudley can have their say on the borough's bus services at a series of special events taking place in the area next Wednesday (11 November 2009).</p> <p>Transport authority Centro, passenger champion Bus Users UK, local bus companies and the Safer Travel Police team have set up a day of interactive sessions for existing and prospective passengers.</p> <p>The aim is to understand from people in the area what can be done to make the bus network more attractive and easier to use.</p> <p>People's feedback will be used to build on the success of the Dudley Bus Network review which has improved bus services to make the bus network in the borough more modern and attractive for residents, leading to a boost in passenger numbers.</p> <p>From 10am to 3pm, a National Express West Midlands bus will be parked in Market Place, Dudley where representatives from Centro, Bus Users UK and local bus operators including National Express West Midlands will be available to take questions and comments.</p> <p>Parents, workers and shoppers are being encouraged to come along and give their views on what they think will make bus services even better in the Dudley area.</p> <p>In the evening, a formal question and answer session will take place at the Council House between 6pm and 8pm, where officers from a range of transport organisations will answer people's queries on local bus and rail services.</p> <p>Stephen Rhodes, Director of Bus & Highways at Centro said: "People living and travelling through Dudley are our eyes and ears when it comes to understanding what can be done to make the borough's bus network even better.</p> <p>"We're keen to build on the success of the Dudley bus network review which has seen a wide range of improvements to the borough's bus network including new buses and shelters, leading to many more people using the bus instead of the car.</p> <p>"We hope people will come along to the events taking place on Wednesday and give us their views so we can work with our partners to put in place the improvements that matter most to the people of Dudley."</p> <p>Phil Tonks, Operations Officer for England at Bus Users UK added: ""Getting people's views on public transport in Dudley is essential if we are to see a continual improvement in the service provided.</p> <p>""Your Bus Matters has been designed to allow local people to have their say whether on their way to work, during the daytime or into the early evening. All the comments received will be looked at to see where improvements can be made"".</p> <p>Similar events held in Birmingham and Coventry attracted over 400 people and provided valuable feedback which will be used to further enhance public transport in the West Midlands.</p>"
People in Dudley can have their say on the borough's bus services at a series of special events taking place in the area next Wednesday (11 November 2009).
9369
0
12
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New bespoke school bus service for St Thomas Aquinas
2009-11-02T00:00:00
2009-11-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Pupils at St Thomas Aquinas School will be able to catch the new 884 bus service from Frankley, Rubery, Rednal, Longbridge and West Heath to get to classes from Monday (2 November, 2009).</p> <p>The new service, operated by Central Connect especially for students, will directly replace the old 48 service, travelling along exactly the same route between Holly Hill Shopping Centre in Frankley and St Thomas Aquinas on Wychall Lane.</p> <p>It will also complement the 49 service, which provides three buses an hour from Rubery Great Park to the school via Longbridge and West Heath, with pupils having just a very short walk from the 49 bus stop on The Fairway.</p> <p>Transport authority Centro worked closely with bus operators Central Connect and National Express West Midlands to replace the 48 service through the South Birmingham Bus Network Review after listening to people's concerns about its withdrawal.</p> <p>The new 884 service, which will be a bespoke student bus going directly on to the school grounds, will depart from Holly Hill Shopping Centre at 07:43 arriving at the school at 08:25 serving all stops along the route. The return journey will depart from the school at 15:15 arriving back at Frankley at 15:53.</p> <p>People with questions about tickets or timetables for the new 884 service should phone Centro's customer relations team on 0121 214 7214. Those using the 49 service will not need to change their passes.</p> <p>More information can also be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p> <p>People wanting to travel by bus to Bavistock School by the Maypole from the Rubery area can catch the three buses an hour available on the 49 bus route. These services also connect with several other buses on the Bristol Road South and in Longbridge.</p>"
"Pupils at St Thomas Aquinas School will be able to catch the new 884 bus service from Frankley, Rubery, Rednal, Longbridge and West Heath to get to classes from Monday (2 November, 2009)."
9369
0
12
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Public's chance to influence the transport system of tomorrow
2009-10-30T00:00:00
2009-10-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The public and business community across the West Midlands Metropolitan Area are being given the opportunity to help shape the future of their transport system.</p> <p>A far reaching blueprint laying out how the area's transport should be developed up until 2026 is to be drawn up by transport authority Centro in partnership with the seven Metropolitan councils.</p> <p >But transport chiefs are keen for the local community to have their say on what transport solutions they think are needed to ensure the Metropolitan Area's future prosperity.</p> <p >Centro Chairman Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to play a part in shaping the transport system of tomorrow.</p> <p >"Transport affects all our lives and it's vital we have a system that can help every part of the West Midlands Metropolitan Area to grow and prosper in the years ahead.</p> <p >"A safe, quick, and reliable transport system will help us fight climate change by reducing our carbon footprint and help create new jobs while connecting people to those jobs as well as schools, shops, colleges and hospitals.</p> <p >"There's no doubt that funding will be tight in the next few years so its important we all work closely together now to ensure we set out the right transport priorities for our area."</p> <p >Centro and its district council partners want the community to comment on the Local Transport Plan's Vision in order to help guide the development of the future strategy.</p> <p >They will also be asking people to identify and prioritise the transport issues that are important to their lives, businesses or both.</p> <p >There will be future consultation on the draft strategy early in 2010.</p> <p >Copies of the Local Transport Plan Vision containing a Response Form are available at libraries throughout the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> metropolitan area. Alternatively log on to <u>wwww.westmidlandsltp.gov.<st1:PersonName >uk</st1:PersonName></u>to view the Vision and Response Form.</p> <p >These should be sent to the CEPOG Support Team, Freepost NAT20197, <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B19 3BR</st1:PostalCode></st1:place> or emailed to  <a title=""mailto:CEPOGCoreSupport@centro.org.uk"" href=""mailto:CEPOGCoreSupport@centro.org.uk"">CEPOGCoreSupport@centro.org.uk</a></p> <p >The closing date for comments is December 18 2009.</p> <p >  </p>"
The public and business community across the West Midlands Metropolitan Area are being given the opportunity to help shape the future of their transport system.
9369
0
12
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Festive business as usual for Wolverhampton traders and passengers
2009-10-30T00:00:00
2009-10-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Whilst works are starting on Wolverhampton's new £30m Interchange scheme, passengers will be able to catch their bus as normal from the city's bus station until early in the New Year in order to ensure minimum disruption to businesses, shoppers, workers and visitors over the Christmas period.</p> <p>Scheme developer Neptune and project partners Wolverhampton City council and transport authority Centro have listened to local companies and traders concerns that shutting the city's main passenger facility could be a setback for businesses during their most important time of year.</p> <p>The partners have looked closely at the project schedule for the city's new bus station to find a way to alleviate businesses' concerns</p> <p>A series of preparatory works will now be undertaken during November and December which means the bus station can stay open as normal without any affect on the proposed finish date for the new bus station of spring/summer 2011.</p> <p>These preparatory works will include the installation of the temporary bus stops and shelters that will only be in use once the bus station closes.</p> <p>Wolverhampton Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Enterprise, Councillor Paddy Bradley, said "Now that work is starting in preparation for the construction of the new bus station it is a signal that Wolverhampton's regeneration plans are on track."</p> <p>Rob Mason, Development Director at Neptune said: "We understand that the festive period is a really important time for businesses, particularly in the current economic climate, and we want to do everything we can to make sure that traders in Wolverhampton have as little disruption to their staff, customers and day to day operations as possible.</p> <p>"That is why we have listened carefully to their feedback and found a way to adjust the project's work programme to allow the bus station to remain open in the run up to and during Christmas and New Year.</p> <p>"Additionally, the preparatory works we have now scheduled in before Christmas will mean everything will be ready and we can make really good progress on the city's new state-of-the-art passenger facility when we shut the bus station in early 2010."</p> <p>Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro said: "We're delighted that by working with our project partners we have found a solution which means it will be business as usual for passengers, visitors, retailers, companies and workers in Wolverhampton over Christmas.</p> <p>"The city's bus station serves over 200 buses an hour during its busiest period, and while we will do everything we can to ensure minimum disruption when the facility closes, the best option for everyone is to make sure access to the town centre is as easy as possible for shoppers, workers, traders and deliveries during this crucial time of year."</p> <p>The project partners have also reassured people in Wolverhampton that they will be kept fully informed of details on temporary bus arrangements through an extensive marketing campaign well in advance of the bus station closure.</p> <p>This will include details of key project dates and scheme progress, information on where to catch bus services while the bus station is closed, and details on where to obtain travel information, travelcards and passes.<br /> </p>"
"Whilst works are starting on Wolverhampton's new £30m Interchange scheme, passengers will be able to catch their bus as normal from the city's bus station until early in the New Year in order to ensure minimum disruption to businesses, shoppers, workers and visitors over the Christmas period."
9369
0
12
0
New evening and Sunday buses for Wythall
2009-10-28T00:00:00
2009-10-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in Wythall saw the return of their evening and Sunday bus service for the first time in over four years this week thanks to an overhaul of the bus network in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place>.</p> <p >The new 69 and 69A will provide passengers with a regular bus service between the village and Kings Heath until after 10pm seven days a week.</p> <p >The 69 service, which operates every half hour during the day from Monday to Saturday, will run from Becketts Farm Island to Brandwood End via the Maypole, Yardley Wood and Kings Heath until around 18:30.</p> <p >The 69A then takes over during the evening and on Sunday, providing a new hourly off peak service for residents between Wythall and Kings Heath thanks to a subsidy from transport authority Centro.</p> <p >The new services, operated by National Express West Midlands, have been introduced following feedback from residents, community groups, schools and councillors as part of the <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> bus network review.</p> <p >Centro and National Express West Midlands, in consultation with Birmingham City Council, have been working together to improve the already extensive bus network in the area and provide passengers with better connections to several new developments.</p> <p >The improvements will give people across South Birmingham and neighbouring areas better access to key centres, existing shops and services and new developments, making it easier than ever for them to benefit from the facilities and employment opportunities they offer.</p> <p >The new 69 and 69A service mean that Wythall residents have access to a regular bus service throughout the day, better meeting the needs of a 21<sup>st</sup> century society.</p> <p >They also allow passengers better connection with regular buses to <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, Shirley, Cotteridge, Longbridge and Rubery at the Maypole, meaning people will find it easier and quicker to get to these key centres during evenings and weekends as well as during the day.</p> <p >The village also maintains its current links to <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre, Redditch and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> via the 175, 177, 178 and 179. There is a timetable for the 69/69A and a separate one showing all six services together available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p> <p >Guy Craddock, Bus and Highway Development Manager at Centro said: "We're very pleased to have been able to enhance the bus services on offer for people living in Wythall as part of our improvements to bus services in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place>.</p> <p >"The changes have been focused on providing people with a more modern bus network which meets people's needs, and that means providing people with buses that tie in with 21<sup>st</sup> century working and shopping times whether they live in urban or more rural areas.</p> <p >"Therefore, following feedback from local residents, we decided to take this opportunity to fund new evening and Sunday bus links for Wythall, but we really need to make sure people get on board to secure the long term future of these extra services."</p> <p >Details of all the changes that came into effect on 25 October (2009) and timetables are available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p>"
People in Wythall saw the return of their evening and Sunday bus service for the first time in over four years this week thanks to an overhaul of the bus network in South Birmingham.
9369
img_0023[1]crop.JPG
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Better bus routes for South Birmingham start this weekend
2009-10-22T00:00:00
2009-10-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus users across <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place />South Birmingham</U1:PLACE> are being reminded that service changes come into effect this weekend.</p> <p >From Sunday (October 25) people in the area will benefit from an improved bus network with better connections to a number of new developments including the soon-to-open QE Super Hospital.</p> <p >The changes will cover a large area of South Birmingham running from Warstock to <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:place /><st1:PlaceName />Weoley</U1:PLACENAME></U1:PLACE> <U1:PLACETYPE u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceType />Castle</U1:PLACETYPE>, including the Alcester, Pershore and Bristol Roads. Additional staff from National Express and Centro will be positioned along key routes next week to assist passengers and answer any queries.</p> <p >More than 200,000 <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place />South Birmingham</U1:PLACE> residents have already received a leaflet explaining the bus service improvements. For anyone still unsure of the changes, detailed timetable information is also available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a> or via Traveline on 0871 200 22 33.</p> <p >The bus network improvements were led by transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands in consultation with Birmingham City Council. The service changes will build upon the already extensive transport network in the area to deliver a modern bus network which helps to attract people out of their cars.</p> <p >It will also allow for future growth at the Longbridge and <U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceName />Bournville</U1:PLACENAME> <U1:PLACETYPE u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceType />College</U1:PLACETYPE> redevelopment sites and the new <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:place /><st1:PlaceName />Queen</U1:PLACENAME></U1:PLACE> <U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceName />Elizabeth</U1:PLACENAME> <U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceName />Hospital</U1:PLACENAME> which will become the city's second largest employer when it opens next summer.</p> <p >Improvements include:</p> <p >* New direct bus links to the new QE hospital from Pool Farm, Hawkesley, Primrose Hill, Kings Norton, Cotteridge, Bournville, Frankley, Holly Hill, Maypole, Yardley Wood, Billesley, Kings Heath, <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:place /><st1:PlaceName />Selly</U1:PLACENAME></U1:PLACE> <U1:PLACETYPE u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceType />Park</U1:PLACETYPE> and Bournbrook.</p> <p >* Improved links to education facilities such as <U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceName />Cadbury</U1:PLACENAME> <U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceName />Sixth</U1:PLACENAME> <U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceName />Form</U1:PLACENAME> <U1:PLACETYPE u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceType />College</U1:PLACETYPE> and <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><U1:PLACENAME u2:st=""on""><st1:place /><st1:PlaceName />Birmingham</U1:PLACENAME></U1:PLACE> <U1:PLACETYPE u2:st=""on""><st1:PlaceType />University</U1:PLACETYPE> which has over 30,000 staff and students on site every day.</p> <p >* A direct bus service from <U1:STREET u2:st=""on""><U1:ADDRESS u2:st=""on""><st1:Street /><st1:address />Holly Hill Road</U1:ADDRESS></U1:STREET> in Frankley to <U1:CITY u2:st=""on""><U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:City /><st1:place />Birmingham</U1:PLACE></U1:CITY> city centre.</p> <p >* Improved links to Wythall, Rubery and Pool Farm.</p> <p >* All National Express <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place />West Midlands</U1:PLACE> buses and Centro subsidised services run by low floor easy access buses helping people with limited mobility or young children board the bus (around 250 vehicles in total).</p> <p >* 245 upgraded bus shelters to provide an enhanced waiting environment for passengers</p> <p >* Increased evening and Sunday services</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for Bus & Highways at Centro, said: ""We appreciate that this new network involves a lot of change and we continue to welcome feedback from passengers. It is hoped that the vast majority of people in <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place />South Birmingham</U1:PLACE> will see a significant improvement in bus services.""</p> <p >The changes were drawn up by Centro, National Express and the city council to help simplify bus routes that have been in place across <U1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place />South Birmingham</U1:PLACE> for more than 20 years, creating an easier to understand network that takes people where they want to go, when they want to go.</p> <p >The new network has also been designed to connect people to those areas, such as the former Longbridge site, where future jobs are expected to be created.</p> <p >The changes were finalised using feedback from a four week public consultation in July and August as well as comments from schools, community groups, local councillors and other stakeholders.</p> <p >More information on the changes can be found at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a>  where timetables are available to download.</p>"
Bus users across South Birmingham are being reminded that service changes come into effect this weekend.
9369
GeneralPics045web1.jpg
0
12
0
Solihull gets first ever bus link to Super Hospital
2009-10-15T00:00:00
2009-10-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in Solihull are getting their first ever direct bus link to the new <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Queen</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Super</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> from 25 October 2009, making it easier for residents to visit the facility and access the 16,000 jobs it will provide.</p> <p >Passengers will be able to directly access the hospital and the Selly Oak area seven days a week following improvements made to the 76 service.</p> <p >Four direct services an hour will operate from <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> from Monday to Saturday and for the first time the 76 service will also be available during the evenings and on Sundays thanks to a subsidy from Centro.</p> <p >The service has been improved following feedback from residents, community groups and schools as part of the <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> bus network review.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands are working together to improve the already extensive bus network in South Birmingham and provide passengers with better connections to several new developments in the area.</p> <p >The changes will compliment the enhancements made to <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>'s bus network in January (2009), when several bus routes in the area were improved to provide a more up-to-date and effective public transport system which meets the needs of 21<sup>st</sup> century passengers.</p> <p >The improvements will give people across South Birmingham and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> better access to key centres, existing shops and services and new developments, making it easier than ever for them to benefit from the facilities and employment opportunities they offer.</p> <p >The improved 76 service will go from the town centre, through Shirley, Yardley Wood and King's Heath to Selly Oak and the new hospital which becomes the region's second largest employer when it opens next summer.</p> <p >The route will also provide more direct links from Solihull with Selly Oak and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >University</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></p> <p >Guy Craddock, Bus and Highway Development Manager at Centro said: "To make improvements to bus services that really benefit passengers we've had to look at how people want and need to travel across areas as a whole together with neighbouring districts.</p> <p >"Therefore, we've ensured that when we make improvements to the South Birmingham bus network, we also build on the changes we made earlier this year in Solihull to provide residents with even better links to key centres in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place>.</p> <p >"And, with all the new developments taking place in the area, we've not only had to think about providing people with better links to existing hubs of employment, retail, education, health and leisure services, but also to the emerging areas of new growth and services that will appear over the next few years."</p> <p >Mark Kipling, from National Express West Midlands added: "The improved 76 bus service will offer regular, reliable connections to the new QE hospital as well as local shops and amenities at Shirley, King's Heath and Selly Oak. All bus services operating on the 76 service will be low floor, easy access to make travelling to the hospital easier for people with limited mobility and buggies."</p> <p >Details of all the changes taking place including timetables and route maps are available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview blocked::http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p> <p >Exhibitions are taking place across <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> over the next two weeks where staff from Centro and National Express West Midlands will be on hand to take any questions or comments on local services.</p> <p >A National Express West Midlands bus will also be parked on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Station Road</st1:address></st1:Street> by the Solihull Travel Shop between 9am and 11am on Tuesday 20 October.</p>"
"People in Solihull are getting their first ever direct bus link to the new Queen Elizabeth Super Hospital from 25 October 2009, making it easier for residents to visit the facility and access the 16,000 jobs it will provide."
9369
0
12
0
Free travel prize for green journey maker
2009-10-14T00:00:00
2009-10-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A Cotteridge resident is celebrating winning a year's free bus, train and tram travel after taking part in a green travel challenge at Kings Norton rail station over the summer.</p> <p >Rakesh Bargota has won an <strong>n</strong>network all zones travel pass, giving free travel on all public transport in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, after he was chosen from over 50 Kings Norton rail users who vowed to use environmentally friendly travel on the way to catch the train.</p> <p >The 'bus it, bike it, walk it, share it' pledge competition was launched in June by transport authority Centro to encourage rail passengers to think twice about driving to the station, and to bus, cycle, walk or car share instead.</p> <p >The competition is part of the Kings Norton Station Travel Plan initiative - part of a national scheme to encourage people to make green, healthy, congestion busting  travel choices on their journey to the station.</p> <p >Rakesh, along with over 50 other local residents, promised to catch the bus, walk, cycle or car share over the summer, to help ease local traffic congestion, reduce car park overcrowding and cut carbon emissions.</p> <p >The pledge acted as an incentive for people to do their bit for the environment by reducing their carbon footprint while also benefiting their own health and fitness.</p> <p >Rakesh walked just under a mile a day from his home in Cotteridge to the station throughout the summer.</p> <p >He said: "Walking to the station just makes sense.  By the time I've driven to the station and parked up I could be halfway there on foot. It's a good chance to get some exercise and think about the day ahead before I start work."</p> <p >Helen Osborn, Centro's Sustainable Travel Officer said: "We are delighted so many Kings Norton passengers have joined us in supporting the new Station Travel Plan initiative by catching the bus, walking, cycling or car sharing to the station over the summer. </p> <p >"As part of the project we will continue to run local events and competitions to encourage sustainable travel in the area."</p> <p >The Station Travel Plan at Kings Norton is a pilot scheme being run over three years to put better facilities and information in place at the station to enable customers to access rail travel more easily and be less reliant on driving. </p> <p >Proposed initiatives at the station include real-time bus information inside the station, walking and cycling routes with enhanced lighting and CCTV, new cycle storage and improved signage for pedestrians and cyclists.</p> <p >For more information about the Station Travel Plan visit <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/stationtravelplan"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/stationtravelplan"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/stationtravelplan</a></p>"
"A Cotteridge resident is celebrating winning a year's free bus, train and tram travel after taking part in a green travel challenge at Kings Norton rail station over the summer."
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Have your say on Birmingham New Street
2009-10-12T00:00:00
2009-10-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The partners behind the Birmingham Gateway project are inviting people to have their say on plans to transform <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station into a landmark, 21<sup>st</sup> century transport hub and to join them at <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> for a public exhibition.</p> <p > </p> <p >Extensive consultation has helped refine the design since Network Rail, Birmingham City Council, Advantage West Midlands and Centro first joined forces to find the best solution for <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street>. Now the public has the opportunity to find out more about the scheme and to provide their comments – online, by post or in person. </p> <p > </p> <p >People can express their views between Monday 12th and Friday 23rd October using an online questionnaire. Alternatively they can ask their questions in person from Thursday 15<sup>th</sup> to Saturday 17<sup>th</sup> October at a public exhibition inside <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station where Network Rail will showcase the plans and find out what people think.</p> <p > </p> <p >For those with no time to talk, postage-paid questionnaires will be available at the exhibition to allow people to send back their written comments.</p> <p > </p> <p >Preparatory work on the Gateway project started in September 2009 to prepare a site next to the station for the creation of a new concourse. The new concourse is expected to open to the public in 2012 when the old concourse will then be redeveloped, delivering a world-class station upon completion in 2015.</p> <p > </p> <p >Jo Kaye, Network Rail's route director, said: ""We want as many of <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street>'s 140,000 daily passengers as possible to find out more about this exciting project. Either online, by post or in person, you can have your say on our plans to give passengers and the city of Birmingham a bigger, brighter and better station."</p> <p > </p> <p >Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >City</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> Council, added: ""We want to give people the opportunity to find out more about the transformation of <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> into a station which befits a global destination, and is the envy of the world. The Gateway project is central to the masterplan for <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> and we hope to excite people about the possibilities <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> presents for our city and the region.""</p> <p > </p> <p >Mick Laverty, chief executive of Advantage West Midlands, said: "New Street Gateway is a flagship project which will have a massive economic impact on <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> and the region in years to come. People now have the opportunity to see why AWM is making its biggest ever single investment - £100 million – to help transform this part of the city."</p> <p > </p> <p >Gary Clarke, chairman of Centro, the region's transport authority, said: "We've been working hard to make sure passengers get the world class station they deserve and believe these exciting plans can deliver that vision. But it's what the passenger thinks that's important and we want the public to take this opportunity to give us their views."</p> <p ><i> </i></p> <p >Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liam Byrne concluded: "The Government strongly supports this scheme and I'm pleased to announce today we will be committing £160 million towards a project which will transform this station for passengers.</p> <p > </p> <p >"Once completed, a modern Birmingham New Street station will offer a better transport interchange for the 140,000 passengers who use it every day and the wider Birmingham Gateway project will deliver a massive economic, employment and regeneration boost to the area."</p> <p ><i> </i></p> <p ><i> </i></p>"
"The partners behind the Birmingham Gateway project are inviting people to have their say on plans to transform New Street station into a landmark, 21st century transport hub and to join them at New Street for a public exhibition."
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Interactive rail map is one stop shop for train information
2009-10-08T00:00:00
2009-10-08T00:00:00
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"<p >Train passengers can get all the information they need on West Midlands rail services at the click of a mouse thanks to the launch of Centro's new interactive rail map.</p> <p >The transport authority has turned the region's recognised map of train lines into an online feature which allows passengers to zoom in and click on any station for up-to-date information.</p> <p >The map is available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/railmap"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/railmap</a> and links in to the rail network's multi million pound Real Time Information system, which uses signalling technology to work out exactly how many minutes until trains will arrive.</p> <p >It means passengers can the latest accurate information on train arrivals and departures at any station in the region by simply logging on to the website and clicking their mouse.</p> <p >As well as timetable information, each station also displays details of any incidents or delays which could affect passengers using the line.</p> <p >Also available is information on park and ride availability, sample fares and ticket prices, staff hours, station facilities and services, accessibility and contact details.</p> <p >To link in to Centro's work to encourage green and healthy travel, the interactive map also provides links to walkit.com so people can plan the best walking route to their station and established website liftshare.com so passengers can car share with others using the train.</p> <p >There are also direct links to Centro's interactive Google maps facility which gives up to date times for bus, rail and Metro and creates up to date journey plans allowing people to easily find out the quickest way to their station by all transport modes.</p> <p >The interactive rail map has been designed for needs of <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s passengers by Centro's new media designer Debra Ashington and created by leading digital transport information provider Kizoom.</p> <p >Debra said: "Thanks to Network West Midlands it has never been easier for passengers to get up-to-date public transport information, with timetables at every stop and Real Time Information available for more and more bus, rail and Metro services.</p> <p >"Having taken advantage of the latest technology to provide people with the best passenger information available on the public transport network, the next logical step was to give people the chance to access it from the comfort of their home or office on their computer.</p> <p >"Like the Network West Midlands Google maps, the rail map has been developed to be simple to use and provide passengers with all the details they need to make a fully informed choice on the best way to make their journey quickly and easily."</p>"
Train passengers can get all the information they need on West Midlands rail services at the click of a mouse thanks to the launch of Centro's new interactive rail map.
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Public exhibitions for South Birmingham bus changes
2009-10-02T00:00:00
2009-10-02T00:00:00
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"<p >People in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> wanting to find out more about improvements to bus services in the area can go to a number of special exhibitions taking place over the next two weeks.</p> <p >Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands, in consultation with Birmingham City Council, are making a series of changes to bus routes in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> to build on the already extensive public transport network in the area.</p> <p >The aim is to give people a more modern bus network which better connects them with the several new developments taking place in the area and enhances the quality of travel for passengers as set out in Centro's transport strategy Transforming Bus Travel.</p> <p >Fourteen public exhibitions, starting next week, are being held across <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> to ensure passengers can get all the information they need before the changes come into effect on 25 October.</p> <p >People can go along to find out more details about the improvements and pick up new timetables for their bus routes, while staff will be on hand to take any questions or comments.</p> <p >People can go along to any of the following exhibitions:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Wednesday 7 October, 0900 – 1500, Queen <st1:City ><st1:place >Elizabeth</st1:place></st1:City> Hospital (west entrance)</li> <li >Friday 9 October, 1200 – 1600, Selly Oak Library, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bristol Road</st1:address></st1:Street></li> <li >Saturday 10 October, 0900 – 1500, Frankley, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Arden Road</st1:address></st1:Street> Shops</li> <li >Monday 12 October, 1500 – 1900, Maypole Sainsburys</li> <li >Tuesday 13 October, 0900 – 1500, <st1:City ><st1:place >Austin</st1:place></st1:City> Sports and Social Centre, Longbridge</li> <li >Wednesday 14 October, 1200 – 1600, Birmingham Women's Hospital</li> <li >Thursday 15 October, 0900 – 1500, Cotteridge, Friends' Meeting House</li> <li >Friday 16 October, 1100 – 1500, <st1:City ><st1:place >Northfield</st1:place></st1:City>, Town Centre Partnership Office</li> <li >Saturday 17 October, 0900 – 1500, Kings Heath and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Moseley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Baptist</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Church</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></li> <li >Monday 19 October, 1200 – 1600, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> Library, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Castle Square</st1:address></st1:Street></li> <li >Tuesday 20 October, 1200 -1600, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceType >University</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>, outside Staff House</li> <li >Wednesday 21 October, 1200 – 1600, Hawkesley Community Centre, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Edgewood Rd</st1:address></st1:Street></li> <li >Thursday 22 October, 1500 – 1900, Queen <st1:City ><st1:place >Elizabeth</st1:place></st1:City> Hospital (café)</li> <li >Saturday 24 October, 0900 – 1500, Frankley, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Arden Road</st1:address></st1:Street> Shops</li> </ul> <p >Details of the exhibitions are also available on leaflets posted to over 200,000 <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> residents, at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a> and on posters at libraries, Neighbourhood Offices, community centres and on board buses.</p> <p >The exhibition in Hawkesley Community Centre, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Edgewood Road</st1:address></st1:Street> has been postponed from the date on the leaflet until Wednesday 21 October.<br /> <br /> </p> <p >The South Birmingham bus network review covers an area running from Warstock in the east to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in the west including Alcester, Pershore and Bristol Roads.</p> <p >The aim is to boost accessibility and improve transport links to a number of key regeneration projects, allowing for future growth at Longbridge, <st1:PlaceName >Bournville</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> and the new <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Queen</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hospital</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> which will become the city's second largest employer when it opens next summer.</p> <p >It is also hoped that is will help to simplify bus routes that have been in place across South Birmingham for over 20 years to give an easier to understand network with better co-ordinated bus and rail services.</p> <p >Improvements include:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >New direct bus links to the new QE hospital from Pool Farm, Hawkesley, Primrose Hill, Kings Norton, Cotteridge, Bournville, Frankley, Holly Hill, Maypole, Yardley Wood, Billesley, Kings Heath, Selly Park and Bournbrook;</li> <li >Improved links to education facilities such as <st1:PlaceName >Cadbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Sixth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Form</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >University</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> which has over 30,000 staff and students on site every day;</li> <li >A direct bus service from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holly Hill Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Frankley to <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre;</li> <li >Improved links to Wythall, Rubery and Pool Farm</li> <li >All National Express West Midlands buses and Centro subsidised services run by low floor easy access buses helping people with limited mobility or young children board the bus (around 250 vehicles in total).</li> <li >245 upgraded bus shelters to provide an enhanced waiting environment for passengers</li> <li >Increased evening and Sunday services</li> </ul> <p >More information on the changes can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a>  where route timetables will also be posted when they become available.</p>"
People in South Birmingham wanting to find out more about improvements to bus services in the area can go to a number of special exhibitions taking place over the next two weeks.
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12
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Bus improvement project short listed for top transport award
2009-09-28T00:00:00
2009-09-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A partnership project to provide the people of <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> with one of the most modern bus networks in the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> has been short listed for a prestigious transport award.</p> <p >The £41.5m Primelines initiative has brought together state-of-the-art technology, new easy access buses, high quality passenger information and highway improvements to transform bus travel in the city.</p> <p >Now the UK Bus Awards has announced that the pioneering project - a partnership between Coventry City Council, transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express Coventry - has been short listed in its Infrastructure category.</p> <p >Judges selected Primelines due to the work it has done to enhance the whole bus passenger experience in the city, from the information and facilities available while waiting for services, to the journey on the bus being quick, comfortable and reliable.</p> <p >Improvements include a £7m investment in new low floor buses by National Express Coventry and Real Time Information displays at over 200 bus stops across the city which tell passengers exactly when their bus will arrive.</p> <p >The project has already led to a six per cent rise in passenger numbers, with one fifth of people on the road now travelling into the city by bus in morning peak.</p> <p >There has been an increase in bus punctuality of 40 per cent and reliability has risen by over 25 per cent thanks to bus friendly highways improvements like bus lanes and traffic light priority which allow buses to bypass traffic jams.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Ridley, Cabinet Member for City Development at Coventry City Council said: "We're absolutely delighted that the Primelines project has been short listed for a UK Bus Award.</p> <p >"The latest technology has been used to give <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> one of the best bus networks in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> which is already proving to be very successful. We've had lots of positive feedback from passengers and big improvements in journey times and satisfaction.</p> <p >"We're very pleased with Primelines achievements and the way it has been received by the people of <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City>. Winning this award would be the icing on the cake."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Director of Bus & Highways at Centro added: "These bus service improvements have been brought in thanks to a real team effort between Coventry City Council, Centro and National Express Coventry.</p> <p >"Each partner has readily brought thier expertise and resources to the table and worked together efficiently and effectively to really enhance <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City>'s bus network for passengers.</p> <p >"Being short listed for this award shows that this partnership project has brought in high quality, cutting edge improvements that set a benchmark for best practice in bus travel and play a vital role in attracting people out of their cars."</p> <p >Alex Perry Operations Director for National Express bus and coach, said: "The Primelines project in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> really is industry leading, and is a winner already for our customers and employees.  Improvements comprise a £7m investment package including £6m in new low floor buses by National Express Coventry.  We look forward to the final, and also continuing this excellent partnership work with Centro and the City Council."</p> <p >The UK Bus Awards has been running for 14 years, and 2009 has seen a record breaking number of "extremely high standard" entries generating what has been described as one of the toughest first round judging sessions ever. The winners of the awards will be announced at a presentation ceremony on Thursday 12 November 2009.</p>"
A partnership project to provide the people of Coventry with one of the most modern bus networks in the UK has been short listed for a prestigious transport award.
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0
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Your bus matters� In Coventry
2009-09-23T00:00:00
2009-09-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> can have their say on the city's bus services at a series of special events taking place in the city centre on Tuesday (29 September 2009).</p> <p >Transport authority Centro, passenger champion Bus Users UK, local bus companies and the Safer Travel Police team have set up a day of interactive sessions for existing and prospective passengers.</p> <p >The aim is to understand from people in the city what can be done to make the bus network more attractive and easier to use.</p> <p >People's feedback will be used to build on the success of the Coventry Primelines project which has recently been short listed for a highly acclaimed UK Bus Award due to significantly improved services leading to a big boost in passenger numbers.</p> <p >The day starts at Pool Meadow Bus Station where a "Meet the Manager" session is taking place between 7:30am and 9am at the Network West Midlands travel shop, allowing commuters to come along and chat to the staff that run the bus interchange.</p> <p >Throughout the day the bus station will also host a special event with the Safer Travel Police Team, where Police Officers and PCSO's (Police Community Support Officers) will be on hand to give advice on travelling safely on the network.</p> <p >From 10am to 3pm, a National Express Coventry bus will be parked in Broadgate where representatives from Centro, Bus Users UK and bus operators National Express Coventry, Stagecoach and De Courcey Travel will be available to take questions and comments.</p> <p >There will be fun activities available for children on the day, while parents, workers and shoppers can give their views on what they think will make bus services even better in the city.</p> <p >In the evening, a formal question and answer session will take place at the Council House between 6pm and 8pm, where officers from a range of transport organisations will answer people's queries on local bus and rail services.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Director of Bus & Highways at Centro said: "People living and travelling through <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> are our eyes and ears when it comes to understanding what can be done to make the city's bus network even better.</p> <p >"We're keen to build on the success of the Primelines project which has seen a wide range of enhancements including Real Time Information, bus priority measures and new vehicles leading to many more people using the bus instead of the car.</p> <p >"We hope people will come along to the events taking place on Tuesday and give us their views so we can work with our partners to put in place the improvements that matter most to the people of <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City>."</p> <p >Phil Tonks, Operations Officer for <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> at Bus Users UK added: ""Getting people's views on public transport in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> is essential if we are to see a continual improvement in the service provided.</p> <p >""<em>Your Bus Matters</em> has been designed to allow local people to have their say whether on their way to work, during the daytime or into the early evening. All the comments received will be looked at to see where improvements can be made"".</p> <p >A similar event in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> last month attracted over 400 people and provided valuable feedback which will be used to further enhance public transport in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p>"
People in Coventry can have their say on the city's bus services at a series of special events taking place in the city centre on Tuesday (29 September 2009).
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Latest bus times at your fingertips in free text message offer
2009-09-18T00:00:00
2009-09-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers can now get complimentary up-to-date bus arrival times at their finger tips for any bus stop in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> thanks to a free text message offer.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has just started a promotion on its Text<i>Time</i> service which uses satellite and mobile phone technology to give people up to the minute bus times by SMS.</p> <p >Passengers have up until the end of October to try out the service at no charge, allowing them to easily find out the times of their next bus from the comfort of their home or office by simply sending a text message.</p> <p >As part of a multi-million pound project, each one of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> 12,200 bus stops has been given a special eight digit code printed on the bottom of its timetable poster.</p> <p >All people need to do is text their stop code to 84268. They will then receive a text message in a few seconds showing the arrival times for the next buses at their stop (the mobile phone provider will charge customers their normal text rate for this).</p> <p >Many of the text messages will give Real Time Information, which uses high-tech satellite navigation systems on board buses to track the vehicles exact location allowing a more accurate prediction of the service's arrival time.</p> <p >Scheduled times will be sent to passengers where Real Time Information is not available.</p> <p >People who have mobile phones or handheld computers that access the internet can also use a specially designed website to get the same bus time information through Centro's Mobi<i>Time</i> service.</p> <p ><a href=""http://www.netwm.mobi/"">www.netwm.mobi</a> allows passengers to type in their stop code or name, street name or location to get information directly to their screen about when the next bus services will arrive.</p> <p >Passengers at many stops in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> are already used to electronic displays in bus shelters which use the same technology to display Real Time Information.</p> <p >The Text<i>Time</i> and Mobi<i>Time</i> services mean that even if a shelter doesn't have a display people can still find out the arrival time of the next bus.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "This service uses 21<sup>st</sup> Century technology to allow people to find out up-to-date, accurate arrival times of their next bus services at their local stop.</p> <p >"This gives passengers the comfort, security and confidence of knowing exactly when they need to leave the home, the office, the pub or wherever they are and get to the bus stop just before their service arrives.</p> <p >"I hope people take advantage of this free offer on the Text<i>Time</i> service, which adds to the hard work we have done through Network West Midlands to make it as easy as possible for people to use public transport by providing the best possible information."</p> <p >Text messages normally cost 25p plus users' standard network operator charges. Users taking advantage of the offer will only have to pay for the return text at their standard network operator charges.</p>"
Passengers can now get complimentary up-to-date bus arrival times at their finger tips for any bus stop in the West Midlands thanks to a free text message offer.
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West Midlands joins forces on High Speed Rail
2009-09-17T00:00:00
2009-09-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >West Midland's leaders and transport bosses today praised top level plans for a High Speed Rail link which will connect <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> to <st1:City >London</st1:City> in 45 minutes and <st1:place ><st1:City >Paris</st1:City></st1:place> in just three hours.</p> <p >Greengauge 21, the organisation set up to research and develop a case for High Speed Rail in the UK, unveiled its major study showing for the first time what a national High Speed network linking Britain's major cities could look like, the benefits it will bring and how much it might cost.</p> <p>It shows there is real value in creating quicker rail links between the <st1:State >North West</st1:State>, the West Midlands and <st1:City >London</st1:City> in the first stage of a new High Speed Rail network, increasing national and regional transport capacity which is essential in supporting long-term economic growth both locally and across <st1:place ><st1:country-region >Britain</st1:country-region></st1:place>.</p> <p>The study also highlights how poor access to <st1:City >London</st1:City>, Heathrow and Europe from major urban areas like the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> has caused constraints and frustrations which have restricted growth.</p> <p>Greengauge 21 predicts that High Speed Rail will address this issue through the "transformational journey times and reliability" it offers and by providing direct links for cities to <st1:place >Europe</st1:place>'s High Speed Rail network. This, it says, will lead to a step change in people's decisions on where to live and set up business.</p> <p>Leader of Birmingham City Council, Mike Whitby said: "High Speed Rail is becoming a vital strategic need for cities that want to compete effectively on a global scale. It already plays a fundamental role in major national economies across the world and the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> needs to ensure that High Speed Rail is a priority investment.   <br /> <br /> "A High Speed Rail line connecting <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre and the airport with <st1:City >London</st1:City> and the north will give the West Midlands an increased competitive advantage, making the region even more attractive as a place to live, work, visit and especially do business, and putting <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> on the map as a global city."</p> <p >The region also demonstrated a united voice in calling for the High Speed Rail link to stop at station in both the city centre and at a station on the outskirts of <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>, supported in the Greengauge report which says there is scope for edge-of-city hub stations in addition to city centre locations.</p> <p >A station near to Birmingham International Airport would provide the capacity for through trains to access the north quickly, while a terminal station in the city centre would give high speed rail an easy and efficient interchange with other public transport that it needs for residents and visitors to the region.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, chief executive of transport authority Centro said: "As confirmed by today's Greengauge report, a High Speed Rail link between the <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >West Midlands</st1:PersonName></st1:place> and the nation's other key cities will bring huge economic, social and connectivity benefits to both the region and the nation.</p> <p >"We are at the heart of <st1:country-region ><st1:PersonName >Britain</st1:PersonName></st1:country-region>'s transport network and that is where we should remain, so we welcome the report's finding that there is a strong business case for High Speed Rail in the <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >West Midlands</st1:PersonName></st1:place>.</p> <p >"For the region to get the most benefit from High Speed Rail, services should come right into <st1:place ><st1:City ><st1:PersonName >Birmingham</st1:PersonName></st1:City></st1:place> city centre, assisting large scale regeneration and development plans and reducing pressure in the South East. They should also serve <st1:place ><st1:PersonName ><st1:PlaceName ><st1:PersonName >Birmingham</st1:PersonName></st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName ><st1:PersonName >International</st1:PersonName></st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType ><st1:PersonName >Airport</st1:PersonName></st1:PlaceType></st1:PersonName></st1:place> and Heathrow to attract more long haul air travel to the region.</p> <p >"This approach would also allow High Speed trains to pass through the <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >West Midlands</st1:PersonName></st1:place> very quickly while being accessible to as many people as possible regardless of whether they connect to the system by rail, air, car, bus or other modes of transport.</p> <p >"That is why High Speed Rail with stations at <st1:City ><st1:PersonName >Birmingham</st1:PersonName></st1:City> airport and in the heart of the city is a regional priority for the West Midlands, and why we are committed to working together to make sure that we are at the centre of <st1:place ><st1:country-region ><st1:PersonName >Britain</st1:PersonName></st1:country-region></st1:place>'s High Speed Rail network."</p> <p >The Greengauge report explains the need for additional capacity on transport systems across <st1:place ><st1:country-region ><st1:PersonName >Britain</st1:PersonName></st1:country-region></st1:place>, which, it says, are stifling business efficiency, productivity growth and investment.</p> <p >Mick Laverty, chief executive at Advantage West Midlands said: "The Greengauge report supports our belief that a national High Speed Rail network will deliver real economic benefits to the <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >West Midlands</st1:PersonName></st1:place>, boosting our competitiveness.</p> <p >"Road congestion and the lack of a fast reliable alternative is often quoted as a key constraint for businesses. A High Speed Rail network will enable businesses to access new markets, increase tourism, decrease road congestion, lower carbon emissions and strengthen the region's appeal as a premier inward investment location.</p> <p >"We are delighted that the Government, Greengauge 21 and Network Rail all believe High Speed lines to the <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >West Midlands</st1:PersonName></st1:place> should be the first phase of a national High Speed Rail network."  </p> <p >The interconnected network Greengauge proposes would see two north to south routes on the east and west of the country, with three connections linking the two lines in <st1:country-region ><st1:PersonName >Scotland</st1:PersonName></st1:country-region>, the Pennines and between <st1:City ><st1:PersonName >London</st1:PersonName></st1:City> and <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >South Wales</st1:PersonName></st1:place>. These will also fully connect with the existing national rail network.</p> <p >The study envisages that it will take 25 years to build a national High Speed Rail network at a cost of £69 billion. It predicts the network will carry 178 million passengers a year and boost national business, tourism and the economy to the tune of £125bn.</p> <p >It also  highlights how High Speed Rail can help address climate change by providing an attractive alternative to short-haul flights and long distance car journeys and supporting existing green initiatives, describing it as "the green option for our national transport system".</p>"
West Midland's leaders and transport bosses today praised top level plans for a High Speed Rail link which will connect Birmingham to London in 45 minutes and Paris in just three hours.
9369
0
12
0
Better bus routes for South Birmingham
2009-09-15T00:00:00
2009-09-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in South Birmingham are to benefit from an improved bus network which will better connect them with several new developments taking place in the area including the city's new <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Super</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands, in consultation with Birmingham City Council, have finalised a series of changes to routes in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> to build on the already extensive transport network in the area.</p> <p >The aim is to deliver a modern bus network which enhances the quality of travel for residents and visitors and attracts people out of their cars, following the strategy set out in Centro's groundbreaking transport vision Transforming Bus Travel.</p> <p >The changes, which will come into affect from 25 October 2009, cover an area running from Warstock in the east, to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in the west, including Alcester, Pershore and Bristol Roads.</p> <p >The new network aims to address the changing travel needs of residents across the region boosting accessibility and improving transport links to a number of key regeneration projects.</p> <p >It will also allow for future growth at the Longbridge and <st1:PlaceName >Bournville</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> redevelopment sites and the new <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Queen</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hospital</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> which will become the city's second largest employer when it opens next summer.</p> <p >Improvements include:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >New direct bus links to the new QE hospital from Pool Farm, Hawkesley, Primrose Hill, Kings Norton, Cotteridge, Bournville, Frankley, Holly Hill, Maypole, Yardley Wood, Billesley, Kings Heath, Selly Park and Bournbrook;</li> <li >Improved links to education facilities such as <st1:PlaceName >Cadbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Sixth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Form</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >University</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> which has over 30,000 staff and students on site every day;</li> <li >A direct bus service from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holly Hill Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Frankley to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre;</li> <li >Improved links to Wythall, Rubery and Pool Farm</li> <li >All National Express West Midlands buses and Centro subsidised services run by low floor easy access buses helping people with limited mobility or young children board the bus (around 250 vehicles in total).</li> <li >245 upgraded bus shelters to provide an enhanced waiting environment for passengers</li> <li >Increased evening and Sunday services</li> </ul> <p >The review will help to simplify bus routes that have been in place across <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> for over 20 years to give an easier to understand network that takes people where they want to go, when they want to go.</p> <p >Bus services will also be better co-ordinated so that bus services are timed to complement each other as well as local rail services.</p> <p >Over 200,000 residents in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> will receive a leaflet through their doors over the next two weeks detailing the bus service improvements.</p> <p >The changes were finalised using feedback from the four week public consultation in July and August as well as comments from schools, community groups, local councillors and other stakeholders.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for Bus & Highways at Centro, said: "At present, there is a real surge of regeneration taking place in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> with projects like the new super hospital and the redevelopment of Longbridge providing a real opportunity to boost the economy, attractiveness and employment prospects of the area.</p> <p >"If we are going to make the most of these development projects for people and businesses, we need to make sure the transport connections are fit for purpose and attractive for both existing and potential passengers.</p> <p >"This means clean, modern, reliable and safe services that take people where they want to go quickly and easily and reflect today's travel patterns in what is increasingly becoming a 24/7 society."</p> <p >Kevin Belfield, National Express Director Midlands added: "South Birmingham is home to some of our city's largest employers, developments and education centres so it's vital the bus network provides high quality, regular services with connections to destinations across the region.</p> <p >"This review will deliver a modernised bus network for <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> based on our customer feedback as well as comments from local residents and organisations. From 25 October residents will benefit from more low floor, easy access buses, increased services across several routes and a transport system capable of growing alongside future developments in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place>." </p> <p >Cllr Len Gregory, Cabinet Member for Transportation and Street Services at Birmingham City Council concluded: "Improving accessibility and how the city's transport networks operate is a key objective of the Council's Big City Plan, so we are delighted to be involved in this project.<br /> <br /> "By combining an ever more efficient bus service with the on-going improvements being made to the city's road, air and rail networks we believe we can deliver a much improved integrated and user focussed public transport network."  </p> <p >More information on the changes can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a>  where route timetables will also be posted when they become available.</p> <p >Before the new services start on October 25, there will be 14 public information exhibitions across the area, where people can go along and get information about the changes from representatives from Centro and National Express. Details of the exhibitions are available on the Network West Midlands website.</p>"
People living in South Birmingham are to benefit from an improved bus network which will better connect them with several new developments taking place in the area including the city's new Super Hospital.
9369
0
12
0
New Walsall bus stop to improve traffic flow
2009-09-11T00:00:00
2009-09-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new bus stop has been installed on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> to help improve the flow of buses and cars along the road and make it easier for passengers to access the town centre.</p> <p >Centro, Walsall Council and bus operators have worked together to put in the new stop between Newport Street and Caldmore Road after residents and businesses expressed concern that too many buses were using the two existing stops in Bradford Street.</p> <p >It is hoped the additional stop, which has been installed for a one month trial period, will help relieve congestion in the area.</p> <p >The new stop will come into affect from this Sunday (September 13, 2009) and will serve the 404, 404A and 404E services.</p> <p >Buses on the 401, 401E, 405, 405E routes will be split between the two existing stops recently installed on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Street</st1:address></st1:Street> just before <st1:Street ><st1:address >Midland Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >In June this year Centro, Walsall Council, National Express West Midlands and Diamond Bus worked together to put up two new bus stops in Bradford Street with the aim of relieving congestion at Walsall's busy Bradford Place interchange.</p> <p >While this has solved the overcrowding problems at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street>, there were some issues raised about traffic flow problems on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Street</st1:address></st1:Street> following the changes.</p> <p >If the trial is successful, Centro will consult with local stakeholders about the possibility of installing bus shelters at the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Street</st1:address></st1:Street> stops to enhance the waiting environment for passengers.</p>"
A new bus stop has been installed on Bradford Street in Walsall to help improve the flow of buses and cars along the road and make it easier for passengers to access the town centre.
9369
0
12
0
Extra bus patrols reassure passengers in Autumn
2009-09-09T00:00:00
2009-09-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People using buses in Birmingham during September will see an increase in police patrols on the network as the new school year begins and the nights start to draw in.</p> <p >The Safer Travel team is launching 'Operation Hay', which will see over 60 police officers and police community support officers (PCSOs) deployed onto the network to provide reassurance to passengers and deter crime during the back to school and back to work period following the summer holidays.</p> <p >The operation will run from Monday 8 September to Friday 18 September. It will encompass the main bus routes into the city centre and <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre itself.</p> <p >Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police, Safer Birmingham Partnership and Centro, the region's passenger transport authority. The partnership works with local bus operators to make bus travel even safer for passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the network.</p> <p >During the operation, officers from the Safer Travel team and stations in 'hot spot' areas will be conducting after-school police patrols, providing reassurance, gathering intelligence and identifying outstanding offenders on the bus network.<br /> <br /> Officers and PCSOs will be at bus stops outside schools speaking to pupils and giving out crime reduction advice advising them how to keep themselves and their belongings safe. They will also be travelling with them on the main routes into the city centre.<br /> <br /> Officers will also be targeting anti-social behaviour as part of the operation and will be using the existing Section 30 dispersal order that is currently in place in the city centre.<br /> <br /> The dispersal order covers the city centre in an area that stretches from <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station to Snow Hill station north to south and from Paradise Circus Queensway to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station east to west.<br /> <br /> Inspector Cate Webb-Jones, from the force Safer Travel police team, said: "This is a great opportunity for us to engage with the children and the wider community travelling on the buses. </p> <p >"It's really important to us to make sure that they everyone knows how to keep themselves and their belongings safe and also for us to address any unacceptable behaviour on the buses.</p> <p >"Operation Hay is aimed at making pupils and the general public feel as safe as possible on their travels. By working with the council, National Express and Centro we aim to support the travelling public by providing a safe environment for them and ensure they have the information they need to reduce their chances of becoming victims of crime."</p> <p ><br /> This operation supports the government's 'Youth Crime Action Plan', aimed at tackling youth crime through a comprehensive plan of early intervention, support and enforcement.</p>"
People using buses in Birmingham during September will see an increase in police patrols on the network as the new school year begins and the nights start to draw in.
9369
0
12
0
Bus shelters are just the ticket for community group
2009-09-09T00:00:00
2009-09-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A voluntary community group in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> which provides a series of fun and educational activities for local families and young people has been given two historic local bus shelters and the materials to maintain them for its centre in Blakenall.</p> <p >Walsall Council and transport authority Centro recently replaced two of the quirky wooden bus stops that have served the travelling public on Pelsall Common for over 40 years with new waiting facilities.</p> <p >The two organisations agreed to donate the old shelters together with new paint and brushes to the Green Rivers Community Association after the centre asked the Local Neighbourhood Partnership if it could salvage the structures for use on its site.</p> <p >They will now be installed and used as a sports dug out and a recreational area at the Community Centre located on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Green Rock Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >Caroline Crolley, one of the volunteers helping to run Green Rivers, said: "These wooden bus shelters are part of the area's history, so when we heard they were being replaced we thought it was a shame for them to be thrown away.</p> <p >"Thanks to Walsall Council and Centro agreeing that we can salvage them and providing us with materials to give them a make over, not only are we providing some new facilities for the children that come to the centre but we are also preserving a bit of the local past."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> councillor and Chairman of Centro, added: "Sadly these historic bus stops were costing too much to maintain as passenger shelters, requiring regular cleaning and repairing while in place on Pelsall Common.</p> <p >"I'm very pleased that Walsall Council and Centro have worked together to provide new waiting facilities in Pelsall, in turn making a useful contribution to this valuable community group which does so much for the young people of Walsall - providing a safe place where children can get advice and enjoy a wide range of fun activities."</p> <p >The centre is currently building a new assault course for young children to play on and requires donations of wooden logs and large plastic tubes like a giant pipe to use as a crawling tunnel. Anyone who can help can contact Caroline on 07850 734 500.</p> <p >Activities on offer for families and youths attending Green Rivers include a Summer Holiday Club, animal filming with the National Trust, wildlife studies, a range of sports and trips to local events. The Association is run entirely on a voluntary basis.</p>"
A voluntary community group in Walsall which provides a series of fun and educational activities for local families and young people has been given two historic local bus shelters and the materials to maintain them for its centre in Blakenall.
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pelsallweb.jpg
0
12
0
School buses take to the road in groundbreaking pilot
2009-09-09T00:00:00
2009-09-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Children at Wolverhampton Girls' High School and St Paul's School for Girls in Birmingham have become the first to try out the West Midlands' own hi-tech version of <st1:place ><st1:country-region >America</st1:country-region></st1:place>'s Yellow School Buses following the start of a school travel pilot this week.</p> <p >The state-of-the-art initiative will allow pupils to travel to classes on four specially designed bus routes in the scheme launched by Transport Authority Centro, which is funding the pilots, and The Green Bus this week.</p> <p >The aim is to provide healthy, safe and easy-to-use transport for children while teaching the next generation of commuters about using environmentally friendly travel modes and giving them confidence to use public transport.</p> <p >The innovative scheme, which has been formed under Centro's groundbreaking transport vision Transforming Bus Travel, has created the two bespoke bus services for the school based on pupils' travel patterns using input from teachers and parents.</p> <p >These will provide stops close to young people's homes so that they only need to make a short walk to the bus stop.</p> <p >The pilots also use the latest technology to provide a series of measures to give reassurance to parents of children using the services.</p> <p >These include satellite tracking of vehicles on The Green Bus' interactive website so parents can see exactly where their child's school bus is and a facility for parents, teachers and schools to receive instant free text messages informing them of any delays or diversions to the service.</p> <p >Each bus also has its own dedicated driver and free on-board wi-fi internet service that allows children to surf the web and communicate with their friends on the way to and from school.</p> <p >Lynda Waltho MP, Assistant Regional Minister for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, said: "These school travel pilots will play a vital role in freeing up the region's roads during the congested school run.</p> <p >"They will also give young people a head start in using public transport, developing the confidence and knowledge to use buses, trains and trams which means, when they are older, they will have greater access to jobs, shops and services and will be encouraged to make green travel choices instead of opting straight for the car."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, added: "This new school travel initiative is leading the way in providing safe, green and healthy transport for children while using state-of-the-art technology to put parents' and teachers' minds at rest.</p> <p >"We look forward to seeing the results of this pilot, and hope to roll the initiative out to more schools in the region as a real way of shaping present and future travel patterns."</p> <p >The services will use buses painted in a striking green livery, and will complement existing commercial bus services that serve the school.</p> <p >They will accept all valid <strong>n</strong>network and <strong>n</strong>bus tickets which children will also be able to use on any other bus service in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Julie Lawton, Head Teacher of Wolverhampton Girls' High School said: "I hope that the facilities provided by Centro and The Green Bus will encourage more young people to use sustainable methods of transport for their journey to school. We have already had a very heartening uptake with dozens of students already signing up.</p> <p >"I have been most impressed by the way in which Centro and the bus company fully understand the needs of young people, and I am particularly convinced that this is because the director at The Green Bus has himself been a teacher and knows what is required."</p> <p >"Every question I have asked about the service had already been thought of and addressed, from what happens in inclement weather to how we can ensure the health and safety of our students."</p> <p >More school travel pilots are planned for introduction at two other schools after Christmas. If they are successful it is hoped more schools will become involved in the future.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus & Highways at Centro added: "Providing attractive, safe and reliable school transport is an essential part of our vision to transform bus travel in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >"We have chosen schools due to their location along congested corridors, and we believe these initiatives will really help to reduce pollution and traffic particularly during peak times in areas which often suffer from delays caused by overcrowded roads."</p> <p >Ian Mack, Managing Director of The Green Bus, concluded: "The Green Bus is a tried-and-tested way of reducing car journeys significantly. The way we do that is to design bus services which are as convenient as possible for parents and as attractive as we can make them for children. The modal shift we get as a result is dramatic. Our pilot partnership with Centro may well turn into a very powerful way of getting cars off the roads in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p> <p >Research shows that a billion car trips are made to and from school a year, making up 20 per cent of rush hour traffic and creating two million tonnes of carbon dioxide.</p> <p >A study by Elephant.co.uk estimated that during the school holidays commuters in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> saved an average of 12 minutes and 50 seconds on every journey to work thanks to reduced traffic.</p>"
Children at Wolverhampton Girls' High School and St Paul's School for Girls in Birmingham have become the first to try out the West Midlands' own hi-tech version of America's Yellow School Buses following the start of a school travel pilot this week.
9369
0
12
0
Views sought on Warwick Road congestion busting scheme
2009-09-09T00:00:00
2009-09-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living, working and travelling along the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:Street> are being urged to give their views on how the corridor can be improved to better suit their needs at consultation events taking place on Saturday 12 and Saturday 19 September 2009.</p> <p >The A41 - a key transport route through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and Solihull - is being piloted as the region's first <st1:Street ><st1:address >Smart Route</st1:address></st1:Street> by <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> and Solihull Councils and transport authority Centro.</p> <p >The aim is to identify the issues and opportunities along the road from the people who live, work and travel in the area, and then bring in a series of measures to beat congestion and enhance the local environment along the route.</p> <p >These will include improvements to traffic flow and journey times, bringing in road safety enhancements and improving facilities for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, lead member for <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> at Centro, said: "We really need to understand what the best and most appropriate measures are to improve the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:Street> when we develop a strategy for the route.</p> <p >"The people who use the corridor every day are our eyes and ears when it comes to making the right enhancements for the area which will best suit the local community and travellers along this key transport artery.</p> <p >"Therefore we would like to appeal to people to come down to the events taking place in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> over the next couple of weeks and give their views."</p> <p >Representatives from <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> and Solihull Councils and Centro will be available to take peoples' views at the following public events:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Saturday 12 September 2009, 11am – 3pm, Sparkhill Adult EducationCentre, <st1:address ><st1:Street >477 Stratford Road</st1:Street>, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B11 4LE</st1:PostalCode></st1:address></li> <li >Saturday 19 September 2009, 11am – 3pm, Acocks Green Library, <st1:address ><st1:Street >Shirley Road</st1:Street>, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B27 7XH</st1:PostalCode></st1:address></li> <li >Saturday 19 September 2009, 11am – 3pm, Olton Library, 169A <st1:Street ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Olton, <st1:place ><st1:City >Solihull</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B92 7AR</st1:PostalCode></st1:place></li> </ul> <p >A series of other consultation exercises are also taking place including stakeholder meetings and public perception surveys.</p> <p >In addition all properties within the corridor have been leafleted and people asked to provide their views through a questionnaire. People can also give their comments at <a href=""www.warwickroad.org.uk"">www.warwickroad.org.uk</a>, by email at comments@warwickroad.org.uk or by telephone at 0121 483 6485.</p> <p >Once the consultation is completed, the information will be used to develop the best strategy for the route. Work on implementing the measures could start in early 2010 after the package of improvements has been developed.</p> <p >More information about the A41 Warwick Road Smart Route can be found at <a href=""www.warwickroad.org.uk"">www.warwickroad.org.uk</a></p>"
"People living, working and travelling along the Warwick Road are being urged to give their views on how the corridor can be improved to better suit their needs at consultation events taking place on Saturday 12 and Saturday 19 September 2009."
9369
0
12
0
West Midlands transport bosses welcome High Speed Rail
2009-08-27T00:00:00
2009-08-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bosses at West Midlands transport authority Centro have welcomed plans to link the region with Britain's other key cities with high speed trains and bring much needed extra capacity to the local rail network.</p> <p >It follows the release of Network Rail's document <i>The Case for New Lines</i> which puts forward proposals on how to address the increasing strain that passenger and freight growth is putting on the nation's railways.</p> <p >The organisation sets out plans to introduce a high speed rail service which will allow passengers to travel from <st1:country-region >Britain</st1:country-region>'s second city to <st1:City >London</st1:City> in just 46 minutes, to <st1:City ><st1:place >Manchester</st1:place></st1:City> in 38 minutes and to Glasgow or Edinburgh in around two hours.</p> <p >If the proposals are put into action it will free up West Midlands rail lines to provide much needed extra capacity, improvements and more regular train services within in the region.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro said: "Network Rail's New Lines report sets out a convincing case for High Speed Rail, addressing the fundamental need to connect Britain's principal city centres via high speed trains.</p> <p >"High Speed Rail will increase capacity both regionally and nationally by freeing up existing rail lines to allow for better and more frequent local services.</p> <p >"High Speed 2 will really enhance the West Midlands position on a global scale by bringing the region just three quarters of an hour away from <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >"This is not only great news for passengers wanting to travel between Britain's two largest conurbations, but will also make the region a really attractive option for businesses looking to escape from the over-heated South East.</p> <p >"We welcome the continuing discussion on the needs of the national rail network and will continue working with High Speed 2 and our industry partners to ensure that passengers get the world class transport experience they need - not only when they travel nationally on high speed rail, but by ensuring they have excellent local travel choices when they get to the West Midlands through a range of transport options like the Midland Metro extensions."</p> <p >The West Midlands has seen huge growth in passenger numbers in the last decade, with one in four commuters travelling by train into <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> and over 100,000 passengers travelling through <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> every day.</p> <p >In the last year alone, the number of people using trains in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rose by 8.2 per cent to 35.5 million passengers a year.</p> <p >Centro has been working with its partners to make improvements to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>'s rail network, completing a project to install Real Time Information at every station, improving frequency on a number of local services and working with Network Rail and Birmingham City Council to secure funding for the £600 million New Street Gateway.</p>"
Bosses at West Midlands transport authority Centro have welcomed plans to link the region with Britain's other key cities with high speed trains and bring much needed extra capacity to the local rail network.
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Park events are free ticket to fun and films for families
2009-08-25T00:00:00
2009-08-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Families looking for fun and entertainment on a budget this bank holiday weekend can go to a free weekend of movies and activities in <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wolverhampton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >West</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> thanks to Network West Midlands and Beacon Radio.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has teamed up with the Black Country radio station to hold a special Picnic in the Park event on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August (2009), and every family in the West Midlands is invited.</p> <p >Parents can come along with their children and a picnic and take part in loads of free and fun activities including a bouncy castle and inflatable slide, adventure play area, sand pits, Western style rifle range, giant games, sports and face painting.</p> <p >A magician, clown, stilt walker and balloon modeller will be there to entertain families, while Centro will hold a Network West Midlands exhibition with giveaways and information on summer offers and Letzgogreen.org - the fun and interactive public transport website which teaches children about using green travel options.</p> <p >After 6pm, the event will change to Movies in the Park, when parents and children can settle down and watch a family movie on a giant screen, all free of charge.</p> <p >People can get to the event by hopping on the 525 bus at Stand H in Wolverhampton bus station which drops passengers off right outside the entrance to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wolverhampton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >West</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p >Families coming from further away can catch the bus, train or tram into the centre of <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> and make the short walk from the railway station or Metro stop to Wolverhampton Bus Station to connect with the 525 service.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "Keeping the children entertained during the six weeks holiday is no easy feat, particularly at the moment when money is tight for lots of families.</p> <p >"By joining forces with Beacon Radio, we have been able to put on this fun, action packed event which is not only completely free, but will get our next generation of commuters taking part in a wide range of activities while learning about using green and healthy transport."</p> <p >Rinku Banerjee, Marketing Executive at Centro, added: "These events are really great fun for the whole family with so many things going on for children of all ages, and the parents too!</p> <p >"We would love to see as many people as possible at <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wolverhampton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >West</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> this weekend, so why not hop on the bus, train or tram with your picnic and popcorn and come and join in the fun!"</p> <p >More information on the event and summer offers to some of the region's top attractions can be found at networkwestmidlands.com</p>"
Families looking for fun and entertainment on a budget this bank holiday weekend can go to a free weekend of movies and activities in Wolverhampton West Park thanks to Network West Midlands and Beacon Radio.
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Summeroffers.jpg
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Bus Matters - in Birmingham
2009-08-14T00:00:00
2009-08-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> will be given a new way to have their say on local bus services during a special, city centre event.</p> <p >"Your Bus Matters" is a new partnership between Centro, the region's transport authority, passenger group Bus Users UK, Safer Travel and bus companies National Express West Midlands and Diamond Bus.</p> <p >On Wednesday 19<sup>th</sup> August 2009, between 10am and 3pm, people can come and meet the "Bus Matters" team and have their say on board a Diamond bus and National Express West Midlands bus parked outside The Council House in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Victoria Square</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >There'll be activities to keep the kids entertained while adults will get the chance to win a month's free travel or High Street shopping vouchers, simply by giving the Bus Matters team their views.</p> <p >Phil Tonks, from Passenger Group Bus Users UK, said; "We're really keen to hear people's views locally about their bus services. Buses are a vital part of the community and it is so important that we meet and discuss not only current services, but also future provision."</p> <p >Chris Perry, Head of Operational Services at Centro added: "We look forward to meeting the people of <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> and hearing what they think is good about their bus services and what can be improved.</p> <p >"Local passengers are our eyes and ears when it comes to public transport and their feedback is vital if we are going to achieve our aim of providing a world class public transport system for <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p> <p > </p>"
"People in Birmingham will be given a new way to have their say on local bus services during a special, city centre event."
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0
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Work set to start on New Street Station
2009-08-12T00:00:00
2009-08-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Work kicks off in just a few weeks on the new station for Birmingham that will deliver a bigger, better and brighter New Street for the 40m passengers that use it each year.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 1 -->Preparatory work will start in September. The first phase of the Gateway project will see Network Rail build a brand new concourse next to the station in what is currently the NCP Pallasades lower-level car park. This car park will close on 1st September 2009 to enable preparatory work to start a few weeks later.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 2 -->Passengers will not be affected by this work.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 3 -->The New Street Gateway project, funded by Network Rail, Birmingham City Council, Advantage West Midlands and Centro, will see the 1960s-built station transformed into a landmark, 21st century transport hub.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 4 -->As this work is taking place off-site, <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station and The Pallasades shopping centre will stay open throughout.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 5 -->The new concourse is expected to open to the public in 2012. Then in the second phase of the project, the old concourse will be redeveloped to deliver a world-class station upon completion in 2015.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 6 -->The New Street Gateway project will double passenger capacity and deliver:</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 7 -->- a concourse that is three-and-a-half times bigger than at present and enclosed by a giant, light-filled atrium</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 8 -->- more accessible, brighter and clearer platforms, serviced by over 30 new escalators and over 15 new public lifts</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 9 -->- a stunning new station façade, adding to <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s growing reputation for good design</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 10 -->- better links to and through the station for pedestrians with eight new entrances</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 11 -->- the stimulus for the physical regeneration of the areas surrounding the station</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 12 -->Jo Kaye, Network Rail's route director, said: ""It's an exciting time for the millions of users of <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station as the £600m transformation of the station begins to move from a vision to a reality.</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 13 -->""With preparatory work just a few weeks off, passengers are one step closer to a massively improved station which will be bigger, brighter and so much better."</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 14 -->Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council, added: ""The Gateway project will transform <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> into a station that is the envy of the world and act as a catalyst for continued growth in the city. The project is at the heart of the master-plan for <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> and we are delighted that preparatory work will be starting this year.""</p> <p><!-- CLOSE PARA 15 -->Mick Laverty, chief executive of Advantage West Midlands, said: ""<st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> Gateway is vital to the regional economy. We anticipate the project will generate over £2bn in transport and wider economic benefits for the region and lead to the creation of over 10,000 jobs, which is why Advantage West Midlands is providing £100m to support the redevelopment."</p> <p><st1:PersonName ><!-- CLOSE PARA 16 -->Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, chief executive of Centro, the region's transport authority, concluded: "It's fantastic to see work get underway on what will become another iconic landmark for the city. This new station, with a Midland Metro tram link stopping right outside, will give passengers the world class public transport system that the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> needs and deserves."</p> <p > </p> <!-- CLOSE PARA 17 -->"
"Work kicks off in just a few weeks on the new station for Birmingham that will deliver a bigger, better and brighter New Street for the 40m passengers that use it each year."
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Smart thinking for Warwick Road
2009-08-07T00:00:00
2009-08-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living, working and travelling along the <st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType ><st1:address >A41 Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:PlaceType></st1:Street> will be the first in the <st1:PlaceName ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place></st1:PlaceName> to benefit from a package of congestion busting and environment enhancing measures being developed as part of the region's first <st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType ><st1:address >Smart Route</st1:address></st1:PlaceType></st1:Street>.</p> <p ><st1:City ><st1:PlaceName ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:PlaceName></st1:City> and Solihull Councils and transport authority Centro are working together to identify the best improvements to tackle traffic congestion, improve journey times and reliability, enhance road safety and improve pedestrian facilities along the transport corridor.</p> <p >This will involve looking at the route in detail and talking to the local community to fully understand the needs of all users who live, work and travel along the route, and identify the opportunities and issues that exist.</p> <p >This information will then be used to develop the best strategy for the route, recognising the role of the <st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:PlaceType></st1:Street> as a key transport artery and as a place where people live, shop and work.</p> <p >A key part of the Smart Routes initiative is that, once the package of improvements is decided on, it will be implemented in the most co-ordinated, efficient and effective way possible resulting in better value for money and with less disruption to the public.</p> <p >A series of consultation events on the A41 Warwick Road Smart Route are underway, including stakeholder meetings and public perception surveys.</p> <p >In addition, all properties within the corridor will shortly be leafleted and people asked to provide their views through a questionnaire. People can also give their comments at <a href=""http://www.warwickroad.org.uk/"">www.warwickroad.org.uk</a>, by email at <a href=""mailto:comments@warwickroad.org.uk"">comments@warwickroad.org.uk</a> or by telephone at 0121 483 6485.</p> <p >Cllr Len Gregory, Cabinet Member for Transportation at Birmingham City Council, said: "We are keen to ensure the views of the community are understood and reflected in both the strategy and, ultimately, in the measures selected.</p> <p >"We would, therefore, like to encourage people to give us their views through the consultation process so that we make the best and most appropriate improvements to the <st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:PlaceType></st1:Street> for the people of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:PlaceName ><st1:place >Solihull</st1:place></st1:PlaceName>."</p> <p >Cllr Ted Richards, Solihull Council Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, and Lead Member for Regional Transport Priorities at Centro, added: "The <st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:PlaceType></st1:Street> will lead on the Smart Routes initiative for the <st1:PlaceName ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place></st1:PlaceName>, providing an improved transport experience for business traffic, motorists and bus users who will benefit from better reliability and faster services.</p> <p >"It will also enhance the local business, retail and residential areas near to the route, making it a more pleasant and more convenient place for people to visit, live, work and shop."</p> <p >Work on implementing the measures could start in early 2010 after the consultation process has been completed and a package of improvements has been developed.</p> <p >More information about the A41 Warwick Road Smart Route can be found at <a href=""http://www.warwickroad.org.uk/""><a href=""http://www.warwickroad.org.uk/"">www.warwickroad.org.uk</a></a></p> <p >Representatives will be available to take peoples' views at the following public events:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Saturday 12 September 2009, 11am – 3pm, Sparkhill Adult Education Centre, <st1:address ><st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType >477 Stratford Road</st1:PlaceType></st1:Street>, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B11 4LE</st1:PostalCode></st1:address></li> <li >Saturday 19 September 2009, 11am – 3pm, Acocks Green Library, <st1:address ><st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType >Shirley Road</st1:PlaceType></st1:Street>, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B27 7XH</st1:PostalCode></st1:address></li> <li >Saturday 19 September 2009, 11am – 3pm, Olton Library, 169A <st1:Street ><st1:PlaceType ><st1:address >Warwick Road</st1:address></st1:PlaceType></st1:Street>, Olton, <st1:PlaceName ><st1:place ><st1:City >Solihull</st1:City>, <st1:PostalCode >B92 7AR</st1:PostalCode></st1:place></st1:PlaceName></li> </ul>"
"People living, working and travelling along the A41 Warwick Road will be the first in the West Midlands to benefit from a package of congestion busting and environment enhancing measures being developed as part of the region's first Smart Route."
9369
NewImageweb4.JPG
0
12
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Chase Line set to get £2 million revamp
2009-08-06T00:00:00
2009-08-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Six stations in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> are to be revamped as part of a £2.1 million programme of investment on the Chase Line.</p> <p >Rail operator London Midland, Network Rail and transport authority Centro are investing £1.7m to significantly improve facilities including the provision of new waiting shelters, seating and CCTV.</p> <p >A further £400,000 is being provided by London Midland, Centro and Staffordshire County Council in partnership with the Department for Transport's Access for All Small Schemes programme to provide real time train running information.</p> <p >The stations set to benefit are Bloxwich, Bloxwich North, Landywood, Cannock, Hednesford and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Rugeley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Town</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p >The work, which also includes help points, enhanced lighting, better signage and new ticket machines, is scheduled to begin in the New Year and will take two to three months to complete as part of the National Stations Improvement Programme (NSIP).</p> <p >London Midland services on the Chase Line operate into the heart of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, but now also have connecting services with the <st1:PlaceName >Trent</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Valley</st1:PlaceName> line which means passengers can travel on from <st1:PlaceName >Rugeley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Trent</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Valley</st1:PlaceName> to London Euston, or north to Stafford and <st1:place >Stoke-on-Trent</st1:place>.</p> <p >London Midland commercial director Alex Hynes said the work would provide benefits to passengers.</p> <p >"Travelling will be more comfortable for passengers on the Chase Line. This is a big investment in facilities and along with proposed line speed improvements and better connections this is a great example of how working in partnership is boosting travel for rail passengers."</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, Centro's lead member for rail, said: "We've listened carefully to local organisations such as the Cannock Chase Rail Promotion Group, and know how important this railway line is to them.</p> <p >"That's why Centro is putting £900,000 towards this project to make sure passengers get the facilities they need."</p> <p >Darren Horley, senior route planner at Network Rail, said: "This investment is great news for passenger using these stations. This long-awaited and much needed investment will make the stations safer and more user-friendly."</p>"
Six stations in the West Midlands are to be revamped as part of a £2.1 million programme of investment on the Chase Line.
9369
0
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New early morning bus service for Sedgley and Coseley
2009-08-06T00:00:00
2009-08-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> areas of Sedgley and Coseley are to get an extra bus service just after 7am on Mondays to Saturdays after local commuters requested an early morning transport link for their trip to work.  </p> <p >Centro recently arranged a new 229 route in the area following the withdrawal of the 545 and 546 services on 19 July (2009). This new service has been very well received and local residents have asked for an additional service before 7:30am.</p> <p >The new early morning bus, which will start running from Monday 17 August (2009) will leave Sedgley at 7:05am, reach Coseley station at 7:15am and arrive at Bilston at 7:30am.</p> <p >It will initially be provided until October 2010, when it is hoped that use of the service will justify it becoming a permanent part of the local bus network.</p> <p >The 229 was introduced together with the 225 - which runs between Sedgley and Dudley via Tipton - to provide a replacement to the 545 and 546 services.</p> <p >On their introduction, the opportunity was taken to provide enhancements to these services for residents.</p> <p >These included a diversion of the 229 into <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Coseley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Village</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> to give better links to the shops, and an improved timetable on the 225 allowing it to run at regular intervals with the existing 224 service.</p> <p >The Diamond Bus Company is operating the 229 and the 225 under subsidy from Centro.</p> <p >Lead Member for Bus & Highways at Centro, Cllr Jon Hunt said: "Passengers are our eyes and ears when it comes to providing the right transport links.</p> <p >"Thanks to our groundbreaking new approach to local bus travel set out in our Transforming Bus Travel vision, we can increasingly make changes so people can access work, shops, leisure and healthcare facilities and visit family and friends at the times that they need to."</p>"
People living in the Black Country areas of Sedgley and Coseley are to get an extra bus service just after 7am on Mondays to Saturdays after local commuters requested an early morning transport link for their trip to work.
9369
0
12
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Hi-tech school travel pilots to hit the road in September
2009-08-03T00:00:00
2009-08-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Children attending two <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s schools will be able to make green, comfortable journeys on bespoke bus services with live vehicle tracking to reassure parents thanks to the launch of two hi-tech school travel pilots.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has worked together with the Green Transport Company, <st1:PlaceName >Wolverhampton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Girls</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >High School</st1:PlaceType> and <st1:City >St Paul</st1:City>'s School for Girls in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> to arrange high quality bus journeys for pupils from September.</p> <p >The trials, which form a key part of Centro's groundbreaking transport vision Transforming Bus Travel, will help to teach the West Midlands next generation of commuters about using environmentally friendly travel modes and give them confidence in using public transport.</p> <p >The schools taking part in the pilot have been chosen due to their location along congested corridors helping to free up traffic in these areas during the school run.</p> <p >The buses include a series of measures to give confidence and reassurance to parents.</p> <p >These include live satellite tracking of the vehicles so parents know exactly where their child is on the route, a designated driver for each route and personalised text messages without prompt which tell…</p> <p >Two specifically designed routes have been created for each school based on input from staff and parents, which will provide close stops to pupil's homes so that children only need to make a short walk to the bus stop.</p> <p >The services will complement existing commercial bus services that serve the schools, and will accept all valid <strong>n</strong>network tickets which the child will also be able to use on any other bus service in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place></p> <p >All the buses, which are painted in a striking lime green livery, also have free WiFi on board, allowing pupils to access the internet while travelling to and from school.</p> <p >Further pilots are planned for two other schools after Christmas, and, if these are successful, it is hoped more schools will become involved in the future.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus & Highways at Centro, said: "Research shows that a billion car trips are made to and from school a year, making up 20 per cent of rush hour traffic and creating two million tonnes of carbon dioxide. That is why school transport is a vital part of delivering our vision to transform bus travel in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >"By providing children with bespoke bus services for their school journeys, not only will we help to reduce congestion during this critical time of day, but we will also give the region's next generation of commuters the knowledge and confidence to use public transport now and in the future."</p> <p >Julie Lawton, Head Teacher of Wolverhampton Girls' High School added: "I hope that the facilities provided by Centro and the Green Transport Company will encourage more young people to use sustainable methods of transport for their journey to school.</p> <p >"I have been most impressed by the way in which Centro and the bus company fully understand the needs of young people, and I am particularly convinced that this is because the directors at the Green Transport Company have themselves been teachers and know what is required.</p> <p >"Every question I have asked about the service had already been thought of and addressed, from what happens in inclement weather to how we can ensure the health and safety of our students."</p> <p >A study by Elephant.co.uk estimated that during the school holidays commuters in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> will save an average of 12 minutes and 50 seconds on every journey to work thanks to reduced traffic.</p>"
"Children attending two West Midland's schools will be able to make green, comfortable journeys on bespoke bus services with live vehicle tracking to reassure parents thanks to the launch of two hi-tech school travel pilots."
9369
0
12
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South Birmingham bus network improvements gather pace
2009-08-03T00:00:00
2009-08-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> were today reminded that they only have until this Friday (07 August 2009) to have their say on planned improvements to bus services in the area.</p> <p >West Midlands transport authority Centro and bus company National Express West Midlands have been working together with Birmingham City Council to develop a series of improvements to the already extensive bus network in <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place>.</p> <p >The aim is to build on the existing high-quality transport links in the area to further improve connections to major new developments taking place including <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>'s new super hospital in Selly Oak, the Longbridge site and <st1:City ><st1:place >Northfield</st1:place></st1:City> town centre.</p> <p >The South Birmingham bus network review, which is based on the new Transforming Bus Travel vision to create modern, high quality bus services across the region, covers an area running from Warstock in the east to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in the west.</p> <p >Centro, National Express West Midlands and Birmingham City Council have held a number of valuable consultation events and have met with councillors, schools, community organisations and other interested parties.</p> <p >Responses from these sessions and the website comment form at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a> (which closes this Friday following a four week feedback period) will be used to shape the final plans for the network.</p> <p >Proposals include:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >New direct links to the new <st1:PlaceName >Queen</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Super</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType> from Pool Farm, Hawksley, Primrose Hill, Kings Norton, Cotteridge, Bournville, Frankley, Holly Hill, Maypole, Yardley Wood, Billesley, Kings Heath, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Selly</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Bournbrook</li> <li >Improved links to education facilities such as <st1:PlaceName >Bournville</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType>, <st1:PlaceName >Cadbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Sixth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Form</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >University</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></li> <li >A direct bus service from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holly Hill Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Frankley to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre</li> <li >Making all National Express West Midlands buses and Centro subsidised services low floor, wheelchair accessible (around 250 vehicles in total).</li> </ul> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Centro's director for bus and highways, said: "Our aim is to provide the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a world class, integrated transport system that supports economic growth and helps to tackle climate change and congestion.</p> <p >"With 90 per cent of public transport journeys in the region made by bus, it is vital that we provide a comprehensive network of high quality services which reflect the wants and needs of existing and prospective passengers in order to achieve our vision.</p> <p >"That is why it is essential that we get feedback from people who live, work and visit <st1:place >South Birmingham</st1:place> – so we can finalise a comprehensive, fit for purpose package of improvements for the area's bus network."</p> <p >People can get more information on the proposals and give feedback at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/busreview</a></p>"
People living in South Birmingham were today reminded that they only have until this Friday (07 August 2009) to have their say on planned improvements to bus services in the area.
9369
0
12
0
Bus service returns to Halesowen estate
2009-07-29T00:00:00
2009-07-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living on the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Olive Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> area of Halesowen will see the return of their bus service on Monday after transport authority Centro stepped in with financial backing.</p> <p >From the end of May buses no longer served the estate due to the withdrawal of the 626 service, but Centro has stepped in to subsidise the Diamond Bus Company to divert their 230 service on to the estate.</p> <p >This will shorten the distance residents have to walk to catch their bus and provide direct links to Halesowen town centre, Cradley Heath and Blackheath.</p> <p >From Monday, the 230 bus will travel from Halesowen along its normal route until it reaches Long Lane where it will loop round <st1:Street ><st1:address >Malt Mill Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Olive Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Springfield Road</st1:address></st1:Street> where it will rejoin its existing line of route on Long Lane, going on to Blackheath and Cradley Heath.</p> <p >The move comes after local councillor Lesley Faulkner and people living in the area campaigned to see buses return to the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Olive Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> estate.</p> <p >Cllr Faulkner said: "I am delighted that people living in the Olive Lane area are getting their bus service back, allowing them easy access to the shops at Halesowen and connections from the town to other key centres like Merry Hill.</p> <p >"Many people relied on the service to get to work, and I was particularly concerned about some of the more elderly or disabled residents who saw the bus as a lifeline for access to shopping, healthcare and family and friends.</p> <p >"I am very happy that Centro and the Diamond Bus Company have taken on board my concerns and made arrangements to ensure people on the estate have the transport links that they need and deserve.</p> <p >"If we want to retain the service long term we need to keep passenger numbers up, so I would urge residents to hop on board - it really is a case of use it or lose it."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Director of Bus & Highways at Centro added: "We understand the loss of the 626 service was a key issue for people living in the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Olive Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> area, but unfortunately – due to the vast majority of the route being covered by other services – we could not use taxpayers' money to provide residents with a stand alone service.</p> <p >"Therefore, we have had to rely on working in partnership with local bus operators to find a solution, and I'm very pleased that we have been able to do this with the Diamond Bus Company by arranging a diversion of the 230 service on to the estate."</p> <p >On weekdays buses towards Halesowen will serve the estate at 07:17, 08:08 (school days only), 08:17 then every hour until 17:17, returning from Halesowen Bus Station at 07:25, then every hour until 15:25 following which there will be a bus at 16:30 and 17:35.</p> <p >Buses towards Cradley Heath will stop on the estate at 07:37 then every hour until 15:37 following which there will be a bus at 16:42 and 17:47. Buses will leave Cradley Heath at 08:00, then every hour until 17:00.</p> <p >Saturday services will start two hours later at 09:17 from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Olive Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> to Halesowen and an hour later at 08:37 from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Olive Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> to Cradley Heath, but will then run to the above timetables.</p> <p >Buses will leave Halesowen bus station from 08:25 and from Cradley Heath at 09:00 on Saturdays, then running to the above timetables.</p> <p >Go to <a href=""http://www.diamondbuses.com/"">www.diamondbuses.com</a> for timetable details</p>"
People living on the Olive Lane area of Halesowen will see the return of their bus service on Monday after transport authority Centro stepped in with financial backing.
9369
0
12
0
National Express unveil £5 million fleet of buses for Halesowen and Stourbridge
2009-07-29T00:00:00
2009-07-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >National Express West Midlands has unveiled a £5 million investment in 30 new buses for routes 9 and 99, which connect Halesowen, Stourbridge and <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> up to every 10 minutes throughout the day.  </p> <p >The new British built, double deck buses offer enhanced features for bus users including more comfortable seating within buggy and wheelchair zones, improved handrails to assist passengers with mobility issues and additional CCTV and anti graffiti coating throughout the vehicle.</p> <p >To encourage people to use the new 9 and 99 bus services rather than the car, National Express recently issued 80,000 free Daysavers to people in the local area.   And to make it easier for people to clearly see where different buses are travelling to, new route maps and frequency times are displayed on the exterior of the bus.</p> <p >Neil Barker, Director of Bus and Coach for National Express West Midlands, said:</p> <p >""We're delighted to introduce 30 greener, enhanced vehicles onto the 9 and 99 service for people travelling by bus to Halesowen, Stourbridge and <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>. Existing customers have already noticed the improvements made to these services with new timetables introduced earlier this year to provide faster and more regular journey times. The 9 & 99 bus services are also benefitting from a new dedicated route manager who will monitor and maintain our service standards.</p> <p >""To encourage new customers to try their local bus service we recently issued 83,000 local households with a free Travelcard for use on the 9 and 99 service before August 31."</p> <p >The £5 million investment in new buses was a key commitment of the Dudley Bus Partnership project which was signed by Centro, the region's transport authority, National Express and Dudley Borough Council last September after a review and modernisation of the borough's bus network.</p> <p >The Partnership supports Centro's 'Transforming Bus Travel" vision, to which National Express has also signed up, which aims to further improve the quality of travel in the West Midlands and attract more passengers on to the buses, helping to reduce road congestion, sustain economic growth and address social inclusion.</p> <p >Councillor Angus Adams, Lead Member for District Liaison/Rapid Transit Development for Centro, said: "It's fantastic to see the commitments set out in the Dudley Bus Partnership starting to come on stream.</p> <p >"These new buses, together with the changes made to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>'s bus network will give people more comfortable, reliable and convenient journeys. They will also provide a real choice for those people wanting to switch from car to a more sustainable way of travelling."</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Bus service 9 operates up to every 10 minutes throughout the day and links <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> - Bearwood - Halesowen - Lye – Stourbridge via <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Five Ways</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hagley Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Quinton and Colley Gate.</li> </ul> <p ></p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Bus service 99 operates up to every 15 minutes throughout the day and links <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> - Bearwood - Halesowen - Cradley Heath - Merry Hill via <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hagley Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Quinton, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Spies Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>, Old Hill and Quarry Bank </li> </ul>"
"National Express West Midlands has unveiled a £5 million investment in 30 new buses for routes 9 and 99, which connect Halesowen, Stourbridge and Birmingham up to every 10 minutes throughout the day."
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0
12
0
Major transport schemes receive Government backing
2009-07-23T00:00:00
2009-07-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A Government decision to financially support plans to run Midland Metro trams through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> city centres, was today welcomed by Centro, the region's transport authority.</p> <p > The proposed Metro extensions were among a series of major transport improvement schemes for the metropolitan area between now and 2014 that the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> had asked the Department for Transport to help support with £154 million of funding.</p> <p >Transport Minister Sadiq Khan said the Government had now given its support to all the schemes that were submitted in February by the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> in its Regional Funding Advice document.</p> <p >Subject to acceptable business cases for the projects, the DfT has agreed to put;</p> <p >•           £25 million towards the £55m cost of extending the Metro from Snow Hill Station to New Street Station</p> <p >•           £53m towards the estimated £70m cost of the Wolverhampton Loop extension and up to 25 new, longer trams for the Metro system</p> <p >•           £50m for rail improvements over the next decade.</p> <p >•           £20m towards the planned £22m transport hub at Longbridge</p> <p >•           £12million towards the Nuckle Phase One scheme to improve rail links between <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> and <st1:place >Nuneaton</st1:place> including a rail station at the Ricoh Arena.</p> <p >The Metro, Longbridge and Nuckle schemes are all earmarked for commencement between now and 2014.</p> <p >Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: "This is very good news for the region. We're delighted that the Government has endorsed the schemes that the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> felt were the right ones to not only improve the region's transport system but also help its regeneration in terms of jobs and housing. The Government's backing shows that the region is on the right track."</p> <p >The <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre Metro scheme proposes a route running from the existing terminus at Snow Hill on to a new £9m viaduct already built by developer Ballymore, along <st1:Street ><st1:address >Upper Bull Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Corporation Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and terminating on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Stephenson Street</st1:address></st1:Street> outside a redeveloped New Street Station.</p> <p >Centro calculates that the extension will take 3.5 million people directly into the heart of <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> each year and increase the number of passengers using the Metro from five to eight million a year.</p> <p >Recent research by the Centre for Economic and Business Research showed that tram lines to <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> could generate £70m a year for the regional economy and create up to 2000 sustainable new jobs.</p> <p >A business case will be presented to the Government before the end of the year and work would be expected to start within two years of DfT approval of the case.</p> <p >In <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>, trams will travel on a single track loop around the city centre, starting at the existing stop at St Georges, running through the centre to the new transport interchange  before rejoining the existing Line One outside the Crown Court.The project is earmarked for commencement before 2014.</p> <p >The Government has also given backing for a fleet of up to 25 new, longer trams which will increase frequency of services to every six minutes throughout the day. This means the Metro will be able to carry 40 per cent more passengers during peak times – when the service is currently at capacity – and 75 per cent more people off peak. The project is also earmarked for commencement before 2014.</p> <p >Centro Chairman, Cllr Gary Clarke said: "I'm extremely pleased we have received funding support for these important projects. I look forward to seeing these schemes in place by 2014 and welcoming passengers on board while providing real choices for car drivers wanting to switch to more sustainable types of transport."</p> <p >Also included in the RFA are plans for a rapid transit system linking the existing Midland Metro at Wednesbury to Stourbridge via Merry Hill and Brierley Hill.</p> <p >Centro and its partners are working with Network Rail to use track sharing technology so that freight trains and trams can use the same tracks, reducing construction costs for the scheme by around 20 per cent.</p> <p >Under the RFA, the project is earmarked to be implemented after 2014 but with the option to deliver it earlier if circumstances allow.</p>"
"A Government decision to financially support plans to run Midland Metro trams through Birmingham and Wolverhampton city centres, was today welcomed by Centro, the region's transport authority."
9369
0
12
0
Centro wins top prize at transport �Oscars�
2009-07-23T00:00:00
2009-07-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> are officially served by the best Transport Authority in the country after Centro won the top prize at the transport industry's equivalent to the Oscars last night.</p> <p >Judges awarded the organisation with The Joe Clarke Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) of the Year at the National Transport Awards, supported by the Department for Transport, in <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City> yesterday.</p> <p >Centro received the coveted award after judges commended the progress and improvement made to the West Midlands public transport system, reflected in increased passenger numbers and higher customer satisfaction.</p> <p >Centro's bid for the prize, which was up against submissions from England's five other ITAs, included information on how Centro has moved forward in its aim to provide the region with a world class integrated transport system.</p> <p >A particular emphasis was placed on the work done to improve access to jobs and housing, combat congestion and in providing the region with seamless transport links for people and goods.</p> <p >Also focused on were improvements to bus services in the West Midlands, including the groundbreaking Voluntary Partnership Agreements and the bus network review in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> which have started the ball rolling in transforming bus travel in the region.</p> <p >These, as well as other bus service improvements, including the work of the Safer Travel Police Team to reduce crime and the provision of state-of-the-art Real Time Information, have led to the West Midlands having the highest bus use per population outside <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro placed emphasis on the development of plans to extend the Midland Metro in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>, schemes which were last night given provisional funding support by the Department for Transport when they approved the West Midlands Regional Funding Allocation bid.</p> <p >Also highlighted was the work regional partners have done together to improve the rail network for passengers, including achieving Government funding for the redevelopment of New Street Station and the progress made on improving and enhancing Centro's free Park & Ride sites.</p> <p >The awards were judged by Director of Regional and Local Transport Policy at the Department for Transport Nick Bisson, Member of the House of Lords Baroness Ros Scott and Managing Director of Transport Planning at engineering leader Atkins Highways & Transportation Andy Southern.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "We have worked tirelessly with partners over the last few years to make significant steps in providing the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with the world-class integrated and easy to use transport system that it needs and deserves.</p> <p >"We're delighted that this hard work to bring together enhanced bus, rail and Metro services and the best in infrastructure and up-to-date and accurate information, supported by improvements to accessibility and social inclusion has been recognised at these prestigious awards, but more importantly are providing benefits for people in the region and encouraging people out of their cars."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro, added: "This award shows that the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> is leading the way for the industry, providing a benchmark for best practice in public transport and getting passengers first class services.</p> <p >"We will continue to work closely with our partners at local authorities, transport operators and other stakeholders through projects like Transforming Bus Travel, the Rail Development Plan and the Midland Metro extensions to continue to build on this success for the benefit of the region and everyone living in it."</p>"
People in the West Midlands are officially served by the best Transport Authority in the country after Centro won the top prize at the transport industry's equivalent to the Oscars last night.
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0
12
0
New bus service for people of Halesowen and Cradley
2009-07-20T00:00:00
2009-07-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in Cradley, Belle Vale, Timbertree and Hasbury in Sandwell and Dudley got a new, improved bus service today, retaining their link with Halesowen, Cradley Heath and Merry Hill following the withdrawal of the 007.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has stepped in to pay bus company Hansons to run the new 217 service, ensuring that residents keep their connections to these key areas for shopping, leisure and transport.</p> <p >The 217 will cover the route of the 007, which was taken off yesterday by the Diamond Bus Company due to low passenger numbers, travelling between Halesowen and the Merry Hill Centre via Cradley Heath.</p> <p >The service will follow a new and improved route to the 007 in Hasbury, bringing buses on to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Alexandra Road</st1:address></st1:Street> after residents asked for services to run along the street.</p> <p >It means that buses will now go from Halesowen bus station, along Church Croft and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Richmond Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, on to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Stourbridge Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and down <st1:Street ><st1:address >Alexandra Road</st1:address></st1:Street> where it will join the old 007 route.</p> <p >The move comes after lead member for <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> on Centro, Councillor Angus Adams raised concerns that residents would find it difficult to link to these key local centres without the 007.</p> <p >He said: "The 007 was a really important bus service to people living in Halesowen and Cradley, linking major residential areas with shopping centres, healthcare and leisure facilities, employment and further transport connections.</p> <p >"I am delighted that we have been to step in and provide a replacement to this fundamental bus link and also provide an even better service for local residents."</p> <p >Centro announced last week that the section of the 007 between Halesowen and Bromsgrove had been saved after it worked together with Worcester County Council to keep the service running.</p> <p >Midland Rider started operating on the route from today, including a diversion on to the Halesmere estate which Centro started trialling for six months at the end of April.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, head of operational services at Centro, added: "We're very pleased that we've been able to step in and ensure that replacements to the 007 are provided.</p> <p >"However, in order to secure the long term future of these routes we need to keep passenger numbers up, so we would like to urge people to get on board if they want to make sure these bus services are here to stay."</p> <p >The 217 will leave Halesowen at 09:10 every hour until 16:10 and return from Merry Hill at 09:40 every hour until 16:40, Monday to Saturday.</p>"
"People living in Cradley, Belle Vale, Timbertree and Hasbury in Sandwell and Dudley got a new, improved bus service today, retaining their link with Halesowen, Cradley Heath and Merry Hill following the withdrawal of the 007."
9369
0
12
0
Bus crime at four year low
2009-07-17T00:00:00
2009-07-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has plummeted by 41 per cent over the last two years and is now at a four year low.</p> <p >Offences fell by 14 per cent in the 12 months to April this year and follow a 33 per cent fall during the previous year, figures released by the Safer Travel task force have revealed. It means that excluding vandalism, there is now just one offence in every 126,187 bus rides.</p> <p >Safer Travel, which works to make bus journeys even safer for passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour, said the reduction showed how the team's operations and growing expertise since its launch four years ago were proving successful. The team's ever growing intelligence database was also helping to pinpoint crime hotspots and persistent offenders.</p> <p >The figures from Safer Travel, a partnership between West Midlands Police, Safer Birmingham Partnership and Centro, theregion's transport authority, show a drop in bus crime last year of 28 per cent in Solihull, 18 per cent in Dudley, 18 per cent in Sandwell, 14 per cent in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, 13 per cent in <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> and nine per cent in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>. <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> saw a slight increase on the previous year with nine more offences committed.</p> <p >Inspector Cate Webb-Jones, head of the Safer Travel Police Team, said: ""These figures are very encouraging but we will not rest here. We will continue to work hard to build on this success and reduce crime still further both on board buses and at stops and shelters. This will require us to continue to work closely with our partners and to act on the vital intelligence provided to us by bus operators and, crucially, the travelling public.</p> <p > "Increasing trust and confidence is one of my main objectives and our aim is for every commuter to travel in a safe and clean environment, free from anti-social behaviour and crime.</p> <p >"We rely on community intelligence and encourage members of the public to speak with our police teams and provide them with information about matters such as drugs misuse or criminal damage. Members of the public can also provide us with information via www.safertravel.info or via a text service on 07624 818332.'</p> <p >Police Operations have involved a range of tactics including high visibility and covert police patrols, the use of 'headcams', deploying a specially trained drugs sniffer dog to check passengers and mounting covert surveillance at crime hot spots.</p> <p>The team has also continued working with schools to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and the effects of nuisance behaviour and crime.</p> <p >Cllr Christine Mills, Centro's lead member for Smarter Travel, said: "This drop in crime is due to the hard work of the Safer Travel team and to the information supplied to them by the public which has helped them target crime hotspots and persistent offenders."</p> <p >Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager for National Express West Midlands, added: ""The latest reduction in crime further emphasises how safe the bus network in the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place> is. Customer safety is our primary concern and all new vehicles are fitted with CCTV for reassurance and to identify problem passengers. We work daily with the Safer Travel team and have close contacts with schools and colleges throughout the region to help prevent and deter crime.""</p> <p >Passengers who want to report a non-urgent offence can phone West Midlands Police on 0845 113 5000 with information such as the number of the bus, the location where the offence happened and the time. In the unlikely case of an emergency people should phone 999 as usual</p>"
Crime on and around the West Midlands bus network has plummeted by 41 per cent over the last two years and is now at a four year low.
9369
0
12
0
Bus improvements planned for south Birmingham
2009-07-17T00:00:00
2009-07-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A package of proposed improvements for south <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>'s extensive bus network has been drawn up to meet the needs of several major developments including the city's new <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Super</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p >Regional transport authority Centro, together with bus company National Express West Midlands (NXWM) and Birmingham City Council have been assessing the existing network as part of the strategy set out in Centro's 'Transforming Bus Travel' document, published late last year. </p> <p >The vision aims to deliver a modern bus network that transforms the quality of travel and greatly contributes to tackling climate change, reducing congestion, sustaining economic growth and addressing social inclusion. </p> <p >The review, which covers an area running from Warstock in the east to <st1:PlaceName >Weoley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType> in the west, including the Alcester, Pershore and Bristol Roads, takes account of key redevelopment and regeneration projects including the new <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Queen</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Elizabeth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hospital</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>, the Longbridge site  and  Northfield Town Centre.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Centro's lead member for bus and highways, said: "This review is all about providing a modernised network that is more relevant to today's travel patterns.</p> <p >"The proposals take into account the needs of existing and potential passengers and aim to give them better quality services with clean, modern vehicles, secure and comfortable waiting environments, good information and improved customer care."</p> <p >Over the last few weeks Centro, NXWM and Birmingham City Council have been busy consulting with councillors, schools, community organisations and other interested parties in the area about how best to improve the existing bus network.</p> <p >The proposals, which reflect the views of those consulted, include:</p> <p >* New direct bus links to the QE Hospital from Pool Farm, Hawksley, Primrose Hill, Kings Norton, Cotteridge, Bournville, Frankley, Holly Hill, Maypole, Yardley Wood, Billesley, Kings Heath, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Selly</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Bournbrook.</p> <p >* Improved links to education facilities such as <st1:PlaceName >Bournville</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType>, <st1:PlaceName >Cadbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Sixth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Form</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType> and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >University</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p >* A direct bus service from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holly Hill Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Frankley to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre.</p> <p >* Making all NXWM buses and Centro subsidised services low floor, wheelchair accessible (around 250 vehicles in total).</p> <p >For more details of the proposed improvements and to give feedback log on to   <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/BusReview"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/BusReview"">http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/BusReview</a>  </p> <p >The improved network is planned to be launched in the autumn.</p>"
A package of proposed improvements for south Birmingham's extensive bus network has been drawn up to meet the needs of several major developments including the city's new Super Hospital.
9369
0
12
0
Bus service saved for Halesmere residents
2009-07-14T00:00:00
2009-07-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in Halesmere are not going to lose their under threat bus service after transport authority Centro and Worcestershire County Council worked together to save it.</p> <p >Residents on the Halesowen estate got their first ever bus service in April after Centro agreed to step in and use taxpayers' money to extend the route of the 007 to give Halesmere better transport links.</p> <p >The six month trial of the new service came after residents, councillors, Help the Aged and the West Midlands Pensioners Convention campaigned for buses to come on to the estate to make it easier for the older people to get to the shops, visit family and friends and access leisure and healthcare services.</p> <p >However, the future of the new service came under threat last month when the Diamond Bus Company announced plans to withdraw the 007 service on July 19.</p> <p >It meant there would be no service to divert on to the estate resulting in the minimum six month trial of the bus service to be cut short.</p> <p >Now Centro and Worcestershire County Council have worked together to find a way to keep the service going.</p> <p >From Monday July 20, the 007 will be operated by Midland Rider but will only run between Halesowen and Bromsgrove.</p> <p >Buses will depart from Halesmere for Halesowen at 08:50, 10:20, 11:50, 14:20 and 16:00, returning at 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 14:30 and 16:10. The bus will drop off and pick up passengers from the stop just outside Halesowen Bus Station on the Queensway.</p> <p >People wanting to go to Merry Hill can connect with the 002, 004 or 99 services at Halesowen Bus Station. The 99 also provides links to Cradley Heath.</p>"
People living in Halesmere are not going to lose their under threat bus service after transport authority Centro and Worcestershire County Council worked together to save it.
9369
0
12
0
Bus services saved thanks to new transport vision
2009-07-10T00:00:00
2009-07-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Residents of Bilston, Coseley, Sedgley and Tipton whose bus routes were under threat will now get a better service than ever before thanks to a new groundbreaking partnership agreement between transport authority Centro and local bus companies.</p> <p >The 546 service and Monday to Saturday daytime services on the 545, linking Wolverhampton and <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> via the four centres, were set to be withdrawn at the end of this month because low passenger numbers meant they were losing money.</p> <p >But now, thanks to the new Transforming Bus Travel vision unveiled by Centro and National Express West Midlands earlier this year, the two organisations have worked together to make sure people are not left without their bus service.</p> <p >Centro has arranged to replace the services with the new 225 and 229 services which will be operated under subsidy from Centro by the Diamond Bus Company.</p> <p >The 229 will run every half an hour between Bilston and Sedgley along the old 545 and 546 route, and will be improved with a new diversion into <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Coseley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Village</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> giving passengers better links to the local shops.</p> <p >The 245 will operate hourly between Sedgley and Dudley via Tipton along the 545 route to complement the existing 224 service. </p> <p >The timetable of the 245 will be improved so that the 245 and the 224 run at regular intervals along the common section of the route, unlike at present when the two hourly services come close together, leaving a long gap between buses.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus & Highways at Centro, said: "Transforming Bus Travel is all about making sure that people across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> have access to the best possible public transport links.</p> <p >"If a bus company needs to withdraw a service, Transforming Bus Travel gives us the tools we need to work together to ensure that replacements can be provided.</p> <p >"This is the perfect example of how this pioneering vision works – by not only saving these services for local residents but also taking the opportunity to improve the timetables and provide better links to local shops."</p> <p >The section of the 546 around Northway will not be replaced as the 541 and 541A already provide a regular service for residents along the same roads as the 546.</p> <p >The new services will come into affect from Sunday 19 July 2009. There will be no change to the 545 evening and Sunday services or any of the 544 operated by National Express West Midlands, or the 545 run by Banga Buses.</p>"
"Residents of Bilston, Coseley, Sedgley and Tipton whose bus routes were under threat will now get a better service than ever before thanks to a new groundbreaking partnership agreement between transport authority Centro and local bus companies."
9369
0
12
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New era for bus travel in Coventry
2009-07-08T00:00:00
2009-07-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> are seeing the dawn of a new era for bus travel in the city which brings together the latest in state-of-the-art technology, vehicles, passenger information and highways improvements to provide one of the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s most modern bus networks.</p> <p >Coventry City Council, transport authority Centro and bus company National Express Coventry together with Coventry South MP Jim Cunningham officially launched the £41.5m Primelines project on Monday 6 July 2009 which uses a raft of high-tech equipment to provide the best in passenger services.</p> <p >Improvements include £7m investment in low floor, easy access buses by National Express Coventry, and Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) tracking devices on all 156 of their vehicles across the city which pinpoints exactly where the buses are on their route.</p> <p >These link in to Real Time Information displays at over 200 bus stops across the city and 30 displays at Pool Meadow Bus Station, giving passengers an up-to-the-minute count down of when their bus will arrive.</p> <p >All National Express Coventry buses can now travel around the city more quickly and easily, avoiding traffic jams thanks to the installation of 5.3km of bus lanes, 13 bus gates and bus bypasses, 4.9km of other bus priority measures.</p> <p >Figures from Coventry City Council and Centro show that these measures have already seen an increase in reliability of 26 per cent and punctuality improving by 40 per cent.</p> <p >This has led to the number of people using buses on Primelines routes rising by an average of six per cent with nearly one fifth of people on the road now travelling into the city by bus in the morning peak.</p> <p >Cllr Kevin Foster, Deputy Leader of Coventry City Council said:  ""This project has been a step change in the way we look at creating bus transport schemes for the city.</p> <p >"Working together with a range of partners we are making a difference to improving the whole journey for customers. This project has not just been about the bus lanes, but about the whole passenger experience including getting to the bus stops and having reliable and accurate timetable information."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro added: "We are living in a digital age with new state-of-the-art technology emerging on a daily basis. In Coventry we have shown how we can take advantage of this technology to provide a world class bus network fit for 21<sup>st</sup> century passengers, providing up-to-the-minute information and reliable buses that move quickly through traffic and run to time.</p> <p >"These measures really help to build confidence in the network and this has already shown results with more people opting to take the easy and convenient option of the bus instead of the car."</p> <p >The Real Time Information and Automatic Vehicle Location uses the largest MESH network in the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place>, utilising fibre optic technology and special nodes on lampposts to send live information from buses to the passenger information displays.</p> <p >This information, together with satellite technology, is also be used by National Express Coventry to identify buses running ahead or behind schedule and adjust the service in line with the timetable.</p> <p >Alex Perry Operations Director for National Express bus and coach, said: "The installation of Real Time Information at <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> bus stops is an important milestone in the success of the Primelines project.</p> <p >"From today National Express Coventry buses will transmit up to the minute arrival details to bus stops throughout the city, helping to reduce passenger waiting times and allow us to closely monitor traffic. We are also proud to announce that our entire fleet is now low floor, easy access - making <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> the first city in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> to have a fully accessible bus fleet.""</p> <p >Traffic lights at 80 junctions across <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> will soon be able to recognise National Express buses, turning to green as they approach to further improve journey times and ensure that services are reliable.</p> <p >All 1,500 stops across <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> also allow passengers to get Real Time Information on their bus service by text message or by using the internet facility on their mobile phone, PDA or BlackBerry.</p> <p >The Primelines project, which focuses on six key bus routes across the city, has also seen the installation of 507 parking bays and many new bus shelters. The low floor kneeling buses are complemented by easy access kerbing at bus stops.</p> <p >The £41.5m project is made up of approximately £28.5m from the Government as part of the Local Transport Plan Major Schemes Programme, £5.75m from West Midlands Integrated Transport Block Funding and £7.25m investment in vehicles from National Express Coventry.</p>"
"People in Coventry are seeing the dawn of a new era for bus travel in the city which brings together the latest in state-of-the-art technology, vehicles, passenger information and highways improvements to provide one of the UK's most modern bus networks."
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CovPrimelineslaunchweb1.JPG
0
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Views sought on Metro extension plans for Wolverhampton City Centre
2009-07-01T00:00:00
2009-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> are being asked for their views on plans to extend the Midland Metro tram system in a single track loop around the city centre linking to the rail station.</p> <p >The proposals would link the Metro stop at Wolverhampton St Georges to the city's new transport interchange, creating a seamless connection between bus, train and tram.</p> <p >The £30 million scheme will also make it easier for people to travel round the city centre, making it a more attractive and convenient place for people to live, work, visit and shop.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro, which is developing the route in partnership with Wolverhampton City Council, is holding a series of exhibitions during July, and is asking people to come along and give their views on the proposals. These will be taken into account during the detailed design of the scheme.</p> <p >Centro is putting together a business case for the extension which will be submitted to the Department for Transport for funding approval.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Peter Adams</st1:PersonName>, Centro's project director for Metro, said: "The extension to the Midland Metro in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> is all about making moving around the city centre an easier and more attractive experience for people, and improving connection between bus, train and tram."</p> <p >"Therefore it is vital that we understand and represent the needs and views of residents, visitors, commuters and shoppers in the city when putting together out detailed design for the scheme."</p> <p >"Together with the engineering, environmental and economic studies that are currently taking place, these views will provide us with valuable information which will form a key part of our business case for the Government."</p> <p >The Wolverhampton Loop involves trams travelling clockwise on a single track around the city centre, starting at the existing terminus at St Georges and along <st1:Street ><st1:address >Market Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Princess Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Lichfield Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and Pipers Row, and linking to the railway station.</p> <p >The scheme is highlighted as a priority for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and was included in the region's bid for money from the Government's Regional Funding Allocation (RFA) earlier this year.</p> <p >This also includes a submission for new, longer trams which would run around the loop and on the existing line between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>. These would be able to carry up to 40 per cent more people during peak times, and 75 per cent more people off peak, and would run at an increased frequency of every six minutes.</p> <p >Centro hopes to submit the business case later this year, and will be working closely with the Department for Transport to make sure that it meets their requirements.</p> <p >When the business case is approved by the Government, further work will be done to secure legal powers which will be sought through a Transport & Works Act Order application which will give Centro powers to build the line.</p> <p >Centro hopes work on the extension will be completed in 2014.</p> <p >People can give their views at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/metro"">www.centro.org.uk/metro</a> or by visiting one of the following staffed exhibitions where leaflets with questionnaires are available:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Wednesday 8<sup>th</sup> July 2009, 9am – 3pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus outside <st1:PlaceName >Queens</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Building</st1:PlaceType>, <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> Bus Station</li> <li >Saturday 11<sup>th</sup> July 2009, 9am – 5pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus at the Wolverhampton Show, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >West</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></li> <li >Sunday 12<sup>th</sup> July 2009, 10am – 6pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus at the Wolverhampton Show, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >West</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place></li> <li >Wednesday 15<sup>th</sup> July 2009, 9am – 3pm, Exhibition Stand at BB's Café, Wulfrun Centre</li> <li >Friday 17<sup>th</sup> July 2009, 12pm – 6pm, Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus outside <st1:PlaceName >Queens</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Building</st1:PlaceType>, <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> Bus Station</li> <li >Saturday 18<sup>th</sup> July 2009, 9am – 3pm, Exhibition Stand at BB's Café, Wulfrun Centre</li> </ul> <p >The leaflets, which have been sent to key stakeholder groups and businesses along the line, will also be available from local libraries and Wolverhampton Council House, and from the Exhibition Stand at BBs Café in the Wulfrun Centre from 15 – 18 July.</p>"
People in Wolverhampton are being asked for their views on plans to extend the Midland Metro tram system in a single track loop around the city centre linking to the rail station.
9369
0
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Re-election sees Chairman spearhead transport improvements for sixth year running
2009-07-01T00:00:00
2009-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Councillor Gary Clarke has been chosen to lead Centro, the region's integrated transport authority for another year.</p> <p >Fellow members re-elected Cllr Clarke as Chairman at the authority's annual general meeting. (Monday June 29).</p> <p >It is the sixth year running that Cllr Clarke has been elected as Chairman of Centro, which develops and promotes public transport across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke said: "I am delighted that the authority has re-elected me.</p> <p >"The next 12 months promise to be busy but exciting ones as we continue to shape our future transport system and work towards the world class network the region needs and deserves.</p> <p >"The next year is set to see work start on the rebuilding of New Street Station, the region's submission to Government of the business cases for an expansion of the Metro tram system and the introduction of smartcards similar to <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place>'s successful Oyster card.</p> <p >"Our goal is to make it even easier and more convenient for people to switch from car to public transport, helping to cut congestion and carbon emissions."</p> <p >Cllr Clarke has been a <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> councillor since 1998. He became a member of Centro in 2002 and was elected chairman in 2004.</p> <p >The annual general meeting also saw Cllr Christine Mills, who represents <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>, elected as Vice Chair of Centro.</p> <p >Cllr Mills said: "It's a real honour to be elected to this post especially at time when effective public transport has become so important to our local economy and environment.</p> <p >"Public transport is an issue that affects people's every day lives and I'm looking forward to working with the Chairman to help further improve the bus, rail and Metro systems that together make up Network West Midlands."</p> <p >The Integrated Transport Authority is made up of 27 councillors from the region's seven metropolitan councils, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p > </p> <p > </p> <p> </p>"
"Councillor Gary Clarke has been chosen to lead Centro, the region's integrated transport authority, for another year."
9369
0
12
0
World class Stourbridge Interchange designs unveiled
2009-07-01T00:00:00
2009-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in Stourbridge can get the first glimpse of what their new bus station will look like today, as Centro unveils the new designs for Stourbridge's world class interchange.</p> <p >The <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> transport authority decided to revisit plans for the town's bus passenger facility after publishing its vision to transform the region's bus services. This opened up an exciting opportunity to make the new bus station even better.</p> <p >The transport blueprint – Transforming Bus Travel – sets a new quality benchmark for services, travel information, bus stations and shelters, and the new passenger facility, which will be called Stourbridge Interchange, will be the first major building project to benefit from it.</p> <p >The new designs focus on providing the town with a world-class, state-of-the-art Interchange featuring modern technology, the best in bus passenger facilities and including environmentally friendly design ideas.</p> <p >The Interchange entrance will include a landmark canopy focal point and new covered walkway which will link the existing subway from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foster Street</st1:address></st1:Street> - which will be enhanced to become more open and bright - to the main facilities building.</p> <p >A modern, striking and spacious facilities building and concourse will include toilets, a retail unit (which could provide passenger information and tickets) and electronic passenger information boards which will tell passengers when their bus is due.</p> <p >There will be eight bus stands served by high quality waiting areas of spacious design which will allow easy passenger circulation, with doors that open for passengers when the bus arrives. There will also be an additional bus stop on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Vauxhall Road</st1:address></st1:Street> allowing easy interchange between bus and rail.</p> <p >The whole facility has been designed to allow easy access for all users, and Ring & Ride services will have facilities to drop off and pick up passengers at the Interchange.</p> <p >Throughout the new Interchange there will also be CCTV, help points, and a public address system.   </p> <p >A focus is also being placed on improving walking routes into the town centre and creating better links to the innovative Parry People Mover connection to Stourbridge Junction, allowing for easy interchange between bus and rail services.</p> <p >To ensure the new facility has as little impact on the environment as possible, the new plans will look to use as many sustainable systems as possible. These could include maximising the use of natural ventilation and lighting, and using natural products.</p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, Cabinet Member for Transport at Dudley Council and Lead Member for Dudley at Centro, said: "This is the first major public transport building project in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> to adopt the high quality, world class standards set out in Transforming Bus Travel.</p> <p >"Stourbridge's new interchange will set the benchmark for all future public transport projects in the Region. It is therefore essential we provide a striking state-of-the-art facility that not only helps to put the town on the map as a place to visit, but puts the West Midlands on the map as a place of best practice for world class public transport facilities that are modern, eye-catching and easy to use."</p> <p >Detailed plans for Stourbridge Interchange will be submitted for planning approval in late July or early August, and Centro hope it will be approved by Dudley Council's planning committee in the autumn.</p> <p >Work is expected to start on the new interchange in 2010 and should be completed by 2011. Anyone wanting to find out more information about the scheme can visit the Network West Midlands marquee on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foster Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in Stourbridge on Saturday 18<sup>th</sup> July or Tuesday 21<sup>st</sup> July between 9am and 3pm.</p> <p >More information is also available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/stourbridge"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/stourbridge</a></p>"
"People in Stourbridge can get the first glimpse of what their new bus station will look like today, as Centro unveils the new designs for Stourbridge's world class interchange."
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NewStourbridgeweb.JPG
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12
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New bus stops to ease Walsall congestion
2009-06-23T00:00:00
2009-06-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus passengers in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> are to benefit from two new stops aimed at relieving congestion at the town's busy <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street> interchange.</p> <p ><st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> councillors sitting on Centro, the region's transport authority, have joined forces with the town's two biggest bus companies to support the installation of two new stops amid growing concern over the large number of services using <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The new stops, in nearby Bradford Street, will enable more than 26 buses an hour to be taken out of Bradford Place, which at the moment sees around 60 services arrive and depart each hour at peak times.</p> <p >From this Monday (June 29) all of the 401e, 404, 404a, 404e and 405 services operated by National Express and Diamond will use the new stops and run via <st1:Street ><st1:address >Caldmore Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, meaning they no longer have to go into <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street>.  </p> <p >Cllr Clarke, who had pressed for the new stops along with fellow <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> councillors and Centro members Graham Wilkes and Marco Longhi, said: "<st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street> has become congested at certain times of the day and as a result passengers had sometimes found it difficult to board vehicles.</p> <p >"These new stops will make a real difference for passengers and I'd like to thank National Express for helping to make the changes happen and to Diamond for supporting the move."</p> <p >Nick Newcombe, Area Manager at <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> for National Express, said; "Taking the 404, 405 and 401 services out of <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street> will ease the sort of congestion which had led to concerns over safety.</p> <p > "Those services still using <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bradford Place</st1:address></st1:Street> will now be able to have their own dedicated bus stops instead of having to share with other services. That will make it easier, safer and more convenient for passengers."</p> <p >The new stops will initially operate on a trial basis and will be closely monitored by Centro, the bus companies and the borough council.</p> <p >More information about the bus stop changes is available on either the Network West Midlands website at networkwestmidlands.com or the Diamond website at <a title=""http://www.diamondbuses.com/"" href=""http://www.diamondbuses.com/"">www.diamondbuses.com</a> or the National Express website at nationalexpress.com/westmidlands</p> <p> </p>"
Bus passengers in Walsall are to benefit from two new stops aimed at relieving congestion at the town's busy Bradford Place interchange.
9369
0
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Views sought on West Midland's regional rail blueprint
2009-06-23T00:00:00
2009-06-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses are urging residents, businesses and other organisations in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> to give their views on an exciting blueprint for the future of the region's rail network.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro, on behalf of the Regional Rail Forum, has published the West Midlands region's draft Rail Development Plan which details the improvements considered necessary to support the growth of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail network.</p> <p >This builds on the rail priorities identified in the Regional Transport Priorities Action Plan and includes proposals for a wide range of enhancements including new passenger rail lines and stations, longer platforms, more track capacity into <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre, new Park & Ride sites and improved accessibility and journey times.</p> <p >Together these enhancements to the region's rail network would help to cater for the growing need for additional passenger and freight services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >They will also play a key role in supporting the region's wider economic, environmental and social objectives by helping to provide the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a world-class integrated transport system that offers a viable alternative to road transport.</p> <p >The <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region, which has a population of 5.4 million, has seen growth on the rail network of 36 per cent over the last six years to 41 million passengers a year, and transport bosses expect this figure to rise to 55 million people boarding trains every year by 2019.</p> <p >Nigel Pennington, Director of Rail & Rapid Transit at Centro, said: "The <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail network is a real success story, seeing year on year growth across the region for both passenger and freight transport.</p> <p >"It plays an increasingly important role in reducing costly traffic congestion and freeing up our roads by providing fast, efficient and reliable transport, which also improves access to the region making it an increasingly attractive and competitive place for business.</p> <p >"We now need to make sure that we make all the necessary improvements to increase capacity and enhance the network as soon as possible so that we can continue to build on the benefits to the region that continued growth and success of our rail network will bring."</p> <p >Chris Haynes, Chair of the West Midlands Regional Rail Forum added: "The draft Rail Development Plan has seen authorities and organisations across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> work together on what the region needs from our Rail Network to support our economic growth and development and improve access and connectivity.</p> <p >"We look forward to sharing these draft proposals over the next few weeks and feeding back all the comments and ideas we receive. This will ensure that the final version of these proposals is truly representative of the whole region's needs and aspirations."</p> <p >Proposed improvements in the Rail Development Plan have sought to take into account plans by Network Rail and train operators, and changing land use and travel patterns.</p> <p >The document, produced on behalf of Centro and the Regional Rail Forum by leading transport consultants Steer Davies Gleave, summarises a range of potential schemes identified by regional stakeholders including:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >New and longer trains</li> <li >Enhanced services on several key routes including the Snow Hill lines and between Nuneaton, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> and <st1:place >Leamington</st1:place></li> <li >Improved early morning, evening and Sunday services across the network</li> <li >Camp Hill Chord lines into <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station enhancing rail capacity in central <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place></li> <li >Station access improvements including better integration between other transport modes and new or extended Park & Ride facilities</li> <li >Rail station upgrades at <st1:address ><st1:Street >Moor Street</st1:Street>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:address>, Kidderminster and <st1:place >Telford</st1:place></li> <li >New stations at Coventry Arena, Bermuda Park, Kenilworth, Stratford Parkway, Bromsgrove, Worcester Parkway, and Shrewsbury Parkway</li> <li >Reinstatement of Stourbridge to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> freight line</li> <li >New or reinstated passenger lines, with new stations where necessary, on: <ul type=""circle""> <li >Walsall to <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> line</li> <li >Camp Hill line</li> <li ><st1:place >Tamworth</st1:place>line</li> <li ><st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Sutton</st1:PlaceName><st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>line</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p >Centro and the Regional Rail Forum, which represents local authorities, rail companies and other stakeholder organisations across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, have put the draft proposals out to consultation and are welcoming any comments on the plans.</p> <p >They would particularly like people's views on which schemes should be given top priority and which would be essential to improve the region's economy, competitiveness and the environment.</p> <p >The plan can be downloaded at <a title=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"" href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a> under the consultation heading. The consultation ends on 11 September 2009, and all comments and ideas will be taken into account when the finalised proposals are put together.</p> <p >Negotiations with partners have already led to a kick-start to the proposals with a number of enhancements listed in the draft Rail Development Plan being confirmed, with over £90m of funding committed from the Department for Transport and Network Rail's five year funding plan for 2009 to 2014.</p> <p >These include:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li ><st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>Gateway – rebuild of <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station</li> <li ><st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street>station upgrade with additional platforms</li> <li ><st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>Interchange</li> <li >Resignalling on the <st1:City >Stratford</st1:City>, Water Orton/Camp Hill, Kidderminster, Walsall and <st1:place >Cannock</st1:place> Lines</li> <li >Enhancements on the Bromsgrove, <st1:place >Redditch</st1:place> branch, Barnt Green to Westerleigh, and Cotswold lines as well as on the strategic freight network</li> <li >New diesel trains to replace Class 150s and electric trains to replace class 321s</li> <li >Longer Pendolinos</li> <li >More carriages on <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Cross</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >City</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Snow Hill lines</li> <li >Reduced journey times on Chiltern Railways services to <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place></li> </ul> <p >A similar level of funding has also been proposed in the Regional Funding Advice which was submitted to Government at the end of February this year.</p>"
"Transport bosses are urging residents, businesses and other organisations in the West Midlands to give their views on an exciting blueprint for the future of the region's rail network."
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South Birmingham rail passengers get region's first eco-friendly station
2009-06-09T00:00:00
2009-06-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Using green and healthy travel modes to get to Kings Norton rail station has never been easier for passengers after it was officially named the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> first eco-friendly station.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro and rail company London Midland have been working together with Network Rail, Birmingham City Council and local bus operators to create a bespoke travel plan for people using the station.</p> <p >The initiative, which is one of 24 pilot schemes across England, aims to put better facilities in place for people who would like to get to the station using environmentally friendly modes like walking, cycling, car sharing or on the bus.</p> <p >Features will include Real Time bus information inside the station, walking and cycling routes with enhanced lighting and CCTV, new cycle storage and improved signage in and around the station for pedestrians and cyclists alike.</p> <p >The package of environmentally friendly improvements, which have been decided on following consultation with stakeholders and local passengers, will be brought in over the next two years.</p> <p >They are being officially launched at the start of National Bike Week on Monday (15 June 2009) when promotional staff will be at the station giving out cycling goody bags to bike riders and information packs to commuters during the morning peak. An expert will also be on hand to provide local cycle route information.</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, Lead Member for Rail & Rapid Transit Operations at Centro said: "This pilot travel plan at Kings Norton is a great way to encourage people to choose healthy, environmentally friendly, congestion busting modes to get to the station and make their journey a sustainable one from start to finish.</p> <p >"It also opens doors for people who don't presently use the train because they cannot conveniently access the station, by putting in place the features and facilities needed to get there from a wider area without a car."</p> <p >Alex Hynes, Commercial Director at London Midland added: ""It makes sense to use sustainable transport for economic and financial reasons. London Midland provides fast, reliable, inexpensive, green and integrated transport.</p> <p >"We are investing hundreds of millions in improvements to stations and a fleet of brand new air conditioned trains so we are delighted to work with Centro in promoting sustainable ways to travel."</p> <p >Kings Norton presently has cycle storage lockers and hoops for people who would like to give getting to the station by bike a go during National Bike Week.  Details of cycle storage at Kings Norton and all stations in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can be viewed at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/cyclestorage"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/cyclestorage"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/cyclestorage</a>.  </p> <p >All cyclists need to do to apply for their own cycle locker is fill out a form (available online or from the station booking office) and pay a £10 refundable deposit.</p>"
Using green and healthy travel modes to get to Kings Norton rail station has never been easier for passengers after it was officially named the West Midlands first eco-friendly station.
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Full steam ahead for Wolverhampton Interchange
2009-06-09T00:00:00
2009-06-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The proposals to transform Wolverhampton City Centre are moving closer to reality today as Neptune Developments, working in partnership with Wolverhampton City Council and Centro, submit their detailed planning application for Phase One of the Interchange scheme. It is hoped that, subject to planning, the scheme will start on site as early as October this year.</p> <p >A major public consultation was held last year for the proposed £174 million project to rebuild the bus station, train station, a range of leisure and commercial buildings, and 200,000 sq ft of new public space. The global economic slowdown delayed the scheme but it is now all systems go with a funding package in place thanks to a further   £13 million from the Department for Transport to deliver a £24 million first phase.</p> <p >The planning application includes proposals to rebuild the bus station and remove the modern additions to the neighbouring <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Queens</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Building</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>, a Grade Two listed property.This will then be restored to its former glory to enable its reuse as a café/bar.</p> <p >Also proposed is the demolition of Pipers Row House and the construction of a new two-storey building offering around 16,000sq ft of retail space to the east of the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Queens</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Building</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>. This new building would accommodate a state of the art travel shop, further café/restaurant opportunities, retail premises and offices.</p> <p >The construction work will require temporary bus stops and other facilities to be provided and details of these are included in the application.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Steve Parry</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Liverpool-based Neptune Developments, said: "The current financial climate has meant many new developments around the country have had to be put on hold over the past year. Against this background we are delighted to finally be able to submit our plans for the Interchange scheme which we are sure will dramatically improve <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>'s City Centre."</p> <p >Councillor Paddy Bradley, Wolverhampton City Council's cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, added: ""Today's news is a major boost for <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>. The Interchange will create a new train station, bus station and new leisure and office space. This is something that the council and the people of <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> have wanted to see happen for a long time and the submission of the planning application is evidence that the scheme is moving forward.""</p> <p >The new bus station, which will be operated by Centro, the region's transport  authority, will incorporate 19 stands laid out in a saw tooth arrangement, making it easier for buses to access stops when adjoining stands are occupied. Passengers will also be able to get to all of the bus stands without having to cross the bus circulation lanes.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Centro's Head of Operational Services, said: "The proposed new bus station is great news for passengers. They will get light and airy covered waiting areas and a generous passenger concourse at the entrance to the station. Neptune's plans are exciting ones and they herald a new era for public transport in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>."</p> <p >A large new travel shop providing information and ticketing for all modes of travel is included in the plans and the station will also feature an integrated   audio visual system giving passengers the latest information on bus, train and Metro services The design will also allow for the proposed Metro stop on Pipers Row to be fully integrated into the bus station.</p> <p >An outline planning application for the remainder of the scheme will be submitted in July and will include improved pedestrian access to the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Canal</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>, with a new pedestrian footbridge constructed across the ring road to provide a direct link between the new bus station and the railway station. It will also include the demolition of the railway multi-storey car park and the construction of a new Railway Station Forecourt. In parallel with this, plans will also be submitted to Network Rail for a new railway station and 1200 space multi-story car park.</p> <p >It is expected this first phase of work will create 77 jobs while overall the scheme could create around 2000 new jobs for <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Neptune and Wolverhampton City Council continue to work closely with partners including Network Rail, Virgin Trains, Centro, British Waterways, and Advantage West Midlands.</p>"
"The proposals to transform Wolverhampton City Centre are moving closer to reality today as Neptune Developments, working in partnership with Wolverhampton City Council and Centro, submit their detailed planning application for Phase One of the Interchange scheme. It is hoped that, subject to planning, the scheme will start on site as early as October this year."
9369
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Lighting Link to Jewellery Quarter
2009-05-28T00:00:00
2009-05-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Livery Street, for so long a backwater of the city centre, has been given a new lease of life in a £100,000 project with the installation of new lighting in the area using the latest in environmentally sustainable white lighting. This will complement plans by the region's Transport Authority Centro to make improvements to pedestrian access between Snow Hill Station, city centre bus stops and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Livery Street</st1:address></st1:Street>.<br /> <br /> The work is being funded primarily through the council's Big City Plan (£75,000), which seeks to improve 'connectivity' between and to key areas of the city, while Centro is also contributing £26,000.</p> <p>Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Transportation and Street Services Cllr Len Gregory joined forces with Centro Chairman Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> and one of the Jewellery Quarter's most famous businesses to unveil the plans which will see the main link road from <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s Snow Hill Station transformed, to encourage more visitors to take the short walk to the quarter. <br /> <br /> Greg Turvey from top quarter business BDG, who recently made a replica of the original F.A. Cup for David Gold, Chairman of Birmingham City Football Club, brought along their latest football trophy the 'PFA's Fans Player of the Year' won last year by Wayne Rooney and this year by Ashley Young. <br /> <br /> Among the sites set to benefit most from the new lighting will be a brand new hostel catering for the international visitor market which has just opened in the historic listed Vaughton Works building on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Livery Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, which was previously home to the makers of the original F.A. Cup.<br /> <br /> In line with the city-wide Lighting Strategy the proposals will be developed to the highest possible environmental standards, promoting not only greater access, but also safety and visibility for visitors, residents and businesses alike.<br /> <br /> Councillor Neville Summerfield, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said, ""Projects from the Big City Plan Initiatives programme, such as the Livery Street lighting, are already making significant improvements to the Jewellery Quarter, enhancing the quality of the local environment, developing the local economy, as well as providing a safer environment for local people and visitors.""<br /> <br /> Councillor Len Gregory, Cabinet Member for Transportation and Street Services, said: ""The route from the City Centre to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Livery Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:City ><st1:place >St Paul</st1:place></st1:City>'s Square is another important gateway into the Jewellery Quarter and with the opening of the Hostel it is important that visitors to the area feel safe. Incidentally we are thrilled that an award winning independent Hostel chain, Hatters Hostel, has chosen such an historic location and it will be a real asset to the Quarter having been described as the 'Hotel Du Vin' of the Hostel world!""<br /> <br /> Chairman of Centro, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>said: "Encouraging people to travel using green and healthy modes like walking and cycling to connect to public transport is a key part of Centro's policy, and to do this we need to make pedestrian routes as attractive and safe as possible.<br />  <br /> "I am very pleased that, by working in partnership with Birmingham City Council, we have been able to significantly improve the street lighting along Livery Street and its adjoining roads – really enhancing the local environment by providing lighter and brighter access to local bus stops in the area and up into Birmingham city centre to public transport interchanges like Snow Hill station and Colmore Row."</p>"
"Livery Street for so long a backwater of the city centre has been given a new lease of life in a £100,000 project with the installation of new lighting in the area using the latest in environmentally sustainable white lighting. This will complement plans by the region's Transport Authority Centro to make improvements to pedestrian access between Snow Hill Station, city centre bus stops and Livery Street."
9369
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Local students create giant cake to say 'Happy Birthday' Metro
2009-05-28T00:00:00
2009-05-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Catering students at the City of Wolverhampton College have made a giant Midland Metro cake in honour of the ten year anniversary of the tram line between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >The budding chefs, who are based at the Metro One campus on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bilston Street</st1:address></st1:Street> right by the Wolverhampton St Georges tram stop, have created an 18 inch square sponge decorated with a huge Metro logo and the number 10.</p> <p >They presented the cake to Centro chairman Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> and Manager of Midland Metro Fred Roberts on Friday (29 May 2009) morning at the St Georges Metro stop, ready for the tram systems ten year anniversary on Sunday (31 May 2009).</p> <p >On Sunday, the cake will be cut by the Deputy Mayor of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the Mayors of Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> at a ceremony to mark the end of a special mayoral tram ride for the Metro's birthday.</p> <p >Slices of cake will then be handed out to the Mayors and members of the public who come along to Wolverhampton St Georges on Sunday to see the special Mayoral tram arrive.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "The Midland Metro has proved to be a hugely popular service over the last ten years, providing a fast and reliable link between many areas of housing, industry and shopping for the people of Birmingham and the Black Country.</p> <p >"I am delighted that the catering students from <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wolverhampton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>, who are based right by the Metro stop in the city centre, have been able to create this fantastic cake to help us to celebrate this milestone birthday for our tram service."</p> <p >When it opened in the summer of 1999 the Midland Metro was the <st1:Street ><st1:address >first street</st1:address></st1:Street> tramway to run in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> for over 40 years. It now carries over 5 million passengers a year across 23 tram stops linking Wolverhampton, West Bromwich, Wednesbury and Birmingham and is one of the most reliable rail based systems in the UK.</p> <p >Fred Roberts, Manage of Midland Metro, said: ""We celebrate our tenth anniversary on Sunday and we've invited the Mayors of Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> along to help us mark the day. <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wolverhampton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >College</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> have produced this wonderful Metro cake especially for the occasion.""</p>"
Catering students at the City of Wolverhampton College have made a giant Midland Metro cake in honour of the ten year anniversary of the tram line between Birmingham and Wolverhampton.
9369
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Midland Metro celebrates 10th anniversary
2009-05-28T00:00:00
2009-05-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The Midland Metro will celebrate its tenth anniversary on Sunday 31 May by uniting the Mayors of Birmingham, Sandwell, Dudley, Wolverhampton and Walsall together for a special mayoral tram ride.</p> <p >Tram number 10 will be reserved for the Mayors as they are collected from tram stops throughout the region to mark ten years since the first passenger journey on the Midland Metro. The tram will be driven by one of the longest serving tram drivers in the original purple and grey uniform of the Metro.</p> <p >National Express, who operate the Midland Metro under franchise, and transport authority Centro have worked together to organise the 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary event. They are inviting fans of the Metro to watch the Mayors board along the route and join in the celebrations at Wolverhampton St George tram stop. The Mayors will give a speech about the 10 years of the tram line and cut a giant Metro cake created especially for the occasion by catering students at Wolverhampton College.</p> <p >Each of the five Mayors will also be presented with an original presentation pack from the official Royal opening of the Metro by Princess Anne in 1999.</p> <p ><strong>Timetable for the Mayoral tram:</strong></p> <p ><strong>10:00 am:</strong> Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham – Cllr Chauhdry Abdul Rashid JP - and consort to board the tram</p> <p ><strong>10:11am:</strong> Tram arrives at West Bromwich tram stop where Mayor of Sandwell - Cllr Geoff Lewis - and Mayor of Dudley - Cllr Patricia Martin - plus consorts will board.</p> <p ><strong>10:23am:</strong> Tram arrives at Bradley Lane tram Stop to collect Mayor of Walsall – Cllr John O'Hare - and consort.</p> <p ><strong>10:35am:</strong> Tram arrives at Wolverhampton St Georges where the Mayors are officially welcomed to the city    by Mayor of Wolverhampton - Cllr Surjan Singh Duhra - plus consort.</p> <p >Neil Barker, Director bus and coach for National Express, said:</p> <p >"Over the past ten years the Midland Metro has become an integral part of the transport network in the Midlands, helping to regenerate areas along the line and connecting people with their friends, family and places of work or interest every day. We're delighted the Mayors of Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and the Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham could come together to help us celebrate this important occasion."</p> <p >When it opened in the summer of 1999 the Midland Metro was the first street tramway to run in the West Midland for over forty years. It now carries over five million passengers annually across 23 tram stops linking Wolverhampton, West Bromwich, Wednesbury and Birmingham and is one of the most reliable rail based transport systems in the UK.</p> <p >Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro said:</p> <p >"We are delighted to be celebrating ten years of Midland Metro with Travel Midland Metro and our local authority partners. The Metro provides a very important public transport link for both people living in and visiting the West Midlands by offering fast, reliable and easy to use transport which connects people to places. It really has transformed travel between Birmingham, West Bromwich and Wolverhampton.</p> <p >""Looking to our future and the next ten years we have firm plans to build on the success of the existing line by extending the tram system right into the heart of our communities in our quest towards providing the region with a truly integrated, modern and attractive world class public transport system."</p>"
"The Midland Metro will celebrate its tenth anniversary on Sunday 31 May by uniting the Mayors of Birmingham, Sandwell, Dudley, Wolverhampton and Walsall together for a special mayoral tram ride."
9369
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Rail station information goes live for 35.5 million passengers
2009-05-08T00:00:00
2009-05-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Up to the minute Real Time Information is now being broadcast live to passengers at every commuter rail station in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, thanks to the completion of a £4.5 million cutting edge project.</p> <p >Transport Authority Centro and local rail companies have completed a hi-tech scheme to install electronic information displays and automatic Public Address systems at all 63 commuter rail stations in the region.</p> <p >They let people know exactly how many minutes until their train will pull in to the station by linking in to signalling technology which knows exactly where on the rail network the trains are.</p> <p align=""center""></p> <p >As well as the electronic displays and PA systems, hearing induction loops have also been installed, ensuring that the accurate and up-to-date timetable information is available for people with either visual or hearing difficulties.</p> <p >The scheme's final touches were put in place at Whitlocks End rail station in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> last week completing the project.</p> <p >This means that every station in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> has Real Time Information.</p> <p >Minister for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and Dudley MP Ian Austin officially launched the system today (Friday 8 May, 2009) together with transport bosses from across the region.</p> <p >Over 700,000 people use the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail network every week, with passenger numbers increasing by 8.2 per cent during 2007/08. Over 80,000 people board trains at <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre stations on the average weekday alone.</p> <p >The Real Time Information project has been part-funded by nearly £2 million of grants from the Department for Transport's Access for All Small Schemes fund following successful bids by Centro.</p> <p >These represented the largest amounts given to any organisation under the first and second rounds of funding provided by the Government to improve accessibility at rail stations.</p> <p >The rest of the money has been provided by Centro, rail operator London Midland and its predecessor Central Trains. Information systems at <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, <st1:address ><st1:Street >Birmingham New Street</st1:Street>, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:address> International, <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> stations were provided by Network Rail and other rail companies.</p> <p >Minister for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and MP for Dudley North, Ian Austin said: "This shows how we can invest in new facilities and use new technology to provide clear and reliable information, giving residents and visitors more confidence in the rail network.</p> <p >""It shows how Centro is modernising the network of stations to give passengers more information and improve the rail network.""</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro added: "The Network West Midlands initiative has really improved public transport information across the region – with up-to-date timetables at every bus, rail and Metro stop, and on the internet.</p> <p >"The new Real Time Information system on the rail network ties in perfectly with this, helping people to feel safer and more informed when using the train or connecting between different modes of transport. This, in turn, boosts assurance in the system - enhancing social inclusion and improving access to jobs, housing, education and retail in the region."</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, Lead member for Rail and Metro Operations at Centro concluded: "For the last eight years statistics show us that more and more people choose the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail network as their mode of choice to get around the region.</p> <p >"The new information displays and announcements will make it even easier for rail passengers to use the network, and we are sure that this will encourage even more people out of their cars and on to the rail network."</p> <p >London Midland's Business Strategy Director Mike Haigh said: ""It's hard to believe that five years ago the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> was a desert for RTI (Real Time Information displays). To complete so many stations is a fantastic achievement and testament to the strong working relationship between Centro, London Midland and the surrounding local authorities.""</p>"
"Up to the minute Real Time Information is now being broadcast live to passengers at every commuter rail station in the West Midlands, thanks to the completion of a £4.5 million cutting edge project."
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"Boost for Ring and Ride users as cross boundary services are reinstated in Walsall, Wolverhampton and Coventry"
2009-05-07T00:00:00
2009-05-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People of all ages with limited mobility can now go further afield with Ring and Ride after the reintroduction of services that cross the Walsall, Wolverhampton and <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> boundaries into surrounding boroughs.</p> <p >The cross boundary services, which were suspended just over two years ago because of funding difficulties, were relaunched today (May 4) as part of a new three-year business plan agreed by West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT), the charity which runs Ring and Ride, and its principle funder Centro, region's transport authority.</p> <p >Launching the extended service at <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Walsall</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Town Hall</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> was Shadow Secretary of State for Transport Theresa Villiers, WMSNT Chief Executive Peter Maggs and Centro's Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. With them were regular Ring and Ride users Eileen Moseley and Judith Warren, both from <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p > </p> <p >Theresa said: "This new business plan between WMSNT and Centro is to be applauded as it will make a very real difference to the lives of Ring and Ride users in Walsall, Wolverhampton and <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >"They will now be able to travel longer distances throughout the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> to visit friends and relatives, go shopping and attend social events outside their local area."</p> <p >Peter said: "The Cross Boundary Service was originally set up to help people visit friends and relatives in hospital which they were unable to do because they could not use ordinary buses, and the Ring and Ride service, which focuses on local trips, was also unable to help.</p> <p >"Its full reinstatement will provide a vital service for thousands of people with mobility problems throughout the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and it reflects the positive working relationship now in place between wmsnt and Centro, which will enable us to develop further services to help specific sections of the community".</p> <p ><st1:place ><st1:City >Gary</st1:City></st1:place>added: "The return of this comprehensive extension to the popular Ring and Ride service is great news for users.</p> <p >"It means they can now go much further afield and in turn that will expand their social horizons and quality of life."</p> <p >Judith, who suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome, explained how the extended service would make a "tremendous" difference to her life.</p> <p >"Being able to go over the Walsall boundary means I can now use Ring and Ride to get to Digbeth Coach Station in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and get the coach to see my daughter in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Wales</st1:place></st1:country-region>. Without Ring and Ride I'd be practically housebound."</p> <p align=""center""><strong>Picture caption: Front left to right: Ring and Ride user Eileen Moseley with Shadow Secretary of State for Transport Theresa Villiers and behind them left to right Ring and Ride user Judith Warren, Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro and Peter Maggs, Chief Executive of West Midlands Special Needs Transport.</strong></p>"
"People of all ages with limited mobility can now go further afield with Ring and Ride after the reintroduction of services that cross the Walsall, Wolverhampton and Coventry boundaries into surrounding boroughs."
9369
0
12
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Whitlock's End families to have their say on Park and Ride proposals
2009-05-07T00:00:00
2009-05-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Families in the Whitlock's End area are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take thousands of car journeys off the roads each year.</p> <p >Centro, the region's transport authority, is looking to extend the existing Park & Ride car park at Whitlock's End rail station, which also serves the nearby Dickens Heath area.</p> <p >The plans involve adding up to 159 additional spaces to give a total of up to 270. A new access off <st1:Street ><st1:address >Tilehouse Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> and a roundabout is also proposed.</p> <p >Centro has drawn up the plans because the car park, which currently has 111 spaces, is regularly close to capacity by the end of the morning rush hour and this has led to demand from commuters for additional parking facilities.</p> <p >The extended car park would feature CCTV and a Help Point facility linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre. Also proposed are cycle lockers and new lighting which has been designed to be in keeping with the existing lighting scheme.</p> <p >Sensitive landscaping is proposed so that the Park and Ride facility fits into the surrounding rural environment</p> <p >Centro is now seeking residents' views on the proposal and is holding two exhibitions at Whitlock's End Station with representatives on hand to take people's questions and comments.</p> <p >The exhibitions are between 10am and 2pm on Saturday May 16 and between 3pm and 7pm on Wednesday May 20.</p> <p >Leaflets with an attached questionnaire and prepaid envelope are also being distributed to local homes.</p> <p >Following the public consultation, Centro will finalise a design based on people's comments and submit it for planning application next winter.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Cento said: "Park & Ride schemes play a key role in our efforts to reduce traffic on the region's congested roads.</p> <p >"But it's fair to say that some of the car parks, including Whitlock's End, are packed by the time the morning rush hour is over. That's why we are hard at work adding hundreds more spaces to meet this soaring demand which is a reflection of just how quick and convenient people find Park and Ride."</p> <p >The proposals to extend facility are part of a whole raft of public transport improvements lined up for Whitlock's End.</p> <p >Improvements earmarked by Network Rail will enable London Midland to increase services for to the station from one to three trains an hour.</p> <p >Enhancements to the station's other facilities including access and ticketing are also proposed. To improve interchange between bus and rail at the Park and Ride, Centro is speaking to bus operators to re-route the 12 and S7 bus services to stop at Whitlock's End station.</p> <p >Residents who want more information and an online version of the survey should log on to <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/whitlocks/whitlocks.aspx"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/whitlocks/whitlocks.aspx"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/whitlocks/whitlocks.aspx</a></p> <p > </p>"
Families in the Whitlock's End area are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take thousands of car journeys off the roads each year.
9369
0
12
0
Work gathers pace on city centre Metro extension
2009-05-01T00:00:00
2009-05-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Research and design work is moving ahead on the planned extension of the Midland Metro tram system through <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> city centre.</p> <p >The £30 million scheme, known as the Wolverhampton Loop,  proposes to link the existing Metro stop at St Georges to the city's proposed new transport Interchange to create a seamless connection between tram, bus and train.</p> <p >Next week businesses along the route will be asked to give information about their day to day operations/activities so Centro, the region's transport authority, can start designing the project in detail and ensure minimal disruption to traders. Engineering, environmental and economic studies are also underway.</p> <p > The subsequent design will help establish the scheme's detailed costings which are needed for the business case due to be submitted to Government later this year. An acceptable business case is required by the DfT in order for funding for the extension to be released. </p> <p >Peter Adams, Centro's project director for Metro, explained: "Centro representatives will be calling on businesses along the route next week to gather information about how they function in terms of deliveries, parking and access.</p> <p >"We will also be taking on board their comments about the scheme and their business needs so that we can take these into account when we draw up the detailed plans.</p> <p >"The information will enable us to put together a robust business case for the Department for Transport with whom we are already working closely to ensure our case meets their requirements."</p> <p >The Wolverhampton Loop involves trams travelling clockwise on a single track around the city centre, starting at the existing terminus at St Georges and along  <st1:Street ><st1:address >Market Street</st1:address></st1:Street>,  <st1:Street ><st1:address >Princess Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Lichfield Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and Pipers Row with a spur to the railway station.</p> <p >A key feature of the scheme is that the Metro would be routed through the Interchange to provide integration of bus, rail and tram in a single site. The design work for Metro and for the Interchange is being closely co-ordinated to ensure the two projects are complementary.</p> <p > Cllr Paddy Bradley, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and <st1:place ><st1:City >Enterprise</st1:City></st1:place>, said:  "This Metro extension to the Interchange would provide people with better access to the bus and rail stations and quick and easy transfers between tram, bus and train. It would give <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> a truly integrated transport system. It would also open up the city centre by making it easier for shoppers, commuters and out-of-town visitors to move around it."</p> <p >Running on the loop and along the existing route between the city and <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> would be a fleet of up to 25 new, longer trams which would increase frequency of services to every six minutes.</p> <p > This means the Metro would be able to carry 40 per cent more passengers during peak times – when the service is currently at capacity – and 75 per cent more people off peak.</p> <p >It is envisaged that approximately £20m of the £30 million cost of the Wolverhampton Loop would come from the Government under the Regional Funding Allocation. The project is earmarked to start before 2014 but Centro aims to begin work as soon as funding is made available.</p> <p> </p>"
Research and design work is moving ahead on the planned extension of the Midland Metro tram system through Wolverhampton city centre.
9369
0
12
0
Centro strictly steps out for Kaitlan's American dream
2009-05-01T00:00:00
2009-05-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Staff at transport authority Centro put their best feet forward in their own version of Strictly Come Dancing to raise money to send a local girl with a rare medical condition to America for life changing treatment which could help her walk again.</p> <p >Kaitlan Rogers, aged 9, from Northfield, Birmingham has a one in a billion neurological disorder called Transverse Myelitis which affects the spinal chord and left her paralysed from the chin down just after her first birthday.</p> <p >Over the years Kaitlan has regained mobility in her arms, hands and upper body but she still remains paralysed from the waist down which means she requires a wheelchair all of the time.</p> <p >£30,000 is needed to send Kaitlan to specialist centre <st1:PlaceName >John</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hopkins</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType> in <st1:place ><st1:City >Baltimore</st1:City>, <st1:country-region >USA</st1:country-region></st1:place> which is the only facility of its kind in the world for her condition.</p> <p >The centre can assess if a treatment not available in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> will help Kaitlin's recovery of her legs.</p> <p >Centro staff have so far raised over £1,500 towards Kaitlan's trip by organising an Easter egg raffle and their dance competition, which saw five couples battle it out for first place to win the coveted Centro Strictly Come Dancing trophy.</p> <p >The competition took place at Centro's headquarters in Summer Lane, <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>, where the couples performed either the Rumba, Samba or the Cha Cha Cha in front of Centro's very own strictly judging panel which included Len Badman, Darlene Phillips, Bruschetta Tonioli and Craigella Revel Horwood.</p> <p >Chris Cave, Centro's dance guru, who works as a research and intelligence analyst at Centro, volunteered to teach his colleagues how to dance in an hour long lunch time class once a week for the competition.</p> <p >He also won a prestigious national dance competition, <st1:place >Blackpool</st1:place>'s Danceworld Champions of Tomorrow, in January in which he beat 40 other couples to take home first prize in the Over 35's Latin category.</p> <p >The couples also put in extra practice in their spare time to make sure they were up to scratch for competition, and Chris put on a series of show dances for the audience.</p> <p >Over 60 people attended the event, with the proceeds from the tickets sales and a cake stall going towards Kaitlan's appeal.</p> <p >Centro also invited secret millionaire star, James Benamor, to make a contribution which led to a donation of £200.</p> <p >So far overall £14,158 has been raised towards the £30,000 needed to send Kaitlain to the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >USA</st1:place></st1:country-region>. If you wish to donate money towards Kaitlan's appeal to help make it all possible you can do so at <a href=""http://www.justgiving.co.uk/magsrogers1"">www.justgiving.co.uk/magsrogers1</a></p> <p> </p>"
Staff at transport authority Centro put their best feet forward in their own version of Strictly Come Dancing to raise money to send a local girl with a rare medical condition to America for life changing treatment which could help her walk again.
9369
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Centro steps in to give estate its first ever bus
2009-04-29T00:00:00
2009-04-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Families on a Halesowen estate have been given their first ever bus service after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing.</p> <p >Centro has agreed to use taxpayers' money to extend the route of the existing 007 bus service so that it can serve the Halesmere estate after residents had asked for better transport links.</p> <p >Centro is subsidising the route extension because no bus company has been prepared to serve the estate on a commercial basis. The new service, which began on Monday (April 27), is being operated on Centro's behalf by the Diamond Bus Company.</p> <p >The bus was officially launched at Halesmere by Dudley's lead member on Centro, Cllr Angus Adams and local residents Stella and David Worton who, as members of the Halesowen Action Group, had campaigned for the bus with backing from the West Midlands Pensioners Convention, Help the Aged and local councillors.</p> <p >Cllr Adams said: "We listened carefully to what local people told us and have been working closely with Diamond to see what could be done. We're now delighted to be able to subsidise this new route in order to meet the transport needs of residents.</p> <p >"We really do encourage people to use the bus as we will be monitoring passenger figures closely over the coming months to make sure it provides value for money for the taxpayer. If people don't use it there's a very real risk they could lose it."</p> <p >Stella added: "We're very grateful to Centro for agreeing to give us a bus – it really is fantastic.</p> <p >"There are a lot of older people around here and not all of them have cars. This bus will give them a lot more freedom to pop to the shops or visit friends. It will also make it easier for their friends to come and visit them."</p> <p >The Halesmere service, which is being subsidised for a minimum of six months, will run between Merry Hill and Bromsgrove calling at Halesmere every hour between 10 and 4pm. Passengers will be able to catch on the Halesmere estate by simply hailing it down.</p> <p >For timetable and route information about the 007 service log on to <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.NetworkWestMidlands.com</a> and click on 'timetables' and then on 'bus'. Alternatively phone Traveline on 0871 200 22 33.</p> <p > </p>"
"Families on a Halesowen estate have been given their first ever bus service after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing."
9369
0
12
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Centro brings bus service back to Sandwell estate
2009-04-27T00:00:00
2009-04-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People on a Sandwell estate saw the return of their bus service today (Monday 27 April, 2009) after transport authority, Centro stepped in with financial backing.</p> <p >Bus company National Express West Midlands withdrew the 631 that ran through <st1:Street ><st1:address >Claypit Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Turner Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Richard Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in Greets Green in January 2008</p> <p >Since then, local residents, the Greets Green Partnership, West Bromwich Town Committee and Sandwell councillorshave campaigned to have their bus service brought back.</p> <p >Centro has listened to their concerns and has introduced the new 431 service which will link these roads with <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> town centre every hour during the day.</p> <p >Greets Green and Lyng councillor, Gurcaharan Sidhu said: "I am extremely pleased that Centro has been able to step in and provide this socially important service.</p> <p >"There are many elderly and disabled people living on the estate so it will provide a real lifeline, giving access to shops, leisure and health care facilities."</p> <p >Lead member for Sandwell on Centro, Cllr Roger Horton added: "The return of a bus service to Greets Green really shows that people power does get results.</p> <p >"It's great news that Centro has taken on board the concerns of residents and local councillors and responded positively. It is now important that people make full use of the service in order to keep it going."</p> <p >The new 431 service will be operated on Centro's behalf by the Diamond Bus Company.</p> <p >Local resident Pauline Robinson, who lives on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Turner Street</st1:address></st1:Street> said: "I'm delighted that our bus service has returned to the estate. We've campaigned long and hard to have it brought back and I hope that now we've been successful we can keep it going."</p>"
"People on a Sandwell estate saw the return of their bus service today (Monday 27 April, 2009) after transport authority, Centro stepped in with financial backing."
9369
0
12
0
All change at Stourbridge Bus Station
2009-04-24T00:00:00
2009-04-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >From Sunday 26 April 2009, passengers using Stourbridge Bus Station may need to catch their bus from a different stand.</p> <p >Transport Authority Centro, which owns the bus station, has made some changes to where different buses drop off and pick up passengers in the station due to changes to the number 9 service.</p> <p >The stand alterations have been brought in to ensure that the bus station continues to run safely and efficiently, and that buses using similar routes can drop off and pick up passengers close to each other making things easy and convenient for users.</p> <p >The changes are:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >The number 9 to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> will now pick up from stands A & B</li> <li >The 288 to Norton will now pick up from stand E</li> <li >The 318 to Bromsgrove will now pick up from stand E</li> <li >The 251 Merry Hill Circular will now pick up from stand H</li> <li >The 291 Merry Hill/Wollaston Circular will now pick up from stand H</li> <li >The 300 to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> will now pick up from stand K</li> <li >The 242 and 242A to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> will now pick up from stand L</li> <li >The 276 to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> will now pick up from stand L</li> <li >The 298 and 299 Pedmore Fields Circular will now pick up from stand L</li> </ul> <p >All other services will continue to pick up and drop off at the same stands as they do now.</p> <p >Passengers wanting more bus information including timetables and route details can visit www.networkwestmidlands.com</p>"
"From Sunday 26 April 2009, passengers using Stourbridge Bus Station may need to catch their bus from a different stand."
9369
0
12
0
Partnership to bring major benefits for bus passengers
2009-04-23T00:00:00
2009-04-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A ground breaking task force has been set up by transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands (NXWM) to drive forward wholesale improvements to bus services across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >As the largest operator in the region, National Express is the first company to become a member of the new Team Transforming Bus Travel although Centro is keen to get many more local operators onboard.</p> <p >The taskforce has been launched to implement Centro's recently published blueprint Transforming Bus Travel (TBT) which sets out a vision of high quality bus services within the world class public transport system that Centro is striving to deliver.</p> <p >The TBT blueprint involves:</p> <p >The ongoing modernisation of local bus networks so they better reflect today's shopping, working and leisure patterns</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >The introduction of new bus shelters</li> <li >More Real Time Information</li> <li >Concise timetable and other travel information at stops under the Network West Midlands brand</li> <li >The introduction of Smartcard.</li> </ul> <p >Centro Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke said: "We're delighted that NXWM has signed up to this new way of working together. It will help fulfil the vision laid out in Transforming Bus Travel and bring real benefits for passengers.</p> <p >"Working in partnership like this with NXWM and eventually many other local operators, is vital if we are to transform the quality of travel in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and attract more passengers on to the buses. It will help underpin our efforts to tackle climate change, reduce congestion, sustain economic growth and address social inclusion."</p> <p >  Ray O'Toole, National Express Chief Executive <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>, added:  "In any dynamic organisation there is a need to continually challenge the way in which you deliver service. We strongly believe that working in partnership is the key to growing the use of public transport and subsequently reducing congestion and carbon emission in our towns and cities.</p> <p >"Recent improvements made to the Dudley and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> networks are evidence that we can work well together. We want to continue developing public transport and our bus network and we signalled this with our keen support to further Transforming Bus Travel in partnership with Centro."</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus and highways at Centro, said: "Our shared aim is to improve the quality of bus services and to encourage greater use of public transport. This agreement will enable the bus network to be further improved and access for all passengers should be maintained."</p> <p >Team Transforming Bus Travel will spearhead the implementation of further reviews of local bus networks, building on the success achieved by the recent overhauls carried out by Centro and NEWM in Dudley and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>.</p> <p >The new networks have involved simplifying times and routes so they are more relevant to existing and potential passengers. Latest figures in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>, where the network was modernised last April, show a 15 per cent increase in passengers per kilometre and an overall rise in passengers of 4 per cent. The taskforce will also drive forward other quality improvements in order to maximise the potential for bus as an attractive journey option.</p> <p> </p>"
A ground breaking task force has been set up by transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands (NXWM) to drive forward wholesale improvements to bus services across the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
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Park and Ride scheme completed early for Sutton residents
2009-03-31T00:00:00
2009-03-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The extension of a highly successful free Park & Ride facility at a Sutton Coldfield rail station, which could take 20,000 extra journeys off the region's roads every year, has been officially opened on Monday (30 March 2009) six months early.</p> <p >Transport Authority Centro purchased land during 2007 to create 37 additional spaces at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street> rail station as the existing car park, which has 149 bays, regularly fills up early in the morning</p> <p >Work was originally expected to start this summer, but the scheme has been completed ahead of schedule to cater for the additional demand.</p> <p >As well as the extra spaces, the new parking area includes a series of safety and security features to conform to the rest of the rail station car park.</p> <p >These include extra CCTV cameras, new lighting, and a Help Point facility linked in to the Network Safety and Security Centre (NSSC).</p> <p >The car park extension also has a public address system so operators can make announcements, new security fencing and areas of landscaping.</p> <p >This means Centro retains its record of having the coveted Safer Parking Park Mark Award at every one of its 53 heavy rail Park & Ride car parks highlighting their low crime and high safety standards.</p> <p >It has been calculated that with the additional spaces, the Park & Ride facility at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street> rail station could potentially take 130,000 car journeys off <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s roads every year.</p> <p >It also takes the number of Park & Ride spaces in the Sutton Coldfield area to over 960.</p> <p >This means that, because people are choosing to Park & Ride in Sutton Coldfield instead of driving all the way to their destination, there are five million less road miles done by cars travelling into <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> per annum</p> <p >Cllr Timothy Huxtable, Lead Member for Rail and Rapid Transit at Centro said: "Park & Ride schemes play a vital role in taking millions of car journeys off the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> roads which in turn reduces congestion and carbon emissions in the region.</p> <p >"The Park & Ride facilities provided by Centro are very popular with commuters and shoppers alike, with many becoming full very quickly in the morning.</p> <p >"That is why we are committed to providing more free Park Mark accredited spaces at rail stations for the people of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, as we have done here at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street>."</p> <p >The Park & Ride car park at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street> has already been extended once before, during 2006, to give an extra 45 spaces.</p> <p >More information can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/chesterroad"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/chesterroad</a></p>"
"The extension of a highly successful free Park & Ride facility at a Sutton Coldfield rail station, which could take 20,000 extra journeys off the region's roads every year, has been officially opened on Monday (30 March 2009) six months early."
9369
0
12
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Your Bus Matters.....In Sandwell!
2009-03-31T00:00:00
2009-03-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in Sandwell will have a new way to have their say regarding their local bus services at a special day dedicated to bus passengers in the borough.</p> <p >"Your Bus Matters" is a new partnership between West Midlands Transport Authority Centro, National Express West Midlands, Diamond Bus and passenger group Bus Users UK.</p> <p >Wednesday 8<sup>th</sup> April 2009 sees a whole day of events designed to encourage people to comment on their local buses.</p> <p >Early risers can drop by at the Travel Shop in <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> bus station from 8am to meet the team from Centro and the operators.</p> <p >During the day between 10am – 3pm, people can come and meet the team and have their say on board a Diamond Bus and National Express West Midlands Bus, outside The Public, <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>. There's also a chance to win a month's free travel or High Street Shopping Vouchers, simply by letting us have your views!</p> <p >During the evening from 6pm, people can come along to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wednesbury</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Town Hall</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> from 6pm, where they can put their points across on local buses, as well as rail and metro services.</p> <p >Phil Tonks, from Passenger Group Bus Users UK, said;</p> <p >"We're really keen to hear people's views locally about their bus services. Buses are a vital part of the community and it is so important that we meet and discuss not only current services, but also future provision"</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Head of Operational Services at Centro added:</p> <p >"We look forward to meeting the people of Sandwell and hearing what they think is good about their bus services and what can be improved. Local passengers are our eyes and ears when it comes to public transport and their feedback is vital if we are going to achieve our aim of providing a world class public transport system for Sandwell and the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p>"
People in Sandwell will have a new way to have their say regarding their local bus services at a special day dedicated to bus passengers in the borough.
9369
0
12
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Congestion busting website targets commuters of tomorrow
2009-03-23T00:00:00
2009-03-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A fun and interactive website designed to beat congestion and climate change now and in the future by teaching children about green travel has been extended with a special area for 11 to 14 year olds.</p> <p >Internet portal <a href=""http://www.letzgogreen.org/"">www.letzgogreen.org</a> was created by transport authority Centro last year to help primary school children learn about using environmentally friendly transport like buses, trains and trams, walking and cycling at the click of a mouse.</p> <p >It has been so successful transport bosses have decided to create a new area called Future Travel for secondary school pupils which links in to the Key Stage 3 curriculum.</p> <p >Letzgogreen was designed to show the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> next generation of commuters why it is so important to use sustainable transport, with sections about the environment, being streetwise and behaving responsibly.</p> <p >By logging on primary aged youngsters can read interactive stories and comic books with colourful cartoon characters and take part in games and puzzles to learn about how and why to use public transport.</p> <p >As well as having zones for children and parents, the website also has the UK's only free internet public transport resource centre for teachers, which includes pages that can be used on interactive whiteboards, downloadable lesson plans and worksheets.</p> <p >The website has been specifically designed into sections to fit in to the national curriculum for each age group, including Geography, Citizenship, ICT and Science.</p> <p >The Future Travel section of letzgogreen acts as an information portal for secondary school pupils, with a host of videos, pictures, facts and figures about public transport, congestion and climate change in the West Midlands which can be used for projects and essays.</p> <p >Centro's chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> said: "Letzgogreen.org has already proved incredibly popular with children, parents and teachers alike – receiving over 1000 hits a day.</p> <p >"The environment, transport and children's health are all issues that are becoming increasingly important. This website is a fun and exciting way for children to learn about green and healthy travel while being educational and informative and I'm really pleased we have been able to extend it to cater for secondary school children." </p> <p >Centro is showcasing Letzgogreen and officially launching Future Travel at the Education Show at the NEC from 26 – 28 March 2009.</p> <p >Teachers and other education professionals from across the country will be able to pop along to stand EC-U45 to try out the website, which – while designed for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> – could be used in schools across the nation.</p> <p >Letzgogreen, including the Future Travel zone, is also being promoted and demonstrated through schools across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> by Centro's Sustainable Travel team.</p> <p >Centro developed the website with Resources for Learning – a company that specialises in the development of educational websites by working with teachers.</p>"
A fun and interactive website designed to beat congestion and climate change now and in the future by teaching children about green travel has been extended with a special area for 11 to 14 year olds.
9369
0
12
0
Lifeline service gets £250k of new state-of-the-art buses
2009-03-12T00:00:00
2009-03-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The lifeline Ring & Ride bus service, which helps over 70,000 people with mobility problems get out and about in the West Midlands, is investing over £250,000 in new vehicles for users in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >West Midlands Special Needs Transport, the charity which operates the Ring & Ride service with funding from Transport Authority Centro, has taken delivery of seven new state-of-the-art Ford Transit minibuses.</p> <p >The Mayor of Wolverhampton Cllr Christine Mills will officially unveil the new 09 registration vehicles on Monday 9 March (2009).</p> <p >The minibuses, which cost £36,000 each, have all been bought from and kitted out with top-of-the range adaptations by Ford dealership Evans Halshaw in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >The vehicles will also be driven by local drivers and all maintenance work will be carried out in the city.</p> <p >The 9,500 registered users of the Ring & Ride service in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> will be able to travel in style and luxury on the new buses, which have been painted in a new, modern and distinctive livery.</p> <p >They have been specially adapted to make them easier to use and more comfortable for users with benefits including saloon heating and sophisticated electronic tail lifts and folding steps.</p> <p >The vehicles can carry 12 passengers, but all the seats can be folded down or removed to accommodate up to four wheelchairs instead.</p> <p >Mayor of Wolverhampton, Cllr Christine Mills said: "I am very pleased to welcome these new state-of-the-art Ring & Ride buses to <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >"They will be a real boost to the service, which already helps thousands of people with mobility problems that cannot use conventional public transport lead more independent lives. Ring & Ride forms a very important part of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport system and is fundamental in combating social exclusion."</p> <p >Peter Maggs, Chief Executive of West Midlands Special Needs Transport added: "The Ring & Ride service provides a lifeline for so many people in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> – helping people to get to work, school, the shops or to visit family and friends.</p> <p >"We're really pleased to be able to provide these new buses, especially as we are not just providing a boost to users of the service in Wolverhampton, but we have also been able to use local firms to provide and maintain the new vehicles, and recruit people living in the <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> area to drive them."</p> <p >Chairman of Centro Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> said: "At Centro we are committed to providing elderly and disabled people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with an easy to use public transport system, which is why we provide one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country.</p> <p >"The Ring & Ride service is in demand more now than ever before which is why the introduction of these new, state-of-the-art buses is so important. We look forward to continuing our close working relationship with West Midlands Special Needs Transport to continue making the Ring & Ride service even better for its users."</p> <p >Ring & Ride celebrated its 25 year anniversary in December this year. It is the fourth largest organisation in the world providing transport for people with mobility problems; only <st1:State >New York</st1:State>, <st1:City >Stockholm</st1:City> and <st1:place ><st1:City >Los Angeles</st1:City></st1:place> have bigger operations.</p> <p >Users in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> are to get a further boost to their service later this year when West Midlands Special Needs Transport will be opening a new Ring & Ride depot in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Sydney Street</st1:address></st1:Street>. This will allow the charity to double the amount of service it provides to the people of <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Ring & Ride is available from 8am to 11pm, 365 days a year. Users simply phone a special telephone number to arrange and book their journey.</p> <p >People can register for the Ring & Ride service by calling 01902 421 515. More information can be found at <a href=""http://www.ringandride.org/"">www.ringandride.org</a></p>"
"The lifeline Ring & Ride bus service, which helps over 70,000 people with mobility problems get out and about in the West Midlands, is investing over £250,000 in new vehicles for users in Wolverhampton."
9369
0
12
0
Halesowen celebrates completion of £30m regeneration project
2009-02-23T00:00:00
2009-02-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The Black Country town of <st1:City ><st1:place >Halesowen</st1:place></st1:City> celebrated the completion of its £30m regeneration, which includes a new state-of-the-art bus station and ASDA store, with a special opening ceremony on Monday (23 February 2009).</p> <p >The town centre transformation, which saw three major building projects come together in just 18 months to create the vibrant new-look shopping and transport hub, has already brought more visitors, trade and jobs to Halesowen.</p> <p >As well as the new bus station and ASDA store, the multi-million town centre regeneration now boasts a replacement multi-storey car park, road improvements including enhanced pedestrian crossing facilities and new shop units in the Cornbow Centre.</p> <p >Integrated Transport Authority Centro, Dudley Council and Cornbow Centre owner Vale Retail worked in partnership on the redevelopment project to build a better Halesowen and create an even better place for people to visit and shop.</p> <p >Local businesses have already reported a definite uplift in trade since ASDA opened in November last year and the new bus station opened in December (2008).</p> <p >Transport Minister Paul Clark MP officially opened the town's striking new £3.5 million bus station which provides passengers with over 4,600 bus services a week connecting people to destinations all over the region.</p> <p >Assistant Regional Minister for the West Midlands Lynda Waltho MP, Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP Sylvia Heal and Mayor of Dudley Cllr Ray Burston performed the ceremony to mark the completion of the entire regeneration.</p> <p >Transport Minister Paul Clark MP said: "Good local transport is vital, playing a key role in connecting people with friends, family, work and local services.  This is why we are spending a record £2.5 billion on buses in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region> this year, up from just £1 billion ten years ago.</p> <p >""I am delighted to see for myself the great work that has been going on in Halesowen to provide a magnificent facility for local passengers, and I hope it will encourage even more people to leave their cars at home."</p> <p >Of the multi-million pound regeneration project to build a better Halesowen, Assistant Regional Minister for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, Lynda Waltho MP said: "This £30m redevelopment of Halesowen has created a new retail experience, hundreds of jobs and fantastic accessibility through the new bus station.</p> <p >"It illustrates perfectly the key role that investing in our local town centres plays in underpinning and enhancing the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> economy and fulfilling our regional regeneration objectives."</p> <p >Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP Sylvia Heal added: "I am pleased that this regeneration project has come together to provide Halesowen with the attractive and vibrant town centre it needs and deserves.</p> <p >"The improvements have really put Halesowen on the map as a great place to visit, shop, work and invest and we look forward to reaping the benefits of the town's transformation for years to come."</p> <p >Mayor of Dudley, Cllr Ray Burston concluded:  "The new bus station is a superb modern facility that will not only enhance the public transport experience in the borough, but will also enable Halesowen to successfully re-launch itself as one of the Black Country's most exciting shopping destinations."</p>"
"The Black Country town of Halesowen celebrated the completion of its £30m regeneration, which includes a new state-of-the-art bus station and ASDA store, with a special opening ceremony on Monday (23 February 2009)."
9369
0
12
0
Passenger numbers up on both Rail and Metro
2009-01-29T00:00:00
2009-01-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The number of people using the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> commuter rail network continued to grow last year with more than 35.5 million passengers getting onboard while another five million caught the Metro.</p> <p> The Annual Statistical Report 2007/8 highlighting trends in the region's public transport shows that rail patronage in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> is now 43 per cent higher than ten years ago and grew by a further 8.1 per cent in 2007/8.</p> <p>The report, released by Centro, the region's transport authority, shows that the number of passengers using the Midland Metro tram system rose from 4.9 million to just over 5 million.</p> <p>The Metro has been attracting greater numbers of car owners with use of its popular park and ride facilities running at 84 per cent capacity – up from 74 per cent on the previous year. Meanwhile reliability on the Metro remained high during 2007/8 at 96.9 per cent.</p> <p>Bus passenger numbers also held steady and topped 325.4 million in 2007/8. That means the West Midlands metropolitan area now has the highest bus use per population outside of <st1:City >London</st1:City>, overtaking <st1:place >Tyne</st1:place> and Wear which traditionally had the highest use.</p> <p>Centro Chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, said: "The increases in rail and Metro use are very pleasing. They suggest that people want fast and direct public transport rather than being stuck in traffic jams and this strengthens the case for expanding the Metro system.</p> <p>"The growth in rail use can be considered a genuine success story and shows rail travel to be a quick and reliable alternative to the car. We will continue to work in partnership with Network Rail and London Midland to expand capacity on the local network."</p> <p>Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip added: "If we are to reduce CO2 emissions and tackle congestion it is vital that more people make the switch from car to sustainable modes of transport. The report is very encouraging because it shows that motorists are starting to make that switch.</p> <p>"We will now build on this success by further improving the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport system to make it even easier and quicker for people to make their journey by bus, tram, train, bicycle and foot."</p> <p>The Annual Statistical Report predicts an increase in bus passengers for the current financial year as the effects of the new National Concessionary bus passes and improvements to the network such as Real Time Information kick in. Interim figures for the 12 months up to September 2008 have already shown an increase of 5 million.</p> <p>The number of kilometres covered by the region's bus network also increased by 3.3 per cent during 2007/8 to 137 million.</p> <p>Other encouraging figures in the report include a decrease in the amount of people choosing to drive into a number of our main town and city centres. Private car trips into <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre were down by 5.4 per cent while those into Brierley Hill fell by 5.5 per cent and into <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> by 3.3 per cent.</p> <p>Public transport trips into Solihull were up by 12.4 per cent and by 3.8 per cent in <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>.</p> <p>In <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>, 56 per cent of all journeys into the city centre during the morning peak were made by public transport in 2007/8, up 2 per cent on the previous year. In 1995 the figure was 42 per cent.</p> <p>The rise in rail and Metro passengers has come despite an on-going increase in car ownership. The report shows that the percentage of West Midlands households with no car fell from 51 per cent in 1971 to just  34 per cent in 2001 with Department for Transport projections showing only 22 per cent of households having no car by 2035.</p> <p >A factsheet titled 'Environment' has also been included in this year's Annual Statistical Report to highlight the effects transport has on the environment. Travel by private car as opposed to public transport emits the greatest level of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) with an average of 180 grams per passenger km, compared with 89 by bus, 65 by light rail and 60 by rail.</p> <p > </p> <p > </p> <p > </p>"
The number of people using the West Midlands commuter rail network continued to grow last year with more than 35.5 million passengers getting onboard while another five million caught the Metro.
9369
0
12
0
Pioneering new website puts public transport on the map
2009-01-29T00:00:00
2009-01-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An innovative new website has been created to give people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> clear and up-to-date information on getting around the region by public transport at the click of a mouse.</p> <p ><a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a> has been given a complete makeover by transport authority Centro to ensure it serves as an easy to use one stop shop for people wanting details on bus, train and tram services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> .</p> <p >The new site embraces the latest internet technology including a revolutionary new use of Google Maps which allows people to see the exact location of public transport stops and interchanges across the region on advanced live travel maps developed with Centro's technology partner Kizoom.</p> <p >People can search by street name, post code, and stop name or number to zoom in to any one of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> 15,000 bus stops, 69 rail stations or 23 Metro stops in either normal map or satellite view.</p> <p >Then, by clicking on their specific stations or stops passengers can find out the exact time of the next bus and rail services because the website is linked in to Centro's Real Time Information (RTI) system.</p> <p >This uses satellite technology on the buses and signalling technology on trains and trams to accurately predict how long it will take for the next services to arrive.</p> <p >RTI is currently available on around 50 per cent of the region's bus routes and on all rail and metro services. Timetabled times are shown for bus stops where RTI is not available.</p> <p >The Google Maps service also gives passengers the option to plan journeys to or from their chosen station or stop by linking in to a journey planner facility provided by Transport Direct.</p> <p >This gives passengers a complete personalised and simple to follow travel itinerary from the start to the end of their journey. A link is also available via the front page of the Network West Midlands website.</p> <p >Also available on the interactive travel maps is the option to view the full scheduled timetables for any bus, train or tram service. Additionally people can plan the best walking route to their chosen stop, as each one links to <a href=""http://www.walkit.com/"">www.walkit.com</a> – a route planning site for people travelling on foot.</p> <p >The new website also has information about the wide choice of tickets available for travelling around the region including the <strong>n</strong>network range which can be used across different operators' services.</p> <p >It is also fully accessible, with a "listen to this page" option covering the whole site as well as options to make text size bigger or smaller.</p> <p >The format of the website is simpler and scalable making it easy to view on mobile phones with internet access, or PDAs and BlackBerrys.</p> <p >There are also links to the fun and interactive transport education website <a href=""http://www.letzgogreen.org/"">www.letzgogreen.org</a> which has been specially created by Centro to fit in to the Key Stage 1, 2 and 3 curriculums and is used by schools across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> .</p> <p >Centro is now working on ideas to develop the site further including information on rail station facilities and zones, sample train fares and details of disruptions to services.</p> <p > </p> <p ><strong>The new website was designed in house by Centro's New Media Designer</strong> <st1:PersonName ><strong>Debra Ashington</strong></st1:PersonName></p> <p ><strong>Kizoom</strong> <strong>is the</strong> <st1:place ><st1:country-region ><strong>UK</strong></st1:country-region></st1:place><strong>'s leading provider of systems to transform transport data into intelligent travel information. More information can be found at www.kizoom.com</strong></p> <p > </p>"
An innovative new website has been created to give people in the West Midlands clear and up-to-date information on getting around the region by public transport at the click of a mouse.
9369
0
12
0
New plans to make Stourbridge bus station even better
2009-01-28T00:00:00
2009-01-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A blueprint to transform the region's bus services has opened up an exciting opportunity to make Stourbridge's proposed new bus station even better.</p> <p >During December, transport authority Centro finalised its vision to make significant improvements to local bus travel for people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, following consultation with the region's seven councils, passenger representatives and other stakeholders.</p> <p >Transforming Bus Travel sets a new quality benchmark for services, bus stations and shelters, and travel information.</p> <p >Stourbridge was the first area to have benefited from the introduction of new local routes and buses as part of the improved <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> bus network introduced nine months ago.</p> <p >The next step is to build on these improvements to services and provide passengers with a high quality passenger facility. Therefore Stourbridge bus station will be the first major building project to benefit from Transforming Bus Travel, as the new high quality standards laid out in the strategy give Centro the opportunity to further refine and improve the bus station's original design.</p> <p >Centro's Director of Bus and Highways, <st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName> said: "Transforming Bus Travel sets out a quality threshold for services not seen before in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>. This blueprint provides us with the ideal opportunity to improve the designs for Stourbridge bus station.</p> <p >"While the original plans were already of a high standard, we want to make sure the new bus station provides the best bus passenger facilities. We believe that by following the standards set out in Transforming Bus Travel and making further refinements to the design passengers will get the world class facility they deserve.</p> <p >The new bus station design will also incorporate improved walking routes into the town centre and create better links to rail services.</p> <p >The new plans will place greater focus on the environment, incorporating green technology and products, for example, looking at the optimum use of natural or reduced energy lighting.</p> <p >Stephen added: "We expect work will start on site in 2010 rather than later this year but we are confident that the end result will benefit both passengers and bus operators alike."</p>"
A blueprint to transform the region's bus services has opened up an exciting opportunity to make Stourbridge's proposed new bus station even better.
9369
0
12
0
£11m transport scheme for Solihull
2009-01-28T00:00:00
2009-01-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands transport authority Centro and Solihull Council are celebrating today after the government pledged £11m for a scheme to improve public transport between Solihull, Birmingham International Airport and the NEC.</p> <p>The Council bid for the scheme last year, and last night, Transport Minister Paul Clark announced that the bid had been successful.</p> <p>The scheme will mean better bus services, reduce journey times, and will provide improved facilities for passengers. It will also improve public transport links between the north and south of the borough, allowing people to travel easily to access employment, and will cut congestion in the area, especially when there are major events at the NEC.</p> <p>Cabinet Member for Transport, Highways and Infrastructure, Cllr Ted Richards, said: "This is fantastic news for Solihull and our partners. Not only will it improve links between the north and south of the borough, but will also improve employment opportunities by linking regeneration areas. We want to encourage people to use public transport rather than car and this scheme will do just that by improving routes and the number of services, as well as decreasing congestion, which will make journeys by public transport more reliable. We look forward to being able to start work."</p> <p>The scheme includes:</p> <p><br /> • a new interchange at Birmingham International station, improving the links between trains and buses<br /> • new bus lanes<br /> • new bus shelters<br /> • improvements for disabled travellers including easier access kerbs<br /> • real time information boards for travellers to plan their journeys more easily and work out how long their journey will take<br /> • bus only link to Bickenhill parkway from the airport</p> <p>There will also be cycle paths and footpaths to join up routes and allow for safer and greener travel.</p> <p>Councillor Stuart Davis, who sits on passenger transport authority Centro, met Minister Paul Clark at Centro's Parliamentary Reception last night.</p> <p>He added: "At Centro, we have recently worked very closely with local bus operators in Solihull to transform the bus network across the borough to ensure that services cover the journeys that people in today's society want and need to make – tying in to modern working and shopping patterns and linking effectively with rail services.</p> <p>"This funding from the Department for Transport will significantly enhance these improvements, and play a huge role in providing Solihull with a high quality transport network that is fit for purpose and that provides an attractive alternative to the car."</p> <p>Work will start on the project this year, and is likely to take until 2010 to complete.</p> <p>The changes to the Solihull bus network came into affect on Sunday (25 January 2009), for more information please go to <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull</a></p>"
"West Midlands transport authority Centro and Solihull Council are celebrating today after being granted £11m for a scheme to improve public transport between Solihull, Birmingham International Airport and the NEC."
9369
0
12
0
All change for Solihull's bus network
2009-01-26T00:00:00
2009-01-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Major changes to provide <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> with a new and improved bus network have been introduced this Sunday (January 25) in order to meet the 21<sup>st</sup> century lifestyles of passengers.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands (NEWM)in conjunction with Solihull Council, has designed the new network to provide a more up-to-date and effective bus system.</p> <p >The new routes and timetables aim to meet changing working and shopping hours and provide better links to other bus services and rail stations.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Centro's director of bus and highways said: "This weekend saw the start of a new era for bus travel in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, with a new network designed to meet the needs of today's passengers and businesses.</p> <p > "We understand that this is a big change for many people but we believe the borough should benefit significantly from the modern and easy to use bus system that this review aims to provide."</p> <p >The new network sees major improvements including more regular bus services that complement each other and new cross town routes which will benefit people who want to travel further than just their local centre.</p> <p >This includes increased frequencies on services 6 and 37 between Solihull and <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, and four buses an hour running on service 76 between <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> and Kings Heath instead of just three, giving passengers a bus every 15 minutes.</p> <p >The National Express service 4 has become the service 5 between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, with buses every 20 minutes instead of half hourly. A new service S4 has been introduced to serve Woodlands Estate and Cheswick Green by operator Grosvenor Coaches.</p> <p >Service 19 between Solihull and <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> now provides residents with an hourly service in the Heart of England villages, new local services S2 and S3 serve Knowle, Dorridge and Hockley Heath and new service S12 has been introduced to provide a new link for residents to the Hobs Moat shops.</p> <p >There are also improvements to some evening and Sunday services and better links between Dickens Heath and Shirley rail station.</p> <p >To make using and identifying Solihull services even easier, many bus numbers have changed to begin with the letter S.</p> <p >Alex Perry, Operations Director for National Express Bus and Coach said: "We are committed to our customers throughout Solihull and any changes we make have been aimed at simplifying the network, providing easier access and improving links to key destinations, including better connections to rail stations like Solihull and Shirley.</p> <p >"We have also ensured with the changes that no one is left without a service although they may need to use a different route. The changes will be positive for a majority of people."</p> <p >Centro, Solihull Council and local bus operators have undertaken a comprehensive publicity campaign in a bid to make sure people are aware of the changes.</p> <p >New timetables and posters informing people of the changes have been installed over the last month at bus stops across the borough.</p> <p >Leaflets have also been distributed to more than 110,000 homes and thousands of people have attended joint exhibitions staffed by Centro and NEWM in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, Shirley and Chelmsley Wood and at Birmingham International rail station and the <st1:Street ><st1:address >A45 Coventry Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >To further help passengers there will be extra staff on hand next week at key bus interchanges across the borough to give advice and information on the new times, numbers and routes.</p> <p >People can get more information on the changes by visiting <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull</a> or by popping into the National Express travel information centre in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> town centre.</p>"
Major changes to provide Solihull with a new and improved bus network were introduced this Sunday in order to meet the 21st century lifestyles of passengers.
9369
0
12
0
Centro launches direct bus link to hospital
2009-01-26T00:00:00
2009-01-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Families and pensioners on two Sandwell estates saw the start today (Monday January 26) of their   own  direct bus service to Rowley Regis Hospital after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing.</p> <p >Residents living in the <st1:City ><st1:place >Springfield</st1:place></st1:City> and Siviter's Lane areas of Rowley Regis can now catch the 224 service to the hospital and the new Tesco superstore at Cradley Heath.</p> <p >The service is the result of a decision by Centro to use taxpayers' money to lay on the bus after people in the area, backed by their local Sandwell councillors Bill Thomas, who is also Leader of Sandwell Council, Deputy Mayor Cllr Iris Boucher and Mayoress Cllr Barbara Price, had asked for better transport links.</p> <p >Centro agreed to subsidise the 224, which is being operated on its behalf by Choice Travel, because no bus company was prepared to operate the route on a commercial basis.</p> <p >The new bus was officially launched at the hospital by Centro's Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke, Centro Chief Executive <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Cllr Price, Cllr Boucher and Sandwell's representative on Centro, Cllr Roger Horton.</p> <p >With them was voluntary worker John Cope who works extensively with health and elderly support organisations and had played a key role in the campaign to get the service and a bus shelter installed at the hospital.</p> <p >John, who lives on the nearby Brickhouse Estate, said: "If more health facilities are to be moved out into the community such as at <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Rowley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Regis</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hospital</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> then it's important those facilities are accessible. That's why we're so grateful to Centro for laying on this service. It will be a big help for many elderly people in the area because it's so hilly around here and that makes it difficult for them to walk places."</p> <p >Cllr Clarke added: "We listened carefully to what local people told us and we're pleased to be able to subsidise this new service in order to meet their transport needs. It's important to remember, however, that we are using taxpayers' money to fund this service so it's vital that people use it. We will be monitoring passenger numbers closely over the coming months."</p> <p >The new service, which is being subsidised until the end of October at a cost of £51,000, will run every hour between 8am and 5:45pm.</p> <p >Cllr Horton said: "This is great news for local people because it gives them a direct link to the hospital and Cradley Heath and I'm really pleased that Centro has responded to our campaign. But people must now use it or risk losing it."</p> <p >Cllr Thomas added: ": ""We have campaigned for this for a long time and we very much welcome Centro's decision.</p> <p >""This improves access to <st1:PlaceName >Rowley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Regis</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hospital</st1:PlaceName>, especially for elderly people on the isolated <st1:City ><st1:place >Springfield</st1:place></st1:City> estate and the service will be of real benefit.</p> <p >""It has been a lengthy campaign but it has clearly been a successful one. I would like to place on record my personal thanks to Centro for listening to our pleas.""</p> <p >For timetable and route information about the 224 service log on to <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.NetworkWestMidlands.com</a> and click on 'Bus' and then 'Bus Timetables'. Alternatively phone Traveline on 0871 200 22 33.</p>"
"Families and pensioners on two Sandwell estates saw the start today (Monday January 26) of their own direct bus service to Rowley Regis Hospital after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing."
9369
0
12
0
Centro launches bus service for Dudley estate
2009-01-26T00:00:00
2009-01-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Families on a <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> estate saw the start today (Monday January 26) of their own bus service after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing.</p> <p >Centro has agreed to use taxpayers' money to lay on the 224 bus service for the Foxyards estate after residents, backed by Dudley North MP Ian Austin, had asked for better transport links.</p> <p >Centro is subsidising the 224, which is being operated on its behalf by Choice Travel, because no bus company has been prepared to run the route on a commercial basis.</p> <p >The new bus was officially launched at Foxyards by Centro's Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke, Chief Executive <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName> and Mr Austin. With them were some of the residents who had campaigned for the service.</p> <p >Geoff said: "We listened carefully to what local people told us and we're pleased to be able to subsidise this new route in order to meet their transport needs.</p> <p >"We really do encourage people to use the bus as we will be monitoring passenger figures closely over the coming months to make sure it provides value for money for the taxpayer."</p> <p >The new service, which is being subsidised until the end of October at a cost of £51,000, will run every hour between 8am and 5:45pm. It will operate between Bilston, Dudley and Cradley Heath calling at Foxyards where passengers will be able to catch it by simply hailing it down.</p> <p >Mr Austin said: ""I spend a lot of time in the area, knocking on doors, speaking to residents and listening to what they have to say. The number one issue on this estate was the lack of bus service for local residents. </p> <p >"I want to thank all of the residents on the Foxyards who backed my calls by signing the petition. It was important that when I sat down with Geoff I had a petition signed by so many local residents.  It really illustrated the strength of feeling on this issue"</p> <p >Cllr Clarke added: "We hope this new service will be a big help for people in Foxyards who have campaigned so hard for it. No private bus company answered their calls so Centro has stepped in but it's now important that people make full use of it."</p> <p >For timetable and route information about the 224 service log on to <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.NetworkWestMidlands.com</a> and click on bus and then 'Bus' and then 'Bus Timetables'. Alternatively phone Traveline on 0871 200 22 33.</p>"
"Families on a Dudley estate saw the start today (Monday January 26) of their own bus service after Centro, the region's transport authority, stepped in with financial backing."
9369
0
12
0
Strictly the best � Midlands dance duo win national competition
2009-01-19T00:00:00
2009-01-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The Midlands answer to Strictly Come Dancing star couple Tom Chambers and Camilla Dallerup have won a prestigious national dance competition in Blackpool despite only dancing together since May last year.</p> <p ><st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Chris</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Cave</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> from Sutton Coldfield and partner Jo Chawner from Burntwood wowed the judges of the national Danceworld Champions of Tomorrow competition with their Jive and Samba.</p> <p >They won top prize in the Over 35's Latin beating another 40 couples in the category to clinch the title.</p> <p >The competition took place at Blackpool's famous Winter Gardens, and is <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Britain</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s most recognised dance competition covering Chris and Jo's grouping.</p> <p >Chris, who works for the region's transport authority Centro, started dancing Salsa after being persuaded to give it a try by a fellow passenger on his train journey home six years ago.</p> <p >He took up Latin and Ballroom dancing just two years ago, and volunteers to teach his colleagues dancing at Centro in a free hour long lunch time class once a week.</p> <p >To enter the Champions of Tomorrow competition, participants must be have qualified and have a trainer. The competition starts at 9am in the morning and goes on until after 11pm at night.</p> <p >Chris and Jo were presented their winners cups by Mr Rashmi Patel, Managing Director of International Dance Shoes Ltd, which sponsored the competition.</p> <p >Chris says: "Jo and I are over the moon to have won the competition – I still haven't come down off the ceiling yet!</p> <p >"Since I started learning Salsa six years ago, dancing has taken over my life – it's a great form of exercise and I've met some of my best friends thanks to it. Winning this competition really is the icing on the cake."</p> <p >Jo, who works as a Personal Assistant, has been dancing Ballroom and Latin for three years. Her son is also a top junior dancer.</p> <p >The pair is now hoping to repeat their success at the Stars of the Future dance competition taking place in Brentwood, Essex in June (the other major competition covering their category), and hope to take the next step and compete in more national dance competitions in the future.</p>"
The Midlands answer to Strictly Come Dancing star couple Tom Chambers and Camilla Dallerup have won a prestigious national dance competition in Blackpool despite only dancing together since May last year.
9369
Dancing.JPG
0
12
0
New sales outlets are just the ticket for bus passengers
2009-01-13T00:00:00
2009-01-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus travel in the West Midlands has never been easier as from today (Monday, 12 January) passengers can buy their great value <strong>n</strong>bus day ticket - valid on almost all bus services in the West Midlands - from hundreds of shops across the region.</p> <p >Over 1800 retailers have started selling the <strong>n</strong>bus one day ticket today after transport authority Centro struck a deal with Payzone - the leading European consumer payments and cash distribution network. </p> <p >Previously the ticket could only be bought from the driver on a limited number of bus operators services.</p> <p >The <strong>n</strong>bus ticket offers flexibility to passengers as they can be used on nearly every bus service in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, including those run by National Express, Diamond, Choice and Arriva. This is unlike operators' individual tickets and passes which are only valid on their own services.</p> <p >This means passengers can get on any bus that comes past without worrying which company operates the service. </p> <p >Customers will also no longer need to search out the exact money when they board the bus to pay for their ticket as all Payzone outlets will give customers change.</p> <p >The <strong>n</strong>bus ticket costs just £3.60 for an adult or £2.40 for a child - only slightly more than two single bus tickets by most of the region's bus companies - and is valid all day from the time of purchase for unlimited journeys.</p> <p >This allows holders to spend all day on the West Midlands bus network, travelling anywhere between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> within the county boundary, hopping on and off as many buses as they like.</p> <p >Thanks to their flexibility, <strong>n</strong>bus ticket is now more popular than ever, with an increase in adult sales of 25 per cent in the last financial year, with child ticket sales also up by 37 per cent. With the increased availability of purchase through the Payzone retail network, customer convenience will be improved even further.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "Our aim is to provide passengers with one of the most easy-to-use, integrated public transport networks in the world.</p> <p >"A key part of this is offering good value tickets that are easy to get hold of and allow people to use any bus that they need to, regardless of who runs it, without having to put their hand back in their pocket. This deal with Payzone is a good step forward in achieving our vision."</p> <p >Paul Charmatz, Managing Director of Payzone said: "Purchasing <strong>n</strong>bus tickets from Payzone outlets allows passengers to buy tickets in advance of travel, instead of needing change every time they board a bus. With 1800 locations offering the new service, a Payzone retailer is never far away." </p> <p >Cllr Christine Mills, lead member for smarter travel on Centro added: "We are delighted to have reached a deal with Payzone to make these fantastic, flexible tickets even more accessible and convenient for passengers by making them available through hundreds of retailers.</p> <p >"It also ties in perfectly with the Network West Midlands initiative which aims to give clear and up-to-date timetable, journey and ticketing information to make using buses and other modes of transport easier for the travelling public."</p> <p >People can find details of their nearest Payzone outlet at: <strong>search.payzone.co.uk</strong> and details of <strong>n</strong>bus, other Network West Midlands tickets and public transport information are available from <strong><a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></strong></p>"
"Bus travel in the West Midlands has never been easier as from today (Monday, 12 January) passengers can buy their great value nbus day ticket - valid on almost all bus services in the West Midlands - from hundreds of shops across the region."
9369
0
12
0
Transport workers come together to film green Christmas carol
2008-12-16T00:00:00
2008-12-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p ><strong>Click</strong> <a href=""http://uk.youtube.com/watch v=TWM4atLmSJ4""><strong>here</strong></a><strong> to watch the carol</strong></p> <p >Everyday workers from across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> bus, train and tram network have come together to make a fun festive video urging people to have a green Christmas.</p> <p >The light-hearted carol, sung to the tune of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas", has been given a comical lyrical twist to bring some festive cheer and encourage people to leave the car at home and hop on the bus, train and tram instead.</p> <p >The video, which has been produced by the region's transport authority Centro and posted on Youtube, urges people to avoid the stress of traffic jams and parking by using public transport when they do their shopping, visit family and friends or have an after work tipple.</p> <p >People just need to go to <a href=""http://www.youtube.com/"">www.youtube.com</a> and type in "Centro Christmas carol" to watch the special video which was filmed at different transport locations, including West Bromwich Bus Station, the Hawthorns, Birmingham Snow Hill and Stourbridge Junction.</p> <p >As an extra special treat <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s Notorious choir have been serenading Christmas shoppers with the transport carol and other festive favourites at the city's famous Bullring shopping centre, and in the Pallisades by New Street Station.</p> <p >The song, which was written for Centro by local radio station Smooth Radio's creative producer Scott Barnett, is also being played on local radio stations in the region.</p> <p >The video coincides with the news that the West Midlands will have the <st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region>'s best public transport services over the Christmas period outside <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >For the sixth year running, bus and Metro services will run every day over the festive period except Christmas Day with people able to avoid the jams and use public transport to hit the shops for the Christmas sales on Boxing Day.</p> <p >So many people now use these services that bus companies have decided to operate many of the routes on a commercial basis, complimented by other essential bus routes subsidised by Centro to make sure people get a comprehensive network.</p> <p >Last year, the House of Commons praised Centro for ensuring a decent level of bus services during the Christmas holidays and called on other areas to follow suit.</p> <p >One city has that followed Centro's example this year is <st1:place >Sheffield</st1:place> which is running Christmas services for the first time in fifteen years.</p> <p >Details of transport services over the festive period including Boxing Day timetables can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/njoychristmas"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/njoychristmas</a> and a leaflet is available at Travel Shops.</p>"
"Everyday workers from across the West Midlands bus, train and tram network have come together to make a fun festive video urging people to have a green Christmas."
9369
0
12
0
Centro appoints new directors
2008-12-16T00:00:00
2008-12-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Three prominent business people have been appointed to Centro's board as Non-Executive Directors to help shape and monitor the transport executive's future plans and strategy.<U1:P></U1:P><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>Birmingham-born Denise Plumpton, who is Executive Director of Information at the Highways Agency, Keith Kerr, a former General Manager of Customer Services and Operations at British Airways and local businessman Richard Hyde, former Deputy Chairman of Advantage West Midlands, were officially appointed to Centro's Executive Board today (Monday December 15).<U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>They were selected by a panel of Centro councillors from more than 90 applicants.<U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>Centro Chairman Cllr <DEFANGHTML_ST1:PERSONNAME u2:st=""on""><st1:PersonName />Gary Clarke</DEFANGHTML_ST1:PERSONNAME> said: "The calibre of applicants was extremely high and it made for a difficult decision.<U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>"However, we felt Denise, Keith and Richard had the right public and private sector experience to help us develop the sort of world class public transport system that the people and businesses of the West Midlands need and deserve."<U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN><DEFANGHTML_SPAN/>Centro's Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, added: "I am delighted to welcome Denise, Keith and Richard to my Board and I look forward to working with them to help us transform public transport."</p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>After roles in British Leyland and its subsidiary ISTEL, Denise held a variety of management and leadership roles with Powergen, TNT and Sendo. In 2005 she joined the Highways Agency and is also a member of the strategy board at the Corporate IT Forum. She lives in <DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place />Solihull</DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE> and is a non-executive director for the Heart of Birmingham Teaching Primary Care Trust.</DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>Keith has been a senior corporate executive within FTSE 100 companies and voted one of the 50 most influential black people in <DEFANGHTML_ST1:COUNTRY-REGION u2:st=""on""><DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:country-region /><st1:place />Britain</DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE></DEFANGHTML_ST1:COUNTRY-REGION></DEFANGHTML_SPAN>. A former Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, Group Chief Executive of Ujima and Chairman of the Royal Berkshire Ambulance Trust, Keith is also no stranger to Government and regularly advises the Home Secretary and Attorney General on race and social justice issues. A former chairman of <st1:PlaceName >Stockwell</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType> <st1:PlaceType >High School</st1:PlaceType> in <st1:City >London</st1:City>, he now lives in <st1:place >Berkshire</st1:place> where he is a Magistrate.<U1:P></U1:P></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>Richard is Chief Executive of Solihull-based DIY and industrial consumables distributor Brian Hyde Ltd, a previous winner of the West Midlands SME of the Year Award. He is a council member of the West Midlands CBI and Deputy Chairman of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. While Deputy Chairman of Advantage West Midlands, Richard was involved in some of the <DEFANGHTML_ST1:COUNTRY-REGION u2:st=""on""><DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place /><st1:country-region />UK</DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE></DEFANGHTML_ST1:COUNTRY-REGION></DEFANGHTML_SPAN>'s largest regeneration schemes. He played a leading role in the expansion of the West Midlands broadband network to make the region one of the first in the <DEFANGHTML_ST1:COUNTRY-REGION u2:st=""on""><DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE u2:st=""on""><st1:place /><st1:country-region />UK</DEFANGHTML_ST1:PLACE></DEFANGHTML_ST1:COUNTRY-REGION> to be 100 per cent broadband enabled.<U1:P></U1:P></p> <p ><DEFANGHTML_SPAN><U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN><DEFANGHTML_SPAN>The Centro non-executive director posts will be for a three year term which can be renewed for a further three years.<U1:P></U1:P></DEFANGHTML_SPAN> </p>"
Three prominent business people have been appointed to Centro's board as Non-Executive Directors to help shape and monitor the transport executive's future plans and strategy.
9369
0
12
0
Touch of luxury proves a winner with bus passengers
2008-12-15T00:00:00
2008-12-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A ground breaking project to provide faster, cleaner and more frequent bus services on six key routes in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> has succeeded in attracting on board an extra 100,000 passengers a month, latest figures have revealed.<br /> <br /> A pioneering partnership between Centro, the region's transport authority, and transport company National Express has seen the six routes through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Walsall and <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> over hauled and upgraded using some of the most luxurious buses ever seen in the region.<br /> <br /> And new figures show that the introduction of the buses, some boasting leather seats and tinted windows, together with other improvements like real time information at stops, have resulted in an average 12 per cent increase in passenger numbers along the six routes. Centro and National Express had set a target of 10 per cent.<br /> The partnership deal, which was signed by Centro and National Express last year, has also seen the introduction of increased frequencies, better shelters and a stringent cleaning regime both on board and at shelters. Passengers can even obtain refunds if the high standards of punctuality committed to in a Customer Charter are not met.<br /> <br /> Shadow transport minister Theresa Villiers was shown one of the new buses and given a briefing of the project's success during a meeting with Cllr Angus Adams of Centro, Neil Barker, Director of Bus and Coach at National Express and Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip.<br /> <br /> Ms Villiers said: "The improvements to bus services delivered by the partnership between Centro and National Express are very impressive.<br /> <br /> "The progress made on real time information is clearly making a big difference and helping to make the bus a much more attractive travel option than it has been in the past. It is also good news that the partnership will be continuing to invest in measures to improve the passenger experience such a smart card technology."<br /> <br /> Three of the upgraded services operating out of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre, the 934 to Pheasey, the 993 to Streetly and the 997 to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, have been branded Premier Routes. Introduced in January they feature buses with high-back, soft leather seats, tinted windows, air chill systems and the latest digital CCTV.</p> <p>Meanwhile, Centro replaced 79 shelters along the three routes with modern silver and orange designs. A dedicated cleaning team has been working hard to make sure damage to shelters from vandalism and graffiti is repaired within 24 hours of notification. Centro has also provided Real Time Information on electronic displays at bus stops and through text messaging to passengers' mobile phones so they know exactly when their next service will arrive.</p> <p>Similar improvements were also made just over 12 months ago on the three other routes, the No.1 from Acocks Green to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Five Ways</st1:address></st1:Street>, the 377 between Walsall and Sutton Coldfield, and the 451 between <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> and Sutton Coldfield. Frequencies were also stepped up on most of the six routes.</p> <p>Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: "These latest figures clearly show that providing high quality bus services, ones that are clean, frequent and safe, will attract people out of their cars, and help combat the congestion which is so damaging to our economy and environment. This partnership shows what can be achieved by working together in the interests of the travelling public."<br /> <br /> Neil Barker, Director of Bus and Coach at National Express added: "Our partnership and relationship with Centro in improving bus services for the people of the West Midlands is crucial and is delivering great results.</p> <p>"There is a lot more to do, but we are moving quickly in the right direction which is benefitting people, especially those who want to leave their car at home and do the right thing, which is using public transport as a great alternative."  </p>"
"A ground breaking project to provide faster, cleaner and more frequent bus services on six key routes in the West Midlands has succeeded in attracting on board an extra 100,000 passengers a month, latest figures have revealed."
9369
0
12
0
New bus network for Solihull
2008-12-15T00:00:00
2008-12-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The people of <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> are to benefit from a new, improved and easy to understand bus network which provides better links to the borough's rail services and key centres from Sunday January 25, 2009.</p> <p >National Express West Midlands, Solihull Council and transport authority Centro have been working in partnership to transform the network so that services take people to the places they want to go, when they want to go and link more effectively with connecting buses and other modes of transport.</p> <p >The changes are the result of demands from passengers and businesses for a more modern and effective transport system.</p> <p >This was supported by research which showed that the network could be improved to better serve existing and potential bus users, and highlighted that the main priorities for passengers are high frequency and accessible, punctual services.</p> <p >A successful consultation process took place on the plans for the new network during October.</p> <p >Centro, Solihull Council, National Express West Midlands and other local bus operators teamed up to look carefully at and address any questions and issues raised by councillors, local residents and other stakeholders on the draft proposals.</p> <p >A number of changes have now been made to the bus services that make up the new network in response to this feedback, including replacing the number 4 service in Cheswick Green.</p> <p >An alternative to the 38 service has also been provided, with a new link between Olton and Lyndon to Hobs Moat shops, and links to Shirley where passengers can connect to services to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Birmingham</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >International</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Airport</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and the NEC.</p> <p >From Sunday 25 January, many people across <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> will have access to more regular bus services that complement each other, and new cross town routes are being introduced to benefit people who want to travel further than just their local centre.</p> <p >There will also be improvements to several evening and Sunday services and better links to <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> and Shirley rail stations.</p> <p >To make using and identifying <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> services even simpler, many bus numbers will be changing to begin with the letter S, and new easy to use timetables and maps will be produced.</p> <p >Solihull Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Highways and Infrastructure, Councillor Ted Richards concluded:""We have worked with National Express and Centro to make sure that local people will get the best bus service possible. We know that the review means some people will have changes to their current services, but we are confident that passengers will experience an improved, modernised bus network.""</p> <p >Alex Perry, Operations Director for National Express Bus and Coach said: "We are committed to our customers throughout Solihull and any changes we make have been aimed at simplifying the network, providing easier access and improving links to key destinations, including better connections to rail stations like Solihull and Shirley.</p> <p >"We have also ensured with the changes that no one is left without a service although they may need to use a different route. The changes will be positive for a majority of people."</p> <p >Chairman of Centro, Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> added: "If we are going to provide Solihull with an effective, world class public transport system we need to put passengers first and make sure they have a bus network that fulfils their needs and reflects today's 24/7 society.</p> <p >"We hope that by working in partnership with the council, bus operators and other local stakeholders to transform the <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> network, we will provide the modern and regular services, better connections with alternative transport modes and cleaner, greener, more efficient buses that provide a real and attractive alternative to the car."</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus and highways at Centro: said: "Our vision is to transform bus travel in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> by providing a streamlined and effective bus network. Working closely with passengers, local authorities, operators and other stakeholders is vital.</p> <p >"In April this year, Centro completed a similar bus network review with our partners to modernise services in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>. This has already led to an increase in passengers. We hope that the network changes in Solihull will bring similar advantages to the borough and the wider <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p> <p >Leaflets summarising the changes are being distributed to every home in and around the <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> borough starting this week (December 15, 2008) and paper copies of timetables will be available in the New Year when a series of exhibitions will be held at different locations throughout the area. For more information please visit <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/solihull</a></p>"
"The people of Solihull are to benefit from a new, improved and easy to understand bus network which provides better links to the borough's rail services and key centres from Sunday January 25, 2009."
9369
0
12
0
Town's new £3.5 million bus station opens early
2008-12-15T00:00:00
2008-12-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new, £3.5 million state-of-the-art bus station has opened in the Black Country town of Halesowen, allowing residents and visitors to catch their bus in a modern, high-tech, comfortable environment.</p> <p >Passengers and buses started using the high quality facility on Sunday (December 14, 2008) after transport authority Centro, Dudley Council and contractor Carillion managed to bring forward the overall construction programme for the bus station and highway scheme by five days.</p> <p >The opening of the bus station marks the completion of the £30 million regeneration project to build a better Halesowen.</p> <p >People in Halesowen can now catch their bus from two modern, high quality waiting areas with electronic doors that open when the bus arrives.</p> <p >Two electronic passenger information displays provide up-to-date timetable information, and CCTV and help points make the bus station even safer for users.</p> <p >At the centre of the new bus station is an attractive entrance canopy creating a landmark feature into the Cornbow Centre and a spacious paved area links the bus station to the shops.</p> <p >Users of the Ring & Ride bus service will be picked up and dropped off at their own dedicated bus shelter on the Queensway.</p> <p >Customers and bus companies using the new bus station have already given several positive comments about both the look and operation of the new facility.</p> <p >Following the completion of the regeneration of Halesowen, the town now boasts a new ASDA store with multi-storey car park, extended shop units in the Cornbow Centre, road improvements with extra pedestrian crossings and the new bus station.</p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, Cabinet Member for transportation at Dudley Council said: "Halesowen's new state-of-the-art bus station will really help to transform bus travel for people in Halesowen.</p> <p >"We'd like to thank the residents and visitors to Halesowen for bearing with us during this period of disruption, and feel sure that the new facility along with the opening of ASDA will create an environment which is beneficial to everyone and attracts more visitors to the town."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro added: "Our aim is to provide the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a modern, world class public transport experience. Halesowen's new bus station provides the town with a 21<sup>st</sup> Century passenger facility with state-of-the-art technology.</p> <p >"We hope that the new bus station together with the rest of the new facilities provided through the multimillion pound regeneration of Halesowen, will help to put the town on the map as a fantastic location where people can shop and connect to public transport in a modern, convenient and comfortable environment."</p> <p >More information on the new bus station, including information on where to catch your bus, is available at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen</a></p>"
"A new, £3.5 million state-of-the-art bus station has opened in the Black Country town of Halesowen, allowing residents and visitors to catch their bus in a modern, high-tech, comfortable environment."
9369
0
12
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Ring and Ride Celebrates Silver Anniversary
2008-12-09T00:00:00
2008-12-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >You could be forgiven for thinking celebrity marathon runner and charity fundraiser Dave Heeley jogs everywhere on foot.</p> <p >After all, the superfit 50-year-old from <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>, who is better known as 'Blind Dave', ran seven marathons on seven different continents in just seven days earlier this year.</p> <p >Yet Dave, who has been visually impaired since birth, is actually a regular user of the region's acclaimed Ring and Ride Service which provides door to door transportation for thousands of <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> people with limited mobility.</p> <p >Dave, together with fellow users of all ages, including some who have been relying on this lifeline service since its launch in 1983, toasted it's 25<sup>th</sup> anniversary at a special birthday bash at the Clarendon Suite in Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham on Tuesday December 2, 2008.</p> <p >The party not only celebrated this landmark date but also the positive impact the service has had on the personal health, well being and self esteem of its users by helping them to maintain their independence.</p> <p >Blind Dave said: "Ring and Ride is a great service. Being door to door means you haven't got the problem of finding your way to a bus stop and it also means you are safe and secure when you travel as the driver is aware of what your needs are. It has been a massive help in my every day life."</p> <p >Also at the party were youngsters from <st1:PlaceName >Mayfield</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Special</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType> in Lozells, <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> who are regular users of the service. They entertained guests with a performance of the Stevie Wonder classic Happy Birthday.</p> <p >The service began in humble surroundings on November 28, 1983 when two minibuses left the backyard of a Victorian building in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Park Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>, Hockley, <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> to provide a door to door bus service for local people unable to use public transport.</p> <p >Twenty-five years on and the service now covers the entire West Midlands county providing around two million trips a year for more than 70,000 registered users.</p> <p >That makes it the largest privately operated Ring and Ride service in the world.</p> <p >Users phone a special number to book their journeys giving details of where they want to be picked up and taken to and the time they want to travel.</p> <p >But with an ageing population and greater expectations among disabled people both young and old, demand for the service continues to grow.</p> <p >The challenge for Ring and Ride is to continue to meet that demand and those growing expectations.</p> <p >Peter Maggs, chief executive of West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT), the charity organisation which runs Ring and Ride, said: "Personal mobility is fundamental in enabling people to fully engage in society and it provides equal access to life opportunities including work, training, health, social and leisure activities.</p> <p >"Ring and Ride is determined to play its part in enabling people to achieve their potential and we intend to develop ever closer working relationships with our partners in order to achieve this."</p> <p >The service continues to be primarily funded by Centro, the region's transport authority, which provides more than £11 million a year. WMSNT also contributes towards the cost of providing Ring and Ride from its contract operations and training.</p> <p >Centro chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, added: "Ring and Ride continues to be the lifeline for thousands of people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and I congratulate everyone involved on reaching this landmark, and for their dedication and hard work.</p> <p >"Centro will continue to work in partnership with WMSNT to help deliver further improvements, from new vehicles to more integrated services, and cement its place as a vital part of the public transport system."</p> <p >Plans are in place to improve Ring and Ride so it can respond to a broader range of needs, such as getting younger people to work, college and training.</p> <p >A total of 28 new minibuses have also just been introduced to the 130-strong fleet.</p>"
Lifeline service celebrates 25 years helping people with limited mobility travel around the West Midlands.
9369
web.JPG
0
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0
Bus passengers urged to have a safe and silent night this Christmas
2008-12-09T00:00:00
2008-12-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus passengers across the <ns0:place w:insAuthor=""steveswingler"" w:insDate=""2008-12-08T11:35:00Z"" ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place></ns0:place> are being urged to show goodwill to fellow travellers over the festive period and keep Christmas shopping well wrapped up and out of sight.</p> <p >The Safer Travel team, which works to make the region's bus network even safer for passengers, is encouraging people to act sensibly and not let seasonal good cheer escalate into nuisance behaviour.</p> <p >The Safer Travel team, a partnership between West Midlands Police, Safer Birmingham Partnership, National Express West Midlands, Centro and the British Transport Police, is also advising passengers to keep a close eye on their Christmas shopping and valuables in order to foil any opportunist thieves.</p> <p >Passengers will be able to report any instances of nuisance behaviour anonymously by using the See Something Say Something initiative.</p> <p >Launched in September, See Something Say Something provides bus passengers with an interactive website and text messaging service through which they can anonymously report any incidents they witness, like smoking, feet on seats and the playing of loud music.</p> <p >Details can be given by logging on to <a title=""http://www.safertravel.info/"" href=""http://www.safertravel.info/"">www.safertravel.info</a> or by texting information to 07624 818332. Alternatively they can phone West Midlands Police on 0845 113 5000. or by texting information to 07624 818332. Alternatively they can phone West Midlands Police on 0845 113 5000.</p> <p >Inspector Dean Hatton, head of the West Midlands Police Safer Travel team, said: "We want passengers to enjoy the festive season and be sensible. We're not trying to spoil the fun but high spirits on the bus can easily become nuisance behaviour. Please respect your fellow passengers and be aware of how your actions might affect others around you. Keep a close eye on your shopping, particularly when the bus is crowded and try to keep valuables out of sight."</p>"
Bus passengers across the West Midlands are being urged to show goodwill to fellow travellers over the festive period and keep Christmas shopping well wrapped up and out of sight.
9369
0
12
0
Centro steps in to save services
2008-12-09T00:00:00
2008-12-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Four under threat Black Country bus services being withdrawn by National Express West Midlands will keep running after transport authority Centro stepped in to save them, it was announced today (November 28, 2008).</p> <p >The 374, 414, 644 and 646 services which connect Walsall town centre to <st1:PlaceName >Gillity</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Village</st1:PlaceType>, and <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> to Pleck, Tipton, and Stone Cross are all being withdrawn by National Express West Midlands at the start of January.</p> <p >Two weeks ago, Centro made a pledge to passengers that it would do everything in its power to save the services.</p> <p >It has now held a series of meetings with local operators and looked at opportunities to use public money to subsidise some areas of the routes in a bid to keep them going.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "We were disappointed by National Express' decision to withdraw these bus services as we understand how important they are to the thousands of local people who use them every week. That is why we have worked hard to look at all the options available to save them.</p> <p >"I am pleased to announce that by working in partnership with local operators, three of the routes will be covered on a commercial basis by the Diamond bus company, and one will be replaced under subsidy from Centro."</p> <p >The Diamond bus company has offered to step in and replace the 414, 644 and 646 services, running exactly the same route and timetable as is covered at the moment.</p> <p >The 374 will also be covered on a like for like basis under subsidy from Centro. The service will be operated by National Express West Midlands after it put in the best value for money bid for the contract.</p> <p >The 639 service is also being withdrawn in January, which would have left Herbert's Park without a bus service. However National Express West Midlands is diverting its 339 service into this area to ensure residents keep their public transport link.</p> <p >Passengers are now being urged to keep using the services in order to secure their long term future.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Director of Bus and Highways at Centro said: "We are very pleased that we have been able to team up with local operators to keep these services running.</p> <p >"We hope that buses will keep operating on these routes for a long time to come, and we would even like to develop these local services further, but all this depends on how many people get on board."</p>"
"Four under threat Black Country bus services being withdrawn by National Express West Midlands will keep running after transport authority Centro stepped in to save them, it was announced today (November 28, 2008)."
9369
0
12
0
New timetable will see twice as many Saturday rail services between Birmingham and Stratford
2008-12-09T00:00:00
2008-12-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An increased train service means shoppers and day-trippers heading to historic <st1:City >Stratford</st1:City> or <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre now have even more choice.</p> <p >Centro, the transport authority for the West Midlands, and train company London Midland is to double the number of Saturday trains operating between Birmingham Snow Hill and <st1:place >Stratford-upon-Avon</st1:place>.</p> <p >From December 15, those visiting the world renowned Royal Shakespeare Company or simply spending a day in the Bard's home town can sit back and relax by using the new enhanced Saturday service which will now run twice an hour.</p> <p >Meanwhile those living in outlying areas will be able to avoid the jams and reach <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> and its flagship stores quickly and easily.</p> <p >Cllr Tim Huxtable, Centro's lead member for rail and Metro operations said: "<st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:City >Stratford</st1:City> are both major destinations in the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> and each offer some unique attractions.</p> <p >"These extra Saturday trains make it quick and convenient for people to get to those attractions and avoid the stress of driving and parking – after all <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s worst day for traffic is now Saturday."</p> <p >The enhanced Saturday timetable was launched at <st1:place ><st1:City >Stratford</st1:City></st1:place> railway station by  Royal Shakespeare Company actors David Dawson and Anneika Rose, who take the lead roles in the current RSC production of Romeo and Juliet.</p> <p >London Midland managing director Steve Banaghan said: ""We're delighted to be able to double the number of Saturday services between <st1:City >Stratford</st1:City> and <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> as part of our new timetable.</p> <p >"The increase will make it easier for passengers to enjoy theatre and day-trips. This is just one of many improvements, which include opening up the <st1:PlaceName >Trent</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Valley</st1:PlaceName> and running new direct <st1:City >London</st1:City> to <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> services, as well as investing £200 million in new trains.""</p> <p >The increased frequencies have been made possible by the use of extra Centro funding which has been generated by a rise in passenger numbers over recent years.  One of the two trains each hour in each direction will be a semi-fast service south of Shirley calling only at Wythall and Henley-in-Arden. The other will call at all stations along the line as at present.</p> <p >The timetable changes will complement a raft of other improvements earmarked for the wider network by London Midland including a fleet of new trains, Smartcard ticketing, improved passenger facilities both at stations and onboard trains and improved passenger security, including CCTV on many carriages.</p> <p >Over the winter period the Royal Shakespeare Company is performing Shakespeare's great love story, Romeo and Juliet, in repertoire with Don John, a new play presented in association with Kneehigh Theatre. A full schedule of all forthcoming performances can be found at www.rsc.org.uk</p>"
An increased train service means shoppers and day-trippers heading to historic Stratford or Birmingham city centre now have even more choice.
9369
0
12
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Christmas comes early with more Saturday and evening trains
2008-12-09T00:00:00
2008-12-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Shopaholics and those heading for a night out in the city are to get an early Christmas present with a package of major rail improvements across north <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >From December 15, the number of evening and Saturday services on the Cross City Line North (<st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> to <st1:place >Lichfield</st1:place>) are to be greatly increased by Centro, the region's transport authority, and train company London Midland.</p> <p >The new and permanent timetable will see four trains an hour running in each direction between Four Oaks and Birmingham New Street Station during the evening, double the existing frequency. There will also continue to be two services an hour to the important commuter station of <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Lichfield</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Trent</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Valley</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>.</p> <p >Those looking for some retail therapy will benefit from an increase in Saturday services between Four Oaks and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> from four an hour to six – that's a train every 10 minutes serving all stations along the route except Duddeston.</p> <p >Centro's lead member for rail and Metro operations, Cllr Tim Huxtable (Con Bournville) said: "These increased frequencies make the Cross City Line North (Birmingham New Street to Lichfield) extremely convenient with a maximum wait in the evenings of just 20 minutes and only 10 minutes during the day from Monday to Saturday.</p> <p >"This sort of 'turn up and go' service makes it easy for people to leave their cars at home and cut congestion in the city centre which is particularly bad on Saturdays. Our goal now is to secure similar increases in the number of Sunday trains."</p> <p >The Cross City Line North is one of the region's busiest local rail routes and has experienced major passenger growth in recent years, echoing the wider West Midlands rail network which has seen an impressive 45 per cent increase over the last decade. More than 35 million people a year now use the local rail system and one in four peak journeys into <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre are by train.</p> <p >London Midland commercial director Alex Hynes said the increased frequency of service was one of many improvements on the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Cross</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >City</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> line.</p> <p >"The improved timetable is a terrific boost for commuters, shoppers, theatre goers and others out to enjoy the city's nightlife.</p> <p >"But we've also refurbished our fleet of trains and made it easier to travel by adding self-service ticket machines at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and Erdington. By working with Centro, we've also added real time information screens - it's all great news for passengers."</p> <p >The increased frequencies on Cross City Line North have been made possible by the use of extra Centro funding generated by increased ticket revenue.</p> <p >The timetable changes will complement a raft of other improvements earmarked for the wider network by London Midland including a fleet of new trains, Smartcard ticketing, improved passenger facilities both at stations and onboard trains and improved passenger security, including CCTV on many carriages.</p>"
Shopaholics and those heading for a night out in the city are to get an early Christmas present with a package of major rail improvements across north Birmingham.
9369
0
12
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Bus station exhibitions help passengers get from stops to shops
2008-11-27T00:00:00
2008-11-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People wanting to find out more information about where to catch their bus in Halesowen's new state-of-the-art bus station are being invited along to two special exhibitions next week.</p> <p >Staff from transport authority Centro and local bus companies will be on hand to answer people's questions and give out information at a stand in the Cornbow Centre outside the Card Factory.</p> <p >The exhibitions will take place on Wednesday 3 December between 9.30am and 3.00pm and Saturday 6 December between 9.00am and 3pm.</p> <p >Halesowen's new £3.5 million bus station opens on Sunday 14 December 2008, five days ahead of schedule.</p> <p >The opening of the high quality passenger facility will mark the completion of the regeneration project to build a better Halesowen.</p> <p >Cornbow Centre owner Vale Retail, Centro and Dudley Council have worked in partnership on the redevelopment to transform the town centre to create an even better place to visit and shop.</p> <p >The town's new Asda store with multi-storey car park opened ahead of schedule on Monday (24 November) and trades 24 hours a day, closing on Saturdays at 10.00pm and opening 11.00am to 5.00pm on Sundays.</p> <p >The town also boasts an improved road layout, including extra pedestrian crossings, and extended shop units in the Cornbow Centre.</p> <p >These improvements will make the enhanced town a shopping focus, improve the facilities available to shoppers and the general public, and it is hoped they will help draw more visitors into the town.</p> <p >People using the new, fully accessible bus station will benefit from two modern, high quality waiting areas with electronic doors that open when a bus arrives.</p> <p >Two electronic information displays with up-to-date timetable information, CCTV and help points have been installed.</p> <p >There is an attractive entrance canopy, creating a landmark feature into the Cornbow Centre and a spacious paved area links the bus station to the shops.</p> <p >Users of the Ring and Ride bus service will be dropped off and picked up at their own dedicated bus shelter on the Queensway just outside the shopping centre.</p> <p >Information leaflets are being sent to every home in the Halesowen area this week. If you do not receive your leaflet please call 0121 214 7082 and we will send you a copy.</p> <p >More information on the new bus station, exhibitions and the town centre regeneration can also be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen</a></p>"
People wanting to find out more information about where to catch their bus in Halesowen's new state-of-the-art bus station are being invited along to two special exhibitions next week.
9369
0
12
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Chairman welcomes Local Transport Act
2008-11-27T00:00:00
2008-11-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >New national legislation aimed at improving bus and rail services across the country's major cities, was today welcomed by the chairman of Centro, the passenger transport authority for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke (photo attached) described the Local Transport Act, which was given Royal Assent last night (Wednesday Nov 26), as the biggest opportunity in a generation for public transport outside of <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >The Act will strengthen the power and strategic role of Centro and the five other passenger transport authorities across <st1:place ><st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region></st1:place>.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke commented on the new Act after being appointed chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority Special Interest Group which brings together leading councillors from the six English passenger transport authorities.</p> <p > "This is an exciting time to become chairman of this group in light of the enhanced duties and responsibilities being given to the transport authorities by the Act," he said.</p> <p >"As locally accountable politicians we understand what matters to local residents on transport. We intend to use these new powers to bring about the improvements that passengers want to see to their local bus and rail systems. Our goal is to give them the high quality, integrated public transport networks they need and deserve."</p> <p >The Act will see the six transport authorities become Integrated Transport Authorities equipped with a range of options to exercise greater influence over the provision of bus services in their areas.</p> <p >The 'toolkit' will include voluntary partnership agreements, statutory quality partnership schemes, and quality contracts (bus franchising) schemes.</p> <p >The new Integrated Transport Authorities will also take on full responsibility for local transport planning across their areas and the Act will create the opportunity for local areas to review their existing arrangements.</p>"
"New national legislation aimed at improving bus and rail services across the country's major cities, was today welcomed by the chairman of Centro, the passenger transport authority for the West Midlands."
9369
0
12
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New stops for One Stop are early Christmas present for shoppers
2008-11-27T00:00:00
2008-11-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People doing their festive shopping at the One Stop Shopping Centre in Perry Barr are getting an early Christmas present this year – a new bus interchange.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> transport authority Centro has worked with the owners of the retail complex to provide new shelters and information, offering a comfortable waiting environment for bus passengers.</p> <p >They replace the previous waiting facilities which were outdated and looked tatty and untidy.</p> <p >Centro came to an agreement with the owners of the shopping centre to modernise and maintain the interchange, including providing and installing the new shelters.</p> <p >They will be regularly cleaned and maintained by the transport body, and will have frequently updated timetable information and maps.</p> <p >All the new shelters have been made to house Real Time Information displays, which will be fitted as the up-to-the-minute timetable technology is introduced to local bus routes in the future.</p> <p >It is hoped that the new interchange will encourage more people to visit the shopping centre by public transport, reducing congestion and carbon emissions.</p> <p >Perry Barr councillor and lead member for Bus & Highways at Centro, Jon Hunt said: "The One Stop Shopping Centre is a key transport interchange and retail centre for <st1:place >North Birmingham</st1:place>, yet its bus shelters were old and untidy.</p> <p >"I am delighted that we have been able to provide these new shelters for shoppers, which will provide an attractive and comfortable waiting environment with all the information passengers need."</p>"
People doing their festive shopping at the One Stop Shopping Centre in Perry Barr are getting an early Christmas present this year � a new bus interchange.
9369
0
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Wheels in motion to save Black Country bus services
2008-11-17T00:00:00
2008-11-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport authority Centro today (17 November 2008) pledged to do everything in its power to save five <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> bus routes being withdrawn by National Express West Midlands.</p> <p >The 374, 414, 639, 644 and 646 services which connect Walsall town centre to Gillity Village, and West Bromwich to Pleck, Tipton, Wednesbury and Stone Cross are all to be withdrawn by bus operator National Express West Midlands at the start of January.</p> <p >Centro is working closely with other local operators to make sure passengers in all the areas involved continue to have a good bus service.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Bus & Highways Director at Centro said: "These five bus routes form an important part of the transport network which connects Sandwell, Dudley and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> boroughs.</p> <p >"After being informed of the withdrawals of the 374, 414, 639, 644 and 646 by National Express West Midlands, we have been talking actively with other local operators to see how we can work together to find a solution and will continue to do so in the coming weeks."</p> <p >Centro also confirmed that it is looking to subsidise some areas of the routes, using public money to keep the services going if other local bus companies cannot cover them on a commercial basis.</p> <p >"We are currently looking at a short term solution for the 374, 414, 639, 644 and 646 while we develop a long term plan to keep these services going," explains Stephen.</p> <p >"However, I would stress that whatever we can do to secure the future of these routes in the more distant future will depend on how many people are getting on board."</p>"
Transport authority Centro today (17 November 2008) pledged to do everything in its power to save five Black Country bus routes being withdrawn by National Express West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Check and Send service in Walsall libraries
2008-11-12T00:00:00
2008-11-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People who pop into a host of Walsall libraries are making use of Council Information Points to find out answers to their questions as well as taking advantage of a Check and Send service for the National Concessionary Travel Pass.</p> <p >The information points form part of a wider Walsall Council approach to improving residents' access to its services and information.</p> <p >Typical inquiries so far include details on councillors' surgeries, a list of local schools and whether planning permission is needed for a particular construction.</p> <p >The libraries have also teamed up with the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> transport authority Centro to offer a Check and Send service for applications from over 60s who wish to apply for their National Concessionary Travel Pass.</p> <p >This gives free travel to over 60s and eligible blind and disabled people on all local bus services in <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> and on trains and trams in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> county after 9.30am on weekdays and all day at weekends and on Bank Holidays.</p> <p >Check and Send is provided at libraries in Aldridge, Bloxwich, Brownhills, Darlaston, Pelsall, Streetly and Willenhall. This is a real boost for people who may not want to travel into <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> town centre to apply for their pass, making the whole process more convenient.</p> <p >The service allows people to fill out their application form for their national concessionary pass up to 28 days before their 60<sup>th</sup> Birthday with the help of a trained advisor.</p> <p >The libraries will then send it back to Centro free of charge where it will be processed. New passes will be sent directly to people's homes within four weeks of them applying.</p> <p >Councillor Garry Perry, Walsall Council cabinet member for communities and partnerships, said: "The Council Information Points are a real asset to communities.</p> <p >"They are a natural extension of what our libraries already offer and we hope to roll them out further across the borough.</p> <p >"The Check and Send service is also a real benefit to residents who may prefer not to go into <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> town centre."</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro, added: "National Concessionary Travel Passes give access to healthcare, family and friends, shopping and leisure facilities.</p> <p >"We want to make these vital passes as easy as possible for people to apply for, and by extending the Council Information Points to local libraries it means many people can now submit their application with the help of a trained advisor on their doorsteps."</p> <p >Details on <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >National</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Concessionary</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Passes</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Check and Send outlets are available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>"
People who pop into a host of Walsall libraries are making use of Council Information Points to find out answers to their questions as well as taking advantage of a Check and Send service for the National Concessionary Travel Pass.
9369
0
12
0
Halesowen's new bus station to open early
2008-11-11T00:00:00
2008-11-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in Halesowen will be able to catch their bus from the town's new £3.5 million state-of-the-art bus station from the middle of next month (Dec).</p> <p >Transport authority, Centro and <st1:PersonName >Dudley</st1:PersonName> Council have announced the good news that the contractor building the bus station, Carillion, has managed to bring forward the construction programme.</p> <p >This will allow the new, high-quality passenger facility to open on December 14 - five days earlier than the original planned completion date of December 19.</p> <p >The opening of the bus station will mark the completion of the regeneration project to build a better Halesowen.</p> <p >Cornbow Centre owner Vale Retail, Centro and Dudley Council have worked in partnership on the redevelopment to transform the town centre to create an even better place to visit and shop.</p> <p >Halesowen will boast a state-of-the-art shopping environment, complete with new Asda store with multi-storey car park, road improvements including extra pedestrian crossings and the new bus station.</p> <p >These improvements will make the enhanced town a shopping focus, improve the facilities available to shoppers and the general public, and it is hoped they will help draw more visitors into the town.</p> <p >Asda has been delivered ahead of schedule and will open on Monday 24 November 2008 at 10.00am and will trade 24 hours a day closing on Saturdays at 10.00pm and opening 11.00am to 5.00pm on Sundays.</p> <p >People using the new, fully accessible bus station will benefit from two modern, high quality waiting areas with electronic doors that open when a bus arrives.</p> <p >Two electronic information displays with up-to-date timetable information will be installed and CCTV and help points will be provided.</p> <p >There will be an attractive entrance canopy, creating a landmark feature into the Cornbow Centre and a spacious paved area will link the bus station to the shops.</p> <p >Users of the Ring and Ride bus service will be dropped off and picked up at their own dedicated bus shelter on the Queensway just outside the shopping centre.</p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation at <st1:PersonName >Dudley</st1:PersonName> Council, and lead member for <st1:place ><st1:PersonName >Dudley</st1:PersonName></st1:place> on Centro said: "Thanks to the hard work and commitment of contractor Carillion, work on Halesowen's new state-of-the-art bus station has progressed well and I am delighted it will be opening ahead of schedule on December 14.</p> <p >"This multi-million pound transformation of Halesowen brings together three major projects – each of which on their own would be a significant undertaking for any town – within 18 months. Asda has been delivered ahead of schedule on 24 November.</p> <p >"It is fantastic news for residents, businesses and visitors in Halesowen that the end of the town centre's regeneration is in sight, and will not only be completed as promised before Christmas but earlier than we anticipated.</p> <p >"We appreciate such projects do cause disruption and the three partners, Vale, Centro and Dudley Council, ask people to bear with us as we enter the final phase of building a better Halesowen."</p> <p >Details of the new bus station including information on which stand to catch different services is available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen</a></p>"
People in Halesowen will be able to catch their bus from the town's new £3.5 million state-of-the-art bus station from the middle of next month (Dec).
9369
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12
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"Centro, Solihull Council and Grosvenor Coaches address Cheswick Green bus concerns"
2008-11-11T00:00:00
2008-11-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Residents of Cheswick Green were today (11 November 2008) reassured by transport bosses that steps are being taken to address their concerns about the changes to the number 4 bus service.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has been working with bus company Grosvenor Coaches to look at providing a replacement "S4" service to link the village to Shirley and Solihull, including Baxters Green, Light Hall School, Widney Manor Station and Solihull Sixth Form College.</p> <p >As part of a consultation, residents raised concerns that the withdrawal of the existing number 4 by National Express West Midlands and its replacement with the 6A would make it more difficult for them to access local shops and services.</p> <p >Local operator, Grosvenor Coaches approached Centro and Solihull Council to see if it could help address the issue. The three organisations are now in detailed talks and are hopeful that they can find a solution.</p> <p >The changes to services in Cheswick Green are part of a wider review of the <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> bus network.</p> <p >National Express West Midlands, Centro and Solihull Council are working in partnership to overhaul the boroughs bus network.</p> <p >The new network will see many areas benefiting from an improved, modernised service including even better connections to rail stations such as <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> and Shirley.</p> <p >A number of consultation meetings have been held on the draft proposals to ensure any concerns are addressed by further refining the plans ready for the launch of the new network on 25 January 2009.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Head of Operational Services at Centro said: "We have listened very carefully to the concerns of passengers in Cheswick Green and Baxters Green which have been raised during consultation and would like to reassure passengers that we are working with our partners to address these.</p> <p >"Grosvenor Coaches has been very keen to see if they can help by providing a replacement to the number 4 which serves the places that passengers were worried about losing their bus link to. Talks have been very positive and we are hopeful we can find a solution."</p> <p >Mr Grosvenor of Grosvenor Coaches added: "As a local company, we are pleased to be working with both Centro and Solihull Council to develop a service to meet the needs of local residents.</p>"
Residents of Cheswick Green were today (11 November 2008) reassured by transport bosses that steps are being taken to address their concerns about the changes to the number 4 bus service.
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0
12
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New Shopmobility unit for West Bromwich Bus Station
2008-11-10T00:00:00
2008-11-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Sandwell's successful Shopmobility service has opened a second unit at the West Bromwich Bus Station.</p> <p >The Shopmobility service was officially opened by Sandwell's cabinet member for culture and leisure Cllr Linda Horton.</p> <p >Also present at the opening ceremony were other elected members who have championed the project including senior managers from Sandwell's adults and community services and Centro who have supported the opening of the  new unit at the bus station.</p> <p >It has been designed so that it is easily accessible for public transport and Ring and Ride users.</p> <p >The existing unit will continue to operate to from the Queens Square Multi storey car park to support users with private transport.</p> <p >The Shopmobility service acts in partnership with Sandwell Primary Care Trust to provide both long and short term wheelchair loan services for individuals awaiting a more permanent mobility aid. The service is offered on a first come, first served basis. </p> <p >The scheme has allowed greater independence for the service users and their carers to access shopping facilities, banking and leisure and recreational facilities in <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>. </p> <p >Cllr Mrs Horton said: ""Mobility allows social integration which is a major factor in the quality of life for many disabled and older people. </p> <p >""Being out in the community enhances healthier lifestyles both emotionally and mentally.""</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, Sandwell's lead member on the West Midlands Transport Committee, said: ""I am very pleased this has opened at this location because it is close to the Ring and Ride service which will enable the elderly carry out their shopping more easily in future.""</p> <p >Friends of Sandwell Shopmobility, which is a voluntary organisation, support the service through various fund-raising events. They are seeking new members to support fund raising activities.</p> <p >The service is to open to the public tomorrow(NOV11) from 8.30am.</p> <p >The normal opening hours of the Shopmobility service will be from Tuesday – Saturday between 8.30am till 2.30pm and remains open during lunch hours.</p> <p >If you are interested in any of the services or want to find out more information, please ring 0121 525 9725.</p>"
Sandwell's successful Shopmobility service has opened a second unit at the West Bromwich Bus Station.
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0
12
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New passenger routes make bus station even easier to use
2008-10-28T00:00:00
2008-10-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus users in <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> will soon find it even easier to use the town's bus station thanks to a series of improvements being phased in over the next four weeks.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> transport authority Centro has worked to improve walking routes around the bus station.</p> <p >It is hoped that the changes will make it simpler for passengers to get between the bus stands and the shopping centre, providing more direct routes and making pedestrian flows around the station even better.</p> <p >The improvements include giving passengers access to the bus stands from outside the station on West Bromwich Ringway, relocating two pedestrian crossings to give a straight path between the two central stands and widening the crossing outside the shopping centre entrance.</p> <p >The middle island, which has been fenced off to passengers for some time, is also being reopened and will connect the two central crossings.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Sandwell on Centro said: "The new layout will provide passengers with quick and direct walking routes between the bus stands and shopping centre, so passengers can do their shopping and interchange between different bus services easily.</p> <p >"When we first looked at making some changes to the bus station I was concerned that in some cases people had to walk further to catch their bus.</p> <p >"I am pleased we have now come up with a solution which benefits passengers more.</p> <p >"The changes have also been fully supported by the Health & Safety Executive, and we believe that as well as making the bus station easier to use."</p> <p >Work will begin on the changes next week (w/c 26<sup>th</sup> October) and will continue for four weeks. Staff and signage will be on hand to assist passengers where necessary, and every effort will be taken to minimise disruption to the public.</p> <p >Centro decided to carry out the work after a series of general risk assessments at every one of its bus stations in the West Midlands provided the opportunity to make some improvements to pedestrian flow at <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>.</p>"
Bus users in West Bromwich will soon find it even easier to use the town's bus station thanks to a series of improvements being phased in over the next four weeks.
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0
12
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Spooky special offers keep little monsters entertained this Halloween half term
2008-10-21T00:00:00
2008-10-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Parents wanting to keep their little monsters entertained this half term can go along to Halloween celebrations at some of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> top attractions and get a GIANT discount if they travel by public transport.</p> <p >Transport authority Centro has teamed up with five of the region's top attractions to offer discounted admission prices to people who travel by bus, rail or Metro in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> county.</p> <p >It means families can join the spirit of Halloween at the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Black Country</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Living</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Museum</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> - enjoying hair raising thrills and spine tingling chills when they listen to ghostly tales of yesteryear - while taking advantage of shockingly good two for one admission.</p> <p >Public transport users going to Cadbury World can get a terrifyingly terrific 30 per cent off entry and take part in scary story telling, walks and talks around Bournville, and watch performers including jugglers and stilt walkers.</p> <p >Families can also get up to 35 per cent off at Birmingham science museum Thinktank and the IMAX Cinema, or take advantage of two for one admission at the National SEA LIFE Centre, where children can look at the UK's only giant sea snail*, or watch turtles swimming through their sanctuary.</p> <p >Anyone living in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton can get the discounts by buying one of Centro's great value <strong>n</strong>network daytripper tickets which gives unlimited travel after 9:30am on all bus, train and tram services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Rinku Banerjee, Marketing Executive at Centro said: "These offers mean that parents can not only make great savings at some of the region's top attractions, but can also sit back and relax on their journey instead of getting stressed out waiting in traffic jams and finding and paying for parking.</p> <p >"As for the children, they get an extra bonus on their day out by having fun travelling by bus, train or Metro instead of being stuck in the car."</p> <p >The <strong>n</strong>network daytripper tickets cost just £4.90 for an adult, £3.10 for a child or £8.10 for a family of up to six people (at least one but no more than two must be adults and at least one must be a child) and can be bought at rail stations and on most bus services.</p> <p >To get reduced admission all people need to do is show their ticket at the chosen attraction with a voucher from the <strong>n</strong>joy days out leaflet, which can be picked up from Travel Information Centres and rail stations.</p> <p >For people who only need to use bus services, the vouchers are also valid with the <strong>n</strong>bus one day ticket which is valid on nearly all bus services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> all day. It costs £3.40 for adults and £2.30 for children and can be bought from the driver on most buses.</p> <p >For more information on Centro's tickets and offers visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p> <p > </p> <p >*The Birmingham National SEA LIFE Centre is home to what is thought to be the only Giant Sea Snail on display in the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place></p> <p> </p>"
Parents wanting to keep their little monsters entertained this half term can go along to Halloween celebrations at some of the West Midlands top attractions and get a GIANT discount if they travel by public transport.
9369
0
12
0
Family focus is goal of Walsall FC's Chuckery Day
2008-10-08T00:00:00
2008-10-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People living in Chuckery, the original home of Walsall Football Club, are being offered discounted match tickets and free travel on exclusive shuttle buses to watch Walsall FC play Hartlepool United next Saturday (18 October, 2008).</p> <p >As part of The Saddlers Chuckery Day, the club are offering residents a special £10 ticket which covers an adult and up to two juniors for next weekend's League One game.</p> <p >The region's passenger transport authority, Centro and bus company National Express West Midlands have teamed up to put on exclusive free return shuttle buses from <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Chuckery</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Primary School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> to the Banks's Stadium.</p> <p >It is hoped that the initiative will help to encourage the local community to enjoy a family day out at the football, and build up community spirit while supporting their local team.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "I was born in Chuckery and am a lifelong supporter of The Saddlers. Going to watch <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> play as a boy was the highlight of my fortnight – it was like being part of one big family and brings back fond memories.</p> <p >"I am delighted that Centro has been able to help support Chuckery Day by teaming up with National Express to provide free buses to and from the match. I hope that families in Chuckery take advantage of this offer and get as much enjoyment out of their day as I experienced with my family."</p> <p >Local ward councillor Barry Sanders added: ""This is a great opportunity to support Walsall FC at much reduced cost and the free bus makes it so much easier to attend. Please make a special effort and introduce the family to a superb afternoon out. There is nothing like a live match.""</p> <p >Vouchers for the £10 match tickets are being distributed to homes in the Chuckery area. People can redeem them at the Banks's Stadium and the Walsall FC shop in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> town centre.</p> <p >The two shuttle buses will start running from outside <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Chuckery</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Primary School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> on Saturday 18 October at 1pm, and continue picking people up every 15 minutes until 2.45pm. Passengers will be dropped off in the car park next to the HomeServe stand.</p> <p >Return buses will commence at 4.45pm from the car park by the HomeServce stand, running every 15 minutes until 5.30pm and dropping off outside <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Chuckery</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Primary School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p >People arriving on one of the earlier buses can make use of the facilities in the Stadium Suite in the Floors-2-Go stand, including a fully licensed bar, giant tv screen and hot and cold food kiosks.</p> <p >Roy Whalley, Chief Executive of <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> Football Club said: ""We are grateful to Centro and National Express West Midlands for offering this service. The free shuttle buses will be a big help to the residents of Chuckery and hopefully, as a result, more people from the area will come along and support their local football team.</p> <p >""If successful, it would be pleasing to think that we could adopt similar schemes across the Borough.""</p>"
"People living in Chuckery, the original home of Walsall Football Club, are being offered discounted match tickets and free travel on exclusive shuttle buses to watch Walsall FC play Hartlepool United next Saturday (18 October, 2008)."
9369
0
12
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Dazzling Diamond buses are ace in a pack of improvements for Black Country passengers
2008-10-08T00:00:00
2008-10-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A fleet of 27 striking new Black Diamond buses with super green engines and friendly, helpful drivers are the ace in a pack of improvements set to revolutionise bus travel on <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> roads.</p> <p >The Diamond bus company and West Midlands passenger transport authority Centro have today (8 October, 2008) pledged to deal a full house of service improvements on a number of key bus routes with the signing of a landmark Voluntary Partnership Agreement.</p> <p >The contract will transform the 401, 402, 404 and 410 routes which serve West Bromwich, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, Blackheath, Merry Hill Cradley Heath and Bilston, giving passengers more frequent, cleaner, state-of-the-art services.</p> <p >Dazzling new Black Diamond buses, painted in a black, red and silver livery, will take to the road, allowing passengers to travel in style and luxury to their destination.</p> <p >The vehicles have Euro 5 standard engines, the most environmentally friendly available and all drivers are trained in customer care.</p> <p >Diamond is so confident that passengers will take to the new services that they are offering a try before you buy offer for 32,000 people living along the routes.</p> <p >They have sent out thousands of leaflets with a playing card voucher giving holders a week's free trial of the new services. They can also get an extra voucher for half price travel for another seven days.</p> <p >Centro is upgrading a number of stops and shelters which serve the new buses, so that passengers can wait in comfort until their service arrives. The shelters will be fitted with solar powered lighting where possible.</p> <p >In the second phase of improvements, due to be completed during 2009, buses will be fitted with satellite technology, which will link into new electronic displays to be installed in shelters along the routes, letting passengers know exactly how many minutes until their next bus will arrive.</p> <p >A new range of tickets is also being introduced which will allow passengers to travel on any Black Diamond, Diamond, Ludlows and Central Connect services for as little as 90p a day.</p> <p >It is hoped that the improvements will encourage people to use the bus instead of their car, reducing carbon emissions and congestion in the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place>.</p> <p >Scott Dunn, managing director of Diamond said "We are delighted to be signing this Voluntary Partnership Agreement with Centro today as we feel that we are moving into a new era of public transport in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >"We have invested in excess of £ 5 .4 million in new buses, staff training and modern technological systems and along with the commitments that our partners at Centro are making, it is our joint intention to elevate the quality of public transport to new levels, so giving the present and future new customer a great service."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, chief executive of Centro added: "If we are to encourage people to leave their car at home and switch to public transport then we need to provide them with an alternative that is clean, accessible, reliable and comfortable.</p> <p >"Today's agreement goes a step further than this, providing striking new buses which are top-of-the-range and environmentally friendly, and using the latest technology to give passengers the reassurance of a first rate, efficient service from when they leave the house to when they reach their destination."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "92 per cent of public transport journeys in the West Midlands are by bus, so it is vital that we work closely in partnership with bus operators and other stakeholders to improve services.</p> <p >"I am delighted that we are signing this agreement today and look forward to working with Diamond and other bus companies in the future to reproduce these improvements so even more people can feel the benefits of a better bus service.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Sandwell on Centro added: "Making it easier for people to travel around the region by bus and building patronage is a priority for Centro, Sandwell Council and local bus operators.</p> <p >"It's great news for local passengers and visitors to the area that these improvements are centred in the heart of the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> and provide the great services that people need and deserve."</p>"
"A fleet of 27 striking new Black Diamond buses with super green engines and friendly, helpful drivers are the ace in a pack of improvements set to revolutionise bus travel on Black Country roads."
9369
0
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Passengers to play their part in stopping nuisance behaviour on the buses
2008-10-07T00:00:00
2008-10-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> are being urged to do their bit to help crack down on smoking, playing loud music and other types of anti-social behaviour aboard the region's buses.</p> <p>The See Something Say Something campaign was officially launched today giving passengers an interactive website and text messaging service through which they can anonymously report any incidents of nuisance behaviour they witness.</p> <p >Information left by passengers on the <a title=""http://www.safertravel.info/"" href=""http://www.safertravel.info/"">www.safertravel.info</a> website, or through the National Express West Midlands Safer Travel Textline on 07624 818332 will be used by police to identify potential hotspots and to organise operations against offenders. Those without access to the web or a text messaging service can phone West Midlands Police on  0845 113 5000.</p> <p>The See Something Say Something campaign has been set up by Safer Travel, a partnership between West Midlands Police, Birmingham Community Safety Partnership, National Express West Midlands, Centro and the British Transport Police. The partnership is dedicated to making bus travel even safer for passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the network.</p> <p >Inspector Dean Hatton, head of the West Midlands Police Safer Travel team, said: "We are not encouraging passengers to challenge people who they see deliberately trying to annoy others with their bad behaviour on buses.</p> <p > "What we are saying is send us your information and we can use it to identify routes where there may be a particular problem and decide on a solution. This is an opportunity for passengers to do their bit for their local community and help stamp out such unacceptable behaviour."</p> <p >The See Something Say Something campaign was launched in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>'s <st1:Street ><st1:address >Victoria Square</st1:address></st1:Street> with the help of young people from <st1:PlaceName >Hillcrest</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType> in  Bartley Green, <st1:PlaceName >Harborne</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hill</st1:PlaceType> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType> in Edgbaston and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Dartmouth</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >High School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in Great Barr, who were given a presentation by the Safer Travel team on the importance of good behaviour while on the bus.</p> <p >They were also shown how to use the website and text messaging service.</p> <p >Hillcrest School pupil  Sophie Williams, aged 14, said: ""We don't want hassle on the bus. If people are doing stuff they shouldn't then at least you can now do something about it and no one will know.""</p> <p >James Fisher, a 17-year-old Six Form student at the Q 3 Academy in Great Barr, added: "I think this idea is really good for people who may feel a little bit nervous and don't want their name mentioned.  I think there could be much less bad behaviour on the buses because of this.""  </p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, who represents Birmingham City Council on Centro and is lead member for buses, said: ""We know that passengers want safe, undisturbed travel and the City Council has made it a priority to back this project. This is your chance, if you are a passenger, to help ensure that bus travel is a pleasant, peaceful experience.""</p> <p >Hundreds of posters carrying the See Something Say Something message and contact information have been put up in bus shelters and on board National Express West Midlands buses.</p> <p >The launch of the website and textline to combat anti-social behaviour follows significant successes by the Safer Travel Police Team in cracking down on crime and vandalism. In the last year alone figures show there has been a reduction in crime on and around the bus network of 33 per cent, including a 59 per cent fall in criminal damage.</p> <p > </p>"
"Passengers across the West Midlands are being urged to do their bit to help crack down on smoking, playing loud music and other types of anti-social behaviour aboard the region's buses."
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0
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Satellite technology to reduce waiting times at city bus stops
2008-10-06T00:00:00
2008-10-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus passengers in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> will benefit from reduced waiting times and up-to-date electronic information at the city's bus stops thanks to the introduction of new satellite tracking technology.</p> <p >The new technology has been installed as part of Primelines - a partnership project between Coventry City Council, Centro and Travel Coventry - which aims to provide bus passengers with faster, more frequent buses and up-to-date timetable information.</p> <p >Leading bus company Travel Coventry is fitting its entire fleet with state-of-the-art Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) equipment which will provide real time information for customers waiting at bus stops.  The system will also identify buses running ahead or behind schedule and adjust the service in line with the timetable.</p> <p >Centro, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, has also installed new technology across <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> to complement the AVL.</p> <p >The organisation has introduced electronic information screens to many of the city's bus shelters that will use satellite technology to show passengers how many minutes away the next bus is.</p> <p >Bernard Delaney Director of Travel Coventry commented: "We're really excited about the introduction of AVL which will allow us to reduce customer waiting time at bus stops and review timetables to improve our service.</p> <p >"Working with our Primelines partners Coventry City Council and Centro, we will offer more reliable timetables and monitor traffic flow to keep buses on time. This supports our aim of making travel simpler for the people of <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City>."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Bus & Highways Director at Centro added: "We have already seen a great improvement to bus services in <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> thanks to the Primelines project, providing the people of <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> with an attractive, green and affordable alternative to the car.</p> <p >"This new technology will help to enhance the passenger experience further by providing people with accurate, easy to use information displays, and the punctual and reliable bus services that people tell us they want and need."</p>"
Bus passengers in Coventry will benefit from reduced waiting times and up-to-date electronic information at the city's bus stops thanks to the introduction of new satellite tracking technology.
9369
0
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Dudley deal to give bus passengers top quality services
2008-10-01T00:00:00
2008-10-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> will soon be able to wait in comfort at 250 new bus shelters, and then relax in style on board dozens of brand new National Express buses which run to time thanks to a series of bus friendly highway improvements</p> <p >These are just some of the enhancements the borough's bus passengers will see phased in over the next two years following the signing of a groundbreaking Voluntary Partnership Agreement by <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport authority Centro, National Express West Midlands and Dudley Council.</p> <p >The agreement, endorsed today (30<sup>th</sup> September) at the Conservative Party Conference with Shadow Transport Minister Stephen Hammond, makes Dudley the first borough in the West Midlands to benefit from a series of revolutionary improvements set to transform its bus network.</p> <p >The aim of these improvements is to have more reliable and punctual buses, reduced journey and waiting times and a more comfortable journey from when passengers leave the house to when they get off the bus.</p> <p >The improvements to bus services include:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >40 new National Express buses, and many more vehicles being fully refurbished to an "as new" standard to be introduced within 12 months</li> <li >Highways improvements, including junction upgrades and traffic light priority measures in the next two years ensuring buses are more punctual and reliable</li> <li >Phased introduction of 250 new bus shelters, with several new and existing shelters being fitted with electronic information displays or solar powered lighting</li> <li >National Express West Midlands and Centro will introduce a Passenger Charter with refunds and Dudley Council will lead a programme of route and highway improvements</li> </ul> <p >Five key routes in Dudley – the 9, 126, 256, 311/246 and 558 – will benefit from even more enhancements including Real Time Information, showing passengers exactly how many minutes until the next bus is due, and an intensive cleaning regime to stops and shelters on the routes.</p> <p >The enhancements build on the route and timetable changes brought in during April which aimed to provide <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> with a bus network that is up to date with the modern borough.</p> <p >Bus interchanges at key centres such as Kingswinford will also see a series of improvements including upgraded shelters and information. A "Safer Routes to Bus Stops" programme providing walking routes with better lighting to main stops and interchanges is also being introduced.</p> <p >Stephen Hammond MP, Shadow Transport Minister, said: "Centro, National Express and Dudley Council are taking the lead in showing that public and private sector organisations can work together in partnership on their own initiative to achieve great benefits for the travelling public.</p> <p >"Residents and visitors to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> will see a great improvement to their bus services thanks to the agreement, and this in turn will play a key role in encouraging people to opt to use the bus as a viable alternative to the car."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Neil Barker</st1:PersonName>, Director of UK Bus and Coach at National Express, added: "We understand that our customers want services that run safely and reliably. We need support to do this, and that is why this partnership is so important."</p> <p >Angus Adams, Cabinet Member for Transportation at Dudley Council, said: "The people of <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> deserve a bus network that reflects the success of the borough, caters for our modern society and attracts residents and visitors to our local centres.</p> <p >"This partnership, where three key organisations have come together to provide an up-to-date network of accessible, reliable, and high quality bus services will be a great step forward in providing this."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro said: "The route and timetable changes in Dudley have already led to significant improvements to bus services in the borough, taking people where they want to go at times they want to go there.</p> <p >"The next step is to work with our partners to build passenger confidence further by improving the overall travel experience.</p> <p >"Thanks to this Voluntary Partnership Agreement we can do just that by providing a better waiting environment with accurate timetable information, modern, clean, accessible buses and the right Highways Improvements to make sure they run to time."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro added: "This agreement is a significant step forward in improving bus services in the West Midlands, building on the hard work we have already done by working in partnership with bus operators and local authorities.</p> <p >"The next step is to repeat these voluntary agreements across the region so that everybody can benefit from better bus services, and have the choice to leave their cars at home."</p> <p >National Express is also working with Centro to provide satellite technology and Real Time Information on as many services as possible, which will be available via at stop displays, the internet, text message (<i>Text</i>Time) and mobile internet services (<i>Mobi</i>Time).</p> <p >The three partners will be assessing the outcome of the improvements, undertaking studies to look at other key routes for extra enhancements and using "mystery shoppers" going incognito to make sure the high standards of customer service and reliability are being maintained.</p> <p > </p> <p ><strong>Picture shows:</strong> L – R: Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus & Highways on Centro; <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro; Cllr Angus Adams Cabinet Member for Transportation at Dudley Council and lead member for the borough on Centro; Shadow Transport Minister Stephen Hammond MP; Neil Barker, Director of UK Bus and Coach at National Express and Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro all endorse the Dudley Voluntary Partnership Agreement set to bring significant bus service improvements to Dudley at the Conservative Party Conference.</p>"
"People in Dudley will soon be able to wait in comfort at 250 new bus shelters, and then relax in style on board dozens of brand new National Express buses which run to time thanks to a series of bus friendly highway improvements"
9369
0
12
0
Midland Metro track-share proposals gather pace
2008-08-22T00:00:00
2008-08-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Proposals to use innovative European technology to drive forward the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place>'s planned extension of the Midland Metro tram system are progressing well, the region's passenger transport authority has revealed.</p> <p >The concept of sharing the proposed tram route from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill with freight trains, saving millions of pounds in construction costs in the process, is realistic and achievable, initial investigations by Centro have found.</p> <p >The Centro and Network Rail joint study on Metro sharing the proposed Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension with freight trains is showing positive results. A number of cities in <st1:country-region >Germany</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region >France</st1:country-region> and <st1:place ><st1:City >Holland</st1:City></st1:place> already successfully operate such track sharing systems.</p> <p >Running freight trains on the proposed tram tracks will remove the need to build a separate track for freight alongside the Metro rails, cutting overall construction costs by around 20 per cent. It would also allow the construction of the Metro beyond Brierley Hill to Stourbridge and Stourbridge Junction, connecting with heavy rail to <st1:City >Worcester</st1:City> and <st1:place ><st1:City >Hereford</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >The concept of track sharing has also been raised with rail freight network operator EWS which is keen to take the project forward and become involved in the next stage of the study in October.</p> <p >Centro's Chief Executive <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName> said: "Track sharing will speed up the delivery of the Midland Metro extension by reducing the capital costs and making it more affordable. It's an exciting concept and we're delighted that our partners Network Rail and EWS think so too."</p> <p >Preparation work has also started on gaining a Transport and Works Act Order for the proposed Wolverhampton City Centre Metro Loop. This proposed extension links the existing <st1:place ><st1:City >St George's</st1:City></st1:place> terminus to the new £140 million Wolverhampton Interchange project with its new rail and bus station. The Loop will run via Princess Street, Lichfield Street and Pipers Row with a spur from Lichfield Street to the rail station and onwards through to Sun Street.</p> <p >Meanwhile major improvements are being lined up for Metro passengers using the existing route between Birmingham Snow Hill and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro is in the process of acquiring a new fleet of trams to replace the existing ones by 2012. The move will unlock massive, untapped demand for Metro as the new and bigger fleet will enable frequencies to be stepped up to every six minutes throughout the day while boosting reliability.</p> <p >Recent research by Centro found that bringing in a new fleet would enable the system to meet a predicted demand by 2012 of eight million passengers a year compared to the five million carried at present.</p> <p >The new trams would also be used on the two proposed Metro extensions between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill and through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre, both of which are among nine transport priorities for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Mr Inskip added: "A significant amount of progress has been made in taking forward the planned development of the Midland Metro. The more cost effective solution of track sharing on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension is looking extremely promising, while work is progressing on extending the Metro to Wolverhampton Interchange and replacing the existing tram fleet."</p> <p >Detailed studies are continuing into the track sharing concept and consultants are in the process of putting together fresh costings for the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension based on the proposal.</p> <p >These will then be used to update the Outline Business Case seeking Government funding for the extension and Centro is continuing to work closely with its regional partners to explore how money from Government could be supplemented through a wide range of local fund raising initiatives.</p> <p >Centro is confident that with all regional partners working together a realistic funding package can be achieved. This has been boosted by the Government's decision to put in place a range of initiatives to help local areas identify resources to fund projects that drive economic performance.</p> <p >A recent study by experts at the independent Centre for Economic and Business Research (CEBR) found that the proposed Metro extensions through <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill could create up to 5,300 sustainable new jobs and boost the region's economy by an extra £178 million a year.</p> <p >The study concluded that the extensions would bring significant and lasting economic benefits and that the boost to the economy meant the cost of the two projects would be would be recouped within just three years.</p>"
"Proposals to use innovative European technology to drive forward the Black Country's planned extension of the Midland Metro tram system are progressing well, the region's passenger transport authority has revealed."
9369
0
12
0
New £1.5m fleet of state-of-the-art buses for lifeline service
2008-08-20T00:00:00
2008-08-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The lifeline Ring & Ride bus service, which helps over 65,000 people with mobility problems get out and about in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, has taken delivery of the first vehicles in its new £1.5m fleet of state-of-the-art buses.</p> <p >Registered users of the door-to-door service, which is operated by charity West Midlands Special Needs Transport and funded by public transport authority Centro, will be able to travel in top-of-the-range style and comfort on one of 41 new vehicles.</p> <p >The Volkswagen Crafter buses, which cost £36,000 each, will be used all over the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region.</p> <p >They make up 14 per cent of the charity's fleet, which in total provides over two million trips a year.</p> <p >They have been painted in a new, modern and distinctive Ring & Ride livery and have saloon heating, sophisticated electronic tail lifts and folding steps.</p> <p >The vehicles can carry 13 passengers, but all seats can be folded down or removed to accommodate up to four wheelchairs instead.</p> <p >Kaitlan Rogers, age 8, from <st1:City >Northfield</st1:City> in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> was one of the first people to try out the new buses at a Ring & Ride open day at a depot in Frankley. She uses the service to get to and from school every day and to go on trips around the region.</p> <p >She said: "Using Ring & Ride means I can get to school and go out for the day without my mum having to take me in the car. I really like the new buses, they look nice, are comfortable and are really easy to get on and off."</p> <p >Peter Maggs, Chief Executive of West Midlands Special Needs Transport added: "The Ring & Ride service provides a vital lifeline for people with mobility problems of all ages, helping them get to school and work, go out and socialise, go shopping or access healthcare and leisure activities.</p> <p >"These new buses are a major boost in helping us fulfil the needs of our 65,000 users, getting them to the places they want to go in the greatest possible comfort, and also enabling easier access thanks to the buses' new modern design."</p> <p >West Midlands Special Needs Transport has also taken delivery of 14 new LDV Maxus vehicles, some of which will be used to provide people with mobility problems in more rural areas of the region with a bus service.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro said: "Centro is committed to providing elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands with a comprehensive and easy to use public transport system, which is why we provide one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country.</p> <p >"Ring & Ride plays a vital role in helping people with mobility problems who cannot use conventional public transport lead more independent lives and is in demand more now than ever before.</p> <p >"That is why the introduction of these new, state-of-the-art buses is so important. We look forward to continuing our close working relationship with West Midlands Special Needs Transport to continue enhancing the Ring & Ride service further for its users."</p> <p >Ring and Ride, which will be celebrating its 25 year anniversary in December this year, is the fourth largest organisation in the world providing transport for people with mobility problems, only New York, Stockholm and Los Angeles have bigger operations.</p> <p >Ring & Ride is available from 8am to 11pm, 365 days a year. Users simply phone a special telephone number to arrange and book their journey.</p> <p >People can register for the Ring & Ride service by calling 0121 333 3107. More information can be found at <a href=""http://www.ringandride.org/"">www.ringandride.org</a></p>"
"The lifeline Ring & Ride bus service, which helps over 65,000 people with mobility problems get out and about in the West Midlands, has taken delivery of the first vehicles in its new £1.5m fleet of state-of-the-art buses."
9369
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Get on board and get away from Bank Holiday blues
2008-08-20T00:00:00
2008-08-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Parents wondering how to keep their children entertained on a tight budget this August Bank Holiday weekend can get a helping hand from <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport authority Centro.</p> <p >The organisation has teamed up with five of the region's top attractions to offer discounted admission prices to people who travel by public transport.</p> <p >For the first time ever, bus, train and tram users, can get money off entry to the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Black Country</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Living</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Museum</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>, the National SEALIFE Centre, Cadbury World, science museum Thinktank and 3D cinema IMAX.</p> <p >Previously only rail users could benefit from discounted entry, and the offers are now bigger and better than ever before.</p> <p >It means people can avoid the hassles of driving around unfamiliar streets, sitting in bank holiday traffic jams and parking, and save money and the planet in the process.</p> <p >And while parents can sit back and relax on their journey instead of getting stressed out in the car, the public transport journey often adds to the enjoyment of the day out for children.</p> <p >People can get the discounts by buying one of Centro's great value <strong>n</strong>network daytripper tickets, which gives unlimited travel after 9:30am on all bus, train and tram services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> county.</p> <p >The tickets cost just £4.90 for an adult, £3.10 for a child or £8.10 for a family of up to six people (at least one but no more than two must be adults) and can be bought at rail stations and on most bus services.</p> <p >To get reduced admission, all they need to do is show their ticket at the chosen attraction with a voucher from the <strong>n</strong>joy days out leaflet, which can be picked up from Travel Information Centres and rail stations.</p> <p >For people who only need to use bus services, the vouchers are also valid with the <strong>n</strong>bus one day ticket which is valid on nearly all bus services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> all day. It costs £3.40 for adults and £2.30 for children and can be bought from the driver on most buses.</p> <p >Rinku Banerjee, Marketing Executive at Centro said: "These new offers mean a family of six from Coventry could travel by rail to Bournville and get reduced admission to Cadbury World, then pop into Birmingham to do some shopping on their return journey, before travelling home, safe in the knowledge that their travel costs are only £8.10 no matter how many buses, trains or trams they catch."</p> <p >Details of the offers, journey planners and timetables are available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>"
Parents wondering how to keep their children entertained on a tight budget this August Bank Holiday weekend can get a helping hand from West Midlands public transport authority Centro.
9369
0
12
0
Ticket revolution for West Midlands' bus passengers
2008-08-18T00:00:00
2008-08-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Ticketing for West Midlands' bus users is set to be transformed thanks to the signing of a fundamental deal between Centro, the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s passenger transport authority and transit system supplier Wayfarer, part of the Parkeon Group</p> <p >The two organisations have joined together to provide the region with the latest generation of bus ticket machines, which will automatically read ITSO compatible Smartcards including England's National Concessionary Travel Pass.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, chief executive of Centro, said: "The deal is a key component of our plan to implement Smartcard technology on the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport network. It will provide the region with a fast, efficient and simple ticketing solution - an equivalent to <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>'s Oyster card.</p> <p >"This forms an essential part of our Network West Midlands initiative which is the foundation of our aspirations to provide passengers with one of the most well informed, easy-to-use, integrated public transport networks in the world."</p> <p >Buses currently provide 92 per cent of all public transport journeys in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with the region's biggest operator carrying more than one million people a day.</p> <p >Centro has specified Wayfarer to supply and install more than 2,300 of the machines for the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s bus operators, and to also provide the administrative and technical support for the equipment.</p> <p >Wayfarer is involved in every major ITSO smart card scheme in <st1:country-region >Britain</st1:country-region>, working alongside operational partners across the <st1:State >North West</st1:State>, in Lancashire, <st1:City >Cheshire</st1:City>, <st1:country-region >Cumbria</st1:country-region>, as well as Nottinghamshire, Hampshire, Yorkshire, and in <st1:country-region >Scotland</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Wales</st1:place></st1:country-region>. In the <st1:State ><st1:place >North West</st1:place></st1:State> alone, more than 15 million successful smartcard transactions have been processed using Wayfarer technology.</p> <p >The Wayfarer TGX200 machines, which are part of the company's revolutionary</p> <p >e-Bus family, can also link in to all the complex systems and applications featured on even the most modern passenger vehicles.</p> <p >They can be configured to support every fare and journey type, including concessionary schemes for children, over 60s and disabled people.</p> <p >Parkeon Transport Systems Director Phillippe Millet said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Centro on a ticketing solution that not only meets today's requirements but is fully flexible in accommodating systems being planned by the organisation and <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> bus operators going forward. We look forward to bringing the benefits of ITSO and e-Bus to Centro, bus companies and their customers."</p>"
"Ticketing for West Midlands' bus users is set to be transformed thanks to the signing of a fundamental deal between Centro, the West Midland's passenger transport authority and transit system supplier Wayfarer, part of the Parkeon Group"
9369
nti_Centro_Ticket_03.JPG
0
12
0
Cycle surgeries help people get on (and love) their bike
2008-08-07T00:00:00
2008-08-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People wanting to save money and the environment by ditching the car are being offered free cycle training and information at a series of special surgeries in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre.</p> <p >Centro, the region's Passenger Transport Authority, is working with <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> cycle campaigners Push Bikes UK to give would be cyclists expert advice on riding around the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >The sessions, at the Friends of the Earth Warehouse on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Allison Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in Digbeth, are designed to show people how to ride safely and confidently on <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s roads.</p> <p >The surgeries are open to everyone, and are part of aim to encourage people to use their bike to get to their nearest rail station, and then travel by train to their destination.</p> <p >Cycle expert Graham Hankins, secretary of Push Bikes UK will be on hand to tell people about the safest positioning of their bike on the road, how to cycle through junctions and traffic lights and the right safety gear to wear.</p> <p >He will also help potential cyclists choose what type of bicycle is best for their needs, show them how to enjoy owning their bike and how to look after and maintain it on a day to day basis.</p> <p >There will be a special feature on how to fix punctures, change tyres, adjust the seat and handlebars, as well as other basic cycle care and repairs.</p> <p >Anyone who is interested in learning more about cycling in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> is welcome to attend the cycle surgeries, which include evening and weekend sessions.</p> <p >They are being held on Saturday August 9 between 2pm and 4pm, Tuesday August 12 and Thursday August 14 between 2pm and 4pm, and 7pm and 9pm, and Saturday August 16 between 2pm and 4pm.</p> <p >The sessions form part of Centro's Smarter Choices package to encourage people to use more environmentally friendly modes of transport instead of the car.</p> <p >Centro is looking at a range of cycling measures to encourage people to get on their bike, and supports the possibility of bringing in a cycle hire scheme similar to the Velib system in <st1:City ><st1:place >Paris</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "We are actively looking at ways to make it even easier for people to use green, healthy, congestion busting modes of transport to get around the West Midlands instead of opting for the car.</p> <p >"We hope that by holding these free cycling surgeries people will get all the training and advice they need to make the bike one of their transport modes of choice."</p>"
People wanting to save money and the environment by ditching the car are being offered free cycle training and information at a series of special surgeries in Birmingham city centre.
9369
0
12
0
New bus makes a splash with youngsters
2008-07-24T00:00:00
2008-07-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Sporty youngsters on a <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> estate will be able to get into the Olympic spirit this summer thanks to a new bus service taking them to a city leisure centre.</p> <p >Bus company National Express West Midlands and the region's passenger transport authority, Centro, have launched the 612 service between Fordhouses in the north of the city and the Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre at <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Bentley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Bridge</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> in Wednesfield.</p> <p >The bus will operate throughout the school summer holidays so that youngsters inspired by the games in <st1:place ><st1:City >Beijing</st1:City></st1:place> can easily get to the centre in <st1:Street ><st1:address tabIndex=0 >Planetary Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The £12 million facility, which opened just over 18 months ago, boasts a six lane main pool, a river run with rapids, waterslides and waves, one of the best equipped gyms in the Midlands and sauna and steam rooms.</p> <p >National Express and Centro have launched the 612 after concerns were raised about the difficulty people in Fordhouses were experiencing in getting to the Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre following the closure of their local swimming pool at <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Compton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> last year.</p> <p >Martin Davies from National Express West Midlands commented: "We have installed a temporary 612 service between Fordhouses and the Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre for six weeks during the summer holidays to ensure young people and families enjoy easy access to the local amenities."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName tabIndex=0 >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Centro's director of bus and highways, added: "I'm sure the Olympic Games will inspire a lot of youngsters to get sporty and this new service will make it far easier for them to do that, giving them a much greater choice of things to do this summer."</p> <p >The 612 will run hourly between 9am and 10pm Monday to Saturday. It will run from <st1:Street ><st1:address tabIndex=0 >Patshull Avenue</st1:address></st1:Street> in Fordhouses past <st1:PlaceName >New</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Cross</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType>, the Gem Centre, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Bentley</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Bridge</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> shops and the Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre.</p> <p >At the end of the summer National Express West Midlands and Centro will look at the possibility of continuing the service into the autumn.</p> <p >For full details of the timetable, go to <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>, go to bus timetables and type in 612.</p>"
Sporty youngsters on a Wolverhampton estate will be able to get into the Olympic spirit this summer thanks to a new bus service taking them to a city leisure centre.
9369
0
12
0
Striking buses to revolutionise Black Country travel
2008-07-21T00:00:00
2008-07-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> can get a taste of things to come from today (21 July 2008), as a new era of bus travel takes to the region's roads.</p> <p >The Diamond bus company has launched the first of its state-of-the-art Black Diamond buses meaning passengers can travel in style and comfort, on striking new black, silver and red vehicles with dedicated, friendly drivers.</p> <p >Five of the 33 eye-catching new buses started turning heads today, going into operation on the 404 bus route from Walsall to Blackheath and Merry Hill via <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>.</p> <p >The rest of the Black Diamond vehicles, which are top-of-the-range and are powered by the most environmentally friendly engines in <st1:place >Europe</st1:place>, will be introduced at the end of August and in the autumn.</p> <p >The new Black Diamond buses are part of a new partnership deal between the Diamond Bus Company, Centro and Sandwell Council set to revolutionise bus travel in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >In the near future, they will run on a number of key routes in the heart of the Black Country, including the 401, 402, 404 and 410, which serve West Bromwich, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, Blackheath, Merry Hill, Cradley Heath and Bilston.</p> <p >The buses, which are all low-floor easy access vehicles with lots of room for pushchairs and wheelchairs, will be cleaned on a daily basis and benefit from CCTV both inside and outside.</p> <p >Austin Birks, Commercial Manager at Diamond, said: "This £5.4m investment in new easy access vehicles shows our commitment to providing the people of the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> with the top-of-the-range public transport choices they deserve.</p> <p >"This is just the start of things to come, and we look forward to working closely with Centro and Sandwell Council to build on this investment further, so that together we can make a real difference in encouraging people to travel by bus."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Bus & Highways Director at Centro added: "With rising fuel and living costs, people want bus services that are not just clean, safe and reliable but affordable too.</p> <p >"Black Diamond goes a step further than this, by providing passengers with top of the range buses with reasonably priced tickets.</p> <p >"Working in partnership with the Diamond bus company and Sandwell Council on this initiative is an important step towards our goal of providing the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a world class, integrated and sustainable public transport system and attractive alternatives to the car."</p>"
"People in the Black Country can get a taste of things to come from today (21 July 2008), as a new era of bus travel takes to the region's roads."
9369
0
12
0
Centro wins transport Oscar for groundbreaking accessibility projects
2008-07-16T00:00:00
2008-07-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Three groundbreaking projects introduced to help people access public transport in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> won a prestigious award last night at the transport industry's equivalent to the Oscars.</p> <p >Centro, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, collected the honour in the 'Accessibility' category at the National Transport Awards for its bus hailer, the Getting Around Access Guide and its WorkWise scheme.</p> <p >The judges were so impressed by the steps Centro has taken to improve access to public transport in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> that, for the first time in the history of the ceremony, they presented the award for all three projects rather than just one.</p> <p >Centro fought off competition from nine other shortlisted candidates to win the award, which was presented by radio and television presenter Kate Silverton at <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>'s Grosvenor House Hotel.</p> <p >Last year, Centro introduced the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s first ever specialised bus hailer, designed to make it easier for blind and partially sighted people to catch the bus.</p> <p >It has been produced as a unique, high visibility A5 flip pad, which allows the user to easily flag down the exact bus they want to catch.</p> <p >The Getting Around Access Guide was created by Centro to give disabled and elderly people or parents with pushchairs all the information they need to know on using the wide range of accessible public transport in the West Midlands.</p> <p >It comes in a handy A5 size format, and also includes general up-to-date news and information on buses, coaches, trains and trams in the region as well as details of Ring & Ride services, taxis, and public transport tickets.</p> <p >The well established WorkWise project, which is in operation in Birmingham, Solihull and Walsall, has helped thousands of the region's jobseekers back into work by providing travel advice, journey plans and free public transport passes for interviews and in the first months of employment.</p> <p >Last year Centro secured funding to continue the scheme for another three years in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, while in Birmingham WorkWise saw its biggest expansion to date with an extra eight JobCentre Plus Centres offering the service in the city's most deprived wards. In Walsall the project has also been succesful in securing funding from both the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and Walsall MBC.</p> <p >All three projects were recognised for giving people the confidence and support they need to overcome transport barriers and improve their independence and quality of life.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "Our priority is to put passengers first, so I am absolutely delighted that these fantastic projects have been recognised for the vital support they give to both individuals and local communities by improving their access to public transport.</p> <p >"We have had a lot of positive feedback from the public on the contributions that these three schemes have made. Winning this award really is the icing on the cake."</p>"
Three groundbreaking projects introduced to help people access public transport in the West Midlands won a prestigious award last night at the transport industry's equivalent to the Oscars.
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Transport boss will fight to save town's vital rail link
2008-07-09T00:00:00
2008-07-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The Chairman at the head of passenger transport authority Centro has today pledged to fight the Government decision to end the rail service between Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> in December.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> called for the vital rail link to be continued after increases in punctuality, reliability and marketing have seen the number of passengers using the line grow significantly to 60,000 a year.</p> <p >The action follows a letter from Rail Minister Tom Harris refusing to continue funding the Walsall to <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> route due to low patronage.</p> <p >It has also emerged that there is not sufficient rolling stock available to keep the service operating after a series of region-wide timetable changes come into effect in December 2008.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke will be writing a letter to Mr Harris to express his disappointment at the decision and call on the Government to reverse its decision.</p> <p >He said: "The Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service is a vital link for many Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> residents by providing a quick and reliable connection between the two boroughs and giving much needed access to connecting rail services. Existing bus services take over 40 minutes to cover the 15 minute rail journey.</p> <p >"Thanks to the increase in reliability and punctuality on the Walsall to <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> line, confidence has grown and we have seen the number of people taking advantage of this service rise significantly. The minister is losing the opportunity to build on this success further."</p> <p >"The Government should be looking to provide investment in local rail services so that we have a consistent high quality rail network that encourages and carers for passenger growth."</p>"
The Chairman at the head of passenger transport authority Centro has today pledged to fight the Government decision to end the rail service between Walsall and Wolverhampton in December.
9369
0
12
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Residents' views sought on congestion busting scheme
2008-07-09T00:00:00
2008-07-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take a massive 125,000 journeys off the regions roads every year.</p> <p >Centro, the West Midlands public transport authority, is looking to extend the existing Park & Ride car park at Tile Hill rail station by creating around 240 extra spaces, including additional disabled bays.</p> <p >The organisation is proposing the scheme because the car park, which currently has only 92 spaces, is regularly full leading to demand for additional parking facilities.</p> <p >All of Centro's 53 heavy rail Park & Ride car parks, including Tile Hill, have been awarded the coveted Safer Parking Park Mark Award due to their low crime and high safety standards.</p> <p >As part of the plans, the new spaces will benefit from extra CCTV cameras, a Help Point facility linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre and new security fencing to conform with the rest of the car park.</p> <p >There will also be upgraded lighting, new landscaping and the possibility of a new footway linking the bus stop at Falkland Close to the rail station via the new car park.</p> <p >Centro is now seeking residents' views on the proposed car park extension and is holding two exhibitions with representatives on hand to take people's questions and comments.</p> <p >Staff will be available at Tile Hill station on Wednesday 16 July between 3pm and 7pm, and on Saturday 19 July between 10am and 2pm.</p> <p >Leaflets with an attached questionnaire and prepaid envelope are also being distributed to local residents and an online form with more information on the scheme is available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/tilehill"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/tilehill</a>.</p> <p >Following the public consultation, Centro hopes to submit a finalised design based on people's comments for planning permission later this summer. It is envisaged that works will commence during 2009.</p> <p >At present the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> has over 6,500 free Park Mark accredited park and ride spaces taking over 2.75 million car journeys off the road every year - saving the equivalent of 94 tankers of fuel.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Cento said: "Park & Ride schemes are a key part of our goal to reduce traffic on the region's congested roads, while also helping to reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 6,200 tonnes.</p> <p >"Many of our 53 rail station car parks are near to or at capacity, and that is why we have increased the number of free car parking spaces by 17 per cent since 2003 and are committed to providing even more."</p>"
"People in Coventry are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take a massive 125,000 journeys off the regions roads every year."
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0
12
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Passenger champion elected for fifth year
2008-06-30T00:00:00
2008-06-30T00:00:00
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"<p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> has today (30 June 2008) been elected as Chairman of Centro, the biggest Passenger Transport Authority outside <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>, for the fifth year running.</p> <p >At the Annual General Meeting of the authority, fellow members voted for Cllr Clarke (Conservative, Streetly) to continue leading Centro, the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s passenger transport authority.</p> <p >Cllr Len Clark (Conservative, Quinton) will join <st1:City ><st1:place >Gary</st1:place></st1:City> at the top of the authority as Vice-Chairman for the second year running.</p> <p >Together with Centro's other 25 members representing the county's seven districts, they will continue to set public transport policy for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, working cross party to deliver a world class bus, train and tram network for the region.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> said: "I am very pleased to have been chosen to lead Centro as Chairman for another year.</p> <p >"Public transport has never been as high on the agenda as it is today due to environmental issues, increasing congestion and rising fuel and food prices affecting everyone's day to day lives.</p> <p >"The coming year is hugely important in shaping our future transport system, and we must continue to build on the hard work we have done over the last few years to carry on transforming the <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s bus, train and tram system.</p> <p >"We eagerly await the publication of the Local Transport Bill, which will be fundamental in helping us to deliver better bus services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> by building on the hard work we have already done in partnership with the bus operators.</p> <p >"Last year the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> cleared a major hurdle in the future of its transport system by securing funding to redevelop New Street Station. Now we need to replicate this success by taking steps forward in delivering our other priorities.</p> <p >"These priorities include extending the Midland Metro, improving capacity and passenger experience on the region's rail network and embracing technology with initiatives such as Real Time Information & Smartcard.</p> <p >"This really is an exciting time for public transport, and I look forward to the year ahead as Chairman of the largest Public Transport Authority outside <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>."</p> <p >Cllr Clarke has been a Walsall Councillor since 1998. He became a member of Centro in 2002 and was elected Chairman in 2004.</p> <p >Centro is made up of 27 councillors from the region's seven metropolitan borough councils – <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p>"
"Councillor Gary Clarke has today (30 June 2008) been elected as Chairman of Centro, the biggest Passenger Transport Authority outside London, for the fifth year running."
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Sandwell commuters get enhanced Park and Ride facility
2008-06-17T00:00:00
2008-06-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Sandwell rail users are to benefit from a new, larger park and ride car park set to open in Tipton on Monday 23 June as part of the massive £22 million <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> underpass development aimed at ending years of traffic congestion.</p> <p >Sandwell Council and Centro, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, have collaborated to build the new, free car park that will serve Tipton rail station.</p> <p >From Monday week, the existing car park opposite the station will be closed to allow the new relief road to be built.</p> <p >To replace it, a new improved park and ride facility has been built alongside the station with the entrance off <st1:Street ><st1:address >Alexandra Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The new car park benefits from more than 20 extra spaces, including additional parking bays for disabled people, and spaces for motorbikes and cycles.</p> <p >All of Centro's 53 heavy rail Park & Ride car parks, including the existing site at Tipton, have been awarded the coveted Safer Parking Park Mark Award due to their low crime and high safety standards.</p> <p >Tipton's new car park will benefit from CCTV cameras and Help Points linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre. An application for the Park Mark Award is currently being made.</p> <p >Councillor Bob Badham, Sandwell's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport said: ""This new car park and the new <st1:Street ><st1:address >Watery Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> bridge is evidence that the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> project is now well under way.</p> <p >""I would ask people using the new car park to please be patient and allow more time for their journey whilst the road works are still under way.""</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "The work taking place on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> is vital in reducing congestion in Sandwell and improving access to surrounding areas.</p> <p >"The level crossing is a major bottleneck and has had a considerable effect on motorists and the reliability and route of local bus services for many years. The new tunnel is going to play a large part in solving this problem.</p> <p >"We are very pleased that we have been able to take advantage of this vital project further by creating a new and improved park and ride site for the people of Sandwell. The additional spaces alone could take an extra 10,000 car journeys off the regions roads each year."</p> <p >The work in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> has been designed to build a road tunnel under the West Coast Mainline rail link.</p> <p >Local residents have been plagued for years by massive traffic jams along the road which currently passes over the rail line on a level crossing.</p> <p >Currently the gates are closed to traffic every few minutes to allow local and inter city trains to pass.</p> <p >The underpass is being built by contractors Edmund Nuttall Ltd and work is expected to last around two years.</p> <p >When completed traffic will be able to travel freely along <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> without having to stop for trains. It is hoped it will help regenerate the area by encouraging more people to use the town.</p>"
"Sandwell rail users are to benefit from a new, larger park and ride car park set to open in Tipton on Monday 23 June as part of the massive £22 million Owen Street underpass development aimed at ending years of traffic congestion."
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0
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German technology offers exciting transport opportunities
2008-06-05T00:00:00
2008-06-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p >New railway technology in <st1:country-region >Germany</st1:country-region> has the potential to help deliver a world class public transport system for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and extensions to the Midland Metro tram system.</p> <p >A delegation from Centro, the region's passenger transport authority, has just returned from a fact finding trip to the German city of <st1:place ><st1:City >Kassel</st1:City></st1:place> to see first hand how trams and heavy rail share the same tracks.</p> <p >The system uses new technology to run trams, traditional passenger trains and freight services on the same track. It offers some exciting possibilities for the Midland Metro extension plan, which is of nine transport priorities for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >The technology also has some positive implications for plans to increase capacity on the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail network. In <st1:place ><st1:City >Kassel</st1:City></st1:place>, passenger numbers have increased by up to 25 per cent since the track sharing scheme went live.</p> <p >One possibility that Centro will now explore with the seven district councils, Network Rail, train operators and other stakeholders is the potential to share the planned Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension with rail freight services.</p> <p >That would remove the need to build a separate heavy rail track alongside the tram, significantly reducing construction costs. The line could also be extended through to Stourbridge Junction where it could connect with the national rail network</p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, Lead Member on Centro for District Liaison and Metro Extensions, said: "This visit showed us that not only can trams and passenger trains share the same lines, but there is also considerable mixed running with freight.</p> <p >"We were very impressed with the extensive <st1:place ><st1:City >Kassel</st1:City></st1:place> system, which is helping people to support the environment by leaving their cars at home.</p> <p >"There are significant opportunities to use this kind of technology throughout the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> where better use could be made of our railway lines which would reduce the cost of future rail and rapid transit routes.""</p>"
New railway technology in Germany has the potential to help deliver a world class public transport system for the West Midlands and extensions to the Midland Metro tram system.
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0
12
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Unique deal brings new buses and better services to Coventry and Warwickshire
2008-05-23T00:00:00
2008-05-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus passengers using three key routes in <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place> and Warwickshire are to benefit from major improvements in bus services thanks to a unique partnership agreement signed on Tuesday (27 May 2008).</p> <p >Bus company Stagecoach, transport authority Centro, Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council have all endorsed the Voluntary Partnership Agreement, committing to provide quality bus services on routes 55, 56 and 57.</p> <p >Thanks to the deal, customers using the enhanced 'Matrix services', which link the city centre with North Coventry, Nuneaton and Bedworth, will ride on 14 new low floor, easy access buses thanks to a £1.8 million investment by Stagecoach.</p> <p >Each of the new vehicles has a modern Euro 4 environmentally friendly engine – omitting less pollutants and being more fuel-efficient. Each has Italian designed seats, improving comfort and plenty of space for buggies and wheelchairs.</p> <p >Passengers will also benefit from regularly cleaned buses and a better timetable - including an increased 10 minute frequency on the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holbrook Road</st1:address></st1:Street> - while drivers operating the buses are having extra training in customer care and disability awareness. The changes will come into effect on Monday 2 June.</p> <p >Phil Medlicott, Stagecoach in Warwickshire's Managing Director said: "This investment in new buses is opening up accessible public transport to more and more people in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> and surrounding areas. The partnership agreement also shows that we, along with Centro, Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council, are serious about improving bus services in the city.</p> <p >"At a time when fuel prices are continually rising and we each need to do our bit to reduce our carbon footprint, these improvements will make a real difference and go along way to encouraging more people to choose the bus."</p> <p >Centro will be providing and maintaining branding and up-to-date information at bus stops along the route in <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place>, as well as cleaning all shelters on a weekly basis and repairing any damage within 48 hours.</p> <p >There will be an extensive marketing campaign to make people aware of the improvements, which it is hoped will encourage more people to leave their car at home and use the bus instead, helping to ease congestion and reduce carbon emissions in the area.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro, said: "I am delighted to be signing this partnership agreement, which shows how we will work together with Stagecoach and <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> and Warwickshire councils to provide the high quality, frequent and accessible services that passengers want and that provide an attractive alternative to the car.</p> <p >"I hope that we can now build on these improvements to provide these enhanced services on a wider scale, so that more people throughout <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> and the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can benefit from an enhanced, high quality public transport experience."</p> <p >Councillor Gary Ridley Cabinet Member (City Development) added: ""In <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> we are committed to making it easier for people to travel by bus.  We take environmental issues seriously and we have already invested more than £45million in improving bus travel across <st1:place ><st1:City >Coventry</st1:City></st1:place>.  These new Matrix routes will hook into improvements we have already made in the north of the city but I want to reassure people not to worry about the new name. </p> <p >""The Matrix routes will offer all the same benefits that people across Coventry already get with Primelines – low floor buses, real time information and better shelters."" </p> <p >Both Warwickshire and Coventry Councils will be looking to provide highway improvements, including easy access raised kerbing at stops on the Matrix routes, making it easier for people with mobility problems to board the new easy access buses.</p> <p >Warwickshire Council will also be responsible for bus information and branding within the county boundary.</p> <p >Commenting on the 'Matrix' name Phil Medlicott said: "We have 3 routes that run into <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> down the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holbrook Road</st1:address></st1:Street> - the 55, 56 and 57. But it doesn't matter which one people catch if they want to get to the City Centre; so we have branded all the buses as 'Matrix'. This means people simply need to catch a Matrix bus!"</p> <p > </p> <p ><strong>Pictured: L- R Coventry City Council Cabinet Member (City Development) Cllr Gary Ridley, Chief Executive of Centro Geoff Inskip, Managing Director of Stagecoach Phil Medlicott and Warwickshire County Council Environment Portfolio Holder Cllr Martin Healey, sign the Voluntary Partnership Agreement for the improved Stagecoach Matrix bus services</strong></p>"
Bus passengers using three key routes in Coventry and Warwickshire are to benefit from major improvements in bus services thanks to a unique partnership agreement signed on Tuesday (27 May 2008).
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DSC4110web.JPG
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"Free passes are smart choice for over 400,000 in West Midlands"
2008-05-22T00:00:00
2008-05-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >One in six people living in the West Midlands can now enjoy using the bus anywhere in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region> for free after receiving a new travel pass.</p> <p >Working in partnership with Centro, Logica, one of <st1:place >Europe</st1:place>'s leading business and IT service companies, has produced and delivered over 430,000 National Concessionary Passes for over 60s, and blind and disabled people in the region on behalf of public transport authority Centro.</p> <p >The passes, which include smartcard technology, allow holders to use any local bus in <st1:place ><st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region></st1:place> for free after 9:30am Monday to Friday, and all day on weekends and bank holidays. The integrated chips within the passes will soon allow people to swipe on and off over 2,600 buses from over 50 depots in the region, as well as trains and trams.</p> <p >The cards were issued across the country as part of a Government scheme - the new English National Concessionary Transport Scheme (ENCTS). Thanks to Logica and Centro, many West Midlands resident's received their smartcards before anyone else in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region>, meeting the April 1 deadline.</p> <p >Both Centro and Logica will also work together to deliver a commercial and concessionary multi-modal scheme - the largest scheme outside of London's Oyster card scheme which will go live during 2009. Logica will supply ITSO compliant smartcards, associated hardware and back office services to integrate all parts of the scheme. Centro is currently looking at companies to supply card readers for the vehicles.</p> <p >The technology will deliver a number of benefits to Centro, transport operators and customers in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, including faster and more efficient payments, reduced fraud and a quicker and more pleasant journey experience for the customer.</p> <p >Logica's extensive experience in smartcards includes the recently awarded contract to supply half a million cards for the NoWcard scheme in the North West of England. It also worked in partnership with Transport for <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Scotland</st1:place></st1:country-region> to ensure the successful implementation of the first National concessionary scheme, which now has over one million cards in operation.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro said: "We were delighted to appoint Logica, who provide us with the detailed knowledge and experience in transport technology and smart retailing we need to provide passengers with a smart transport system in the West Midlands.</p> <p >"The concessionary and fare paying schemes provide huge benefits for everyone, offering greater convenience for passengers and lower administration costs for local authorities and operators".</p> <p >Harbinder Dhaliwal, Logica's Director of Transport Solutions, Logica commented: "The Centro project is an exciting development in the use of smartcards for transport, re-enforcing our reputation as the leading provider of integrated ITSO compliant smart schemes in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>. This project is a major step forward in the development of fully integrated ticketing systems in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, extending the convenience and ease of smartcard technology to millions more passengers. We are delighted to work with Centro to help them realise their smartcard vision."</p> <p >Moving forward, the smartcard scheme will facilitate easier integration with wider transport and other non-transport activities including financial and retail environments such as fast food outlets, coffee shops, newsagents, off licences, bars, pubs, parking facilities and vending machines.</p>"
One in six people living in the West Midlands can now enjoy using the bus anywhere in England for free after receiving a new travel pass.
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0
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Public transport exhibitions hit the road this Bank Holiday weekend
2008-05-20T00:00:00
2008-05-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People wanting information on public transport services in the West Midlands can come along to two special exhibitions being held in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> this Bank Holiday weekend.</p> <p >Centro, the region's public transport authority, will be in Sutton Coldfield on Saturday (24<sup>th</sup> May) and at the Lord Mayor's Show in <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Cannon</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hill</st1:PlaceType> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> on Bank Holiday Monday (26<sup>th</sup> May) to provide information on bus, train and tram services in the region.</p> <p >Staff will be on hand to answer questions on all aspects of public transport including the new National Concessionary Passes, journey planning, Real Time Information, Park & Ride and Ring & Ride.</p> <p >People will be able to pick up a wide range of leaflets, including rail timetables, bus Map & Guides, and information about the Network West Midlands range of tickets and offers for school, work and leisure.</p> <p >There will also be information on the new children's website <a href=""http://www.letzgogreen.org/"">www.letzgogreen.org</a>, which is a new fun, educational and interactive site designed to teach youngsters in the region about environmentally friendly travel.</p> <p >Centro staff will be at Sutton Parade on board the Network West Midlands exhibition bus on Saturday between 9am and 3pm.</p> <p >At the Lord Mayor's show on Monday, staff will be available at the Network West Midlands marquee in <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Cannon</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hill</st1:PlaceType> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> from noon until 7pm.</p> <p >More details on the exhibitions and public transport in general can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>"
People wanting information on public transport services in the West Midlands can come along to two special exhibitions being held in Birmingham this Bank Holiday weekend.
9369
0
12
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Residents' views sought on congestion busting scheme
2008-05-19T00:00:00
2008-05-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in Sutton Coldfield are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take 10,000 journeys off the regions roads every year.</p> <p >Centro, the West Midlands public transport authority, is looking to extend the existing Park & Ride car park at Chester Road rail station by creating an additional 38 spaces.</p> <p >The organisation has purchased extra land for the scheme because the car park, which currently has 149 spaces, is regularly full leading to demand for additional parking facilities.</p> <p >All of Centro's 53 heavy rail Park & Ride car parks, including <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, have been awarded the coveted Safer Parking Park Mark Award due to their low crime and high safety standards.</p> <p >As part of the plans, the new spaces will benefit from extra CCTV cameras, a Help Point facility linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre and new security fencing to conform with the rest of the car park.</p> <p >Centro is now seeking residents' views on the proposed car park extension and is holding two exhibitions with representatives on hand to take people's questions and comments.</p> <p >On Saturday June 7, the Centro marquee will be located in the Chester Road Park & Ride car park between 10am and 4pm, and on Wednesday June 11 the Network West Midlands Exhibition bus will be there between 3pm and 7pm.</p> <p >Leaflets with an attached questionnaire and prepaid envelope are also being distributed to local residents.</p> <p >Following the public consultation, Centro hopes to submit a finalised design based on people's comments for planning permission during July 2008. It is envisaged that works will commence in the summer of 2009.</p> <p >At present the Sutton Coldfield area alone has over 920 free Park Mark accredited park and ride spaces taking nearly half a million car journeys off the road every year, and preventing more than 1,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Cento said: "Park & Ride schemes are a key part of our goal to reduce traffic on the region's congested roads, replacing the need for an estimated 2.75 million car journeys a year – the equivalent of 94 tankers of fuel.</p> <p >"Many of our 53 rail station car parks are near to or at capacity, and that is why we have increased the number of free car parking spaces by 17 per cent since 2003 and are committed to providing even more."</p> <p >The Park & Ride car park at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chester Road</st1:address></st1:Street> has already been extended once before, during 2006, to give an extra 45 spaces. This extension was brought in two years ahead of schedule due to the popularity of the scheme.</p> <p >More information and an online version of the survey can be found at www.networkwestmidlands.com/chesterroad</p>"
"People in Sutton Coldfield are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take 10,000 journeys off the regions roads every year."
9369
0
12
0
Black Country bus services make welcome return
2008-05-09T00:00:00
2008-05-09T00:00:00
9369
"<h1> </h1> <p >Bus passengers in the Black Country are to see the return of two services linking Dudley with West Bromwich and Oldbury.</p> <p >The decision by Diamond Bus to run the 87 and the 74 services into <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> was today welcomed by Centro, the region's passenger transport authority.</p> <p >From this Sunday (May 11) the 87 service from <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre to Oldbury via Smethwick and the 74 from the city centre to West Bromwich via Hockley and <st1:PlaceName >Great</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Bridge</st1:PlaceType> will both continue on to <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>.</p> <p >The move is the result of requests raised by passengers at the Sandwell bus user's conference in March and Sandwell councillor Roger Horton.</p> <p >Diamond's Commercial Manager Austin Birks said: "Being a local company we naturally listened to the community and have put the services back where they belong - in the heart of the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place>."</p> <p >Cllr Horton, who is lead member for Sandwell on Centro, added: "I'm glad that Diamond was able to come to the bus conference and listen to people's concerns and then act on them in such a positive way.</p> <p >"The return of the 74 and 87 into Dudley is brilliant news for bus users not only there but also in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> and Sandwell."</p> <p >To mark the launch of the two extended routes the bus company is offering a special fare discount called 'The Dudley Diamond Demon Deal' for people travelling on the 87 and 74.</p> <p >This involves a £1 maximum adult fare (50p child) for any single journey on the above two routes. Passengers wishing to make more than one journey or use more than one Diamond service still have the excellent value £2 Adult Freedom day ticket offering unlimited, all day travel on any Diamond bus.</p> <p >Mr Birks added: "We believe that we are offering our passengers great value for money and as a local <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> business we really want to show our commitment to local people by giving them a real deal."</p> <p >The route changes are part of a comprehensive review of Diamond services taking place across the network. Passengers can phone 0121 557 7337 for more details. </p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, lead member for Dudley on Centro said: "This is a very welcome decision by Diamond and it will provide even more options for people travelling to and from <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>."  </p>"
Bus passengers in the Black Country are to see the return of two services linking Dudley with West Bromwich and Oldbury.
9369
0
12
0
Tram named after football legend Billy Wright
2008-05-08T00:00:00
2008-05-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Wolverhampton Wanderers and England football hero Billy Wright has had a Midland Metro tram named in tribute to him.</p> <p >Centro, the region's public transport authority held a special ceremony with guests of honour, Vicky and Kelly Wright – the sporting star's daughter and granddaughter.</p> <p >They unveiled a commemorative name plaque on tram number seven, which has been painted in the new silver and magenta Network West Midlands livery.</p> <p >Several of Billy's former Wolves and <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> team mates (see analysis) also attended the ceremony, which began at the Midland Metro depot in Wednesbury and concluded in <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >The decision to name the tram after Billy was made after Centro held a public vote to decide who would receive the honour.</p> <p >The footballer defeated two other <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> stars – Methodist preacher Francis Asbury and literary legend Jerome K Jerome – with an overwhelming majority of 90 per cent of the vote.</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro, said: "I used to attend all of Wolves home games when Billy was in his heyday. He truly was an inspirational local hero.</p> <p >"I am proud and honoured to be naming a tram after him in recognition of his achievements and contribution to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p> <p >As part of the ceremony, Derek Horton from <st1:place >Stafford</st1:place> drove the newly named tram after he was selected in a prize draw.</p> <p >12 of the 16 vehicles have already been named in honour of other local legends.</p> <p >Centro is now looking to name a further Midland Metro tram after a regional hero through another public vote, details of which will be available soon.</p> <p>Since opening nine years ago Line One, which runs between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton St Georges, has achieved 98 per cent reliability and is used by more than five million passengers a year – nearly a third of them former car users.</p>"
Wolverhampton Wanderers and England football hero Billy Wright has had a Midland Metro tram named in tribute to him.
9369
0
12
0
New bus network for Dudley
2008-04-11T00:00:00
2008-04-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The people of <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> are to benefit from a new, improved and easy to understand bus network providing them with more frequent services to the borough's key destinations.</p> <p >The region's public transport body, Centro and bus operator National Express West Midlands are changing the network to make sure services take people to the places they want to go, when they want to go there.</p> <p >The new network, which will be the biggest shake up of bus services in the borough for more than two decades, is the result of demands from passengers and businesses for a more modern and effective system.</p> <p >The changes to services and routes, due to come into effect on April 27, also reflect the many new developments, both residential and commercial, that have been built in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> in recent years.</p> <p >Recent research by Centro and National Express West Midlands found that the bus network could be improved to better serve the people of <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>.</p> <p >It no longer ties in with modern working and shopping hours or provides frequent enough services to the new shopping, leisure and employment destinations that have evolved over the last few years.</p> <p >The research also revealed that high frequency, accessible and punctual services are the main passenger priorities.</p> <p >The network aims to solve these problems and meet people's expectations.</p> <p >Alex Perry, Midlands Director at National Express said: "This network review in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> is about modernising local services to take account of the changing structure that the town is experiencing.</p> <p >"The network must keep up with the times and therefore having earlier and later journeys will really help to Make Travel Simpler. Our customer research has been extensive throughout the process and helped form the delivery of the network review - a review that we've invested a lot of time into.""</p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, lead member for Dudley on Centro, added: "<st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> has enjoyed great success in attracting investment to the borough in recent years. This has given us many new leisure and retail destinations as well as places of employment, not least the Merry Hill Centre.</p> <p >"We recognised that we needed to make effective changes to the bus network in order to keep pace with these developments and to reflect what is increasingly becoming a 24/7 society. That's why the new network features many improved evening and Sunday services and higher frequencies on key routes. Centro will also be subsidising a number of services so that nobody's home is more than 400m from the nearest bus stop."</p> <p >The new network will see major improvements including 3000 seats an hour to Russells Hall Hospital during daytime service and better off peak services to Merry Hill in order to co-ordinate with the shopping centre's long opening hours.</p> <p >The new network will see many areas benefiting from higher frequencies including Netherton and the Stickley estate. Elsewhere, Kingswinford and Bromley will enjoy more buses to Merry Hill and frequencies will be stepped up from Brockmoor and Hawbush to Stourbridge.</p> <p >There will also be a fast new link from <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> to Wollaston Farm, Withymoor and Merry Hill and passengers generally will benefit from simpler route numbers and better co-ordinated departures along routes and from bus stations.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus and highways at Centro, added: "This new network should bring major benefits for passengers and for <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> as a whole. Where bus networks have been simplified and improved in other parts of the country it has attracted significantly more people out of their cars and onto the buses which in turn has helped cut congestion and carbon emissions."</p> <p >Centro and National Express West Midlands, supported by Dudley Council have consulted widely with local councillors, passenger representatives, district officers and bus operators and business to make sure the new network reflects what the modern borough needs.</p> <p >People can get more information on the changes by visiting <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/dudley"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/dudley</a></p>"
"The people of Dudley are to benefit from a new, improved and easy to understand bus network providing them with more frequent services to the borough's key destinations."
9369
0
12
0
Centro acts on early morning bus concerns
2008-04-11T00:00:00
2008-04-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Plans for a new, improved and easy to understand bus network for Dudley have been fine tuned by Centro in response to concerns raised on a Halesowen estate.</p> <p >The region's passenger transport authority, in close partnership with National Express West Midlands (NEWM) and other partners, has designed the new network to respond to demands from passengers and business for a more modern and effective bus system.</p> <p >It aims to meet 21<sup>st</sup> century working and shopping hours by providing frequent services to the new retail, leisure and employment centres that have been built in the borough in recent years. The changes come into effect on April 27.</p> <p >Some passengers living in Hasbury have expressed concern, however, particularly about a decision by NEWM to withdraw the 19 service running between the estate and <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre.</p> <p >Centro has been working hard with partners to find a solution and has today announced a number of improvements to early morning services from Hasbury.</p> <p >Centro has arranged with the new owners of bus company Ludlows to run an earlier morning journey on its 417 service from Hasbury and Hayley Green into Halesowen town centre so commuters can connect with the No.9 into <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >It means passengers will arrive in the city centre at the same time as they would have using the 19.  These passengers will also benefit from the new £3.5m bus station due to be opened by Centro in Halesowen town centre by Christmas this year. </p> <p >Ludlows will also adapt the route of its 007 bus so it serves <st1:Street ><st1:address >Huntingtree Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Hasbury. This will act as a part replacement for the 211 by taking passengers directly to the Merry Hill shopping centre. </p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Stephen Rhodes</st1:PersonName>, Centro's director of bus and highways, said: "We listened very carefully to the concerns of passengers in the Hasbury area and are pleased that we can now make these timetable and route alterations. They are in direct response to the points raised by the Hasbury passengers."</p> <p >The new network will see major improvements over the existing one including 3000 seats an hour to Russells Hall Hospital during day time service and better off peak services to Merry Hill in order to co-ordinate with the shopping centre's longer opening hours.</p> <p >Many areas will benefit from higher frequencies including Netherton and the Stickley estate while Kingswinford and Bromley will enjoy more buses to Merry Hill. Frequencies will also be stepped up from Brockmoor and Hawbush to Stourbridge and there will be a fast new link from <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> to Wollaston Farm, Withymoor and Merry Hill.</p> <p >Route numbers will be simplified and there will be better co-ordinated departures along routes and from bus stations.</p> <p >Mr Rhodes added: "Centro and National Express West Midlands, supported by Dudley Council, has consulted with local councillors, passenger representatives, district officers, bus operators and business to make sure the new network reflects what the modern borough needs."</p> <p >People can get more information on the changes by visiting <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/dudley"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/dudley</a></p>"
"Plans for a new, improved and easy to understand bus network for Dudley have been fine tuned by Centro in response to concerns raised on a Halesowen estate."
9369
0
12
0
New rail services for Midlands investigated
2008-03-19T00:00:00
2008-03-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Congestion busting plans for new rail services and stations linking <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and Tamworth, and Sutton Coldfield and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> are being investigated as part of a detailed study.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport developer, Centro, has commissioned the research for its wider Rail Network Development Strategy.</p> <p >It leads the steering group of local authorities linked by the lines – <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Staffordshire, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> and Warwickshire – which are part-funding the work. Network Rail also sits on the steering group.</p> <p >If the outcome of the study is positive, it could be a first step towards a series of new passenger rail services and stations for the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> region, which would offer a real alternative to the car and help to ease congestion.</p> <p >The plans include at least two new services an hour between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Tamworth</st1:place>, calling at new rail stations at Kingsbury, Castle Bromwich, and the Fort development – supporting the significant regeneration and growth of the area recently.</p> <p >Trains on the route would also call at the new £9m Coleshill Parkway Station, and at Wilnecote and Water Orton – which would benefit from extra platform capacity.</p> <p >Also being studied are reinstated services on the rail lines between Walsall and Water Orton via <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Sutton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>, with new stations at Aldridge, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, Walmley and Minworth being considered.</p> <p >Key to the plans is the proposed implementation of new Chord lines in Bordesley, which would allow more new and existing services to access the newly refurbished <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station.</p> <p >Consultants Halcrow are carrying out the study and are due to complete it in November.</p> <p >They will look at the cost benefit ratio of the plans, as well as key issues such as crowding on existing passenger trains, and how the new services would fit in with freight services which already use the lines.</p> <p >They will also use planners and economists to assess passenger demand and the scope of the proposed services to reduce congestion, emissions and accidents.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "If these plans are realised, they will considerably build on the significant investment already seen in regional rail network over recent years.</p> <p >"They will provide the more local services that we have been campaigning for which are key to cutting congestion in the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> and encouraging public transport use.</p> <p >"We look forward to the outcome of the study to see exactly how these new services could benefit both local communities and the region as a whole."</p>"
"Congestion busting plans for new rail services and stations linking Birmingham and Tamworth, and Sutton Coldfield and Walsall are being investigated as part of a detailed study."
9369
0
12
0
Free travel Easter egg-travaganza to Midland's top attractions
2008-03-18T00:00:00
2008-03-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Parents wondering how to keep their children entertained this Easter can take advantage of free rail travel and reduced admission prices to four of the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> top attractions.</p> <p >The regions public transport body, Centro, has teamed up with Cadbury World, the National Sealife Centre, Thinktank and IMAX, and the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Black Country</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Living</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Museum</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> to offer the exclusive deals.</p> <p >By buying the special All-in-One tickets, available at all staffed rail stations in the Network West Midlands area, families get free return rail travel and a reduced entry price to any of the these attractions.</p> <p >It means that families can have a fun day out this Easter without the hassles of driving and parking, while saving money and doing their bit for the planet in the process.</p> <p >For example, an All-in-One ticket to Thinktank and IMAX at Millennium Point in Birmingham, which includes entry to the science museum, an IMAX film and return rail travel from any staffed station in the West Midlands county, costs just £11.50 for adults and £8.00 for children.</p> <p >Normal admission prices for the venue are £15.00 for adults and £11.00 for children. Over 60s with a concessionary travel pass pay just £6.50 instead of £11.00.</p> <p >Sophia McKain, Marketing Executive for Centro said: "These All-in-One offers are a great way for parents to keep their children entertained this half term, avoid the bother of getting stuck in traffic jams and finding parking, while making great savings."</p> <p >"In addition to this, travelling to attractions on the train often adds to the enjoyment of a day out for children, while teaching our next generation of commuters the importance of using sustainable transport instead of relying on the car."</p> <p >Centro has also teamed up with <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Warwick</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> to offer a special reduced admission price to the attraction for rail travellers. Special events are taking place over the Easter break including The Battle for <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Warwick</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Castle</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and The Knight and the Fairytale Princesses, which will see the rampart turned into a storybook world.</p> <p >And, all is not lost if the rain, snow and gales forecast for the Easter holidays take place, stopping families from venturing out.</p> <p >Centro has recently launched a new fun and interactive website – <a href=""http://www.letzgogreen.org/"">www.letzgogreen.org</a> - which includes cartoon characters, comics and games for children to teach them about using public transport.</p> <p >It has been especially designed for use at home and in school, with sections for pupils, parents and teachers – all fitting in to Key Stage 1 and 2 curriculums. It also educates children on how to be streetwise and behave on buses, trains and trams, and while walking and cycling.</p> <p >More details on the All-in-One offers can be found at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>"
Parents wondering how to keep their children entertained this Easter can take advantage of free rail travel and reduced admission prices to four of the Midlands top attractions.
9369
0
12
0
Free travel passes are on route to destination
2008-02-27T00:00:00
2008-02-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >New national concessionary passes, that will give over 60s and eligible disabled people free off peak travel on all local buses in <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> from 1 April, are to start landing on <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s doormats from the start of next week.</p> <p >The first 165,000 passes are setting out on their first journey on Friday, as Centro's chairman, Cllr Gary Clarke, finally reveals what the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> version of the new national pass will look like.</p> <p >Over 400,000 over 60s in the region have applied for the national concession – more than anywhere else in the country. Disabled people that already benefit from free local travel are being sent their new pass automatically.</p> <p >The passes are being produced in a smartcard style with a new design that will be recognised by bus drivers all over <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region>. They will be valid after 9:30am Monday to Friday, and all day at weekends and on bank holidays from April.</p> <p >Due to the high volume of passes being produced, the remaining 235,000 passes will be sent out in batches over the next five weeks, so people are being urged not to worry if they do not receive their pass straight away.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> said: "This is an exciting time for concessionary pass holders, because they will be able to travel on buses outside the county for free for the first time ever, whether that's to visit a neighbouring area or while on holiday anywhere in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >"We're on schedule to get all of the passes out to people's homes before the new scheme starts in April. People should not worry if they don't get their new pass at the start of March as we are sending them out in stages over the next few weeks."</p> <p >"The existing passes are already a lifeline for many older and disabled people in the region and the new, nationwide card will bring even greater freedom and independence to travel and visit new places or see more of family and friends. I will certainly be making good use of my new pass when it becomes valid."</p> <p >The Centro logo on the new passes means that pass holders living in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can continue to use their new passes on the region's trains and trams in one of the best deals in the country.</p> <p >People can find more information on the national concessionary scheme at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass</a></p> <p> </p>"
"New national concessionary passes, that will give over 60s and eligible disabled people free off peak travel on all local buses in England from 1 April, are to start landing on West Midland's doormats from the start of next week."
9369
0
12
0
Bus crime falls as task force targets offenders
2008-02-18T00:00:00
2008-02-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Crime on and around the region's bus network plummeted by 28 per cent last year, figures released by the Safer Travel task force have revealed.</p> <p >Every district in the West Midlands saw a drop in bus crime with Sandwell, Dudley, Solihull, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> experiencing falls of at least 44 per cent.</p> <p > Safer Travel, which works to make bus travel even safer for passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour, said the reduction showed how the team's operations and growing expertise since its launch three years ago were proving successful. The team's ever growing intelligence database was also helping to pinpoint crime hotspots and persistent offenders.</p> <p >The figures released by Safer Travel, a partnership between West Midlands Police, Birmingham Community Safety Partnership, bus operator National Express West Midlands and Centro, the region's passenger transport body, show a major fall in bus related crime between April and December last year compared to the same period in 2006.</p> <p >Sandwell and Solihull saw the biggest drop with 46 per cent, closely followed by Dudley (45 per cent); <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City> (45 per cent); Walsall (44 per cent); <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> (19 per cent) and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> (15 per cent).</p> <p >Inspector Ian Grundy from the Safer Travel Police Team said: ""These figures show that thanks to the hard work of the Safer Travel partnership we are deterring crime and making the bus network even safer for passengers.</p> <p >""We will persist to work hard and build on this success - to reduce crime even further both on board buses and at stops and shelters. This means working closely with our partners and local Neighbourhood Teams and continuing to act on the vital intelligence provided to us by bus operators and, crucially, the travelling public.</p> <p >""It is thanks to this information that we have been able to target crime hotspots and run successful operations which have contributed to this reduction in crime.""</p> <p >Operations have involved a whole range of tactics including high visibility and undercover police patrols, the use of mobile CCTV cameras in police hats, deploying a specially trained drugs sniffer dog to check passengers and mounting covert surveillance at crime hot spots.</p> <p>Since April last year, the Safer Travel team has increased its collection of intelligence on anti-social behaviour and is now using this data to mount operations against offenders. The team has also been working with schools to raise awareness among pupils about personal safety and the effects of antisocial behaviour and crime.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, lead member for bus and highways on Centro, said: "It's great to see the West Midlands Safer Travel project, which is the largest of its kind outside <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place>, making a difference to the comfort of passengers.</p> <p >"The ambition now is to build on this and reassure travellers that antisocial behaviour and petty nuisance on public transport will be dealt with."</p> <p> </p>"
"Crime on and around the region's bus network plummeted by 28 per cent last year, figures released by the Safer Travel task force have revealed."
9369
0
12
0
New national bus pass could be ticket to love for over 60s
2008-02-18T00:00:00
2008-02-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Over 60s in the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> are eagerly awaiting the introduction of free national bus travel on 01 April so they can meet new people or even go on a date.</p> <p >A Department for Transport study has revealed that one fifth of people living in the region will use their new pass to make new friends outside their local area – more than anywhere else in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >And one in a hundred people in the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> said they would take advantage of the scheme to add some romance to their life.</p> <p >Over 400,000 people in the West Midlands have already applied for the new national concessionary pass, which will give them free travel on all local buses in England after 9:30am Monday to Friday, and all day on weekends and bank holidays.</p> <p >Public transport body Centro is warning people they only have until 29 February to apply if they want to make sure they have their new pass in time for the start of April.</p> <p >The Department for Transport study demonstrates how over 60s plan to broaden their horizons and make the most of the new scheme when it starts.</p> <p >Nearly one third of <st1:place >Midland</st1:place> pass holders hope to enjoy a new evening out, 85.5 per cent will cross the county boundary to go shopping, and 64 per cent will take the opportunity to visit more distant friends and relatives for free.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro said: "This study by the Department for Transport shows how important these passes are to over 60s in the Midlands, not just so they can carry out day to day tasks like shopping, but on a social level too.</p> <p >"I would urge eligible people not to miss out on this fantastic deal, and apply for their new pass as soon as possible so they can take advantage of the greater freedom and independence that it will provide."</p> <p >People who have not applied for a new pass can call 0845 303 6760 for an application form.</p> <p >Alternatively they can visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass</a> where they can request a form online, or find details of a series of exhibitions across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> where they can apply with the help of trained staff.</p> <p >West Midlands over 60s and eligible blind and disabled people will still benefit from one of the best free travel deals in the country, as the new passes will still be valid on trains and trams within the county boundary.</p>"
Over 60s in the Midlands are eagerly awaiting the introduction of free national bus travel on 01 April so they can meet new people or even go on a date.
9369
0
12
0
Green light for New Street Station rebuild
2008-02-13T00:00:00
2008-02-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers across the West Midlands and UK are set to benefit from a bigger and better New Street Gateway after the Government's decision to back plans to transform Birmingham New Street station.</p> <p >The scheme, developed by Birmingham City Council, Network Rail, Advantage West Midlands and Centro-WMPTA, will see the current 1960's built station transformed into a bright, modern 21st Century transport hub for the entire region.  It will also regenerate large parts of <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre and create thousands of jobs.</p> <p >Cllr Mike Whitby, chair of the New Street Gateway steering group welcomed the decision, stating:</p> <p >"The <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> spoke with one voice and we thank people for backing this important bid for funding.  With the support of business, local politicians, and most importantly, the general public, the Government has responded to our call for a better station for <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p align=""right""></p> <p >This is not an overnight job.  However, from 2011 passengers and the general public will enjoy the first benefits of this transformation."</p> <p >Mick Laverty, Chief Executive Designate at Advantage West Midlands, said: ""The New Street Gateway scheme will be a catalyst for major regeneration.  Furthermore, the future prosperity of the West Midlands economy will be helped enormously by <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> having a station which creates the right first impression."<strong> </strong></p> <p >Iain Coucher, Chief Executive, Network Rail added: ""Network Rail is delighted the Government has given the green light to create a station fit for the passengers of Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond. This is a much needed scheme and is among a raft of projects that Network Rail is looking to take forward to expand and develop <st1:place ><st1:country-region >Britain</st1:country-region></st1:place>'s rail network in the years ahead.""</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "Passengers across the region have been calling for years for something to be done about <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and that's why we made it a priority.</p> <p > ""Today's announcement is great news and we are proud to play our part in creating a Gateway to the <st1:place >Midlands</st1:place> that passengers can be proud of."</p> <p >The project to rebuild <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> will take place in two phases, keeping the station open for passengers and train services throughout construction.  The first phase, at the north end of the station will see a part of the new concourse opening in 2011.  The second phase is due to be completed by 2013.</p> <p >Gateway is a £598 scheme. The New Street Gateway Steering Committee has now secured nearly £400 million to fund the redevelopment. Up to a further £200 million will come from private sector investment.</p> <p >Today's announcement sees the Department for Transport commit £160m from its Regional Funding Allocation and the Department of Business, <st1:place ><st1:City >Enterprise</st1:City></st1:place> and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) commit £100m. The Government announced a first tranche of £128m in July 2007.</p> <p >Following a joint Birmingham City Council/Advantage West Midlands bid, New Street Gateway will see the 1960s built station undergo a dramatic redevelopment, transforming the dark, crowded underground station into a bright, modern 21st Century transport hub for <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region.</p> <p >The project will double passenger capacity of the station, relieving congestion and be a catalyst for creating at least 5,000 new jobs.</p> <p >The project will redevelop and regenerate the area around the station and will include better pedestrian connections right across the city centre.</p> <p >The New Street Gateway Steering Group is made up of representatives from: Birmingham City Council, Network Rail, Centro WMPTA and Advantage West Midlands.</p> <p >For further information, or interview opportunities please contact:</p> <p >Network Rail: Alastair Metcalf 0207 557 9430</p> <p > </p> <p > </p>"
Passengers across the West Midlands and UK are set to benefit from a bigger and better New Street Gateway after the Government's decision to back plans to transform Birmingham New Street station.
9369
0
12
0
Metro extensions have potential to bring thousands of new jobs
2008-02-04T00:00:00
2008-02-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Two proposed Midland Metro tram routes in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> could create up to 5,300 sustainable new jobs and boost the region's economy by an extra £178 million a year.</p> <p >Those are the findings of an independent economic report due to be presented to Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport developer.</p> <p >The Phase One extensions, from <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>'s Snow Hill Station through the city centre streets to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Five Ways</st1:address></st1:Street> and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill would bring significant and lasting economic benefits, the study by experts at the Centre for Economic and Business Research (CEBR ) concluded.</p> <p >The £178 million a year boost to the economy means the cost of adding the two extensions to the existing Metro line between Snow Hill and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> city centre would be recouped within just three years.</p> <p >But the study found that even greater economic benefits could be achieved if Centro-WMPTA's longer term Phase 2 extensions were realised. These involve three new Metro lines radiating out of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre to Birmingham International Airport/NEC, Quinton and Great Barr and a Black Country route linking Wolverhampton, Wednesfield, Willenhall, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> and Wednesbury.</p> <p >These Phase 2 routes are key to tackling congestion, promoting economic growth along those corridors and in securing the continuing sustainable expansion of the city centre business and retail sectors. </p> <p >The CEBR study found that the Phase One and Phase 2 Metro routes taken together would lead to the creation of up to 14,500 sustainable new jobs and boost the regional economy by £513 million a year. More than 70 per cent of these benefits would occur in Regeneration Zones so many of the new jobs would be created where they would be most needed.</p> <p > Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro-WMPTA, said: "The findings of the CEBR study show just how strong the business case is for these Metro extensions and how quickly they can pay for themselves.</p> <p >"Whilst it has always been accepted that jobs would be created during the construction phase of such a major transport project, this study confirms how the benefits of improved connectivity and access brought about by the Metro extensions will feed their way into the local economy after opening. It shows how the Metro can act as a catalyst for economic growth.</p> <p >"Our plans for the Phase One extensions are complete and we are ready to move forward as soon as funding is made available."</p> <p >Cllr Clarke said the economic potential of the Phase One extensions was being increasingly recognised by the local business community.</p> <p >Westfield, owners of the Merry Hill shopping centre, a major business in the Black Country, has already pledged £36.5 million towards the delivery costs.</p> <p >Ballymore, who are building a new office and hotel complex at Snow Hill, have, as part of the development, built a viaduct to carry the proposed city centre Metro extension. The viaduct would have otherwise cost Centro-WMPTA several million pounds.</p> <p >Figures also show that the Metro plays a key role in fighting our region's growing problem of congestion which in itself is costing the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> economy more than £2.2 billion a year.</p> <p >The existing Metro line from Snow Hill to <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>, which opened in 1999, has taken an estimated 1.2 million car journeys off the roads with 15 per cent of passengers using the tram instead of their cars for the same journey.  It operates at around 99 per cent reliability and carries around 5 million passengers a year.</p> <p>Cllr Angus Adams, Lead Member for Metro Extensions on Centro-WMPTA, said: "The Metro is a successful public transport system that is well used and highly regarded.  It is reliable, frequent and fast offering a high degree of onboard personal security. </p> <p>"What this study shows is that the Metro also has major economic benefits by providing the links people need between their homes and where the jobs are. At the same time firms benefit because these Metro extensions would provide them with a bigger and more competitive pool of labour."</p> <p>The Phase One Metro extensions are a key priority of Centro-WMPTA's transport strategy for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and already have Transport and Work Acts approved and in place ready for construction work to start.</p> <p> An Outline Business Case seeking approval for 75 per cent Government funding of the £384 million needed for the Phase One extensions was submitted to the Department for Transport on 21st July 2006.</p> <p > Centro-WMPTA continues to lobby for funding for the Phase One extensions while working with partners to determine regional transport priorities.</p> <p ><strong>Notes to editors:</strong></p> <p >Centro-WMPTA has long believed that Midland Metro extensions will have a significant and beneficial impact on the economy of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region and will act as a catalyst for economic growth.</p> <p >To provide independent confirmation of this Centro-WMPTA commissioned the CEBR to study the economic and social impact of the proposed Metro extensions.</p> <p >It was important to understand how the economic impact of the extensions would be felt in both the areas directly served by the proposed extensions, as well as in other areas of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> because of the regional economic linkages.</p> <p >In their study the CEBR used data about the operation of the proposed extensions, up to date information about traffic flows, population distribution and characteristics in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and published data about the performance of the local economy. </p> <p >The Centre for Economics and Business Research Ltd is an independent consultancy with a reputation for sound business advice based on thorough and insightful research.</p> <p >The CEBR report will be presented to the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority on February 11.</p> <p > </p>"
"Two proposed Midland Metro tram routes in Birmingham and the Black Country could create up to 5,300 sustainable new jobs and boost the region's economy by an extra £178 million a year."
9369
0
12
0
Kids go from online to on board with letzgogreen.org
2008-02-01T00:00:00
2008-02-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Schoolchildren will be able to find out exactly how they can beat climate change and congestion at the click of a mouse, thanks to the launch of a new website.</p> <p >www.letzgogreen.org is a new internet tool created by <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport body Centro-WMPTA which aims to teach kids to be streetwise and use buses, trains and trams, walk or cycle instead of going by car.</p> <p >By logging on youngsters can read interactive stories and comic books with colourful cartoon characters and take part in games and puzzles which teach them how and why to use public transport.</p> <p >The website can be used at home or in schools and includes individual zones for children, teachers and parents. It has been designed to link in to the national curriculum and school travel plans for key stages 1 and 2.</p> <p >It has the only free internet public transport resource centre for teachers in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>, which includes pages that can be used on interactive whiteboards, downloadable lesson plans and worksheets.</p> <p >The website has been developed for children and schools in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton but is suitable for use anywhere in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >Year 5 and 6 pupils at <st1:PlaceName >Meadow</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >View</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >JMI</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >School</st1:PlaceType> in Great Barr, <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> helped officially launch the Website with Centro-WMPTA's Chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> and Chief Executive, <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> said: "Letzgogreen.org is a fantastic way to teach children about using public transport safely and sensibly. It is a fun and interactive website that can be used both in the school and at home.</p> <p >"It teaches children the importance of issues such as climate change, congestion and health and helps raise awareness of the importance of using public transport to the next generation of commuters at an early age."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName> added: "The Letzgogreen website offers pupils, parents and teachers an excellent online centre which provides all the help and information needed for children to make the best use of the region's comprehensive public transport system.</p> <p >"We hope that through the website's fun activities and teaching modules, it will encourage children to build confidence and have an active interest in using public transport that they can develop as they get older."</p> <p >For younger children, the website uses interactive stories and activities to teach them about planning journeys using timetables, buying tickets, and using bus and Metro stops and rail stations.</p> <p >It also explains the environmental benefits of using public transport, and how to behave safely and responsibly when using the bus, train and tram network and while walking or cycling.</p> <p >For key stage 2 pupils, letzgogreen.org encourages them to play an active role as citizens and have a healthy and safe lifestyle through the fun comic books and tasks available.</p> <p >Children are encouraged to examine what is appropriate behaviour while using public transport, look at health and safety provisions which affect a public transport system and roads, and investigate the environmental benefits of using sustainable travel modes.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA developed letzgogreen.org with Resources for Learning, a company that specialises in the development of educational websites by working with teachers.</p> <p >All the classroom information ties in to several aspects of the national curriculum including Numeracy, Literacy, ICT, Geography, Citizenship, Art and Design, and Science.</p> <p >Work is now taking place to extend the website, and it is hoped an area for key stage 3 pupils will be launched later this year.</p>"
"Schoolchildren will be able to find out exactly how they can beat climate change and congestion at the click of a mouse, thanks to the launch of a new website."
9369
0
12
0
Upgraded bus routes offer touch of luxury
2008-01-17T00:00:00
2008-01-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus passengers were this week offered an exciting new era as the most luxurious buses ever seen in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> took to the city streets.</p> <p >The new state-of-the-art vehicles, boasting high-back, soft leather seats, tinted windows, air chill systems and the latest digital CCTV, are the centrepiece of a pioneering partnership between the region's public transport developer Centro-WMPTA and National Express Group's, Travel West Midlands.</p> <p >The partnership will see the latest additions to the fleet operating on three busy routes out of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre – the 934 to Pheasey, the 993 to Streetly and the 997 to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >All three 'Premier' routes are being transformed by a package of improvements to give passengers not only a new high specification but also increased frequencies, better shelters and real time information. The buses themselves will be cleaned several times a day.</p> <p >Passengers will also be able to obtain refunds if the high standards of punctuality committed to in a Customer Charter are not met.</p> <p >Transport Minister the Rt Hon Rosie Winterton MP, was given a taste of the red carpet treatment awaiting passengers when she officially launched the luxury buses outside the prestigious House of Fraser department store in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >Richard Bowker, Chief Executive of National Express commented: "These new 'Premier' vehicles represent an investment of £1.4m and show what we are aspiring to in terms of quality, innovation and passenger comfort. I have no doubt that with these fantastic new buses, we can meet our challenge of getting people out of their cars and attract them onto public transport for the long-term.</p> <p >"We are delighted to be continuing to lead the way with Centro - WMPTA here in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> not only to deliver a first-class bus network, but to continue with our aim of making travel simpler for everyone by playing a major part in providing a quality, sustainable solution to congestion. Our commitment to quality bus services and focus for investment into the fleet will continue throughout 2008."</p> <p >Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro-WMPTA, added: "We are delighted to have worked in partnership with Travel West Midlands to launch these high quality bus routes which aim to give passengers the frequent, safe, clean and accessible services they demand.</p> <p >"We are urging people who commute into the city to work or shop to give these enhanced bus routes a try. We believe the high standards of service can persuade them to take the bus on a regular basis, helping to reduce congestion and carbon emissions."</p> <p >Transport chiefs hope the upgrading of the three routes will increase passenger numbers by at least 10 per cent within the first year.All three of TWM's Premier routes will operate a limited stop, express service along the corridor between Perry Barr and <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> city centre in order to speed up journey times. Frequencies will also be increased.</p> <p >The partnership has also involved Centro – WMPTA replacing 79 shelters along the three routes with modern silver and orange designs. A dedicated cleaning team will make sure damage to shelters from vandalism and graffiti is repaired within 24 hours of notification.</p> <p >From March 2008, Real Time Information will also be provided by electronic displays at bus stops and through text messaging to passengers' mobile phones so they know exactly when their next service will arrive.</p> <p >Chairman of Centro-WMPTA, Cllr Gary Clarke, said: "This partnership shows that by working together we can provide the sort of quality that people demand if they are to make the switch from car to bus.</p> <p >"These Premier services are the latest step towards Centro-WMPTA's vision of a world class public transport system that fully integrates bus, train and Metro services under the Network West Midlands umbrella."</p> <p >The three Premier routes launched today are in addition to three other routes – the No.1 from Acocks Green to Five Ways, the 377 between Walsall and Sutton Coldfield, and the 451 between West Bromwich and Sutton Coldfield, which were similarly upgraded during the autumn as part of the partnership agreement but do not boast leather seat buses.</p> <p >Latest figures show that during December the revamped 377 enjoyed an impressive 10 per cent increase in passenger numbers compared to December 2006 while the No. 1 service saw a rise of 8 per cent.</p>"
Bus passengers were this week offered an exciting new era as the most luxurious buses ever seen in the West Midlands took to the city streets.
9369
0
12
0
Local charity offers free travel passes in ground-breaking deal
2008-01-15T00:00:00
2008-01-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Getting free travel for over 60s in Dudley and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> has never been easier thanks to a new application service being launched by Centro-WMPTA and Age Concern.</p> <p >In a ground-breaking deal, the public transport developer has teamed up with the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s largest charity for older people to provide a Check & Send facility for people wanting to apply for free bus, train and Metro travel.</p> <p >Anyone turning 60 can now walk into one of Age Concern's six Dudley centres or two <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> outlets, and fill in their application for a concessionary pass with the help of trained staff.</p> <p >The charity will then send it back to Centro-WMPTA free of charge where it will be processed. New passes will be sent directly to people's homes within four weeks of them applying.</p> <p >Christine Mills, Wolverhampton councillor and lead member for Customer Services on Centro-WMPTA said: "Concessionary passes often provide a lifeline to older people by helping them to access healthcare, leisure activities, shops and family and friends while boosting public transport use.</p> <p >"This partnership with Age Concern is a great step forward in making it even easier for people to apply.</p> <p >"We will strive to get even more like-minded organisations on board to make Check & Send even more widely available."</p> <p >Age Concern is the latest in a growing number of places to offer the Check & Send service, which took over from main Post Officers on 01 January 2008 as the new way to apply for concessionary travel passes in the West Midlands.</p> <p >The service is already widely available at venues including Neighbourhood Offices in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>, Travel Information Centres across the region, Council One Stop Shops, and community venues. A list is available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p> <p >The Age Concern outlets based in <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> town centre, Netherton, Brierley Hill, Merry Hill, Sedgley, Stourbridge, Bilston and the Age Concern restaurant on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Darlington Street</st1:address></st1:Street> in Wolverhampton City Centre are offering the service.</p> <p >Sally Huband Chief Officer of Age Concern Dudley said "We are pleased to be able to add the Check & Send facility to the range of services we already offer and look forward to welcoming people approaching their 60<sup>th</sup> birthdays to our centres.</p> <p >"People may also be surprised to find a number of other things that may be if use and interest to them at their local Age Concern."</p> <p >People can apply for their pass with proof of age, address and a passport photo up to four weeks before they turn 60 to ensure they can access their free bus, train and Metro travel from their birthday.</p> <p >Everyone who applies will also be sent a national concessionary pass in March which will replace their West Midlands pass on 01 April 2008. From this date it will entitle them to free travel on local buses anywhere in England after 9:30am.</p> <p >They will still be able to use trains and trams in the West Midlands as part of an enhanced deal provided by Centro-WMPTA.</p>"
Getting free travel for over 60s in Dudley and Wolverhampton has never been easier thanks to a new application service being launched by Centro-WMPTA and Age Concern.
9369
0
12
0
End of the road for Halesowen Hopper
2007-12-21T00:00:00
2007-12-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A free shuttle bus introduced to improve accessibility to Halesowen town centre during its redevelopment is to stop running at the end of December when it completes its three month trial.</p> <p >Unfortunately the Halesowen Hopper has failed to attract enough passengers to keep the service running beyond the end of this month.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, Vale Retail and Dudley Council, project partners working together to build a better Halesowen, organised and paid for the circular service to help connect shops with temporary bus stops during the town's regeneration.</p> <p >It was introduced after the partners asked for customers ideas on ways to minimise disruption and make life easier while the work takes place.</p> <p >However, not enough passengers have hopped on board to make the service viable.</p> <p >This is even after the bus was rerouted to stop on Church Croft in a bid to increase its popularity following customer feedback.</p> <p >Clive Whatling, bus services manager at Centro-WMPTA said: ""Due to the very low number of people getting on board the Halesowen Hopper, we and our project partners have sadly had to make the decision to stop the service at the end of its trial.</p> <p >""However, we continue to welcome people's feedback and would be happy to consider any other comments and ideas people may have on making a visit to Halesowen town centre an even easier and more enjoyable experience while the regeneration work takes place.""</p> <p >Adrian Oliver, director of Vale Retail which owns the Cornbow added: ""The Halesowen Hopper was a really good idea brought to us by our customers and we were happy try the service to improve accessibility to the town centre during its redevelopment.</p> <p >""It is a real shame that it lacks the popularity it needs to continue running, but we will strive to continue to minimise disruption for residents and visitors to Halesowen, as we all look forward to the completion of our exciting and vibrant new town centre next winter.""</p>"
A free shuttle bus introduced to improve accessibility to Halesowen town centre during its redevelopment is to stop running at the end of December when it completes its three month trial.
9369
0
12
0
Bus boost for Boxing Day
2007-12-18T00:00:00
2007-12-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the <st1:place ><ST1:PLACE u1:st=""on"">West Midlands</ST1:PLACE></st1:place> wanting to hit the shops for the Christmas sales or visit family on Boxing Day will be able to use the bus for the fifth year running thanks to Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport promoter.</p> <p >A total of 140 bus services across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> will be operating to a special timetable on December 26 – over 10 per cent more than last year. The Midland Metro will run at a 20 minute frequency from 10am – 6pm.</p> <p > It means people will be able to use buses and trams everyday except Christmas Day throughout the festive period. Trains will have a two day scheduled break.</p> <p >Ring & Ride, the charity which provides transport for elderly and disabled people who cannot use conventional public transport, will run every day including Christmas Day when it will pick up registered users who are disabled.</p> <p >Yesterday (Monday Dec 17), in the House of Commons, Centro-WMPTA was praised for ensuring there was a decent level of bus services during the Christmas holidays and calls issued for other areas to follow suit.</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName ><ST1:PERSONNAME u1:st=""on"">Gary Clarke</ST1:PERSONNAME></st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "I am very pleased that thanks to all our hard work over the last five years, and through our partnership with operators, we have been able to keep services running over the festive period.</p> <p >"Figures show that nearly half of people who use public transport at this time of year do so to visit family and friends, which shows how important these services are in bringing people together during the Christmas holidays.</p> <p >"They also play a vital role in improving accessibility to shops and healthcare to the people who need it most."</p> <p >Latest figures released by Centro-WMPTA show that the number of people hopping on board Boxing Day bus services soared by almost 25 per cent last year.</p> <p > For two decades up to 2002, there were no Boxing Day services until Centro-WMPTA decided to pay for vehicles to operate on key routes.</p> <p >So many people used these services that bus companies now operate many of the routes on a commercial basis.</p> <p >These are complimented by other essential bus services still subsidised by Centro-WMPTA to create a more integrated and complete network for Boxing Day.</p> <p >Other areas across the country are now following Centro-WMPTA's example, with<st1:place ><ST1:PLACE u1:st=""on"">West Yorkshire</ST1:PLACE></st1:place>trying out Boxing Day bus services for the first time this year.</p> <p >Details of public transport services over the festive period including Boxing Day timetables can be found at<a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p>"
"People in the West Midlands wanting to hit the shops for the Christmas sales or visit family on Boxing Day will be able to use the bus for the fifth year running thanks to Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport promoter."
9369
0
12
0
Free travel pass is perfect gift for over 60s
2007-12-18T00:00:00
2007-12-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Christmas is not just for the young as Santa proved when he gave senior citizens Nora Connelly and Christina Bailey a special gift – free bus travel across <st1:place ><st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region></st1:place>.</p> <p >Santa presented the ladies, who are both from Castle Vale, with an application form for a new national concessionary travel pass when they visited him in his grotto at the Pallasades shopping centre in <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >The new pass will mean Nora, aged 67 and Christina, 63, will be able to use any local bus in the country for free from April next year.</p> <p >And Santa urged other over 60s in the West Midlands not to miss out on such a great deal by making sure they apply for their <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >National</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Concessionary</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Travel</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Pass</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> from Centro-WMPTA as soon as possible.</p> <p >Santa said: "Being over 1,700 years old myself, I know it can be difficult for senior citizens to get outand about even though I'm lucky enough to have the use of my reindeer and sleigh!</p> <p >"These new travel passes will make it much easier for people to see their family and friends on special occasions such as Christmas. It will also make it simpler to access healthcare or visit the shops.</p> <p >"It really is a great gift for everyone over 60, so please don't forget to apply."</p> <p >Anyone living in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> who already has a free senior citizens travel pass needs to fill out a new form for a national pass.</p> <p >Those who have not received a form through the post can get one by calling 0121 775 0001 and giving their details.</p> <p ><strong>Notes to Editors;</strong></p> <p >Everyone who applies will receive their new Smartcard style pass in March ready for the start of the new scheme on April 1, 2008.</p> <p >All existing passes will then be invalid, so people really need to apply now to make sure they don't miss out.</p> <p >The new national travel pass means over 60s will be able to travel free by bus to towns, cities and attractions outside the West Midlands such as Lichfield, Stratford-upon-Avon or <st1:place >Kidderminster</st1:place>.</p> <p >And, if they go on holiday in <st1:place ><st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region></st1:place>, they will be able to use their pass on the local buses to go sightseeing in that area without having to pay.</p> <p >As an extra present, Centro-WMPTA will continue funding free train and tram travel in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> for all senior citizens who live in the region.</p> <p >For people who have never had a pass before but want to take advantage of free bus travel across <st1:place ><st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region></st1:place>, they should apply at a Check & Send venue, details of which can be found on the Network West Midlands website.</p> <p>The Pallasades Grotto offers an unforgettable journey through <st1:PlaceName >Toadstool</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Village</st1:PlaceType>, Santa's Workshop and the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Reindeer</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>.</p> <p><br /> The Grotto is open until Xmas Eve. Opening hours are, Mon-Sat 10am - 6.30pm/ Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm. Xmas Eve; 10am - 3pm.</p> <p>For group bookings contact the Pallasades team on 0121 643 4035.<br /> <br /> </p> <p> </p>"
Christmas is not just for the young as Santa proved when he gave senior citizens Nora Connelly and Christina Bailey a special gift � free bus travel across England.
9369
0
12
0
All change for Solihull transport
2007-12-04T00:00:00
2007-12-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Solihull today (Thursday December 6) became the final district to have its hundreds of bus stops and its rail stations rebranded 'Network West Midlands' -  the new name for the region's public transport system.</p> <p >The official launch of Network West Midlands in <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> means the huge task of rebranding more than 10,500 bus stops across the region is now virtually complete.</p> <p >Public transport body Centro-WMPTA has spent the last two years and around £7 million installing new-look, easier-to-follow timetables along with the Network West Midlands flag, not only at every bus stop in the West Midlands but also at Metro stops and train stations. Only around 150 bus stop poles still have to be replaced with the more modern, blue and silver designs.</p> <p >  Real time information showing exactly when the next service will arrive is also being provided on digital displays at some bus shelters, key interchanges and rail platforms.</p> <p >Each shelter and stop pole now carries its own customised timetable of route information and a specific text code so passengers can use their phones to obtain the arrival times of their next bus.</p> <p >The project is part of Centro-WMPTA's on-going development of a fully integrated, easier to understand public transport system that can tackle congestion and climate change by attracting people out of their cars.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's Chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, was today joined by the Mayor and Mayoress of Solihull Cllr Gary and Gail Allport in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Mell Square</st1:address></st1:Street> to launch the new Network West Midlands name to <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> passengers.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke said: "The Network West Midlands project is an important step towards achieving the sort of world class public transport system the region deserves and needs if we are to tackle the chronic congestion that is already costing our regional economy more than £2.4 billion a year.</p> <p >"Under the Network West Midlands branding, all the new timetables, signs, maps and tickets carry the distinctive 'n' logo to emphasise they belong to a joined-up network.</p> <p >  "At the same time, the region's bus, train and trams have been given their own colour-coded logos with the aim of integrating them in a transport system similar to those seen in cities like <st1:City >Paris</st1:City> and <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>."</p> <p >The project has involved Centro-WMPTA taking control of all the region's bus stops which had been put up over the years by a host of different bus companies. The various ownership of the stops that previously existed meant only around one in ten provided any timetable or route information.</p> <p> </p>"
Solihull today (Thursday December 6) became the final district to have its hundreds of bus stops and its rail stations rebranded 'Network West Midlands' - the new name for the region's public transport system.
9369
0
12
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Post Office era ends for OAPs free travel pass
2007-12-04T00:00:00
2007-12-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The start of 2008 will mark the end of an era for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> as people turning 60 will no longer be able to apply for their free travel pass at the Post Office.</p> <p >The region's public transport developer, Centro-WMPTA will be providing an improved application service called Check & Send which will take over from the 01 January next year.</p> <p >The facility, which will be available at a wide range of more convenient outlets across the region, means people will no longer have to queue at a main Post Office to get their pass.</p> <p >Nor will they have to worry about filling their form out incorrectly, as trained advisors will be on hand to check every application they receive.</p> <p >All applications will be sent directly to Centro-WMPTA free of charge where they will be processed. New passes will then be sent directly to people's homes within four weeks of them applying.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Assistant Director of Customer Services at Centro-WMPTA explained: "Check & Send provides many benefits for over 60s applying for their new travel pass.</p> <p >"Not only is it available at a wider range of venues, but the photos will be electronically scanned, so if people lose their pass they can simply call us and we will dispatch a new one instead of them having to go through the process of getting new photos and reapplying."</p> <p >Most Check & Send venues will also provide personalised public transport information with journey plans, timetables and advice on using the network.</p> <p >People can go to a Check & Send centre a month before they turn 60 to ensure they have their pass in time for their birthday.</p> <p >Importantly, people who become 60 in January 2008 will need to apply for their pass during December if they want to travel for free from their birthday.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "Free travel passes often provide a lifeline to senior citizens by making it easier for them to access healthcare and shops, and visit family and friends.</p> <p >"By moving the application service to Check & Send centres, applying for one of these key passes has never been more straightforward, giving people a much wider choice of where to apply, with outlets in the heart of communities, and the help and advice they need."</p> <p >Check & Send has already been successfully trialled at a number of outlets across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> including at several council One Stop Shops and community centres.</p> <p >Check & Send is only available to people living in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> about to turn 60 or for people over 60 that have never applied for a concessionary travel pass before.</p> <p >People who already have a West Midlands travel pass but have not received a form to apply for the national concessionary pass should not visit a Check & Send outlet, but should call 0121 775 0001 and give their details. They will then receive an application pack for the new pass.</p>"
The start of 2008 will mark the end of an era for the West Midlands as people turning 60 will no longer be able to apply for their free travel pass at the Post Office.
9369
0
12
0
West Midlands scheme to beat unemployment wins national award
2007-11-29T00:00:00
2007-11-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A highly regarded <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> scheme which has helped over 4,200 of the region's jobseekers back into work has won a major national award.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA came first in the transport category at the Guardian Public Services Awards for its WorkWise initiative, based in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, North Solihull and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >The scheme, which offers jobseekers free travel passes and public transport advice, was recognised for giving unemployed people the confidence and support they need to overcome transport barriers in their bid to get back to work.</p> <p >It fought off competition from two other shortlisted candidates, East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, to win the award, presented by Kirsty Wark.</p> <p >Kate Corr, WorkWise Officer at Steps to Work in Walsall said: "We are delighted that WorkWise has been recognised at these national awards for the vital service and benefits it provides to both individuals, local communities and, more widely, to the region as a whole.</p> <p >"This is demonstrated by the success of the scheme in helping over 4,200 people back into work, and by promoting sustainable transport with over 90 per cent of customers still using public transport 12 months after finding employment."</p> <p >The success of WorkWise, which provides tailored journey plans and public transport information, free day tickets for interviews, and travel passes for up to three months after starting a new job, has seen the initiative grow significantly in recognition and size since it began four years ago.</p> <p >In the last year alone Centro-WMPTA has secured funding to continue the scheme for another three years in <st1:place >North Solihull</st1:place>.</p> <p >And, in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>, WorkWise saw its biggest expansion to date, with an extra eight JobCentre Plus centres offering the service in the city's most deprived wards.</p> <p >It has frequently been used as an example of best practice, including in a guide produced by the former Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.</p> <p >Lateef Huthman, WorkWise Officer for <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> added: "We've had loads of positive feedback from the people who have benefited from WorkWise.</p> <p >"They often see transport as a major barrier in getting back to work, and find that the travel passes and advice they are given makes a real difference, both financially and by increasing their self-assurance in using public transport in all aspects of their lives."</p> <p >Paul Fellows, WorkWise Officer for <st1:place >North Solihull</st1:place> concluded: "WorkWise is a big help to those people who find a job but would otherwise struggle to meet the cost of getting to that job, particularly if they work a month in advance.</p> <p >"The positive effect that the scheme has on individuals, employers and local communities is regularly highlighted to us. Winning this award really is the icing on the cake."</p>"
"A highly regarded West Midlands scheme which has helped over 4,200 of the region's jobseekers back into work has won a major national award."
9369
0
12
0
All aboard for free travel in Coventry
2007-11-28T00:00:00
2007-11-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People turning 60 in <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> will be able to apply for their free travel pass on their doorstep thanks to a revolutionary new application service being launched in the city on 03 December.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport developer, Centro-WMPTA has teamed up with Coventry City Council to launch a new Check & Send facility across the city to make it easier for people to apply.</p> <p >In a <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> first, the service will be available on board the Coventry Direct Express bus, a one stop shop that travels into the heart of the city's communities to give residents help and advice on a wide range of services.</p> <p >People approaching their 60<sup>th</sup> birthday can hop on the bus or visit one of the council's one-stop shops to apply for their free travel pass.  This gives them free use of buses, trains and trams in the West Midlands, and, from 01 April 2008, local buses across <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region> too.</p> <p >Trained advisors will help people fill out their forms and check they are correct, helping to ease the worry of making mistakes and delaying the application.</p> <p >Their form will be sent back to Centro-WMPTA free of charge where it will be processed. A new pass will land on their door mat within four weeks of them applying.</p> <p >Public transport information and advice, including personalised journey plans, timetables and details of ticket ranges will also be available.</p> <p ><st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City>'s two main Post Offices will stop producing travel passes on the 01 January 2008, when Check & Send will completely take over.</p> <p >Cllr Andrew Williams, lead member for <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> for Centro-WMPTA said: "Free travel passes often provide a lifeline to senior citizens by making it easier for them to access healthcare and shops, and visit family and friends.</p> <p >"By moving the application service to Check & Send centres, applying for one of these key passes has never been more straightforward. It gives people a much wider choice of where to apply, taking the service into the heart of communities together with the help and travel advice they need."</p> <p >Cllr Heather Johnson, Coventry City Council's Cabinet Member responsible for customer services said,</p> <p >""Our one-stop shops are about making it easier for people to use the services they want and need, close to home.  Joining forces with Centro-WMPTA will help us improve the range of services available and help make a difference to local people.""</p> <p >An added benefit to Check & Send is that all photos will be electronically scanned. This means if people lose their pass they can simply call Centro-WMPTA and have a replacement sent straight to their home, instead of them having to go through the process of getting new photos and reapplying.</p> <p >The Coventry Direct Express bus will take Check & Send to nine different locations every week - Radford, Holbrook, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Holyhead Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Hillfields, <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Quinton</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>, Wyken, Willenhall, Courthouse Green and Canley.</p> <p >The service will also be available at one-stop shops in Tile Hill Library, Bell Green Library and the Barley Lea, and the Coventry Direct outlet in Stoke Aldermoor.</p> <p >People can go to a Check & Send centre a month before they turn 60 to ensure they have their pass in time for their birthday.</p> <p >Importantly, people who become 60 in January 2008 will need to apply for their pass during December if they want to travel for free from their birthday. People whose 60<sup>th</sup> birthday is during December should still apply at the Post Office.</p>"
People turning 60 in Coventry will be able to apply for their free travel pass on their doorstep thanks to a revolutionary new application service being launched in the city on 03 December.
9369
0
12
0
"All singing, all dancing bus service steps into the limelight"
2007-11-26T00:00:00
2007-11-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >PASSENGERS on one of the region's busiest bus routes were today presented with an all singing, all dancing version of their service.</p> <p >The 451, which runs between Sutton Coldfield and <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> has undergone an exciting transformation that will give passengers an enhanced travel experience with better buses, shelters and real time information.</p> <p >It is the third service to be upgraded as part of a groundbreaking deal between the region's biggest bus company Travel West Midlands and passenger transport body Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >Under the Voluntary Partnership Agreement, passengers on the route will, for the first time, be able to get refunds if the high standards of punctuality committed to by Centro-WMPTA and Travel West Midlands in a Customer Charter are not met.</p> <p >As part of the improvements, buses operating on the 451 route will now be double deck, low floor designs providing more passenger capacity and easy access.</p> <p >Meanwhile, 22 shelters along the route are being replaced by Centro-WMPTA with the remaining 13 undergoing refurbishment.</p> <p >A dedicated cleaning team will make sure damage to shelters from vandalism and graffiti is repaired within 24 hours of notification.</p> <p >From March, Real Time Information will also be provided by electronic displays at bus stops and through text messaging to passenger's mobile phones so they know exactly when their next service will arrive.</p> <p >It is hoped the upgraded route will persuade more drivers to switch from car to bus for their daily commute. The target is to increase passenger numbers by ten per cent within the first 12 months.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus and Highways on Centro-WMPTA and Cllr Roger Horton, who represents Sandwell on the transport authority, teamed up with ballroom dance stars Nathan Cleaver and Katie May from the Broadway Dance Centre in Perry Barr to help the new look 451 step into the limelight.</p> <p >Officially launching the service at the Asda store off <st1:Street ><st1:address >Queslett Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Queslett, Cllr Hunt said: ""These are welcome improvements to this service which is one of six local routes we are enhancing as part of our partnership with Travel West Midlands.</p> <p >""The challenge now is to move forward and ensure everyone gets better bus services.""</p> <p >Cllr Horton added: "This is all about giving passengers the safe, clean, accessible and regular services they demand. The aim is to get more drivers to leave their cars at home so we can cut congestion and carbon emissions.</p> <p >"There will be specially branded buses with digital information blinds and CCTV to make passenger's journeys even safer."</p> <p >Neil Barker, Acting Chief Executive of Travel West Midlands, added:  ""The benefit that working in partnership with Centro and the Local Authorities brings is the power to unlock extra-resources to encourage car drivers to use public transport.</p> <p >"We are very committed as a company to get motorists to use bus services. It is with this aim that we are promoting 'Making Travel Simpler' and the partnership launch we are undertaking today will help do just that.""</p> <p ><strong>Notes to Editors</strong></p> <p>1. If, because of events within Travel West Midlands' control, a passenger's journey is delayed by more than 15 minutes, the company will refund their fare with travel vouchers:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >If the passenger paid a cash fare, TWM will refund travel vouchers to the value of their ticket.</li> <li >If they used a Daysaver ticket, TWM will refund travel vouchers to half of its value</li> <li >IOf they used a weekly Travelcard, TWM will refund an appropriate proportion of its cost – one tenth of a weekly, or one fortieth of a 4-weekly/monthly</li> </ul> <p>TWM will refund the cost of a taxi by cheque when it receives a written claim and receipt:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >If, because of events within Travel West Midlands' control, a passenger is not provided with a bus within 60 minutes of the scheduled departure time</li> <li >If a wheelchair user is unable to travel because a non-accessible bus is used on one of these routes.</li> </ul> <p >Certain causes of delay are wholly outside of Travel West Midland's control. These include severe weather, vandalism and traffic accidents, and refunds will not be available when delays occur in such circumstances.</p> <p> </p>"
"PASSENGERS on one of the region's busiest bus routes were today presented with an all singing, all dancing version of their service."
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0
12
0
Easy Rider rail offer for bike lovers
2007-11-22T00:00:00
2007-11-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bike lovers across the West Midlands are being offered free return travel to <st1:place ><st1:country-region >Britain</st1:country-region></st1:place>'s biggest motorcycle show if they go by train.</p> <p >Some of the world's top names in biking including Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Triumph and Yamaha, will all be premiering their brand new 2008 bikes during the International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the National Exhibition Centre.</p> <p >Now, thanks to an offer from the region's public transport body Centro-WMPTA and the show's organisers, adults visiting the event can get an inclusive return train travel and entrance ticket for just £15. That is the same price as the usual admission fee.</p> <p >Those buying the combined tickets, which are available from any Network West Midlands rail station and valid for use from this Friday (November 23), will also avoid the NEC's £8 car parking charge.</p> <p >This year's International Motorcycle and Scooter Show, which runs from Thursday (November 22) until December 2, boasts a phenomenal range of new bikes all under one roof.</p> <p >With a huge selection of interactive features, there promises to be plenty to keep visitors both young and old occupied.</p> <p >Highlights this year include both Mini-Moto and Karting tracks, outdoor off-road riding at the Off-Road Zone, a live action stunt show at the Thunderdome Games Arena and Harley Davidson test rides at the Harley and Buell Ride Out Zone.</p> <p >Sophia McKain, Marketing Executive at Centro-WMPTA, said:  "It doesn't get much better for bike lovers than the International Motorcycle and Scooter Show. It's a really exciting day out with some amazing bikes on show.</p> <p >"The Centro-WMPTA  rail offer is a fantastic way to get to the show for anyone who was thinking of going by car.</p> <p > "It will enable them to enjoy the show without the hassle and expense of driving and parking."</p> <p >More information about the ticket offer is available in the rail 'offers and promotions' section at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.co.uk/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.co.uk/"">www.networkwestmidlands.co.uk</a></p> <p >For full listings and information about the show log on to <a title=""http://www.motorcycleshow.co.uk/"" href=""http://www.motorcycleshow.co.uk/"">www.motorcycleshow.co.uk</a></p>"
Bike lovers across the West Midlands are being offered free return travel to Britain's biggest motorcycle show if they go by train.
9369
0
12
0
New look transport system for Sandwell
2007-11-14T00:00:00
2007-11-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The mammoth task of rebranding 10,570 bus stops and shelters took a step closer to completion today (Friday November 16) as Sandwell became the latest district to officially launch Network West Midlands – the new name for the region's public transport system.</p> <p >The two-year, £7 million project by passenger transport body Centro-WMPTA involves installing new, easier-to-follow timetables not only at every bus stop but also at Metro stops and train stations. Real time information showing exactly when the next service will arrive is also being providing on digital displays at some bus shelters, key interchanges and rail platforms.</p> <p >All of the region's 5,070 shelters now carry the eye-catching Network West Midlands flag while more than 5,100 stop poles have been replaced with modern, blue and silver designs. The region's remaining 374 stop poles are expected to be replaced by December 31.</p> <p >Each shelter and stop pole carries its own customised timetable with route information and a specific text code so passengers can use their phones to obtain information about their next bus.</p> <p >The project is part of Centro-WMPTA's on-going development of a fully integrated, easier to understand public transport system that can tackle congestion and climate change by attracting people out of their cars.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's Chairman, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, and Chief Executive, Geoff Inskip, were today joined at West Bromwich Bus Station by Warley MP John Spellar, Sandwell's Deputy Mayor, Cllr Margaret James and senior figures from the region's bus, tram and rail companies, to launch the new Network West Midlands name to Sandwell passengers.</p> <p >Mr Inskip said: "There is much work still to be done before we achieve the world class public transport system that the region needs and deserves. However, the completion of the Network West Midlands project will be an important step towards developing the fully integrated, easier to understand system we need to safeguard our future economic prosperity.</p> <p >"Such a system will connect people to where the new jobs are created and help tackle the chronic congestion that is already costing our local economy more than £2.4 billion a year. It will also make it quick and easy for people to get around the region to visit friends and family, go shopping or enjoy a night out."</p> <p >The new timetables, signs, maps and tickets all carry the distinctive 'n' logo to emphasise they belong to a joined-up network. Bus, train and trams are given their own colour-coded logos under the Network West Midlands umbrella which aims to integrate them in a transport system similar to those seen in cities like <st1:City >Paris</st1:City> and <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >The project has seen Centro-WMPTA take control of all the region's bus stops which had been put up over the years by a host of different bus companies. The various ownership of the stops that previously existed meant only around one in ten provided any timetable or route information.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke added: "The roll-out of Network West Midlands has been a major task but it is a cornerstone of our efforts to get more people on to public transport. Better and clearer information about times and connections and simpler ticketing will make is far easier for people to find and make their way around the region by bus, train or tram."</p> <p > </p> <p> </p>"
"The mammoth task of rebranding 10,570 bus stops and shelters took a step closer to completion today (Friday November 16) as Sandwell became the latest district to officially launch Network West Midlands � the new name for the region's public transport system."
9369
0
12
0
New route for town's free shuttle bus
2007-11-08T00:00:00
2007-11-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The free shuttle bus introduced to help people travel around Halesowen town centre during its £30 million redevelopment is to follow a new route from next Monday (12 November).</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, Dudley Council and Vale Retail are jointly funding the Halesowen Hopper, to help connect the town centre shops to the temporary bus stops in place during the regeneration works.</p> <p >It was introduced as a three month trial on October 1 at the request of customers.</p> <p >The three partners, working together to build a better Halesowen, have now decided to run the shuttle bus in an extended loop around the town centre for the rest of the trial so it can pick up and drop off passengers on Church Croft.</p> <p >The decision follows feedback from users who felt a stop on Church Croft, by the Queensway, would be more useful than the existing stop on High Street.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Tom Delaney</st1:PersonName>, Centro-WMPTA's project manager for the Halesowen bus station redevelopment said: "When the route for the Halesowen Hopper was first decided, it could not travel down Church Croft as there was a possibility that the road would be closed for a significant period of time during the highway and bus station works.</p> <p >"The decision has now been made to keep the road open, making it a practical route for the shuttle bus and meaning that we can give customers the new stop on Church Croft that they want."</p> <p >The Halesowen Hopper will now follow a circular route stopping, as it does now, on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Pool Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, then travelling down <st1:Street ><st1:address >Birmingham Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, Rumbow, <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hales Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, onto Church Croft where it will stop at bus Stand B.</p> <p >It will then follow the Queensway where another new stop means that people will be able to get on and off the bus by the multi-storey car park at bus Stand J. It will then turn left back on to <st1:Street ><st1:address >Pool Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The partners hope the change of route will help boost the number of passengers using the service after a disappointing take-up to date.</p> <p >Adrian Oliver, director of Vale Retail which owns the Cornbow said: "The Halesowen Hopper has been brought in to make it easier for people having difficulty accessing the town's shops and bus stops during the redevelopment.</p> <p >"Thanks to the valuable feedback received, the partners are happy to change the Hopper's route to include Church Croft and encourage its use.  It really is a case of use it or lose it."</p> <p >Cllr Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation on Dudley Council said: "We hope this revised shuttle bus route will help make a visit to Halesowen an even easier and more enjoyable experience for customers, particularly in the run up to Christmas.</p> <p >"We'd like to thank local residents and visitors to the town for their patience during these works to build a better Halesowen."</p> <p >The shuttle bus will continue to run from <st1:time Hour=""9"" Minute=""30"">9:30am</st1:time> to <st1:time Hour=""15"" Minute=""30"">3:30pm</st1:time>, Monday to Saturday. For a town centre map where people can hop on and off the Halesowen Hopper, and all the other bus services coming into the town people can visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen</a></p>"
The free shuttle bus introduced to help people travel around Halesowen town centre during its £30 million redevelopment is to follow a new route from next Monday (12 November).
9369
0
12
0
Safety first for Park and Ride
2007-11-02T00:00:00
2007-11-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p ><st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s rail stations are one of the safest places in the country for people to park their car, it was revealed today.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA has been awarded the coveted Safer Parking Park Mark Award at all 53 of its heavy rail Park & Ride car parks due to their low crime and high safety standards.</p> <p >The public transport body is the only organisation in the country to have 100 per cent of its car parks accredited in the nationwide, Government backed scheme.</p> <p >To get the awards, Centro-WMPTA had to show the police that steps had been taken to reduce criminal activity and antisocial behaviour, doing the best it can to prevent crime and reduce the fear of crime.</p> <p >Last year 35 rail station car parks were granted the award, and this year Centro-WMPTA worked to put in a number of additional features at the rest of its car parks to improve their safety.</p> <p >Thanks to the installation of CCTV, help points, better lighting and public address systems, the remaining 18 car parks have now been accredited.</p> <p >These car parks serve 37 rail stations across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "Worries about safety and security, and a fear of crime often create a barrier for people wanting to use public transport.</p> <p >"By being granted the sought-after Safer Parking Park Mark Award for all of our rail station car parks, it helps to give people the reassurance that steps have been taken to keep them and their car as safe as possible. </p> <p >"Park & Ride sites are fundamental in our drive to reduce congestion and carbon emissions and we hope that these awards help to encourage even more people to use these facilities that have already been shown to take 2.75 million journeys off the region's roads every year."</p> <p >Police Constable Dave Jones, crime reduction officer at British Transport Police added: ""This is very good news for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region.</p> <p >""The fact that all of Centro-WMPTA's car parks have achieved Safer Parking accreditation means they are leading the way in promoting safer parking across the country.</p> <p >""By incorporating a range of security measures in each of their car parks to produce a safe parking environment for Park & Ride users, people should feel much more confident in using these facilities, knowing that the risk of crime is relatively low."</p> <p >Vehicle crime accounts for up to 20 per cent of all crimes in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> and it is estimated that 22 per cent of this crime occurs in car parks.</p> <p >And, while Centro-WMPTA have taken many steps to make their car parks as safe as possible, people are also being warned that they have a role to play as well.</p> <p >""It is not just car park operators, but vehicle owners also need to be responsible and take steps in the fight against vehicle crime. Through working together we can keep crime at a low level"" continues PC Jones.</p> <p >""When parking, drivers could help by ensuring that nothing is left on display within the vehicle - particularly Sat Navs, mobile phones, laptops - and even coats and bags. This helps to eliminate temptation for opportunist thieves"".</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA provides over 6,400 free and secure park and ride spaces across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>. These spaces are calculated to take 53,000 journeys off the regions' gridlocked roads every week and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200 tonnes.</p>"
"West Midland's rail stations are one of the safest places in the country for people to park their car, it was revealed today."
9369
0
12
0
Key transport bosses back Secretary of State's bus plans
2007-11-01T00:00:00
2007-11-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bosses at the helm of the transport authorities covering the two biggest conurbations outside <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City> met with the Secretary of State for Transport to offer their continued support on the Local Transport Bill.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Jones and Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairmen of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) and Centro-WMPTA gave Ruth Kelly their backing at GMPTA's annual event in the House of Commons, as her department finalises the Bill.</p> <p >Councillor Clarke said: "Public transport is an issue which affects people's every day lives and the coming year will be an important one in shaping our future transport system.</p> <p >"Our cities need effective and attractive public transport networks and the Local Transport Bill will play a key part in our goal to achieve this by helping to secure improvements to bus services for passengers.</p> <p >"We welcome the Government's recognition of the importance of giving local authorities the tools we need to do the job, and we look forward to working with ministers and our other partners to ensure that the interests of passengers are given the highest priority."</p> <p >Councillor Jones added: "We have been working very closely with the Department for Transport during the bill's progress so far, in order to achieve the best deal for passengers.</p> <p >"The Local Transport Bill offers us the opportunity to get the right levers in place to ensure we deliver a bus network which best serves the needs of all our residents. We need the powers to give local people reliable, affordable bus services that take them where they want to go."</p> <p> </p>"
Bosses at the helm of the transport authorities covering the two biggest conurbations outside London met with the Secretary of State for Transport to offer their continued support on the Local Transport Bill.
9369
0
12
0
Wraps come off new look bus route
2007-10-29T00:00:00
2007-10-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The first of six revamped bus routes giving passengers an enhanced travel experience with better buses, shelters and real time information was unveiled today (Tuesday October 30).</p> <p >The existing 377 route between <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> and Sutton Coldfield is being transformed as part of a groundbreaking deal between the region's biggest bus company Travel West Midlands and passenger transport body Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >  Under the Voluntary Partnership Agreement, passengers on the route will, for the first time, be able to get refunds if the high standards of punctuality committed to by Centro-WMPTA and Travel West Midlands in a Passenger Charter are not met.</p> <p >Eight refurbished, low floor, single deck buses are operating the route with daytime frequency increased from every 20 minutes to every 12 minutes. The buses have taken over from vehicles that were more than 20 years old</p> <p >Meanwhile, 20 shelters along the route have been replaced by Centro-WMPTA with the rest undergoing refurbishment. A dedicated cleaning team will make sure damage to shelters from vandalism and graffiti is repaired with in 24 hours of notification.</p> <p >From March, real time information will also be provided by electronic displays at bus stops and through text messaging to passenger's mobile phones so they know exactly when their next service will arrive.</p> <p >The new-look 377 is the first of six key bus routes through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Walsall and <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> that are being transformed over the next few months as part of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement signed by Centro-WMPTA and Travel West Midlands in July.</p> <p >It is hoped the upgraded routes will persuade more drivers to switch from car to bus for their daily commute. The target is to increase passengers on each route by ten per cent within the first 12 months.       <br /> <br /> Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA, took the wraps off the revamped 377 at a special launch ceremony in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >"This enhanced 377 route is designed to meet passenger demands for more frequent services that are safe, affordable, clean and accessible," he said.</p> <p >"It's all about putting the passenger first and with Centro-WMPTA working in close partnership with Travel West Midlands, we hope to encourage more people to go by bus. That, in turn, will cut the congestion that is already costing our regional economy more than £2 billion a year. I will also help reduce CO2 emissions."</p> <p >Neil Barker, Acting Chief Executive of Travel West Midlands, added:  ""The refurbished vehicles on the upgraded 377 bus route will help us achieve our aim of making travel simpler with low-floor, easy access buses, great for shopping trips to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> and Sutton Coldfield.</p> <p >  "Firstly, the 377 will now operate on a much improved 12 minute daytime frequency and coupled with future real-time information systems, we're sure this will enhance the already growing appeal of bus travel. We've paid close attention to the specification of these vehicles so that they are reliable and comfortable for both existing and potential bus customers.""</p> <p ><strong>Notes to Editors</strong></p> <p>1. If, because of events within Travel West Midlands' control, a passenger's journey is delayed by more than 15 minutes, the company will refund their fare with travel vouchers:</p> <ul> <li>if the passenger paid a cash fare, TWM will refund travel vouchers to the value of their ticket.</li> <li>if they used a Daysaver ticket, TWM will refund travel vouchers to half of its value</li> <li>if they used a weekly Travelcard, TWM will refund an appropriate proportion of its cost – one tenth of a weekly, or one fortieth of a 4-weekly/monthly</li> </ul> <p><strong>TWM will refund the cost of a taxi by cheque when it receives a written claim and receipt:</strong></p> <ul> <li>if, because of events within Travel West Midlands' control, a passenger is not provided with a bus within 60 minutes of the scheduled departure time</li> <li>if a wheelchair user is unable to travel because a non-accessible bus is used on one of these routes.</li> </ul> <p >Certain causes of delay are wholly outside of Travel West Midland's control. These include severe weather, vandalism and traffic accidents, and refunds will not be available when delays occur in such circumstances.</p> <p >2. The five other routes due to be upgraded over the coming months are;   The Number 1  service,   Acocks Green - Moseley - Five Ways; the 451,  Sutton Coldfield - West Bromwich; 934   City centre - Kingstanding - Pheasey – Doe Bank; 993   City centre - Kingstanding – Streetly; 997   City centre - Pheasey - Aldridge - Walsall</p> <p> </p>"
"The first of six revamped bus routes giving passengers an enhanced travel experience with better buses, shelters and real time information was unveiled today (Tuesday October 30)."
9369
0
12
0
Guide offers travel lifeline to the vulnerable
2007-10-29T00:00:00
2007-10-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A guide to train children and other vulnerable people on how to use public transport has been launched by Centro-WMPTA, the region's passenger transport body.</p> <p>The travel training manual provides advice and techniques on how to give children and adults with special needs and the elderly the sort of skills they need to safely use public transport and lead more independent lives.</p> <p>The guide is aimed at teachers, support workers, carers, travel trainers or anyone that has an interest in improving a vulnerable person's independence and quality of life.</p> <p>Cllr Judith Rowley, lead member for diversity and equality at Centro-WMPTA, said there were many individuals with learning, mobility, sensory or mental health difficulties who required support, assistance, mentoring and training in order to travel safely.</p> <p>  "Everyone should have the opportunity to use public transport or other modes of travel because it is an essential part of living an independent life," she said.</p> <p>  "Most people take using public transport for granted but for some people it can be extremely difficult and perhaps even impossible without proper training and support. This guide is designed to show those who work with vulnerable people how to give that training and support."</p> <p>A Government report published earlier this month found that specialist training to help people with learning difficulties use public transport greatly improved their quality of life.</p> <p>  The report identified a number of benefits, including improved confidence, health and life skills and increased independence, integration and travel opportunities.</p> <p>Cllr Rowley added: "Centro-WMPTA is committed to a public transport system that is fully accessible so that vulnerable groups have the same opportunities to travel as everyone else. In many cases, giving vulnerable people the confidence and skills to use public transport can be like throwing them a lifeline."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA commissioned consultants Halcrow Ltd to produce the guide and as part of its development, existing travel training schemes were visited and a workshop held to determine best practice findings and key issues.</p> <p > </p> <p> </p>"
"A guide to train children and other vulnerable people on how to use public transport has been launched by Centro-WMPTA, the region's passenger transport body."
9369
0
12
0
Rail success continues
2007-10-26T00:00:00
2007-10-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p> </p> <p>The impressive increase over the last decade in the number of people using the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail system continued unabated last year, new figures have revealed.</p> <p>The Annual Statistical Report highlighting trends in the region's public transport shows that rail patronage in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> is now 55 per cent higher than ten years ago and grew by a further 6.1 per cent in 2006/7.</p> <p>The last year also saw a marked increase in the number of rail passengers travelling at night with particular growth at Five Ways Station in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>. Analysts at Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport authority, believe this may reflect a growing popularity for rail among people heading for a night out in nearby <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p>Other encouraging findings in the Annual Statistical Report include the best rail punctuality figures since 1999/2000 and a decrease in the number of private car trips into the centres of Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sutton Coldfield and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>. In <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>, 54 per cent of all journeys into the city centre during the morning peak are now made by public transport, compared with only 42 per cent in 1995.</p> <p>Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro-WMPTA, said: "These are encouraging figures and show that we are moving in the right direction. The key to reducing CO2 emissions and to tackling congestion, which is already costing our regional economy more than £2 billion a year, is to encourage a greater number of people to switch from car to more sustainable modes of transport. Developing the Midland Metro tram network and further integration with rail and bus will help us do just that.</p> <p>"But more investment is needed now to ensure we have sustainable economic growth supporting both the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and national economies. In particular we need funding for the rebuilding of New Street Station, the extensions of the Midland Metro tram system through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill and for the reopening of the Camp Hill freight line to passenger services."</p> <p>The rise in rail passengers comes despite an on-going increase in car ownership. The report shows that the percentage of West Midlands households with no car fell from 51 per cent in 1971 to just  34 per cent in 2001 with Department for Transport projections showing only 17 per cent of households having no car by 2035.</p> <p>The Annual Statistical Report also reveals that bus patronage in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> is relatively successful compared to other urban areas covered by Passenger Transport Executives. It reveals that the West Midlands now has the highest bus use per head of population outside of <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p>Meanwhile reliability on the Metro saw a further increase in 2006/07, remaining above 97.1 per cent throughout the year.</p> <p >A new factsheet titled 'Environment' was introduced into this year's report to highlight the effects transport has on the environment. Travel by private car as opposed to public transport emits the greatest level of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) with an average of 170 grams per passenger km, compared with 103 by bus, 75 by light rail and 40 by rail.</p> <p> </p>"
"The impressive increase over the last decade in the number of people using the West Midlands rail system continued unabated last year, new figures have revealed."
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0
12
0
Crackdown on bus vandalism
2007-10-26T00:00:00
2007-10-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p> </p> <p>A high profile operation has been launched by the Safer Travel partnership to combat vandalism on the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> bus network.</p> <p>Criminal damage traditionally increases at this time of year as the clocks go back and the dark nights draw in.</p> <p>But the Safer Travel police team are mounting high visibility patrols at known hotspots and using CCTV cameras on buses and in shelters to help identify and prosecute offenders.</p> <p>The partnership is also visiting schools to warn pupils of the danger and disruption that vandalism causes to the region's bus network. Youngsters will be reminded that anyone caught committing criminal damage could find themselves in court.</p> <p> Inspector Ian Grundy of West Midlands Police, said: "As the dark evenings arrive, so criminal damage starts to increase. That's why we are launching this operation now.</p> <p> "Criminal damage such as throwing stones at buses is not just costly and disruptive it is also dangerous. Offenders should make no mistake that they will be dealt with robustly."</p> <p> Inspector Grundy said criminal damage hotspots to be targeted included Kingstanding, Bordesley, Chelmsley Wood, Frankley and Washwood Heath.</p> <p>Safer Travel is a partnership between West Midlands Police, Birmingham Community Safety Partnership, Travel West Midlands, Birmingham City Council and Centro-WMPTA, the region's passenger transport body. The Partnership works to make bus travel even safer for passengers by deterring crime and anti-social behaviour on and around the network.</p> <p >Birmingham Community Safety Partnership is incorporating the anti-vandal operation into its United Streets of Birmingham campaign which aims to make the city an even safer place to live and work.</p> <p >Activities include high visibility police patrols, environmental clean-ups and anti-social behaviour initiatives. United Streets of Birmingham runs until November 6.</p> <p >Meanwhile, latest figures from Centro-WMPTA show that the percentage of bus shelters having graffiti removed within 24 hours of notification more than doubled last year from 24 per cent to 58 per cent.</p> <p> </p>"
A high profile operation has been launched by the Safer Travel partnership to combat vandalism on the West Midlands bus network.
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0
12
0
Opera deal in tune with the planet
2007-10-23T00:00:00
2007-10-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Opera lovers across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can hit the perfect note for the environment and their wallets if they take the train to one of the biggest operatic events of the year.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, the region's transport authority, has teamed up with the Birmingham Opera Company to offer a £10 discount to those who travel by rail to see La Traviata at the city's National Indoor Arena.</p> <p >The discount is available to anyone who books a ticket in one of the two top price bands for the show which takes to the stage on October 25 and 26.</p> <p >Sophia McKain, Marketing Executive at Centro-WMPTA said: "La Traviata is one of the most ambitious operatic events of the year, with dazzling costumes and stunning sets. It is a must-see show.</p> <p >"Those taking up this offer will be doing their bit to reduce congestion and greenhouse gases by using environmentally friendly transport. It will also save them the hassle of having to drive into town and then find and pay for a parking space."</p> <p >Graham Vick's triumphant production of La Traviata, for the world-famous Arena di Verona, come to the National Indoor Arena with a 240 strong company of Birmingham's finest local talent and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Italian maestro Massimiliano Stefanelli.</p> <p >The timeless story of call girl Violetta is one of passion, money, sex and death. Having clawed her way out of the gutter can she maintain her place in the celebrity fast lane with her health wrecked by excess When young Alfredo offers her an alternative dream of country respectability she grabs it. But the past has a nasty habit of catching up.</p> <p >The £10 discount is available to people from anywhere in the Network West Midlands area covering <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, Wolverhampton, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>.</p> <p >A valid train ticket must be purchased from a rail station in the Network West Midlands area and presented with the theatre ticket to gain admission to the show.</p> <p >To take advantage of the offer, theatre tickets should be booked through the NIA box office on 08700100616 quoting NETWORK.</p> <p >Meanwhile nnetwork and ntrain season ticket holders can also get an extra £2.50 off each ticket if their pass lasts for a duration of four weeks or more.</p> <p >Opera lovers can also take extra advantage of some of Centro-WMPTA's special rail tickets including our Evening Return valid after 6.30pm where adults can travel for £1.50 return and children for just 75p return."</p> <p >Details of the Network West Midlands La Traviata offer, train times and rail ticket offers are available at www.networkwestmidalnds.com</p> <p> </p>"
Opera lovers across the West Midlands can hit the perfect note for the environment and their wallets if they take the train to one of the biggest operatic events of the year.
9369
0
12
0
Cycle lockers drive forward green and lean travel
2007-10-17T00:00:00
2007-10-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Cycle lockers have been installed at four <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> bus stations in a drive to encourage more people to use green and lean travel options.</p> <p >Bus passengers in Wolverhampton, <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, Wednesbury and Bilston can park up their bikes in new enclosed metal lockers provided by public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >They can then catch their bus on to their destination with the confidence of knowing that their bike is safe and secure.</p> <p >It is hoped that the new lockers will help encourage people to convert from four wheels to two in a bid to reduce congestion and carbon emissions in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >People can rent a locker from Centro-WMPTA by paying just £10 a year, as a refundable security deposit.</p> <p >They will then receive their own cycle locker, for use only by them, with a unique key or combination code.</p> <p >Cllr Jon Hunt, Lead Member for Bus & Highways on Centro-WMPTA said: "Cycling is great way of travelling around the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> because it is inexpensive, healthy and environmentally friendly.</p> <p >"However, sometimes it isn't practical to travel all the way to a destination by bike. By providing new cycle lockers at these key <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> bus stations we hope to improve the link between cycling and bus travel, making sustainable transport an even easier option."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA already provides cycle lockers at a number of rail stations in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> as part of its bid to promote walking and cycling in the region.</p> <p >It is a partner in TravelWise, a national travel initiative aimed at getting more people to walk, cycle, work from home or use public transport rather than driving alone by car.</p> <p >The initiative promotes healthy travel options that help to reduce pollution, congestion and dependency on the car, by helping schools and organisations develop a Travel Plan. </p> <p >For more information on hiring a cycle locker people should call Centro-WMPTA customer services on 0121 214 7214, pick up a leaflet from bus station staff or download one at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/lockers"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/lockers</a></p>"
Cycle lockers have been installed at four Black Country bus stations in a drive to encourage more people to use green and lean travel options.
9369
0
12
0
"268,500 senior citizens apply for new national bus pass"
2007-10-09T00:00:00
2007-10-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >More than a quarter of a million over 60s in the West Midlands have returned their applications for a new pass which will give them free off peak travel on any local bus service in England.</p> <p >The region's public transport body Centro-WMPTA today said that over half the 484,000 forms posted out to existing senior citizens pass holders had now been sent back.</p> <p >People's details are now being processed and the new national concessionary travel passes will go into production shortly.</p> <p >They will all be sent out to people's homes in March next year, ready for the new scheme's start date of April 1, 2008.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Centro-WMPTA's Assistant Director of Customer Services said: "We have received a very high number of application's back already and would like to thank all those people who have returned their forms.</p> <p >"For those people that haven't sent their applications back there is still plenty of time. Just complete the form and put it in the post as soon as you can – you will still receive your new pass before April."</p> <p >Existing pass holders that haven't had a form should contact Centro-WMPTA on 0121 775 0001 or go to <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass</a> where they can enter their details online.</p> <p >They will receive their application packs in late October and should try and get them in the post by mid-November if at all possible.</p> <p >Chris added: "We would like to put people's mind at rest if they are worried about the impending postal strikes delaying their application. We will still process every form we receive and make sure you get your new pass in time."</p> <p >At the moment, over 60s living in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can only travel for free within the county's borders.</p> <p >The new scheme means they will be able to visit nearby places outside the region such as Lichfield, <st1:City >Worcester</st1:City> and <st1:place >Stratford-upon-Avon</st1:place> without having to pay.</p> <p >If they go on holiday anywhere in <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region>, like Blackpool or <st1:place >Bournemouth</st1:place>, they will be able to get around for free on the local buses.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA has enhanced the scheme so that people living in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can continue to use their passes on the region's trains and trams.</p> <p >All the existing passes need to be replaced under the new scheme, as they will expire on April 1, 2008.</p>"
More than a quarter of a million over 60s in the West Midlands have returned their applications for a new pass which will give them free off peal travel on any local bus service in England.
9369
0
12
0
Work to start on Halesowen's state-of-the-art bus station
2007-10-09T00:00:00
2007-10-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The redevelopment of Halesowen town centre reaches another major milestone next week as construction begins on the new state-of-the-art bus station and road layout.</p> <p >Vale Retail has finished work on the Cornbow Centre's lower level shop units and has handed back the bus station site to <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> public transport developer, Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >This clears the way to start work on Halesowen's new £3.5 million state-of-the-art bus passenger facility which will provide residents and visitors with an attractive and modern gateway into the redeveloped town.</p> <p >The bus station will include two modern, high-quality passenger waiting areas serving eight bus stands, with electronic doors which open when the bus arrives.</p> <p >Two electronic information displays with up-to-date timetable information will be installed and CCTV with a help point will be provided.</p> <p >There will be an attractive entrance canopy, creating a landmark feature into the Cornbow shopping centre and a spacious paved area will link the bus station to the shops.</p> <p >The whole facility has been designed to allow easy access for all users, and one of the bus stands will serve Ring & Ride minibuses, used by people with limited mobility.</p> <p >Dudley Council will be working alongside Centro-WMPTA to create the town's enhanced road layout including new pedestrian crossings and traffic calming measures.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, Vale Retail and Dudley Council have been working closely together in partnership to build a better Halesowen.</p> <p >The redevelopment, due to be completed for Christmas 2008, will include an Asda store, a new, larger multi-storey car park and extra shop units in the Cornbow Centre which are being taken by Peacocks and Bon Marché and will open this Autumn.</p> <p >These improvements will be complemented by the new state-of-the-art bus station, to be open in line with the rest of the redevelopment, and road layout due to be finished next spring.</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "I am very pleased that work on Halesowen's contemporary, high-tech bus station is about to begin.</p> <p >"It is a milestone in the redevelopment and a vital part of our mission to build a better Halesowen, together with the new Asda and Cornbow shop units, the enhanced road layout and the new car park.</p> <p >"We look forward to seeing all these key components of the project come together to provide the attractive and vibrant town centre that Halesowen needs and deserves."</p> <p >Councillor Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation at Dudley Council, said: "It's really good news that this exciting redevelopment is moving onto its next phase. These works, once completed, will make it easier for people to access and move around our new-look town centre."</p> <p >Adrian Oliver director of Vale Retail and the owner of the Cornbow said: ""Each of the partners carried out extensive research before embarking on these works and it revealed that half of all visitors to the town arrive by public transport so a state-of-the-art bus station isn't a refinement to our £30m development, it's essential.""</p>"
The redevelopment of Halesowen town centre reaches another major milestone next week as construction begins on the new state-of-the-art bus station and road layout.
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Big savings on Grand Designs thanks to exclusive travel deal
2007-10-02T00:00:00
2007-10-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bargain hunters looking for home design deals can save up to £15 at Grand Designs Live this weekend – before they even get there!</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA has teamed up with the shows organisers to offer West Midlands residents up to £8 off the on the door admission price and free return train travel to Birmingham International from anywhere in the West Midlands county.</p> <p >And, without having to pay the £7 car parking charge or petrol costs, people will have up to £15 of extra cash to pick up some bargains from the show.</p> <p >They will be able to relax on the train instead of navigating their way to the NEC, sitting in stressful jams and finding a parking space for their car.</p> <p >They will also be doing their bit in cutting congestion in the region and helping the environment.</p> <p>Grand Designs Live is the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>'s number one consumer show for design and innovation. Based on the hugely successful Channel 4 TV series – presented by design guru Kevin McCloud – Grand Designs Live will inspire you with the latest design ideas for your home.</p> <p>This year there will be loads of new show features and over 450 exhibitors, including appearances from celebrities including Kevin, Sarah Beeny and Jean-Christophe Novelli.</p> <p >Tickets for Grand Designs Live normally cost £18 on the door, but thanks to Centro-WMPTA's offer people can pick up their All-in-One return rail travel and admission ticket for just £12.</p> <p ><strong>n</strong>network or <strong>n</strong>rail season ticket holders (valid for over one week) and Centro concessionary pass holders get a further reduced rate of just £10 for entrance to the show as their tickets already cover them for travel.</p> <p >Children aged between five and 15 pay a £1.50 return train fare and are admitted to Grand Designs Live for free.</p> <p >People can buy their All-in-One ticket from any staffed rail station in the Network West Midlands area – covering <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Season ticket and concessionary pass holders need to produce their pass at a staffed rail station to get their £10 show entrance ticket.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Julia Lameris</st1:PersonName>, Marketing Manager at Centro-WMPTA said: "This joint ticket offer means people across the region can travel to the NEC for free and have a brilliant day out at the show without the hassle of driving and parking.</p> <p >"And thanks to the money saving offer people will be able to pick up even more bargains from the show and look through their purchases on the train on the way home."</p>"
Bargain hunters looking for home design deals can save up to £15 at Grand Designs Live this weekend � before they even get there!
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Residents' views sought on congestion busting scheme
2007-10-02T00:00:00
2007-10-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in <st1:City ><st1:place >Hampton-in-Arden</st1:place></st1:City> are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take 15,000 car journeys off the regions roads every year.</p> <p >West Midlands public transport developer, Centro-WMPTA is looking to extend the existing Park & Ride car park at <st1:City >Hampton</st1:City> in <st1:City ><st1:place >Arden</st1:place></st1:City> rail station off <st1:Street ><st1:address >Meriden Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, nearly doubling the amount of spaces from 67 to 124.</p> <p >As part of the plans the existing parking area will be resurfaced, CCTV will be installed and there will be a new Help Point facility linked into the Network Safety and Security Centre.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA will also upgrade the lighting and install cycle lockers. Security fencing will be erected around the car park and there will be new landscaping.</p> <p >The move comes because the existing car park is regularly full leading to a demand for additional spaces.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA is now seeking residents' views on the proposed car park extension and is holding two exhibitions, with representatives on hand to take people's questions and comments.</p> <p >The Network West Midlands Exhibition Bus will be located at the rear of <st1:City >Hampton</st1:City> in <st1:City ><st1:place >Arden</st1:place></st1:City> station car park on Wednesday October 10 between 2pm and 7pm, and the marquee will be there on Saturday October 13 from 10am until 2pm.</p> <p >Leaflets with an attached questionnaire and prepaid envelope are also being distributed to local residents.</p> <p >Following the public consultation Centro-WMPTA hopes to submit a finalised design based on people's comments for planning permission in spring 2008. If this is granted work could start as soon as next winter.</p> <p >At present Centro-WMPTA provides over 3,000 free and secure park and ride spaces in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and Solihull, with over 6,400 spaces in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> as a whole.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "Park & Ride sites such as the one at <st1:City ><st1:place >Hampton-in-Arden</st1:place></st1:City> station take an estimated 2.75 million journeys off the region's roads every year.</p> <p >"Many of the car parks are near to or at capacity, and that is why we have increased the number of free car parking spaces across the region by over 17 per cent since 2003.</p> <p >"Providing more spaces at the region's stations is fundamental in our drive to cut congestion and reduce carbon emissions in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's Park & Ride spaces are calculated to take over 53,000 journeys off the road per week, saving 66,000 litres of fuel. This is the equivalent to 94 tankers a year.</p> <p> </p>"
"People in Hampton-in-Arden are being asked for their views on plans for a congestion busting scheme which could take 15,000 car journeys off the regions roads every year."
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From stops to shops with Halesowen's free shuttle bus
2007-09-28T00:00:00
2007-09-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A free shuttle bus which will help people to travel around Halesowen town centre during its huge redevelopment is to start a three month trial on Monday October 1.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, Dudley Council and Vale Retail, project partners in the town's £30 million regeneration, have worked together to provide and fund the new service which will be called the Halesowen Hopper.</p> <p >It will link the town centre shops and the temporary bus stops which have been set up while work to build a better Halesowen takes place.</p> <p >The service will run from Monday to Saturday between 9:30am and 3.30pm covering a circular route every ten minutes and will be free of charge for all passengers.</p> <p >It will stop on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Pool Road</st1:address></st1:Street> opposite the leisure centre and on the High Street opposite the church serving both sides of the town centre.</p> <p >Funding has been provided equally by the project partners for the three month trial. If the service is successful and attracts enough passengers, it is hoped that it will carry on until the entire town centre regeneration is complete in autumn next year.</p> <p >The shuttle bus trial has come about after the project partners asked for customers' ideas on how to minimise disruption during Halesowen's redevelopment.</p> <p >It is the latest in a number of measures brought in by the project partners after taking on board people's comments during the town centre's redevelopment.*</p> <p >Adrian Oliver, director of Vale Retail which owns the Cornbow said: "Visitors to Halesowen told us that they were having difficulty accessing parts of the town centre during the redevelopment.  The Halesowen Hopper will make it easier for people to get around town with their shopping as it links the shops with the temporary bus stops."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Tom Delaney</st1:PersonName>, Centro-WMPTA's project manager for the Halesowen redevelopment said: "The Halesowen Hopper will really help to improve accessibility to the shops and bus stops in the town centre, particularly for the elderly, people with limited mobility and those with pushchairs or heavy shopping.</p> <p >"We're very pleased to have been able to continue the successful partnership working with Dudley Council and Vale Retail that has been evident throughout the whole project to build a better Halesowen to allow this shuttle bus trial to take place."</p> <p >Councillor Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation said: ""Dudley Council is very happy to support this initiative.  We hope that it will make a real difference to people as they travel around the town, particularly in the run up to Christmas.""</p>"
A free shuttle bus which will help people to travel around Halesowen town centre during its huge redevelopment is to start a three month trial on Monday October 1.
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Plans submitted for Stourbridge's new bus station
2007-09-28T00:00:00
2007-09-28T00:00:00
9369
"Centro-WMPTA has submitted plans to Dudley Council for Stourbridge's new state-of-the-art bus station. <p >The region's public transport body developed the proposals after taking on board peoples comments and have now put them forward for planning approval.</p> <p >The designs include 11 upgraded bus stands, where passengers can wait in modern, spacious glass shelters with electronic doors that open when the bus arrives helping to give passengers extra protection from the weather.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA plans to put electronic passenger information screens located at strategic points within the bus station telling people when their bus will depart, including Real Time Information where it is available. There will also be CCTV and help points</p> <p >If the proposals are approved there will also be a new passenger facilities building and toilet block right in the heart of the bus station.</p> <p >The existing toilets will be converted into a special facility for bus drivers, which will include toilets and refreshment room.</p> <p >Also included in the plans is a new circular pedestrian access ramp, which has been specifically designed for wheelchair users, and will improve the link from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foster Street East</st1:address></st1:Street> to the bus station and <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Stourbridge</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Town</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> rail station.</p> <p >The open area created by the new ramp will become an attractive public space with seating so that people can relax away from the hustle and bustle of the bus station.</p> <p >The plans also include a new bus layover bay inside the bus station which will complement the two already provided by Dudley Council on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Foster Street East</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >If the plans are approved by the end of November, Centro-WMPTA predicts that work will start during the next financial year.</p> <p >It anticipates that the new bus station will cost £2.5 million to construct.</p> <p >Cllr Marco Longhi, Lead member for Capital Project for Centro-WMPTA said: "We have taken on board people's comments following the public consultation last year and are very pleased to have submitted these exciting plans.</p> <p >"We now look forward to getting approval from Dudley Council so that we can start work as soon as possible on Stourbridge's new bus station which will give visitors to the town an easy-to-use state-of-the-art passenger facility."</p>"
Centro-WMPTA has submitted plans to Dudley Council for Stourbridge's new state-of-the-art bus station.
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New depot boost for Ring and Ride
2007-09-28T00:00:00
2007-09-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's Ring and Ride bus service, which offers a vital lifeline to thousands of people with mobility problems, has been given an important boost with the opening of a new transport depot.</p> <p >The West Midlands Special Needs Transport Charity (WMSNT), which runs Ring and Ride, has taken over and converted a disused warehouse in <st1:Street ><st1:address >Priory Road</st1:address></st1:Street>, Aston. It will provide undercover garaging for up to 45 of the charity's distinctive maroon coloured mini buses.</p> <p >The vehicles are primarily used by WMSNT, to provide transport for special needs pupils at <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Wilson</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Stuart</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >School</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> in Erdington. But thousands of pensioners and others with mobility problems in north <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> will also benefit.</p> <p >When not being used by the school, the mini-buses provide extra trips for Ring and Ride -  a door-to-door service for those who find it difficult or impossible to use conventional public transport.</p> <p >The new depot was officially opened with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, Chief Executive of Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport authority, which part funds the Ring and Ride service. Also there were the charity's Chief Executive, Barry Connor, and its Chairman, Stewart Stacey. </p> <p >Geoff said: "Ring and Ride is an invaluable service for thousands of people with mobility problems, helping them lead more independent lives. Using these mini buses for paid school work helps keep the cost of Ring and Ride to a minimum. We will continue to work closely with WMSNT to look at ways of making Ring and Ride even better value for money.</p> <p >Stewart added:  ""This depot will give us a much better base from which to run many more Ring and Ride trips and so help us keep up with the rapidly growing number of people requiring Ring and Ride services.</p> <p >"It is good to be working with our major funder, Centro-WMPTA, ensuring that we maximise the value of their contribution by using other resources to enhance it. It is a true Best Value partnership between Local Government and the Charity/Voluntary Sector of the kind now encouraged by the Government.""</p> <p>The Ring and Ride service lays on nearly two million trips a year for the charity's 65,000 registered users. It is available from 8am to 11pm, 365 days a year. Users simply phone a special telephone number to arrange and book their journey.</p> <p>The charity also provides a further 250,000 trips a year for children with disabilities, enabling them to travel to and from special schools in the region. The new depot is one of ten around the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> housing the charity's total fleet of 297 mini buses.</p> <p>Set up nearly 20 years ago, WMSNT is now the fourth largest organisation in the world providing transport for people with mobility problems – only <st1:State >New York</st1:State> and <st1:City >Stockholm</st1:City> and <st1:City ><st1:place >Los Angeles</st1:place></st1:City> have bigger operations.</p> <p>It has been held up by the Government as an example of Best Practice and last year it was 'Highly Commended' after being short listed in The 2006 Charity Awards for its service to people with mobility difficulties.</p> <table cellpadding=""0"" width=""555"" border=""0""> <tbody> <tr> <td valign=""top""> <p >To register for Ring and Ride telephone its head office on 0121 333 3107 or log on to its web site at <a title=""http://www.ringandride.org/"" href=""http://www.ringandride.org/"">www.ringandride.org</a>     </p> </td> <td valign=""top""> <p >  </p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>"
"The region's Ring and Ride bus service, which offers a vital lifeline to thousands of people with mobility problems, has been given an important boost with the opening of a new transport depot."
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New helpline launched to ease bus pass worries
2007-09-26T00:00:00
2007-09-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Over 60s in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> applying for a new free national travel pass are being urged not to worry if they can't get through to Centro-WMPTA's helpline.</p> <p >Transport chiefs have reassured senior citizens that they still have plenty of time to apply for one of the new concessionary passes which will entitle them to free off peak bus travel anywhere in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region> from April 2008.</p> <p >Regional public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA has set up a new helpline number operated by a dedicated call centre to answer enquiries after the previous number was inundated with calls.</p> <p >People can now dial 0121 775 0001 between 8am – 10pm Monday to Friday and from 9am to 5pm at weekends with any queries.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Chris Perry</st1:PersonName>, Assistant Director Customer Services at Centro-WMPTA said: "We apologise to those people who have had trouble phoning with enquiries. The lines are extremely busy but people should not worry if they cannot get through at first.</p> <p >"They should try later or even next week as there is still plenty of time to apply or to let us know if they haven't yet received a form. They will still get their new pass in March ready for the start of the national scheme in April."</p> <p >Chris said people could also enter their details at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass</a> where there is additionally a number of Frequently Asked Questions.</p> <p >The new helpline has been launched after 484,000 application packs were sent out to existing <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> pass holders. That led to a flurry of calls to the previous helpline, with some people having difficulty getting through.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA has also given those people who have already received their application forms an extra two weeks to return them in the pre-paid envelope. The deadline is now October 15 instead of September 30.</p> <p >Existing pass holders who have not yet received an application need to phone the new helpline number sometime over the next month. They should be ready with their details including the address from where they first applied for their <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> pass and their pass number.</p> <p >They will receive their application pack towards the end of October and will need to return it by mid-November.</p> <p >Under the new national scheme, the over 60s in the West Midlands will be able to travel free on local bus services anywhere in <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >Within the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> they will also continue to enjoy one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country – receiving free, off-peak travel on the region's trains and trams as well as buses.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s residents aged over 60 who do not hold an existing pass but want one of the new national ones should first apply for a regional pass. The can do this by going to their local post office, neighbourhood office or one of the Check & Send facilities at a number of local authority one stop shops and also at some community centres.</p> <p >They will then receive their pass for use locally, and will get their national pass through the post in March without having to reapply. The same is relevant for people who turn 60 between now and March 31, 2008.</p> <p >Blind and disabled people who hold an existing <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> concessionary pass are also eligible for the new national scheme, but do not need to fill out an application form as Centro-WMPTA already has their details. They will automatically receive their new pass in March.</p>"
Over 60s in the West Midlands applying for a new free national travel pass are being urged not to worry if they can't get through to Centro-WMPTA's helpline.
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All change for Night Bus services in Birmingham city centre
2007-09-07T00:00:00
2007-09-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Night bus services in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> are changing from this weekend, and will now pick at the centre of the city's night life – <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport body is working in partnership with operators Diamond Bus and Central Connect to provide bus services during a Friday and Saturday night.</p> <p >All services will pick up from the bus shelters opposite Old Orleans on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street> - ideal for <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Brindley Place</st1:address></st1:Street> and the Mailbox.</p> <p >The services will operate hourly between 1:05am and 3:15am and be split into three waves, three service numbers leaving at five past the hour, three at ten past the hour, and four at quarter past the hour (details below). Some will also serve the <st1:place >Chinatown</st1:place> area of the city, stopping on Smallbrook Queensway outside the Holiday Inn.</p> <p >The services have been moved to relocate them to parts of the city where there is greater demand due to their popularity for nights out.</p> <p >They are aimed at anyone enjoying the night life of <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and nearby pubs, clubs, restaurants and entertainment complexes such as cinemas.</p> <p >The start date of this Friday night/ Saturday morning (07/08 September 2007) has been agreed to coincide with students starting college, and, later this month, university.</p> <p >The cost of the service is a £2 flat fare for any journey, or a group ticket priced £6 is available for groups of up to four passengers.</p> <p >On Diamond Bus operated services, "Freedom Tickets" (Diamond Buses day/season tickets) can be used. Network <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> tickets cannot be used although concessionary passes will be valid.</p> <p >It is hoped that the initiative will encourage more people to use public transport when both travelling to and getting home from a night out, helping to reduce congestion and playing their part in helping the environment.</p> <p >Information on services is as follows:</p> <table cellspacing=""0"" cellpadding=""0"" border=""1""> <tbody> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >Service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >Time</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Operator</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Stop on Smallbrook Queensway </p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Previous city centre stopping location</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >5N to Yardley Wood via Hall Green & Shirley</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0115/ 0215 / 0315</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Central Connect subsidised by Centro-WMPTA</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Yes</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Colmore Row and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >9N to Quinton & Halesowen</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0105 / 0205 / 0305</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >No</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p ><st1:Street ><st1:address >Colmore Row and Five Ways</st1:address></st1:Street></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >14N to Ward End Chelmsley Wood & Stechford</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0115 / 0215 / 0315</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Yes</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Previously as 914 fromColmore Row</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >16N to Hamstead, Pheasey & Kingstanding</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0115 / 0215 / 0315</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Yes</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Previously as 916 fromColmore Row</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >22N to Harborne & Kitwell</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0105 / 0205 / 0305</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >No</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p ><st1:Street ><st1:address >Colmore Row & Five Ways</st1:address></st1:Street></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >37N to <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place></p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0110 / 0210 / 0310</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >No</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Colmore Row</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >50N to Kings Heath & Maypole</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0115 / 0215 / 0315</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Yes</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >New service,</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >58N to Sheldon & Birmingham International</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0110 / 0210 / 0310</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Central Connect subsidised by Centro-WMPTA</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Yes</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Colmore Row</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >63N to Longbridge via <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bristol Road</st1:address></st1:Street></p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0105 / 0205 / 0305</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >No</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >New service,</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""127""> <p >104N to Erdington & Sutton Coldfield</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""100""> <p >0110 / 0210 / 0310</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""128""> <p >Diamond Bus as a commercial service</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""99""> <p >Yes</p> </td> <td valign=""top"" width=""114""> <p >Colmore Row</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p > </p>"
"Night bus services in Birmingham are changing from this weekend, and will now pick at the centre of the city's night life � Broad Street."
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0
12
0
WorkWise helps drive Walsall jobseekers back into work
2007-09-06T00:00:00
2007-09-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >More than 3,300 free travel passes have been given to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> job seekers as part of a critically acclaimed scheme aimed at getting people back into work.</p> <p >Latest figures show that hundreds of unemployed people across <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> have successfully found jobs after being helped by the WorkWise project led by Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport promoter.</p> <p >The scheme gives up to two months worth of free travel passes to unemployed people starting new jobs.</p> <p >It also provides them with free day passes and tailored journey plans to get them to job interviews.</p> <p >The scheme is a joint initiative between Centro-WMPTA, employment and training charity Steps to Work and Walsall Council. It has been operating since January 2004.</p> <p >It was set up to address employment barriers created by lack of access to, and affordability of, transport for the long term unemployed.</p> <p >WorkWise officers, who provide the passes, also work closely with Jobcentre Plus and other similar organisations in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> to offer the service to their customers.</p> <p >A total of 723 free travel passes have now been issued to help job seekers get to interviews and a further 2,654 monthly passes issued to those starting a new job.</p> <p >According to studies, 69 per cent of people who have received a pass come from the most economically deprived areas of <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>.</p> <p >Research has also shown that  77 per cent of WorkWise users are still in their new jobs after three months and that 94 per cent continue to buy public transport passes after their free period has ended.</p> <p ><st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> councillor, <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "The cost and journey planning associated with getting to interviews or employment can often be a huge barrier for jobseekers, especially if people have to work a month in advance.</p> <p >"I am very pleased that WorkWise has been such a huge success in helping people get back into work in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>."</p> <p >WorkWise officer Kate Corr, added: "The response to the WorkWise scheme in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> has been fantastic as these new figures show for themselves.</p> <p >"We have had loads of positive feedback from users, not only because of the help it has given them in getting to and from an interview or new job, but also because it broadens their travel horizons in general and increases their confidence in using public transport.</p> <p >"All this tells us we are getting results, and for the right people, so it's really good news."</p> <p >People who want to find out more information on WorkWise or if they qualify for a free travel pass, can contact Kate Corr at Steps to Work in Walsall on 01922 627 555 or visit www.networkwestmidlands.com/workwise/walsall</p>"
"More than 3,300 free travel passes have been given to Walsall job seekers as part of a critically acclaimed scheme aimed at getting people back into work."
9369
0
12
0
Free ticket to ride
2007-09-03T00:00:00
2007-09-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Nearly half a million West Midland pensioners are to be asked to apply for new concessionary passes that from next April will give them free local bus travel – anywhere in England.</p> <p >At the moment, those aged 60 and over can get a Centro-WMPTA pass entitling them to free, off-peak travel on buses, trains and Metro trams within the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> county.</p> <p >Existing passes are being replaced by a new, national pass allowing free, off-peak travel on every local bus service in the country.</p> <p >It means that existing holders of the Centro-WMPTA senior citizen passes will have to apply for one of the new National Concessionary Travel Scheme passes if they want to carry on enjoying free, off peak bus travel after April.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midland</st1:place> senior citizens holding the new pass will, as an added benefit, continue to enjoy free off-peak travel on the county's rail and Metro tram services.</p> <p >From this Wednesday (September 5) Centro-WMPTA is sending out an application form for the new pass to every one of the 484,000 existing <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place> senior citizen pass holders.</p> <p >One of those who will get the form through his letterbox is BBC Radio WM presenter Ed Doolan.</p> <p >The award winning presenter and 'People's Champion' has been using his existing Centro-WMPTA concessionary pass for some years now.</p> <p >Ed said: "We've worked hard all our lives and are entitled to these free passes so it's important that we renew them.</p> <p >"These new passes represent such a revolutionary expansion of the existing scheme that it would be a shame to miss out.</p> <p >"I'll be sending my application form off and I suggest everyone else does the same."</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA, said the existing passes were already a lifeline for many older people in the region yet the new, nationwide card would bring even greater freedom to travel.</p> <p >"This is an exciting scheme for many older people because for the first time they will be entitled to free, off-peak bus travel when they visit friends, family or tourist attractions in other parts of the country.</p> <p >"From next April they will also be able to use local buses to get to nearby places like Lichfield, <st1:City >Stratford</st1:City> and <st1:City ><st1:place >Worcester</st1:place></st1:City> without having to pay a fare.</p> <p >"The passes will be valid for free travel on local buses whenever they visit popular seaside destinations like Weston-super-Mare and big cities like <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>. I'd certainly urge everyone over 60 to fill in and send off their application form."</p> <p >The new-style, replacement passes will arrive on people's doormats in March next year and will entitle West Midland holders to free travel after 9.30am on weekdays and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays on buses, trains and Metro services operating within the West Midlands and on local buses in the rest of England from April next year. The passes are not valid for coach services.</p> <p >Existing disabled pass holders will automatically be sent a new national pass next year.</p> <p >More information can be found at www.networkwestmidlands.com/nationalpass</p> <p> </p>"
Nearly half a million West Midland pensioners are to be asked to apply for new concessionary passes that from next April will give them free local bus travel � anywhere in England.
9369
0
12
0
Deal gives passengers high quality bus services
2007-08-22T00:00:00
2007-08-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers will be able to relax in leather seats aboard air chilled, state-of-the-art buses thanks to a groundbreaking deal struck today between public transport developer Centro-WMPTA and the region's biggest operator, Travel West Midlands. <br /> <br /> The Voluntary Partnership Agreement will transform six key bus routes through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Walsall and <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> to give passengers faster, cleaner and more frequent services.  <br /> </p> <p >It is hoped the upgraded routes will persuade more drivers to switch from car to bus for their daily commute.        <br /> <br /> Passengers on the routes will, for the first time, be able to get refunds if the high standards of punctuality committed to by Centro-WMPTA and Travel West Midlands in a Passenger Charter are not met.        <br /> <br />         The six services to be upgraded are:        <br /> <br />       *     1     Acocks Green - Moseley - <st1:Street ><st1:address >Five Ways</st1:address></st1:Street> </p> <p >        *     377   <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> - Sutton Coldfield<br /> <br />         *     451   Sutton Coldfield - <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place><br /> <br />         *     934   City centre - Kingstanding - Pheasey – Doe Bank<br /> <br />         *     993   City centre - Kingstanding - Streetly<br /> <br />         *     997   City centre - Pheasey - Aldridge - <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place><br /> <br />         <br /> Three of the routes, the 934, 993 and 997, will boast 'Premier Line' buses featuring high backed leather seats, air chill systems and tinted windows.        <br /> <br /> Some of the routes will see limited stop services to give passengers a fast express service into <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre while frequencies will also be improved to cut waiting times.        <br /> <br /> Centro-WMPTA will install new, high quality bus shelters at 149 stops along the routes and run a dedicated cleaning team to make sure damage from vandalism and graffiti is repaired within 24 hours of notification.        </p> <p >Geoff Inskip, chief executive of Centro-WMPTA said: "Passengers want more frequent services that are safe, affordable, clean and accessible.        <br /> <br /> "Through this partnership, we will work together to provide high quality services which should enable us to grow patronage.        <br /> <br /> "Both Centro and Travel West Midlands have made significant commitments in the agreement announced today that once implemented should encourage more people to travel by bus and lead to higher customer satisfaction."         <br /> <br /> Richard Bowker, chief executive of the National Express Group, the parent company of Travel West Midlands, added: "We are delighted to work with Centro and Local Government here in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.  <br /> <br /> "One million journeys a day are made by bus. Our challenge, together, is to get as many more people out of cars as we possibly can.        <br /> <br /> "By investing in new buses, new stops, new information systems and better training and cleaning standards, Centro-WMPTA and Travel West Midlands are leading the way in showing buses can play a major part in providing an environmentally sustainable solution to congestion. At Travel West Midlands our aim is to make travel simpler.        <br /> <br /> Transport chiefs at Centro-WMPTA hope the improvements will lead to a ten per cent increase in passenger numbers within 12 months of the new services being launched. The new-look No1, 377 and 451 services will start in October and November with the others taking to the streets in January.        <br /> </p> <p >If successful, it is envisaged that similar Voluntary Partnership Agreements will be put in place on other routes over the next three years.        <br /> <br /> The Voluntary Partnership Agreement, which was signed by Mr Inskip and Mr Bowker at the Travel West Midlands headquarters in Bordesley Green, will see a raft of improvements carried out on the six routes with buses benefiting from an additional daytime litter removal service for buses.        <br /> <br /> Other upgrades include real time information at many of the stops so passengers know exactly when the next bus will arrive and the refurbishment of those shelters that are not replaced by one of  the 149 new structures. CCTV will also be installed at key bus shelter locations to improve security.        <br /> <br /> Chairman of Centro-WMPTA, Cllr Gary Clarke said: "This is all about putting the passenger first. Working together like this will help provide the high quality bus services that will further enhance Network West Midlands – the region's integrated bus, train and Metro system.       <br /> <br /> "This Voluntary Partnership Agreement is another step towards Centro-WMPTA's vision of an efficient, fully integrated and sustainable transport system which is crucial if we are to relieve congestion and safeguard our future economic prosperity and environmental well being."        <br /> <br /> Cllr Clarke said Centro-WMPTA and Travel West Midlands would now work closely with local highway authorities with a view to carrying out road improvement schemes and bus priority measures to improve journey times and reliability.</p>"
"Passengers will be able to relax in leather seats aboard air chilled, state-of-the-art buses thanks to a groundbreaking deal struck today between public transport developer Centro-WMPTA and the region's biggest operator, Travel West Midlands."
9369
0
12
0
Travel passes for classes keep kids green and lean
2007-08-20T00:00:00
2007-08-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Children between the ages of five and 18 going back to school or college in September can take the green and lean option and buy their new weekly and term Network West Midlands travel pass which is now on sale.</p> <p >Regional transport body Centro-WMPTA provides a range of passes, which will help encourage children to use environmentally friendly transport and reduce the number of cars on the school run.</p> <p >The tickets are on sale as the Institute for European Environmental Policy published a report suggesting car exclusion zones around schools to help combat the "twin crises" of global warming and an obesity epidemic.</p> <p >The study also reported that each additional hour spent in a car per day increased the likelihood of obesity by six per cent, adding that banning cars around school would instil good habits early on.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's NWM passes are available at a wide range of outlets and are valid in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >They are valid all day every day and people can choose a one week, four week or Term Extra pass which covers the whole term including holiday periods.</p> <p >The NWM passes include the <strong>n</strong>bus child which can be used on most bus services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> county unlike operators own passes which can only be used on their buses. A combined bus and Metro ticket is also available.</p> <p >Other passes on offer include the <strong>n</strong>train child which can be used on any rail service in the region and to Rugeley Trent Valley and the <strong>n</strong>network child which is valid on all buses, trains and the Metro in the West Midlands and a number of locations beyond*.</p> <p >The range of tickets available mean parents can choose the product best suited to their child's needs, meaning they can take the most direct or time saving route home without having to worry about the additional cost of using transport modes or vehicles by operators which are not covered by other tickets.</p> <p >Students aged 16 – 18 can take advantage of the fantastic Network Child ticket prices if they are in full time education for a minimum of 12 hours a week and did not turn 18 before September 1 2007.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "These tickets offer great value for children's travel in the West Midlands, whether it is to get to school in the morning, home in the evening or to visit family and friends at the weekend.</p> <p >"It is vital that we encourage our next generation of commuters to use sustainable travel early in order to help tackle global warming and congestion both in the West Midlands and nationally. The money savings and health benefits of using public transport are added pluses."</p> <p >To buy tickets or for more information on the range of passes, ticket finder which selects the best ticket for people's needs, prices and other outlets where they can be purchased people can visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p> <p > </p> <p >*For more details of tickets please see the news analysis linked to this release</p>"
Children between the ages of five and 18 going back to school or college in September can take the green and lean option and buy their new weekly and term Network West Midlands travel pass which is now on sale.
9369
0
12
0
North Birmingham community centre offers free travel passes
2007-08-17T00:00:00
2007-08-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Getting free travel for over 60s in North-West Birmingham has never been easier thanks to a new travel pass application service being launched at a local community centre.</p> <p >Regional transport developer Centro-WMPTA has teamed up with the Sikh Community & Youth Service <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Soho Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Handsworth to of fer a free check and send service to help senior citizens apply for their complimentary bus, rail and Metro pass.</p> <p >It means that anyone over the age of 60 can walk into the centre, which is open Monday to Friday between 10:00am and 5:30pm, and fill in their application for free travel with the help of trained staff.</p> <p >Their form will then be sent to Centro-WMPTA to be processed at no cost and a new plastic travel pass will land on their doormat within ten working days.</p> <p >The community centre will also offer a range of information to help people plan their journeys on the bus, train and tram network – letting them know the best way to get from A to B.</p> <p >It is the latest of a growing number of places where people can apply for their concessionary travel passes with help and advice across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >Previously the passes could only be obtained through main post offices and without the reassurance of having the application properly checked.</p> <p >Cllr Christine Mills, lead member for customer relations on Centro-WMPTA said: "Free travel passes are really important for senior citizens in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, helping them to visit family and friends, go shopping or access healthcare. They make a real difference to people's lives.</p> <p >"I am very pleased that this partnership with the Sikh Community & Youth Service <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> has further extended the number of places where people can apply for these valuable passes with trained help if people need it."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA offers one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country, providing free regional travel for the over 60s on the bus, rail and Metro after 9:30am.</p> <p >The passes cover <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >And, from April next year senior citizens will be able to get a travel pass that also allows them to travel for free on local bus services across <st1:country-region ><st1:place >England</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >Mr Dal Singh Dhesy, Chairman of Sikh Community & Youth Service <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region> added: "Our aim is to support and advise our customers on a wide range of subjects, and information on public transport and tickets is something of great interest and importance to them.</p> <p >"We are delighted to have teamed up with Centro-WMPTA to add the check & send facility for free travel passes and travel advice to the list of services we offer to visitors to the centre."</p> <p >Check and send is also available at other locations across <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Solihull, Sandwell, Walsall and <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place> with Centro-WMPTA hoping to offer the service at even more locations in the near future.</p>"
Getting free travel for over 60s in North-West Birmingham has never been easier thanks to a new travel pass application service being launched at a local community centre.
9369
0
12
0
Rail and theatre offer is purr-fect way to save money
2007-08-09T00:00:00
2007-08-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Theatre-goers in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> looking for the purr-fect way to save money can do just that if they travel to see celebrated musical CATS by train.</p> <p >The region's public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA has teamed up with the Birmingham Hippodrome to offer people £5 off the top three ticket prices to the show if they travel to the theatre by rail.</p> <p >And, those who take up the offer will be feline extra fine knowing that they are doing their bit to reduce congestion and greenhouse gases by using environmentally friendly transport.</p> <p >Andrew Lloyd Webber's CATS is one of the world's best loved and longest running musicals, with its memorable music and set designs, extraordinary costumes and stunning choreography.</p> <p >It is based on T.S. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats' and focuses on the Jellicle Ball when all Jellicle cats meet to see who will be selected by their leader, Old Deuteronomy, to be reborn in the Heaviside layer into a whole new Jellicle life.</p> <p >CATS is visiting the Birmingham Hippodrome between 14 August and 8 September as part of its <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> tour.</p> <p >People from anywhere in the Network West Midlands area covering Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Birmingham and Solihull, can take advantage of the offer which is valid on tickets for Monday to Wednesday performances.</p> <p ><strong>n</strong>network and <strong>n</strong>train season ticket holders can get an extra £2.50 off each ticket if their pass lasts for a duration of four weeks or more.</p> <p >To take advantage of the offer, theatre tickets should be booked at the Birmingham Hippodrome box office on 0870 730 1234 quoting 'network'.</p> <p >A valid train ticket must be purchased from a rail station in the Network West Midlands area and presented with the theatre ticket to gain admission to the show.</p> <p >Sophia McKain, Marketing Executive at Centro-WMPTA said: "CATS is a musical which is adored by adults and children worldwide.</p> <p >"This exclusive offer for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> means people can have a stress-free evening without worrying about driving into the city centre and finding and paying for parking while saving money.</p> <p >"They can even take extra advantage of some of Centro-WMPTA's special rail tickets including our Evening Return valid after 6.30pm where adults can travel for £1.50 return and children for just 75p return."</p> <p >Details of the Network West Midlands CATS offer, train times and rail ticket offers are available at www.networkwestmidalnds.com</p>"
Theatre-goers in the West Midlands looking for the purr-fect way to save money can do just that if they travel to see celebrated musical CATS by train.
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0
12
0
New shelters to provide ray of sunshine for Coventry's bus users
2007-07-25T00:00:00
2007-07-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus users in <st1:place >North-East Coventry</st1:place> are to get new state-of-the-art stopping facilities as part of a series of bus route improvements.</p> <p >Councillors on regional transport body Centro-WMPTA have approved £35,000 of funding to install seven new bus shelters and six new stop poles in the <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Woodway</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and Potters Green area of the city.</p> <p >It means that even if this summer's wet weather is a sign of things to come, bus passengers don't need to have dampened spirits as they will be able to wait for the bus in comfort, protected from the weather, when the new shelters are put in.</p> <p >The upgraded facilities are part of the Potters Green - Woodway Lane Showcase Spur, which will also include highways improvements by Coventry City Council.</p> <p >These will provide easy access kerbs to make boarding the bus easier, and junction improvements including road widening and new traffic signals at the crossroads of <st1:Street ><st1:address >Woodway Lane</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Ansty Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The Showcase Spur will also link up the two key PrimeLines routes on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Henley Road</st1:address></st1:Street> and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Ansty Road</st1:address></st1:Street> – all part of a much wider project to provide improvements to bus facilities throughout <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City>.</p> <p >The new shelters will be able to house Real Time Information displays telling passengers exactly how many minutes until their next bus will arrive. These will be installed when all the Coventry PrimeLines shelters are in place.</p> <p >Cllr Andrew Williams, Lead Member for <st1:City ><st1:place >Coventry</st1:place></st1:City> on Centro-WMPTA said: "As a bus user myself I know that the quality of bus shelters and stops is very important to passengers and in Centro-WMPTA's campaign to make public transport more attractive in a bid to help cut congestion.</p> <p >"The upgrades to the Potters Green – Woodway Lane Showcase Spur will provide a more comfortable wait with better information and access to bus services for local residents and visitors to the area."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA predicts that the shelters will start being installed in December, with a completion date of spring next year.</p>"
Bus users in North-East Coventry are to get new state-of-the-art stopping facilities as part of a series of bus route improvements.
9369
0
12
0
Government funding for New Street revamp welcomed
2007-07-24T00:00:00
2007-07-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's public transport developer Centro-WMPTA and key partners in the project to redevelop <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station today welcomed the Department for Transport's (DfT) decision to give the green light to Network Rail's £128 million contribution to the crucial scheme.</p> <p >The New Street Gateway plan will see the 1960s built station undergo a dramatic redevelopment, transforming the dark, crowded underground station into a bright, modern 21<sup>st</sup> Century transport hub for the entire region.</p> <p >The work is expected to more than double passenger and train handling capacity, relieve congestion and be a catalyst for creating more than 5,000 jobs. Linked to the project would be the redevelopment of the surrounding area which would include the installation of better pedestrian connections right across the city centre.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "The region's rail network carries 33 million passengers a year, and is also the hub of the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> network. It is vital to both the regional, and <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> economy. It is essential that <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> is transformed and we support the Government's decision to back Gateway in its High Level Output Statement"</p> <p >In total the New Street Steering Committee has bid for £350 million in public money to fund the redevelopment, which once secured should unlock a further £200 million in private sector investment for the scheme.</p> <p >Cllr Whitby, Chairman of the New Street Gateway Steering Committee, urged the Government to make a swift decision on the outstanding applications for funding to allow the £550 million project to go ahead, saying:</p> <p >"The proposed redevelopment of New Street Station is one of the key elements in our plans for a £10 billion total transformation of the city centre over the next 10 years, as outlined in the Masterplan.</p> <p >"The scheme is essential for <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> to maintain and develop its hard won international status and future as a vibrant 21<sup>st</sup> century city.  We now look forward to further Government commitments which will enable the city council and the steering group to push ahead their ambitious plans. In order the deliver the scheme it is essential that all the funding is secured, as quickly as possible."</p> <p >John Edwards, Chief Executive of Advantage West Midlands, added: "The future prosperity of the West Midlands rests on <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> having a station which creates the right first impression for the region.  We have assessed plans for <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and the Gateway scheme offers the best solution to unlock the regional economy and drive growth still further.  We welcome the announcement of this first tranche of funding."</p> <p >Martin Chambers, Programme Director for <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> at Network Rail, added: "Every year more people use <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station than Gatwick – equating to twice as many as originally planned.  Network Rail has made redeveloping New Street station a top priority in our plans for the national rail network, and we welcome the Government's commitment to this vital project. The Gateway scheme will unlock growth at <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and offer passengers the kind of facilities they deserve."</p> <p ><strong>Link to DfT news release below:</strong></p>"
The region's public transport developer Centro-WMPTA and key partners in the project to redevelop New Street station today welcomed the Department for Transport's (DfT) decision to give the green light to Network Rail's £128 million contribution to the crucial scheme.
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0
12
0
Metro improvements will help commuters and football fans keep their cool
2007-07-24T00:00:00
2007-07-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Football fans and commuters using the Midland Metro in <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place> are to benefit from £440,000 worth of space making platform improvements.</p> <p >Councillors on regional transport body Centro-WMPTA have approved funding for upgrades to The Hawthorns and West Bromwich Central Metro stops which will give passengers more room during busy periods.</p> <p >West Bromwich Central, which is the busiest intermediate stop on the Metro line due to its close proximity to the town centre and bus station, is to benefit from a widened platform on the town centre side.</p> <p >This will complement the accessibility provided by the new stepped walkway which has recently been constructed by Centro-WMPTA to improve direct links with the town centre and the bus station.</p> <p >At the Hawthorns Metro stop the plans include widening the access path between the station entrance and Halfords lane and installing new turnstiles and security fencing.</p> <p >These improvements will help to ease the pedestrian flow for the additional 500 – 700 passengers that use the stop on around 30 match days a year.</p> <p >The turnstiles will also be able to accept 'smartcards' as they are rolled out in the West Midlands over the next few years, and there are also plans to create special West Bromwich season and advance tickets with an integrated 'smart' Metro pass.</p> <p >Cllr Marco Longhi, Lead member for Projects and Capital Programme said: "These essential works will not only improve accessibility to the Metro platforms and trams, but passengers will also have more room while they wait to board the tram and this will help them to feel safer and more secure."</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, Lead Member for Rail and Metro Operations added: "As a life-long Baggies fan and a frequent user of the Metro in Sandwell I know how crowded the platforms at these two stops can get during busy periods such as match days and the morning and afternoon peak.</p> <p >"These improvements will really enhance the waiting environment for passengers, helping to improve their journey whether it is to football matches, the shops or work."</p> <p >The improvements will also mean that conductors will find it easier to collect fares and record Metro patronage during busy times.</p> <p >The work on both platforms has been granted planning permission by Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and is due for completion in January next year.</p>"
"Football fans and commuters using the Midland Metro in West Bromwich are to benefit from £440,000 worth of space making platform improvements."
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0
12
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All-In-One tickets help cure summertime blues
2007-07-20T00:00:00
2007-07-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Parents struggling to keep their youngsters entertained this rain-soaked summer are being offered a lifeline by Centro-WMPTA – the region's public transport developer.</p> <p >With the school summer holidays now under way, Centro-WMPTA is offering families free train travel and reduced admission prices to some of the region's top attractions.</p> <p >Not only will parents be able to help youngsters banish the summer time blues they can also cut the cost of their day out and their carbon footprint – helping the fight against climate change.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's 'All-In-One' rail and admission offers are available for many of  best tourist destinations in the Midlands including Cadbury World, the National Sea Life centre, Black Country Museum, Warwick Castle and Thinktank and IMAX at Millennium Point.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's marketing executive Sophia McKain said: ""All these attractions are within easy walking distance of rail stations so going by train is not only quick and environmentally friendly, it saves families from the stress, hassle and parking costs of driving.</p> <p >"Our 'All in One' tickets' offer fantastic value and are a great way for parents and grandparents to stop youngsters getting bored over the long summer break."</p> <p > 'All-In-One' ticket can mean substantial savings for families. For example, using one of the tickets for the National Sea Life Centre, not only gives free return train travel but cuts the entry cost from £13.50 to £11 for adults, from £9.50 to £8 for children and from £11.50 for senior citizens to just £7.50 for those with a concessionary travel pass.</p> <p >The tickets are available from local rail stations in the Network West Midlands area. Simply ask for an 'All-In-One' ticket to the relevant attraction.</p> <p >Full details of the 'All in One' tickets and of the attractions are also listed in the Network West Midlands 'Travelling for Leisure' guide which is available at the region's rail and bus stations and at travel information centres. </p> <p > Details of train times can be found by calling Traveline on 08712002233 or log onto <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands/"">www.networkwestmidlands</a></p> <p > </p>"
Parents struggling to keep their youngsters entertained this rain-soaked summer are being offered a lifeline by Centro-WMPTA � the region's public transport developer.
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0
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All aboard for NWM ticket holders on new Cross-Country franchise
2007-07-19T00:00:00
2007-07-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Regional rail passengers will still be able to use their Network West Midlands tickets on Cross Country train services when Arriva takes over the franchise from Virgin in November.</p> <p >Regional transport body Centro-WMPTA has welcomed the news from the Department for Transport, after it had been feared that the eventual winner of the franchise might refuse to accept Network West Midlands tickets.</p> <p >It means that holders of valid Network West Midlands passes, including the popular <strong>n</strong>network and <strong>n</strong>train season tickets, can still use their tickets on all train operators' services in the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA had originally expressed concerns, earlier this year, to the Department for Transport and the train companies bidding to run the Cross Country franchise, about the possibility of the tickets not being accepted.</p> <p >It was feared that if the new operator of Cross Country had refused to accept Network West Midlands tickets then local rail passengers would get confused about which services their passes were valid on.</p> <p >Non-acceptance of the tickets would also have been at odds with the integrated rail, bus and metro system that Centro-WMPTA has been working to provide in the region through its Network West Midlands initiative.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "We are extremely pleased that the Department for Transport and Arriva have taken note of our comments and that the new operator is happy to accept Network West Midlands tickets on Cross Country trains.</p> <p >"We also welcome Arriva's commitment to introduce 40 additional carriages and provide a 35 per cent increase in seating capacity on key services during the evening peak period by June 2009.</p> <p >"This will play a key part in helping us achieve our aim of providing the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> with a World Class public transport system."</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, Centro-WMPTA lead member for Rail and Metro Operations added: "The new Cross Country franchise will continue to play an important role in the West Midlands travel to work area linking <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Wolverhampton, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Leamington Spa, Stafford, Tamworth and <st1:place >Nuneaton</st1:place>.</p> <p >"The continued acceptance of <strong>n</strong>network and <strong>n</strong>train season ticket products will greatly assist the integration of local public transport under the Network West Midlands banner."</p>"
Regional rail passengers will still be able to use their Network West Midlands tickets on Cross Country train services when Arriva takes over the franchise from Virgin in November.
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0
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0
Jam busting Real Time Information project goes full circle
2007-07-18T00:00:00
2007-07-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers travelling on <st1:place >Europe</st1:place>'s longest bus route will no longer have to wonder when their next bus will arrive thanks to the completion of a £2.5m jam busting project.</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA and bus operator Travel West Midlands have been working together to provide Real Time Information on the 43km Outer Circle bus route (service 11), which could help to take 2000 car journeys off the regions roads every day.</p> <p >The satellite and digital technology works by tracking up to forty Travel West Midlands number 11 buses every 30 seconds pinpointing their exact location on the route.</p> <p >This is then relayed to electronic displays in more than 150 bus shelters, telling waiting passengers exactly how many minutes until the next three buses will arrive.</p> <p >And, at key interchanges across the region such as shopping centres, there are large, centrally located free-standing displays which show the arrival times of the next nine buses.</p> <p >People can also get the information directly to their mobile phone, PDA or BlackBerry by text message (Textime) or WAP (.Mobitime) technology.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "I am delighted that this project to provide Real Time Information on this key bus route is complete.</p> <p >"The <st1:Street ><st1:address >Outer Circle</st1:address></st1:Street> is a lifeline for many people - connecting local shopping centres, healthcare, leisure and education facilities with residential areas along its 43km route.</p> <p >"Thanks to this new technology passengers will know exactly when their bus will arrive, which will not only make passengers feel more confident in using the bus but has also been proven to make them feel safer."</p> <p >Neil Barker, Acting Chief Executive of Travel West Midlands added: We are very keen to see this partnership work for our customers and the people of <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>. This is a major scheme that can help support the position of reliable and punctual bus services. We are keen to make travel simpler for all our customers and this partnership project fits well into this strategy."</p> <p >The Real Time Information is a key part of the wider £25m Outer Circle Bus Showcase project which has seen brand new low floor buses from Travel West Midlands and enhancements to the routes 320 stops and shelters by Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >Interchanges with other bus services and rail and Metro have also been improved, CCTV has been put in and highways works including bus priority measures and new pedestrian crossing facilities also form part of the project.</p> <p >The Department for Transport estimated that the Outer Circle Bus Showcase scheme is likely to attract up to 2000 trips per day which were previously made by car.</p>"
Passengers travelling on Europe's longest bus route will no longer have to wonder when their next bus will arrive thanks to the completion of a £2.5m jam busting project.
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0
12
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Peoples views sought on new look bus and rail interchange for Marston Green
2007-07-03T00:00:00
2007-07-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People are being asked for their views on a new congestion busting rail and bus interchange for Marston Green.</p> <p >Regional transport developer Centro-WMPTA is working together with Solihull Council on plans to provide a range of improvements for bus and rail passengers around Marston Green rail station.</p> <p >This will include increased and improved car parking facilities, new bus shelters and a bus layover bay, pedestrian crossing facilities, new landscaping, CCTV, Help Points and new lighting.</p> <p >The plans include the refurbishment of the car park for <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Sheldon</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Country</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Park</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> off <st1:Street ><st1:address >Elmdon Lane</st1:address></st1:Street>, which will be resurfaced, repainted and covered by CCTV, providing 61 spaces which will be available to visitors to the Park and rail users free of charge.</p> <p >The car park will provide much needed extra capacity for Park & Ride at the station as the existing car park, which contains 96 spaces, often fills up early in the morning on a week day.</p> <p >Representatives from Centro-WMPTA and Solihull Council are holding two exhibition days on Saturday 7 July from 10am – 2pm and on Thursday 12 July from 2pm – 7pm for people to come and give their views.</p> <p >They will take place in the Centro-WMPTA marquee which will be located in front of Marston green rail station by the bus interchange on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Station Road</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >A leaflet has also been distributed to 45,000 local homes detailing the proposals and containing a freepost questionnaire for people to fill in, and is also available at key places such as libraries, Marston Green rail station and Travel Information Centres.</p> <p >Posters will be displayed on buses, in bus shelters, and in shops in the surrounding area.</p> <p >People can also visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/marstongreen"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/marstongreen</a> to air their views.</p> <p >People's views are required by no later than Friday 10 August. If the consultation is successful then these views will be taken into account, with a hope to submit a planning application this autumn.</p> <p >If planning permission is granted work could start in Summer 2008 and completed approximately five months later.</p>"
People are being asked for their views on a new congestion busting rail and bus interchange for Marston Green.
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0
12
0
All that jazz - without the blues of jams
2007-07-02T00:00:00
2007-07-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the West Midlands travelling into <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> for the city's annual Jazz Festival are being urged to avoid the blues of traffic jams and jump on the train instead.</p> <p >Public transport promoter, Centro-WMPTA is suggesting that visitors to the event avoid the hassles of driving and parking in the city centre by using the regions rail network.</p> <p >And, to help people get into the jazz mood, Centro-WMPTA has arranged for the Jazz Ramblers to play at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> station and on board local rail services this Saturday (7 July).</p> <p >For over 10 jazz-packed summer days from 6<sup>th</sup> – 15<sup>th</sup> July Birmingham will become Jazz City UK, with more jazz per square metre than New Orleans, attracting visitors from all over the UK and musicians from all over the world.</p> <p >Launching the festival and playing six free shows across the city is legendary saxophone player U.S. Herb Geller, while other names to look out for include New Yorker Carol Sudhalter and Jerry Senfluk from the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Czech Republic</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >And, the UK's leading saxophone players Alan Barnes, Alex Garnett and Art Themen will also be joining the party, as well as the Midlands own Mike Burney and Steve Ajao.</p> <p >People wanting to travel into <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> for the event can make use of any one of over 40 free Park & Ride car parks at rail and Metro stations across the region.</p> <p >Residents and visitors can then get around <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> city centre on the free Station<i>link</i> bus service which travels between <st1:Street ><st1:address >New Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Moor Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and Snow Hill stations and Digbeth Coach Station every 8 minutes.</p> <p >And, if you are a <strong>n</strong>network or <strong>n</strong>train season ticket holder, one adult and up to two children can accompany you on off-peak return train journeys for only £1 per adult and 50p per child anywhere in the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Julia Lameris</st1:PersonName>, Centro-WMPTA's marketing manager, said: "The Birmingham Jazz Festival is getting bigger and better every year and we are delighted to have been able to offer rail passengers their own performance by the Jazz Ramblers.</p> <p >"We hope this will encourage more people to travel into the city by train, so they can relax and enjoy their day without worrying about driving and parking and doing their bit for the environment and the regions congested roads too."</p>"
People in the West Midlands travelling into Birmingham for the city's annual Jazz Festival are being urged to avoid the blues of traffic jams and jump on the train instead.
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0
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Rail ticket Producers get special theatre deal
2007-06-29T00:00:00
2007-06-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can get a special discount on theatre tickets to the Producers musical, if they travel to the show by rail.</p> <p >Public transport promoter, Centro-WMPTA has got together with the Birmingham Hippodrome to offer a £10 discount on tickets to the critically acclaimed comedy-musical by Mel Brooks.</p> <p >It means people from <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Solihull and the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> can make great savings and avoid the hassles of driving and parking when they go to see the show.</p> <p >The Producers follows the story of down-on-his-luck theatrical producer Max Bialystock (Cory English) and his hapless accountant Leo Bloom (Joe Pasquale).</p> <p >Together they hatch the ultimate theatrical scam, to raise more money than they need to produce a sure-fire Broadway disaster with Roger Debris (Russ Abbot), the worst director in <st1:State ><st1:place >New York</st1:place></st1:State>, and then pocket the left-over cash when the show flops. But does their scam go to plan </p> <p >People can take advantage of The Producers offer by travelling by train to the theatre from any staffed station in the Network West Midlands area for Monday and Tuesday performances.</p> <p >All people wishing to take advantage of the offer have to do is book their tickets (in the top three price bands) by calling 0870 730 1234 and quoting "network".</p> <p >They must then present their valid rail and theatre ticket to gain admission to the show.</p> <p >Further information on rail deals can be found at www.networkwestmidlands.com</p> <p> </p>"
"People in the West Midlands can get a special discount on theatre tickets to the Producers musical, if they travel to the show by rail."
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0
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Eye-catching tram hits the tracks after Metro makeover
2007-06-28T00:00:00
2007-06-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An eye-catching newly painted tram is showing its new colours by taking the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> new name for public transport on to the Metro lines.</p> <p >Public transport body Centro-WMPTA has decorated the Midland Metro tram with a striking silver and magenta design promoting Network West Midlands, which symbolises an integrated transport system for the region.</p> <p >The prominent vehicle joins two buses and six trains which also carry a new promotional Network West Midlands livery, and a second tram is due to be painted ready to hit the tracks in the autumn.</p> <p >The tram, which has also had an interior makeover including new seats, will run in full service along the Metro lines between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for rail and Metro operations for Centro-WMPTA said: "The new Network West Midlands branding is becoming more and more visible across the region as it is rolled out on to our multi-modal public transport network.</p> <p >"The new striking livery applied to this tram perfectly ties in with the recently painted buses and trains, and all the Network West Midlands branding shown at bus, train and Metro stops and stations which provides an easy-to-use integrated public transport system   for residents and visitors to the region."</p>"
An eye-catching newly painted tram is showing its new colours by taking the West Midlands new name for public transport on to the Metro lines.
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Chairman re-elected to spearhead public transport improvements
2007-06-27T00:00:00
2007-06-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Councillor Gary Clarke has been chosen to lead the region's public transport authority for another year.</p> <p >Fellow members of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority re-elected Cllr Clarke as Chairman at the authority's annual general meeting on 25 June 2007.</p> <p >It will be the fourth year running that Cllr Clarke has been elected as Chairman of Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport developer and promoter.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke said: "I am delighted that the authority has re-elected me.</p> <p >"Public transport is an issue which affects people's every day lives and the coming year will be an important one in shaping our future transport system.</p> <p >"The Local Transport Bill will help us secure much better bus services in the West Midlands and we will also be working with Govia who take over the running of local train services later this year.  We welcome Govia and will work hard to make sure rail performance is maintained.</p> <p >"We will also press Government for the long awaited decisions on important projects like New Street Station and the extensions to the Metro tram system.</p> <p >"The coming year will also see work progress on Smartcards and the completion of Network West Midlands roll out. Both will make journeys easier and more convenient for passengers.</p> <p >"The next 12 months will see Centro-WMPTA move further towards its vision of a world class, integrated transport system that the region can be proud of."</p> <p >Cllr Clarke has been a <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> councillor since 1998. He became a member of Centro-WMPTA in 2002 and was elected chairman in 2004.</p> <p >Today's annual general meeting also saw Cllr Len Clark, who represents Birmingham City Council, elected as Vice Chair of Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >Cllr Clark said: "I am honoured to be afforded this post. I am looking forward to working with the Chairman in making an effective contribution to the development of the region's future transport system."</p> <p >The Passenger Transport Authority is made up of 27 councillors from the region's seven metropolitan councils, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Coventry</st1:City>, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place>.</p>"
Councillor Gary Clarke has been chosen to lead the region's public transport authority for another year.
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0
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Passenger improvements welcomed as Govia wins West Midlands rail franchise
2007-06-21T00:00:00
2007-06-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Regional transport developer Centro-WMPTA has welcomed today's announcement by the Department for Transport that international rail and bus operator Govia is to operate the new <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail franchise from 11 November 2007.</p> <p >Govia will take over operation of all local rail services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> (currently operated by Central Trains) and has committed to deliver a package of improvements for the region's rail passengers.</p> <p >They will also operate services between <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> to Liverpool and <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:City >Northampton</st1:City> and <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA transport bosses have welcomed the promised improvements which include 64 new diesel and electric trains, Smartcard ticketing, improved passenger facilities both at stations and onboard trains and improved passenger security, including CCTV on many trains.</p> <p >Passengers will also see service enhancements on the Stourbridge Town Branch Line using the innovative Parry People Mover railcar.</p> <p >Govia's "London Midland" rail branding will be fully integrated with the new Network West Midlands branding which is currently being rolled out across the region's public transport network by Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA Chief Executive <st1:PersonName >Geoff Inskip</st1:PersonName>, said: "We are very pleased that the Department for Transport has today announced the winner of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> rail franchise.</p> <p >"The region's rail network carries 32.8 million passengers per year and is vital to the future of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and its economic growth. We now look forward to working closely with Govia and the Department for Transport on developing the network with a series of further services for passengers as part of an integrated transport system.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA added: "Today's announcement is excellent news for <st1:place >West Midland</st1:place>'s rail passengers.</p> <p >"Govia's commitment to providing new trains, improved facilities and security, and Smartcard ticketing fully complements the work Centro-WMPTA is doing to provide an attractive alternative to the car and encourage more people on to public transport.</p> <p >"We also welcome the Government's commitment to fund a range of services in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p >The Department for Transport have just confirmed that they are to fund the Walsall - Wolverhampton service until Dec 2008 in order to give more time for decisions to be made about its long term future and funding.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke said: ""We welcome this confirmation and look forward to talking with the Department for Transport and Govia about the long term funding of the route.""</p>"
Regional transport developer Centro-WMPTA has welcomed today's announcement by the Department for Transport that international rail and bus operator Govia is to operate the new West Midlands rail franchise from 11 November 2007.
9369
0
12
0
Department for Transport confirms funding for Walsall to Wolverhampton line
2007-06-21T00:00:00
2007-06-21T00:00:00
9369
"The Department for Transport has today confirmed that it will fund the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service until December 2008 in order to give more time for decisions to be made about its long term future and funding. <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: ""We welcome the confirmation that this essential service is continued until the end of next year.</p> <p>""We will continue to vigorously pursue a long term agreement and funding to secure the future of the route.""</p>"
The Department for Transport has today confirmed that it will fund the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service until December 2008 in order to give more time for decisions to be made about its long term future and funding.
9369
0
12
0
Free travel for inner city job seekers
2007-06-20T00:00:00
2007-06-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Hundreds of job seekers across inner city <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place> were today (Friday June 22) given a vital boost in their bid to get back into work.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport developer and promoter, is rolling out its highly successful WorkWise scheme which gives unemployed people more than £150 worth of free travel passes.</p> <p >The innovative scheme has won national praise for the way it provides up to three months free travel for unemployed people starting new jobs. It also provides them with free day passes and tailored journey plans to get them to job interviews.</p> <p >The scheme has been operating out of Jobcentre Plus in Sparkhill and Chelmsley Wood since 2003 and has already helped more than 1,200 people back to work.</p> <p >Now, thanks to a partnership between Centro-WMPTA, Birmingham City Council and Jobcentre Plus, the WorkWise scheme is expanding into some of <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s most disadvantaged areas.</p> <p >More than £250,000 of funding has been secured from <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s Floor Target Improvement Plan for Worklessness in order to bring WorkWise to unemployed people living in:</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Aston</li> <li >Kingstanding</li> <li >Ladywood</li> <li >Lozells & <st1:place >East Handsworth</st1:place></li> <li >Nechells</li> <li >Shard End</li> <li ><st1:place >Soho</st1:place></li> <li >Sparkbrook</li> <li >Washwood Heath</li> </ul> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro-WMPTA, said: "WorkWise has been a huge success in helping job seekers get back into work.</p> <p >"It's a big help to those people who find a job but would otherwise struggle to meet the cost of getting to and from that job – especially if they are working a month in advance.</p> <p >"The free passes and individualised journey plans also broaden people's travel horizons in their search for work and overcome the financial cost of that search.</p> <p >"It's marvellous that we can now offer WorkWise to hundreds more unemployed people across <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>."</p> <p >The funding means more than 610 travel passes can be issued to people starting new jobs and a further 1,300 job seekers will be given help in attending interviews.</p> <p >Information about how to get the free passes is now available from local Jobcentre Plus offices or from community organisations working with the unemployed.</p> <p >Jack Glonek, Birmingham City Council's Assistant Director of Investment, <st1:City ><st1:place >Enterprise</st1:place></st1:City> and Employment said: "This scheme has given us a wonderful opportunity to not only help increase public transport access but also help overcome the transport barriers that can hinder people from priority communities in their search for work. Our continued support now and in the future is guaranteed."</p> <p >Lyndley Jenks, Acting District Manager of Birmingham and Solihull Jobcentre Plus added: "Jobcentre Plus is happy to be supporting WorkWise as a very real incentive to helping our customers into work.</p> <p > "The extension of the initiative is good news for job seekers in the most disadvantaged wards in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>."</p> <p >Research has shown that  77 per cent of WorkWise users are still in their new jobs after three months and that 94 per cent continue to buy public transport passes after their free period has ended.</p> <p >On the back of its success, WorkWise has been nominated for this year's National Transport Awards which will be held in <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City> on July 17.</p> <p> </p>"
Hundreds of job seekers across inner city Birmingham were today (Friday 22 June) given a vital boost in their bid to get back to work.
9369
0
12
0
Pioneering bus hailer is UK first for blind and partially sighted people
2007-06-18T00:00:00
2007-06-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Catching the bus in the West Midlands has never been easier for blind and partially sighted people thanks to the creation of the UK's first ever specialised bus hailer.</p> <p >Public transport developer Centro-WMPTA has designed and produced a unique A5 flip pad which allows the user to easily flag down the exact bus they want to catch.</p> <p >The bus hailer is made up of three rows of bold and embossed numbers, each from 0 – 9, and letters X, A and C with the Braille underneath.</p> <p >It means that the user can easily select the number of their desired bus. They then hold the bus hailer up to oncoming traffic so the relevant bus drivers know to stop.</p> <p >The word BUS can also be shown for users unsure of their bus number or for those who can catch any bus on the route.</p> <p >The black number and letters are on a fluorescent background so it can be easily spotted by bus drivers from a distance.</p> <p >The bus hailer comes with a clear plastic protective wallet so that it can be used in all weathers, and has Braille and text instructions attached.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA worked closely with Birmingham Focus on Blindness, blind bus and partially sighted users and local bus operators to produce a bus hailer that would be effective and easy to use.</p> <p >Previously only a small fluorescent orange card with the word 'bus' printed on in large black letters was available.</p> <p >Cllr Len Clark, lead member for resources and business planning on Centro-WMPTA said: "Centro-WMPTA is delighted to have pioneered this innovative bus hailer which will help overcome the barriers blind and partially sighted people face when using public transport by giving them the flexibility and confidence to stop the specific bus they need to catch."</p> <p >"It will complement other work we have done in partnership with bus operators and West Midland's councils to provide better accessibility to public transport through initiatives such as Bus Showcase, visual and audio Real Time Information and tactile signage."</p> <p >Will Thornton, Community Services Manager of Birmingham Focus on Blindness said: "People who are blind or partially sighted can often have difficulty in telling apart buses from other vehicles and distinguishing one service number from another.</p> <p >"We have worked closely with Centro-WMPTA in the creation of the bus hailer which will make a real difference for blind and partially sighted people, giving them easier access to healthcare, education, jobs and shops and family and friends."</p> <p >Steve Jasper, Customer Services Director at Travel West Midlands, said: "We are very pleased to have had input into the design of the bus hailer, which can be seen without difficulty by our drivers making it easier to identify exactly which bus a user needs to catch."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA already provides one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the UK to eligible disabled people in the West Midlands with free bus, train and tram travel after 9.30am on weekdays and all day at weekends.</p> <p >The free bus hailer is available from Birmingham Focus on Blindness (0121 478 5222), from Local Travel Information Centres or from Centro-WMPTA by calling 0121 214 7125 or email access@centro.org.uk</p>"
Catching the bus in the West Midlands has never been easier for blind and partially sighted people thanks to the creation of the UK's first ever specialised bus hailer.
9369
0
12
0
Job seekers get free travel boost
2007-06-13T00:00:00
2007-06-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A Centro-WMPTA scheme giving North Solihull job seekers free travel passes to help them get back into work is to continue for another three years.</p> <p >The highly regarded WorkWise initiative, which provides passes for unemployed people starting new jobs or travelling to interviews, has secured £264,860 of funding.</p> <p >The financial backing means the scheme will continue until March 2010 during which time it aims to provide unemployed people with a further 675 monthly travel passes.</p> <p >Operating out of Chelmsley Wood Jobcentre Plus, the WorkWise project has already helped people into more than 1,400 jobs across the area since the scheme's launch in June 2003.</p> <p >The latest funding includes £113,000 from Advantage West Midlands which was secured following a bid put together by Centro-WMPTA and <st1:place >East Birmingham</st1:place> and North Solihull Regeneration Zone.</p> <p >The rest of the money has come from Centro-WMPTA and Jobcentre Plus.</p> <p > WorkWise officer Paul Fellows will continue working directly with clients at Chelmsley Wood Jobcentre Plus, helping them get to interview and employment opportunities using public transport. </p> <p > Paul offers journey-planning advice, free day passes to attend interviews, and travel passes for up to two months once they find a job. Those on incapacity benefit or income support can get up to three months free travel.</p> <p > Paul said: "More than 80 per cent of the people we help tell us that without these passes they would struggle to get to their new jobs or interviews.</p> <p >"It can be difficult for some people to cover their travel costs especially if they get a new job but have to work a month in hand. This is where the free passes we provide are invaluable."</p> <p >Research has shown WorkWise to be highly successful with 77 per cent of users still in their jobs after three months and 94 per cent continuing to buy public transport passes after their free period has ended.</p> <p >  Cllr Alan Nash, who represents <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place> on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "The WorkWise project has been a proven success in breaking down the transport barriers that many unemployed people face in their quest to return to work.</p> <p > "It's great news that it will continue for another three years."</p> <p >Advantage West Midlands Partnerships Director for <st1:place ><st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City></st1:place>, Mark Foley, added: "The initial investment made by Advantage West Midlands through WorkWise made a major contribution to getting people into work which is why we are delighted to make this further funding available.</p> <p >"The WorkWise initiative has been held up nationally as a example of how other parts of the country should be working to link people to jobs, importantly, in a sustainable manner."</p> <p > WorkWise, which also operates in <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> and <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, is recognised as a success both locally and nationally.</p> <p >This year it has been nominated for the National Transport Awards which will be held in <st1:place ><st1:City >London</st1:City></st1:place> on July 17.</p> <p> </p>"
A Centro-WMPTA scheme giving North Solihull job seekers free travel passes to help them get back into work is to continue for another three years.
9369
0
12
0
Bus information at your fingertips It's .Mobitime
2007-06-13T00:00:00
2007-06-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can get free*, up-to-date bus information at their fingertips thanks to a high-tech new .Mobitime service being launched by Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >The regional transport body has set up the flagship service especially for PDA, BlackBerry and mobile phone WAP users so that they can get the latest bus times for any one of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> 13,000 stops and shelters, wherever they are.</p> <p >.Mobitime is the first service of its kind in the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place>, as people can now search either by using the unique stop code, or by street name, stop name or even the general area which they need to catch the bus from, to access the timetable information.</p> <p >They can also search for times for the stop closest to a specific landmark such as rail stations, museums, hospitals, football grounds and universities.</p> <p >To access .Mobitime people need to open the internet browser on their phone or other wireless gadget and go to <a href=""http://www.netwm.mobi/"">www.netwm.mobi</a>. They can then enter a location or a stop code to receive information on the arrival time of up to the next ten buses due.</p> <p >The service is linked in to satellites so it can give Real Time Information (RTI) on exactly when buses are going to arrive, and timetable information for buses which are not fitted with satellite tracking computers.</p> <p >It means that people have the confidence of knowing exactly when to get to the bus stop for their next bus, avoiding the need to wait around outside and helping people to feel more safe and secure.</p> <p >.Mobitime has been especially simplified for use on mobile phones and handheld devices and uses less memory than normal websites. The service is part of Centro-WMPTA's family of RTI products – the largest in the <st1:place ><st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region></st1:place> - which includes SMS Textime, electronic shelter displays, freestanding area displays and rail RTI.</p> <p >The only cost to users of .Mobitime is the fee charged by their mobile phone providers for accessing the internet, where this applies.</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName> , Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "Easy access to timetable information is really important in helping and encouraging more people to use public transport, and it is our priority to put passengers first.</p> <p >"Centro-WMPTA has decided to tap into the trend of mobile phone technology with .Mobitime and Textime so that everyone in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can get bus information at their fingertips wherever they are - even if they're not quite sure exactly where that is!</p> <p >"We hope that this new technology will particularly appeal to younger people for whom using mobile phones and other handheld gadgets to get information they need is becoming a normal way of life and help them, as our next generation of commuters, to use public transport in the region."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA is hoping to introduce extra features to .Mobitime later this year including mapping and enhanced queries.</p> <p >Passengers without a WAP facility on their mobile phone can use Centro-WMPTA's Textime service by texting the unique code of their stop to 84268. They will then receive a text message telling them when the next few buses are due. Stop codes are available at stops and on the Network West Midlands website. The Textime service costs 25p per SMS plus their operator's standard network charge.</p> <p > </p> <p >*.Mobitime is free for people with access to the internet through their mobile phone or handheld device.</p> <p> </p>"
"People in the West Midlands can get free*, up-to-date bus information at their fingertips thanks to a high-tech new .Mobitime service being launched by Centro-WMPTA."
9369
0
12
0
Take the green path to garden and food Nirvana
2007-06-11T00:00:00
2007-06-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Food, garden and interior design enthusiasts can enjoy free travel and discounted entry to a huge NEC show this week featuring celebrities such as Gordon Ramsay and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen.</p> <p >Public transport promoter, Centro-PTA has teamed up with BBC Haymarket exhibitions to offer a special integrated rail and admission ticket to the BBC Summer Festival which features three shows – the Good Food Summer Festival, Good Homes Live and <st1:place ><st1:City >Gardners</st1:City></st1:place>' World Live – all rolled into one.</p> <p >The special ticket means that people can travel free of charge to Birmingham International (which serves the NEC) from any rail station in the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p >Adults taking advantage of the offer will pay just £16 for their combined return rail and entrance ticket, saving £3.50 on the usual £19.50 admission price this Thursday (June 14) and Friday.</p> <p >On Saturday and Sunday the combined ticket will cost £18 compared to the normal entrance fee of £21. Those choosing to reduce their carbon footprint by taking the train will also save themselves the £7 charge to park their car at the NEC.</p> <p > The BBC Summer Festival is the ideal opportunity to sample the tastiest summer food, see the latest trends in interior design and check out beautiful gardens. Visitors can also shop till they drop and then relax with a picnic, serenaded by live music, in one of the award winning gardens.</p> <p >There will also be a 2,000 seat Supertheatre which will showcase demonstrations of food, interior design, property and gardening. It will also feature live performances from celebrity experts including Alan Titchmarsh, Monty Don, Gordon Ramsay, James Martin, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and Anthea Turner.</p> <p ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>residents wanting to take up the ticket offer simply have to walk into any staffed rail station in the Network West Midlands area and ask for a ticket to the BBC Summer Festival. The outbound portion of the ticket must be redeemed at the NEC to gain admission to the shows.</p> <p><st1:PersonName >Julia Lameris</st1:PersonName>, Centro-PTA's marketing manager, said: "These tickets not only give people the chance to save money while having a brilliant day out but also do their bit for the environment."</p> <p >People who are already a <strong>n</strong>network or <strong>n</strong>train season ticket holders can buy a special reduced price admission ticket for the Festival for £14.50 on Thursday and Friday and £16.50 for Saturday and Sunday.</p>"
"Food, garden and interior design enthusiasts can enjoy free travel and discounted entry to a huge NEC show this week featuring celebrities such as Gordon Ramsay and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen."
9369
0
12
0
Coventry congestion busting scheme gets a face lift
2007-06-08T00:00:00
2007-06-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A congestion busting, time saving Park & Ride scheme in <st1:place >North Coventry</st1:place> has had an eye-catching new face lift.</p> <p >Public Transport developer Centro-WMPTA, Coventry City Council and CV One have provided services on two brand new low floor easy access buses especially for the Park & Ride North service which have been painted with a striking, easy to recognise design.</p> <p >The burgundy, blue and white buses will run from the free car park at <st1:Street ><st1:address >Austin Drive</st1:address></st1:Street>, which has space for 163 cars. From there they will travel into the city centre in a clockwise loop past the courts, the markets, the library, the shopping centre and the Council House.</p> <p >The services, operated by Central Connect, run at a 15 minute frequency from 7:45am until 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am until 6pm on Saturday making it ideal for commuting or shopping in the city centre.</p> <p >Each bus has a low floor facility to make it easier for people with mobility problems, trolleys or pushchairs to board. Special value return bus fares apply. (See analysis for details)</p> <p >The journey time by bus is just 13 minutes, which is quicker than by car meaning people can save time as well as money by using the service.</p> <p >The free car park is covered by CCTV cameras and has a Help Point for people who want any information or assistance.</p> <p >Cllr Andrew Williams, Coventry Councillor, member on Centro-WMPTA and regular bus user said: "Centro-WMPTA is very pleased to have worked with Coventry City Council and CV One to provide services on these eye-catching new buses which mean that people can enjoy a quick and comfortable ride into the city centre.</p> <p >"We hope that more people will take advantage of the service which means they can avoid the hassles of driving and parking in the city centre, while doing their bit to ease congestion and help the environment."</p> <p >Cllr Kevin Foster, Cabinet Member (City Development) said: "This bright new look will help show the benefits of using this fast and reliable service to get to the city centre. The back end of this bus is something that is really worth looking at."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, Coventry City Council and CV One also provide a Park & Ride South service from Memorial Park to the city centre. The service runs every 12 minutes from Monday to Saturday with free car parking and the same fares as Park & Ride North.</p>"
"A congestion busting, time saving Park & Ride scheme in North Coventry has had an eye-catching new face lift."
9369
0
12
0
West Midland's railways go live with Real Time Information
2007-06-08T00:00:00
2007-06-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail Real Time Information is being broadcast live at 25 stations in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> so passengers no longer need to wonder when their next train will arrive.</p> <p >Rail travellers are now able to look at electronic information displays and hear automatic passenger announcements which tell them the exact time that their train is due by linking in to signalling technology.</p> <p >The system has been funded by a £737,000 grant from the Department for Transport's Access for All Small Schemes fund following successful bids by Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport developer.</p> <p >This represented the largest amount given to any single organisation under the first £3.1million round of funding provided by the Government to improve accessibility at rail stations.</p> <p >Councillors for Centro-WMPTA also agreed to provide £1.2million towards the technology which was installed and is operated by rail company Central Trains. It joins some equipment already provided by Network Rail and Central Trains meaning that a total of 32 stations have new passenger information systems in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>. (See analysis for list of stations)</p> <p >It forms part of a £4.5million project to provide rail Real Time Information at virtually every station in the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p >A further 32 stations are also set to get the technology following the announcement of further successful bids for over £1million in the second round of Access for All Small Schemes funding. Centro-WMPTA, which is contributing £1.5million for these stations, is working to install the equipment throughout the rest of this year.</p> <p >Rail Minister Tom Harris said: ""These schemes show the determination of government, industry and local authorities to improve access for all passengers to the railway. The provision of Real Time Information will make a real difference, especially to more vulnerable passengers who tend to find a lack of information confusing and a barrier to using the train.""</p> <p >Councillor <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "These information displays and announcements give passengers the extra confidence in knowing exactly when their train will arrive, helping them to feel safer and more informed.</p> <p >"We hope that this new technology will attract even more people onto the rail network and are looking forward to installing the equipment at the further 32 stations so that even more people can benefit."</p> <p >Steve Banaghan, Managing Director of Central Trains added: "Last week's National Passenger Survey figures show that Central Trains passengers are more satisfied with the provision of rail information than ever before.</p> <p >"I'm sure that this trend will continue thanks to the new technology and continued partnership working with Centro-WMPTA which means that using the train in the Network West Midlands area has never been easier.</p>"
Rail Real Time Information is being broadcast live at 25 stations in the West Midlands so passengers no longer need to wonder when their next train will arrive.
9369
0
12
0
Eye-catching buses show their new colours
2007-05-25T00:00:00
2007-05-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Two eye-catching freshly painted buses are taking the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> new look public transport logo directly on to the region's streets.</p> <p >They are carrying a striking new design promoting Network West Midlands, the new brand name for the region's public transport system presently being rolled out across the region.</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA joined together with Go West Midlands, the owner of Diamond Bus to provide the newly Network West Midlands liveried vehicles.</p> <p >The eye-catching silver, blue and white buses will be used on various Diamond Bus routes across the region and join six trains, operated by Central Trains, and two Midland Metro trams which are also being painted in promotional Network West Midlands branding.</p> <p >The two buses were due to be given a new livery and Diamond Bus volunteered the vehicles to carry the identifiable Network West Midlands branding, which is also being used at each of the region's 13,000 bus stops, rail and Metro stations, free of charge for at least two years.</p> <p >Geoff Howle, Commercial Director of Go West Midlands Ltd added: "We are delighted to be able to provide two vehicles to promote the Network West Midlands brand that is being rolled out across the region in the spirit of partnership with Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >"We are very keen to help support the initiative which will make it easier for people to use buses, trains and trams particularly in terms of the integrated ticketing it provides."</p> <p ><st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "We're very pleased that Go West Midlands has volunteered these two Diamond buses for us to apply the Network West Midlands design to.</p> <p >"The eye-catching livery fits in perfectly with the Network West Midlands branding being used at all railway and bus stations, bus stops and shelters and Midland Metro stops which provides up-to-date public transport information, connectivity and an easy-to-use network for residents and visitors to the West Midlands."</p>"
Two eye-catching freshly painted buses are taking the West Midlands new look public transport logo directly on to the region's streets.
9369
0
12
0
All change for buses in Chelmsley Wood town centre
2007-05-25T00:00:00
2007-05-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Waiting for the bus in Chelmsley Wood town is set to get even better for passengers thanks to plans for a brand new interchange.</p> <p >Public transport developer Centro-WMPTA is giving funding which will provide upgraded passenger waiting facilities for the town centre as part of the redevelopment of the area.</p> <p >This will include top-quality bus shelters with lighting and seating, and improved bus information on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Chelmsley Circle</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >The interchange will form part of the total regeneration of the town centre by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and Fordgate, the owners of Chelmsley Wood shopping centre in partnership with Advantage West Midlands.</p> <p >This will provide a new Asda, more spacious shopping areas and larger car parks over three years.</p> <p >During the initial work to bring about the redevelopment of the town centre, many of the present bus stops need to be closed and buses temporarily re-routed to new stops close by.</p> <p >These changes will take place from Sunday 03 June 2007 until Summer 2008 when the new interchange will open.</p> <p >Staff from Centro-WMPTA are holding a special exhibition in Chelmsley Wood shopping centre for people who want to find out more about the bus changes. This will take place on Saturday 02 June 2007 from 9:30am until 4:30pm in the Network West Midlands marquee opposite Boots the Chemist.</p> <p >An information leaflet letting people know where to catch their bus is also being distributed to 80,000 homes in surrounding areas via local newspapers, and will be available in public places such as libraries, doctors' surgeries and dentists.</p> <p >Posters will be put up in bus shelters and some shops in the town centre and in areas served by bus routes that go into Chelmsley Wood. Information is also available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/chelmsleywood"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/chelmsleywood</a></p> <p >Centro-WMPTA Lead Member for Buses, Councillor Gurcharan Sidhu said: "These are exciting times for residents and visitors to Chelmsley Wood, and I am very pleased that work has started on this project which is so important to the regeneration of the area.</p> <p >"An appealing, easy-to-use public transport service is a really important aspect of this. We hope the new bus interchange together with the redevelopment of the shopping centre provide the welcoming and attractive town centre that Chelmsley Wood needs and deserves."</p> <p> </p>"
Waiting for the bus in Chelmsley Wood town is set to get even better for passengers thanks to plans for a brand new interchange.
9369
0
12
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New powers could bring improved bus services
2007-05-22T00:00:00
2007-05-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers could enjoy better bus services across the West Midlands thanks to Government plans to give greater powers to Centro-WMPTA – the region's public transport co-ordinator.</p> <p > The Department for Transport today published a draft Bill to help improve public transport and cut congestion across the region and the rest of the country.</p> <p > The draft Local Transport Bill sets out proposals to restructure how local transport is delivered within communities.</p> <p >It would give Centro-WMPTA greater influence over the quality of the region's bus network and the power to take localaction to meet localtransportneeds.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA Chief Executive Geoff Inskip said: "We welcome this draft Bill and are pleased it gives us greater control of the region's bus network.</p> <p >"We want to work with responsible bus companies so that the passenger gets a more reliable, cleaner and punctual service. That is vital if we are to tackle a congestion problem that already costs the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> economy £2.2 billion a year.</p> <p >"I'm pleased that the Government has recognised the challenges we face and is prepared to give us the tools we need to do the job."</p> <p >If approved by Parliament the draft Bill would give local authorities the flexibility and powers to deliver a tailored transport system better suited to the needs of the local area. </p> <p >For instance local authorities could introduce 'quality contracts' schemes to specify bus networks, timetables and fares in their local areas and to let contracts to bus operators to run those services.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "We have a good understanding of what local people need from public transport and this Bill, if approved, will help us deliver the right type of improvements.</p> <p > "Bus services provide a lifeline for many communities in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and account for 91 per cent of all journeys made by public transport.</p> <p >"This Bill would give us the opportunity to work even more effectively with our partners in providing a top quality bus service that is part of a comprehensive and integrated transport network for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p> <p > "That will give everyone better access to jobs, healthcare, shops and family."</p> <p >The draft Bill is now made available for Parliamentary pre-legislative scrutiny by the House of Commons Transport Committee alongside a full public consultation.</p>"
Passengers could enjoy better bus services across the West Midlands thanks to Government plans to give greater powers to Centro-WMPTA � the region's public transport co-ordinator.
9369
0
12
0
Centro-WMPTA goes digital on Metro security
2007-05-15T00:00:00
2007-05-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The Midland Metro's CCTV cameras are to go digital as part of a new £290,000 security system for the tram network.</p> <p >Bosses at public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA approved the switch to digital today (Friday May 11) as part of a package of measures to make passengers feel even safer.</p> <p >The new digital equipment, which is being backed by the British Transport Police, will provide better quality pictures than the existing analogue system.</p> <p >The 72 cameras already in place along the tram route between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton St Georges will feed images to a new digital brain.</p> <p >The state-of-the-art equipment will make it easier for staff to monitor pictures and to find recorded clips of any incidents that may occur.</p> <p >It will also provide enhanced security cover for trackside equipment, electrical substations and platforms.</p> <p >In the longer term, Centro-WMPTA is planning to install a further 103 cameras along the line, build a new control room and look at extra security measures at each of the 23 Metro stops.</p> <p >The digital system also has the capacity to cover any future expansion of the Metro network.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton, Vice Chair of Centro-WMPTA and lead member for Metro said: "This is very good news for <st1:place >Midland</st1:place> Metro and will work perfectly alongside the digital cameras already installed on the trams.</p> <p > "Worries about security are often a barrier to people using public transport. This new system will mean that people can have even more assurance that their safety is a top priority when using the Metro."</p> <p >British Transport Police Chief Inspector Allan Gregory, Sector Commander for the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, said:  "The move from analogue to digital cameras along the Midland Metro Line is a significant step forward.</p> <p >"Footage from existing cameras provided by Centro has already proved invaluable in bringing offenders of the railway system to justice and deterring crime.</p> <p >"The new cameras will be even more beneficial in helping to identify suspects and bring them before the courts. British Transport police warmly welcome this continued investment."</p>"
"The Midland Metro's CCTV cameras are to go digital as part of a new £290,000 security system for the tram network."
9369
0
12
0
Fans urged to score for the environment
2007-05-11T00:00:00
2007-05-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Thousands of football fans heading to the biggest <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> derby for years were today urged to score a winner for the planet.</p> <p >Bosses at Centro-WMPTA are encouraging supporters to use public transport and in particular the Midland Metro tram system to get to Sunday's crucial play-off match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion at Molineux.</p> <p >Albion fans can catch the Metro right outside their own ground at The Hawthorns and travel right into the heart of <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> city centre.</p> <p >From there they can catch one of several bus services for the short hop to the Molineux stadium or make the ten minute walk.</p> <p > Staunch 'Baggies' fan and Vice Chairman of Centro-WMPTA, Cllr Roger Horton, said: "This is the biggest Wolves v Albion game for decades and thousands will be heading to Sunday's game at Molineux and to the return leg at the Hawthorns next Wednesday.</p> <p >"At stake is the pride and bragging rights of the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> but by travelling on the Midland Metro fans can at least brag about doing their bit for the environment."</p> <p >Cllr John Reynolds, a Wolves season ticket holder and Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture on Wolverhampton City Council, added: "Fans can't wait for the matches and we hope they will be just as enthusiastic about helping the planet by using public transport before and after the games.</p> <p > "The Midland Metro is the perfect way for Albion fans to get to Wolverhampton and for Wolves fans coming to <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>.""</p> <p >Metro services will run between the Hawthorns and <st1:place >Wolverhampton</st1:place> every ten minutes on Sunday enabling fans to get to Molineux in plenty of time for the 12 noon kick-off.</p> <p >On Wednesday evening the service will run every eight minutes before 6.30pm and every 15 minutes after that. The kick off will be at 7.45pm.</p> <p >Phil Bateman, Corporate Affairs Director at Travel Midland Metro, which operates the trams, said: "It's all about making travelling simpler for people and the Metro does just that."</p> <p >For information on Metro, bus and rail services between West Bromwich and Wolverhampton and ticket prices, fans can log on to the Network West Midlands website at <a title=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p> <p> </p>"
Thousands of football fans heading to the biggest Black Country derby for years were today urged to score a winner for the planet.
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nti_centro_Fans62.JPG
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Walsall Councillor turns sixty and enjoys free travel!
2007-05-08T00:00:00
2007-05-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >To celebrate becoming 60, Walsall Councillor Barry Sanders will be presented with his concessionary pass which will entitle him to free travel on buses, trains and the Midland Metro throughout the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region.</p> <p >Cllr Sanders, who represents the Paddock ward on the council, joins nearly half a million senior citizens and eligible disabled residents who enjoy one of the <st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region>'s best concessionary pass schemes allowing them to travel free across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> after 09.30 Monday-Friday and all day at weekends.</p> <p >On being presented with his pass, Cllr Sanders commented: "I am absolutely delighted to be in a position to make full use of this concessionary pass. It is a great help for hundreds of thousands of people in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and gives them the chance to get out and about for shopping, leisure and visiting friends and relatives.</p> <p >"There is another added benefit in that we are also doing our bit to beat congestion and to help the environment as well."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA Chairman and fellow Walsall Councillor for Streetly, Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, will present Cllr Sanders with a blown up version of his pass.</p> <p >He says: "We are delighted with the take-up of the concessionary passes which means more and more senior citizens and eligible disabled people are getting out and about on public transport, not just in Walsall, but across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> as a whole.</p> <p >"At Centro-WMPTA we strongly believe it is essential to offer accessible travel for all and everyone over 60 is entitled to use this pass which is widely regarded as a leading scheme and one that can often be a life-line for users."</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA's new concessionary scheme was brought in during July 2005, nine months ahead of the national scheme announced by Gordon Brown, which only offers free off-peak local bus travel.</p> <p> </p>"
"To celebrate becoming 60, Walsall Councillor Barry Sanders will be presented with his concessionary pass which will entitle him to free travel on buses, trains and the Midland Metro throughout the West Midlands region."
9369
0
12
0
Centro-WMPTA provides extra shelters for Halesowen town centre
2007-05-01T00:00:00
2007-05-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Following public feedback and monitoring of services, Centro-WMPTA is putting in additional shelters in Halesowen to provide extra cover for waiting passengers during the town centre redevelopment.</p> <p >The regional public transport body, in agreement with Dudley Council and local bus operators, is installing an extra bus shelter on the town side of the Queensway – stand J – which will be in use from Sunday 6<sup>th</sup> May. Bus services 9 and 9c to Stourbridge, 138 to <st1:place ><st1:PlaceName >Russells</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName >Hall</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType >Hospital</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> and 139 to the Merry Hill Centre will now stop here instead of at stand H.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA is also installing an extra shelter on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Andrew Road</st1:address></st1:Street> after passengers said there was not enough room for waiting bus users under the current shelter, and another has been ordered for Church Croft.</p> <p >A new bus information board is also being put in on the high street so people can get all the details they need about bus services while the town centre redevelopment is taking place. Information is available at <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen"">www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen</a></p> <p >A new temporary traffic calming speed limit of 20mph has also been put in place by Dudley Council, from the start of the Queensway up to the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hagley Road</st1:address></st1:Street> island.</p> <p >The temporary bus stop locations came into affect in March following the closure of the old bus station so that Vale Retail could start work on the new lower level shop units below.</p> <p >Once this phase is complete, Centro-WMPTA is hoping to start work on the new, state-of-the-art £3.5 million bus station in autumn this year.</p> <p >Andrew Middleton, Assistant Director (Implementation) for Centro-WMPTA says: "We welcome the feedback from the public following the closure of Halesowen bus station. We've taken on board peoples comments and are pleased to be able to provide bus users with these extra shelters while work to redevelop the town centre continues.</p> <p >"We'd like to thank local residents and visitors to Halesowen for their patience during these works to provide the area with a modern and attractive town centre together with Vale Retail and Dudley Council."</p>"
"Following public feedback and monitoring of services, Centro-WMPTA is putting in additional shelters in Halesowen to provide extra cover for waiting passengers during the town centre redevelopment."
9369
0
12
0
Centro-WMPTA announces media manager appointment
2007-04-23T00:00:00
2007-04-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Steve Swingler will take up the post of media manager with Centro-WMPTA, the regional transport body for the largest conurbation outside <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City>, it has been announced.</p> <p >He takes up his post at the beginning of May. Currently a <st1:PersonName >news</st1:PersonName> editor at the Birmingham Mail, and a former transport correspondent, he has twenty years experience in local, regional and national media.</p> <p >Conrad Jones, head of communications at Centro-WMPTA says: "We are delighted that Steve is joining us. Transport is key to the economic and environmental future of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, and communicating our public transport issues and needs is critical to our success. Steve will bring a wealth of media experience to the communications team."</p> <p >Steve Swingler says "It's great to be joining Centro-WMPTA at a time when transport is at the top of media and political agendas. There are plenty of communications challenges and I look forward to promoting the transport needs of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and the work of Centro-WMPTA."</p>"
"Steve Swingler will take up the post of Media Manager with Centro-WMPTA, the regional transport body responsible for the largest conurbation outside London, it has been announced."
9369
Steve.JPG
0
12
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Metro bridges link with Birmingham city centre
2007-04-10T00:00:00
2007-04-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Construction work has started on a new viaduct which will carry Midland Metro past Snow Hill and into the heart of Birmingham city centre as part of the proposed Midland Metro extensions being developed by Centro-WMPTA.</p> <p >The viaduct, estimated to cost £9m in Centro-WMPTA's project business case, is a contribution from private developer Ballymore towards the £116m Birmingham City Centre Extension of the tram system in recognition of the importance of the scheme in improving the connectivity of the city.</p> <p >The work forms part of Ballymore's £500 million Snow Hill scheme which will eventually comprise 600,000 sq ft of high quality office accommodation in two distinctive buildings.  More than 300 residential apartments are also proposed, together with a five star hotel and first class restaurants, cafes and retail space.</p> <p >The viaduct will run at street level through the Snow Hill scheme and will carry the Midland Metro Line One extension into the city centre, serving <st1:Street ><st1:address >Bull Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, <st1:Street ><st1:address >Corporation Street</st1:address></st1:Street>, New Street Station and <st1:Street ><st1:address >Broad Street</st1:address></st1:Street> with the terminus on the <st1:Street ><st1:address >Hagley Road</st1:address></st1:Street> in Edgbaston.</p> <p >The Ballymore scheme will also include construction of an urban pedestrian boulevard which will connect with a new pedestrian walkway situated between Snow Hill Station and the new buildings, providing safer pedestrian links between the city centre and the Jewellery and Gun Quarters.</p> <p >Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of the region's public transport body Centro-WMPTA, which is developing the Metro extensions, says: "This major contribution from Ballymore shows how important the extension of the Midland Metro is to local businesses and developers.</p> <p >"The frequent high-capacity trams will provide an enhanced service and a real boost to the accessibility of <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre and the <st1:place >Black Country</st1:place> - with excellent links between shops, homes, offices, rail stations and major new developments.  It will make a real impact on our campaign to cut congestion for everyone."</p> <p >Richard Probert, Development Manager for Ballymore's Snow Hill scheme said: "We are delighted to be facilitating the extension of the Metro through Birmingham city centre. The fact that Metro will be immediately available to the staff of companies based at Snow Hill is a key feature of the accessibility and sustainability case of our scheme at Snow Hill.</p> <p >"It is high time that Birmingham - like Manchester, Nottingham and other regional centres - had a high quality public transport tram route running through the city centre providing linkage between the western side of the city – all the way through to the Black Country.</p> <p >"Ballymore shares Centro-WMPTA's vision that the proposed extension of the Metro through <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City> city centre will provide improved connectivity and economic benefits which will further enhance <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>'s ability to attract inward investment and help put <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> on the map as a world class city."</p> <p >The business case for the £386m Midland Metro Phase One extensions, which also includes a route in the Black Country from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via <st1:place >Dudley</st1:place>, was submitted to Government last July.</p> <p >Studies show the proposed lines will provide Birmingham and the West Midlands with an enhanced image, regeneration and economic benefits, including providing over 4,000 jobs and helping to reduce the congestion that is costing the region's economy £2.2 billion a year.</p> <p> </p>"
Construction work has started on a new viaduct which will carry Midland Metro past Snow Hill and into the heart of Birmingham city centre as part of the proposed Midland Metro extensions being developed by Centro-WMPTA.
9369
0
12
0
New free service is language 'lifeline' for public transport users
2007-03-26T00:00:00
2007-03-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The <st1:country-region >UK</st1:country-region>'s busiest transport authority outside <st1:City ><st1:place >London</st1:place></st1:City> is providing Language Line at the Travel Information Centre at Wolverhampton Bus Station. The special service allows clear telephone interpreting for those needing to overcome any language barriers to public transport information.</p> <p>Language Line works through trained staff at the Pipers Row centre setting up a three-way telephone conversation between the customer, an interpreter and the member of staff, who will then be able to help customers with any questions, whatever language they speak.</p> <p>The Language Line service will initially cover help with special travel pass schemes, such as those for the elderly or disabled, and people using the Wolverhampton Travel Information Centre will also be able to use Language Line for assistance with timetables, public transport routes and ticket sales.</p> <p>Language Line is also available for people who call Centro-WMPTA's Customer Services department. This includes finding out about Centro-WMPTA's under-18s, over-60s and disabled concessionary travel passes, buying tickets via direct debit or the Company Travel Scheme, accessing WorkWise and TravelWise services or contacting the <st1:PersonName >Customer Relations</st1:PersonName> team.</p> <p >Cllr Judith Rowley, of Wolverhampton City Council and Lead Member for Diversity and Equality for Centro-WMPTA, is delighted with the introduction of the service and commented: "Language Line is a very important facility for improving access to public transport for both visitors to Wolverhampton and the West Midlands, as well as for residents who do not speak English as a first language.</p> <p>"As a proudly multicultural city with a sizeable international student community, Language Line is vital to opening doors for people who may have been apprehensive or unsure about getting hold of public transport information due to language barriers and will make visitors trips to the region easier and more enjoyable."</p>"
"Bus, train and Midland Metro passengers whose first language is not English can now use a telephone help service from West Midlands public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA."
9369
0
12
0
Eye-catching train shows its new colours
2007-03-19T00:00:00
2007-03-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail passengers in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> will notice a difference in the appearance of some local train services this week, as the region's public transport body, Centro-WMPTA unveils a newly decorated Network West Midlands promotional train.</p> <p >The train is the first of six to be painted in a striking new design being introduced over the coming months on the Central Trains operated vehicles as part of the continuing roll out of Network West Midlands.</p> <p >It will operate on a variety of routes linking Walsall, Wolverhampton, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, <st1:place >Solihull</st1:place>, Shirley and Stourbridge, followed by the other five when they are completed.</p> <p >Visitors to <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place> railway station on Wednesday will be among the first in the region to catch a glimpse of the eye-catching train, which has also been refurbished internally.</p> <p >Cllr <st1:PersonName >Gary Clarke</st1:PersonName>, chairman of Centro-WMPTA, will be at the station to welcome the newly liveried train which is intended to promote the integration of public transport under the Network West Midlands banner.</p> <p >He said: "Network West Midlands is the new name that connects all public transport in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> metropolitan area and clearly identifies the complete network of bus, rail and Metro services. The initiative is designed to make travelling much easier as part of an integrated public transport system."</p> <p >"I am delighted to be here to see one of the newly-liveried trains in action. The new design looks absolutely fantastic and integrates perfectly with the Network West Midlands branding at railway and bus stations, bus stops and shelters and Midland Metro stops."</p>"
"Rail passengers in the West Midlands will notice a difference in the appearance of some local train services this week, as the region's public transport body, Centro-WMPTA unveils a newly decorated Network West Midlands promotional train."
9369
0
12
0
Transport bosses welcome congestion busting tunnel
2007-03-16T00:00:00
2007-03-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p ><st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> transport bosses have welcomed the Government's go ahead of a new £22 million congestion busting road scheme in Tipton, Sandwell.</p> <p >The project, which will see the railway crossing on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> replaced with a road tunnel under the West Coast Mainline, means bus passengers and motorists will no longer be stuck in traffic jams caused by the level crossing.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA, the region's public transport body, has welcomed the news and hopes it will improve access to surrounding areas.</p> <p >At peak times up to 20 trains an hour use the crossing, closing the road for up to forty minutes every hour. In recent years bus services have had to be diverted away from <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and the crossing as the traffic jams have caused ongoing problems with bus reliability along whole bus routes.</p> <p >Now, the only bus service that uses the route is 402A evening and Sunday service from Tipton to <st1:place >West Bromwich</st1:place>.</p> <p >Centro-WMPTA hopes that, when the tunnel is completed, local bus operators will resume providing services down <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street>.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "We're very pleased that the Government have given the go-ahead and provided funding for this vital project.</p> <p >"This level crossing has had a considerable effect on the reliability and route of local bus services for many years.</p> <p >"We would call on local bus operators to consider resuming services along <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> when the tunnel is completed so that accessibility to local estates and shopping areas will improve."</p> <p >Walkers, motorists and cyclists will also see many benefits from the tunnel, because road and pedestrian traffic both on <st1:Street ><st1:address >Owen Street</st1:address></st1:Street> and that caused on surrounding streets as a knock on effect of the crossing will be able to flow freely.</p>"
"West Midlands transport bosses have welcomed the Government's go ahead of a new £22 million congestion busting road scheme in Tipton, Sandwell."
9369
0
12
0
Transport body offers free travel for carbon neutral conference
2007-03-07T00:00:00
2007-03-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Delegates attending a special event today (Wednesday 07 March) aimed at showing public and private organisations in the West Midlands how to reduce their carbon footprint, can get there for free by public transport thanks to Centro-PTA.</p> <p >Marches Energy Agency, a national charity organisation, is holding a training day to provide regional companies and authorities with information and advice on climate change, renewable energy and energy efficiency with a particular focus on transport.</p> <p >The region's public transport body is providing all delegates with a free <strong>n</strong>network daytripper ticket which allows a day's unlimited travel on the region's buses, trains and Metro as their contribution to making the event carbon neutral.</p> <p >Centro-PTA's assistant director of strategic planning, John Sidebotham, will also be one of the speakers at the event. He will explain to delegates the effect of congestion and climate change on the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, socially, environmentally and economically.</p> <p >He will highlight the work that Centro-PTA is doing to encourage more people to use public transport, including launching Network West Midlands, providing park & ride, Bus Showcase and bus priority measures and developing the Midland Metro extensions.</p> <p >He will also explain to delegates the corporate travel schemes available to organisations in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, which offer discounted <strong>n</strong>network public transport passes for employees.</p> <p >He said: "Climate change is a key issue that we should be taking more seriously and public transport has a significant role to play in creating sustainable communities.</p> <p >"This conference will discuss public transport for the sustainability and economic vitality of the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> and we welcome the opportunity to support and contribute to the event."</p>"
"Delegates attending a special event today (Wednesday 07 March) aimed at showing public and private organisations in the West Midlands how to reduce their carbon footprint, can get there for free by public transport thanks to Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
0
Free travel to get even easier for Walsall residents
2007-03-07T00:00:00
2007-03-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Getting free bus, train and Metro passes and stress-free public transport information is easier than ever before for over 60s in Walsall as they can now take advantage of a new service being launched by public transport promoter Centro-PTA and Walsall Council.</p> <p >The partnership means that senior citizens will benefit from a special facility allowing them to apply for their free regional travel pass with the help of trained advisors at the First Stop Shop in Walsall Civic Centre. Previously passes could only be obtained through main post offices.</p> <p >Friendly and helpful advisors will be on hand to give people information on the best way to get from A to B using the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> integrated public transport system of train, Metro and bus routes. Staff will help people with their applications, send them to Centro-PTA to be processed and the passes will then be posted directly to residents homes. Then shop will also display public transport information.</p> <p >The 'check and send' service for concessionary passes will be available to visitors to the First Stop Shop in the Civic Centre, which is open from 8.45am – 5.15pm Monday to Thursday, and 8.45am – 4.45pm on Friday.</p> <p >Centro-PTA offers senior citizens and eligible disabled people one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the <st1:country-region ><st1:place >UK</st1:place></st1:country-region>, providing free travel on bus, train and Metro services after 9.30am on weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday.</p> <p >"These free travel passes are vitally important to senior citizens in <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>, whether they're used to access healthcare, visit family and friends or simply go out shopping, and this has been shown by their popularity," explained Centro-PTA Chairman and Streetly Councillor Gary Clarke.</p> <p >"We want to make it even easier for people to get their passes by extending the number of locations in which they are available, and this new partnership between Centro-PTA and Walsall Council is a great example of how two public bodies can work together to do just that."</p> <p >Walsall Cabinet Member and Pelsall Councillor Garry Perry, added: "We are delighted to welcome Centro-PTA aboard to offer this important service to the residents of <st1:place >Walsall</st1:place>."</p> <p >"Improving accessibility for residents is one of Walsall Council's top priorities and we would like to continue making partnerships with bodies like Centro-PTA so that we are able to offer an even wider range of services, information and advice to people in the area."</p> <p >Centro-PTA also offers similar services in Dudley, <st1:City >Birmingham</st1:City>, Sandwell and Solihull and it is hoped that providing help with public transport information and applying for passes will boost public transport use in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>.</p>"
"Getting free bus, train and Metro passes and stress-free public transport information is easier than ever before for over 60s in Walsall as they can now take advantage of a new service being launched by public transport promoter Centro-PTA and Walsall Council."
9369
0
12
0
Birmingham offers Language-life-Line to public transport users
2007-02-28T00:00:00
2007-02-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Foreign visitors coming to the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> for the European Athletics Indoor Championships can get free translated bus, train and tram information at New Street Travel Shop thanks to Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The region's public transport body is providing a telephone interpretation service called Language Line at <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City>'s main rail station so that the Travel Shop staff can communicate with people who need public transport advice but can't speak English.</p> <p >The service is provided in a wide variety of languages including German, French, Portuguese and Russian, as well as those from further a field, and means that people in <st1:City ><st1:place >Birmingham</st1:place></st1:City> for this weekend's event can get detailed information on how best to get to the National Indoor Arena on time.</p> <p >Language Line will continue to be available after the event, and can be used by visitors to the region and by people who live in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> but whose first language is not English.</p> <p >Staff have been trained to use the service which works by providing a three way telephone conversation between the customer, an interpreter and a member of the Travel Shop team, who is trained to set up the call.</p> <p >Language Line is also available for people who call Centro-PTA's customer services department. This includes finding out about Centro-PTA's under 18s, over 60s and disabled concessionary travel passes, buying tickets via direct debit or the Company Travel Scheme, accessing WorkWise and TravelWise services or contacting the customer relations team.</p> <p >"Language Line is a very important facility for improving access to public transport for both visitors to the region and for residents whose first language is not English," comments Cllr Judith Rowley, lead member for diversity & equality for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"By providing this service we are opening doors for people who may have been apprehensive or unsure about getting hold of public transport information due to language barriers, while also making visitors trips to the region an easier and more enjoyable experience."</p> <p> </p>"
Foreign visitors coming to the West Midlands for the European Athletics Indoor Championships can get free translated public transport information at New Street Travel Shop thanks to Centro-PTA.
9369
0
12
0
Dog lovers set to delight in discount rail travel to Crufts
2007-02-26T00:00:00
2007-02-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p ><strong>NB This offer relates to Crufts 2007, for details of current offers please visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></strong></p> <p >Dog lovers in the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> can make their way to the best dog show in the world for free if they take the train and beat the jams, thanks to a special deal from the region's public transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >This year's Crufts promises to be bigger and better than ever, with over 2,000 dog exhibitors from more than 40 different countries attending next month's showcase and over 120,000 people expected to enjoy the canine world's blue ribband show.</p> <p >Visitors are able to take advantage of Centro-PTA's great value Network West Midlands special inclusive rail travel and entrance ticket which is available at any staffed rail station within the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place> region.</p> <p >The special offer All-in-One ticket gives people return travel to Birmingham International station (for the NEC), and entry to the show for the same price or cheaper than the standard price of admission alone.</p> <p >The tickets can be bought in advance or on the day of travel at any rail station within the Network West Midlands area and if people choose to let the train take the strain, they could save in excess of £7 in car parking charges, not to mention any booking fees and postage costs.</p> <p >Crufts takes place from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 March and the 2007 event has more displays, competitions and trade stands than ever. There is even a new, free arena showcasing the fantastic new dog display programme, running throughout most of the event.</p> <p >Centro Marketing Manager, <st1:PersonName >Julia Lameris</st1:PersonName>, commented "There is something for everyone at this year's Crufts, for all members of the family, both young and old. And what better way to enjoy the world's best dog show than by leaving the car at home and travelling for free on the train with an All-in-One ticket."</p> <p >The All-in-One ticket costs £13 for adults, £9 children and £8.25 for concessionary pass holders.</p> <p>More information is available in the Network West Midlands Crufts 2007 by Rail leaflet, available at rail stations and travel shops across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>, or by visiting <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a></p> <p> </p>"
"Dog lovers in the West Midlands can make their way to the best dog show in the world for free if they take the train and beat the jams, thanks to a special deal from the region's public transport body Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
0
West Midlands station information gets £1 million boost
2007-02-22T00:00:00
2007-02-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the West Midlands are to get better passenger information at a further 32 stations after the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA put in a successful bid for over £1 million of funding from the Government, it was announced today.</p> <p >The money comes from the Department for Transport's Access for All: Small Schemes Fund, which was introduced last March to improve disabled access and information at rail stations across <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Wales</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >Centro-PTA will use the funding to provide automatic platform announcements, induction loops and new 'live' easy to read departure information displays on platforms and at station entrances which will tell passengers exactly when the next train will arrive.</p> <p >The system works by tracking the movement of trains so that people waiting on the platform can get up-to-date information about whether their service is on time or delayed.</p> <p >The organisation has been allocated £1,077,535 for the West Midlands out of the £6 million available in this round of funding – more than any other region in <st1:country-region >England</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region ><st1:place >Wales</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</p> <p >The money, which has been awarded for the next financial year, will be used in conjunction with a further £1.5 million commitment by Centro-PTA last October towards the improvements.</p> <p >It will be used to provide improvements at the following Network West Midlands stations: Acocks Green, Berkswell, Bescot Stadium, Birmingham Moor Street, Blake Street, Butlers Lane, Canley, Chester Road, Coseley, Dudley Port, Gravelly Hill, Hall Green, Hampton in Arden, Hamstead, Langley Green, Lea Hall, Lye, Old Hill, Olton, Perry Barr, Small Heath, Smethwick Rolfe Street, Spring Road, Stechford, The Hawthorns, Tipton, Tyseley, Whitlocks End, Widney Manor, Witton, Wylde Green and Yardley Wood.</p> <p >This represents another successful bid to the Department for Transport Access for All Small Schemes Fund. Last year Centro – PTA were awarded £737,000 for passenger information systems at 25 priority stations in the Network West Midlands area. Together this means that passengers at virtually all of the region's 63 rail station will benefit from up to date train running information.</p> <p >"We are delighted that the Government has recognised the importance of providing passenger information at rail stations across the <st1:place >West Midlands</st1:place>," says Councillor Keith Chambers, lead member for Rail for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"This new technology will mean using the train is an easier, better informed and more attractive option for everyone, and we hope it will encourage more people to use the train across the rail network."</p> <p >Surveys have shown that the information can also add to feelings of personal safety because passengers know how long they have to wait before the next train.</p> <p >Work is to follow on from the current programme of installations, and it is hoped all the new technology will be installed by the end of this year.</p> <p> </p>"
"People in the West Midlands are to get better passenger information at a further 32 stations after the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA put in a successful bid for over £1 million of funding from the Government, it was announced today."
9369
0
12
0
All change for buses in Halesowen town centre
2007-02-20T00:00:00
2007-02-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People wanting to find out more about the redevelopment of Halesowen town centre and its new £3.5 million bus station can go along to two exhibition days at the Cornbow Centre.</p> <p >Representatives from the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA and Vale Retail, which owns the Cornbow Centre, will be on hand with a series of displays to answer questions about the regeneration project on Saturday 24 February from 10am – 3pm, and on Thursday 1 March from 12pm – 6pm.</p> <p >Centro-PTA will provide information on the new bus station and on bus service changes which will come into effect from Sunday 4 March when the current Halesowen bus station will close.</p> <p >This is so Vale Retail's developer can start building work on the new lower level shop units and Dudley Council can move mains and cables in advance of its highway works.</p> <p >Included at the exhibition days will be details of the slightly altered routes that bus services will take through the town centre and the location of temporary shelters, which are being installed next week, where people can catch their bus. Centro-PTA staff will be on hand to answer any questions.</p> <p >The brand new, state-of-the-art bus station will include high quality bus waiting areas with electronic doors, CCTV, electronic information displays with up-to-date timetable information and a new attractive entrance canopy.</p> <p >Vale Retail will supply details on the new Asda store, the new shop units within the Cornbow Centre and the brand new, larger, multi-storey car park.</p> <p >As part of the project Dudley Council will be providing a new road layout which will include new and improved pedestrian crossing facilities and traffic calming measures.</p> <p >It is hoped that the new bus station will be open in Spring 2008 together with the enhanced road layout, while it is hoped the new Asda store and the improvements to the Cornbow Centre will be completed by Christmas 2008.</p> <p >Centro-PTA, Vale Retail and Dudley Council are working closely together in partnership to deliver the improvements.</p> <p >"I am very pleased that work has started on this project which is so important to the regeneration of Halesowen," says Councillor Angus Adams, Dudley Council's cabinet member for transportation and lead member for the borough for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"The redevelopment of the Cornbow Centre together with the new state-of-the-art bus station and improved road layout will provide the welcoming and attractive town centre that Halesowen needs and deserves."</p> <p >A leaflet which includes the details of the redevelopment including the temporary relocation of bus services is being distributed to 40,000 homes and is available in a number of places including on buses, in Travel Information Centres and on the Network West Midlands website www.networkwestmidlands.com/halesowen</p> <p> </p>"
People wanting to find out more about the redevelopment of Halesowen town centre and its new £3.5 million bus station can go along to two exhibition days at the Cornbow Centre.
9369
0
12
0
Praise for transport workers battling through the snow
2007-02-08T00:00:00
2007-02-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >West Midlands transport workers have been praised for keeping the region's networks running during the heavy snow this week.</p> <p >Trams and most of the regional rail and bus services kept on going through the blizzard conditions that swept in on Thursday.</p> <p >"It's at times like this that you really appreciate the efforts of thousands of bus, train and tram drivers who themselves struggle into work, sometimes in the early hours, so that we can keep our cities on the move," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of regional transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"They all did a first-class job," he said.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke also repeated the advice of other public bodies for people to avoid the need to travel during the wintry conditions where possible.  "There is no need for places to grind to a halt during the snow, as long as everyone behaves and drives sensibly," he added.</p> <p ><u>Note to editors:</u></p> <p ><em>Whilst we at Centro-PTA are always happy to comment on policy issues, for any operation details during severe weather please contact the operators concerned.  There are details for many of these on our links</em> <em>page.</em></p> <p ><em>There have been some changes to services due to road conditions for example.  Members of the public are generally being advised to listen to local radio for information.</em></p>"
West Midlands transport workers have been praised for keeping the region's networks running during the heavy snow this week.
9369
DSCF3358.JPG
0
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Tram training for commuters of tomorrow
2007-02-07T00:00:00
2007-02-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Children from Birmingham and the Black Country are being taught all about the Midland Metro tram system and proposed extensions thanks to special school sessions organised by Centro-PTA.</p> <p >Tram experts from the region's public transport body are visiting West Midland's schools to give talks and educational Metro activity packs to the region's next generation of commuters.</p> <p >Included in the packs, which are aimed at seven to 11 year olds, is information on how trams work, how to use trams safely, and why they are so important in providing a green, reliable and sustainable mode of transport.</p> <p >It is hoped that the sessions will help encourage the children to think about using trams, as well as buses, trains, walking and cycling, to help to save the planet, as well as discussing these issues with their families.</p> <p >The packs also contain details of the new Phase One extensions from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill and through Birmingham City Centre, which it is hoped will be running in 2012.</p> <p >These will provide development, regeneration and over 4,000 jobs in the region, which will directly benefit many of the children when they leave school.</p> <p >Representatives from operator Travel Midland Metro will attend some of the sessions to teach the children about the sorts of jobs available working on the tram system, including conductors, engineers and drivers.</p> <p >As well as information, the activity packs include a number of fun, interactive activities including a board game, puzzles, colouring in and a tram model which the children can make, which will teach the children more about the Midland Metro.</p> <p >"These school children are the commuters of tomorrow and will be leaving school just as the new extensions are completed," says Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"It is vital that we teach them now about the importance of using green modes of public transport like the Midland Metro instead of relying on cars, so we can work towards reducing congestion in the long term as well as the short term."</p> <p>Any Black Country or Birmingham primary schools that are interested in receiving a Midland Metro session from Centro-PTA can contact Susan Bridges on 0121 214 7103 or email susanbridges@centro.org.uk</p>"
Children from Birmingham and the Black Country are being taught all about the Midland Metro tram system and proposed extensions thanks to special school sessions organised by Centro-PTA.
9369
0
12
0
Public transport network makeover reaches a milestone in Dudley
2007-01-26T00:00:00
2007-01-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses will reach a milestone in their work to give the region's bus, train and tram networks a new look on Tuesday (30 January) – when the 4,000<sup>th</sup> Network West Midlands bus stop is installed in Dudley town centre.</p> <p>It is part of a region-wide, £7m programme by transport body Centro-PTA to tackle congestion and improve the environment.  The two-year makeover is providing a whole new range of easy-to-follow information at bus stops, Metro stops and rail stations.</p> <p>Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke, together with senior figures from local bus operating companies, are launching the new Network West Midlands name to Dudley passengers at the bus station on Tuesday.  He says when Midland Metro runs through the bus station in a few years time that will also be clearly part of the same integrated network, so that connections throughout the Black Country are made a whole lot easier.</p> <p>"This is a major piece of work to get many more people using public transport," says Cllr Clarke.  "It will add to our campaign to cut congestion in the West Midlands and make it so much easier for everyone to get about.  Our goal is for passengers to be offered a truly integrated transport system, with simpler ticketing and easy to use information to make finding your way about the network as easy as possible."</p> <p>The region's private sector operators are partners in the scheme to provide vastly improved passenger information across all forms of public transport.  Timetables, signs, maps and tickets will all carry the distinctive '<strong>n</strong>' logo to emphasise that they belong to a joined-up network.</p> <p>Eventually councillors want all bus, train and Metro services to become part of the comprehensive Network West Midlands to rival similar networks in Paris and London.</p> <p>Public body Centro-PTA recently took over control of more than 7,000 bus stops across the West Midlands conurbation and is promising to provide passenger information at more than 13,000 locations in total, with operator partners funding the maintenance and upkeep of the information.</p> <p>A host of different bus companies previously erected bus stops and only around one in ten of these provided any timetable or route information.  The Network West Midlands programme is also providing digital displays showing 'live' bus and train departures on station platforms, in bus shelters and at key interchanges.</p> <p>"Vastly improved passenger information and promoting the network of services is a crucial step in our plan to make the network more attractive to use," comments Cllr Clarke.</p>"
"Transport bosses will reach a milestone in their work to give the region's bus, train and tram networks a new look on Tuesday (30 January) � when the 4,000th Network West Midlands bus stop is installed in Dudley town centre."
9369
0
12
0
Two new stops for free city bus
2007-01-10T00:00:00
2007-01-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Getting around Birmingham city centre is set to get even easier for passengers from Monday (15 January) thanks to the introduction of two new stops for the free Station<i>link</i> bus service.</p> <p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, has brought in the two new stops for the city centre shuttle service on Priory Queensway; one outside Argos, and the other, on the opposite side of the road, outside Bannatyne's health club.</p> <p >It is hoped that providing more stops for the service will help improve accessibility to the city centre for locals and visitors to the region. There will be no change to the current Station<i>link</i> route.</p> <p >  "Many other local bus services already stop on Priory Queensway, making it an ideal interchange for travellers coming into the city by rail and from Digbeth coach station," says Centro-PTA's bus services director, Stephen Rhodes.</p> <p >"They are also just a short walk away from the law courts, the Birmingham Children's Hospital, Aston University and Matthew Boulton College, as well as the many shops and services located towards the north of the city centre, improving access to all of these important facilities."</p> <p >Centro-PTA launched the Station<i>link</i> service in July to provide commuters, shoppers and visitors to Birmingham with a free, easy to use, frequent bus service which links key parts of Birmingham city centre including New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill rail stations, Digbeth Coach Station, the markets and the Bullring.</p> <p >It has proved particularly useful for people who are unfamiliar with Birmingham, those with heavy shopping or luggage, the elderly and people with mobility problems.</p> <p>The service runs Monday to Saturday from 7am to 6pm at a frequency of every 8 minutes, using three brand new, low flow easy access buses operated by Zak's Bus and Coach Services on behalf of Centro-PTA, which funds it.</p>"
Getting around Birmingham city centre is set to get even easier for passengers from Monday (15 January) thanks to the introduction of two new stops for the free Stationlink bus service.
9369
0
12
0
Theatre deal puts fairy godmother out of a job
2007-01-03T00:00:00
2007-01-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Cinderella no longer needs the Fairy Godmother to get her to the ball according to transport bosses.</p> <p >Thanks to an exclusive travel and theatre ticket deal from Centro-PTA, Cinders, her ugly sisters and anyone else living in the Network West Midlands area can make big savings on theatre tickets if they travel by rail.</p> <p >"By catching the train, people can save £5 off their ticket prices to see the Pantomime at the Birmingham Hippodrome matinee performances on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays," says a Centro-PTA spokesperson.</p> <p >"And, the deal means that Cinderella doesn't need to worry about being held up in traffic or wasting time looking for a city centre parking space for her pumpkin coach when she could be romancing Prince Charming or doing a bit of shopping."</p> <p >Cinderella is the UK's biggest pantomime, and stars Brian Conley as Buttons and Shobna Gulati as the Fairy Godmother. Nigel Ellacott and Peter Robbins return as the ugly sisters, Michelle Potter is Cinderella and Dawson Chance plays Baron Hardup.</p> <p >The show has received outstanding press reviews and promises to be a fun day out for the whole family.</p> <p >The Centro-PTA offer applies to all but the lowest band of ticket prices, and is valid for people travelling from Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton, including the 30+ stations served by free Centro-PTA park and ride car parks.</p> <p>People wanting to take advantage of the deal should book their tickets on 0870 730 1234 quoting pcdNWM, or visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com. Rail travellers will be asked to produce their rail ticket in conjunction with their theatre ticket to gain admission.</p>"
Cinderella no longer needs the Fairy Godmother to get her to the ball according to transport bosses.
9369
0
12
0
Transport councillors peg local rail fare increase
2007-01-02T00:00:00
2007-01-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The West Midlands will not to be affected by significant rail fare increases today thanks to intervention from the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA.</p> <p >For the fourth year running, the organisation has pegged the average increase in off-peak fares in the Network West Midlands area to the rate of inflation, giving a 0 per cent increase in real terms.</p> <p >Centro-PTA was able to achieve this by gaining agreement by the Department for Transport to hold off-peak fares in the Network West Midlands area, which includes Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton, and also on the Chase line between Rugeley and Walsall, at the rate of inflation.</p> <p >Thanks to this, it has been calculated that an extra 40,000 rail journeys will be made on the local rail network when compared with an increase of one per cent above inflation, helping to significantly reduce congestion and carbon emissions on the region's roads.</p> <p >It comes at a time when other train operators are increasing their fares by up to four per cent more than inflation.</p> <p >The West Midlands three main operators, Central Trains, Chiltern Railways and Virgin West Coast have increased their unregulated fares by 5.7 per cent, 4.5 per cent and 6.6 per cent respectively.</p> <p >Network West Midlands peak rail fares including <strong>n</strong>train and <strong>n</strong>network season tickets are increasing by just one per cent above inflation (4.3 per cent) in line with national guidelines for regulated fares set by the Department for Transport.</p> <p >Councillor Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA says: ""This is good news for rail passengers in the Network West Midlands area and will play a considerable part in easing jams on our region's congested roads.""</p> <p>""Unfortunately though, we fear that 2007 will be the last year that Centro-PTA will be able to directly control local rail fares. From 2008, rail fare rises in the Network West Midlands area will be set by whichever private company is successful in bidding for the new West Midlands franchise, which could result in significant increases in the cost of off-peak rail travel if the need to maximise profits comes before meeting the needs of local passengers"". </p>"
"The West Midlands will not to be affected by significant rail fare increases today thanks to intervention from the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
0
Centro-PTA Review of the Year 2006
2006-12-27T00:00:00
2006-12-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A look back at main stories on this website over the past twelve months - with links to the stories in detail.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">January</span></p> <p>2006 started with the results of a public consultation on the draft Local Transport Plan, which revealed that 88 per cent of people wanted more to be done to tackle gridlock in the West Midlands, with many calling for <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17837.aspx"">improvements to public transport</a>.</p> <p>Not long afterwards, Centro-PTA's annual report revealed that more people are using buses, trains and trams travel in the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17841.aspx"">Black Country</a>, beating the Government target for persuading commuters out of their cars in the morning rush hour.</p> <p>Towards the end of January, Centro-PTA discussed plans to refurbish <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17845.aspx"">Stourbridge bus station</a>, and looked at alternative layouts for a £3.5 million development.The town also saw the launch of the gas powered <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17847.aspx"">Parry People Mover</a>, which began a Sunday service between Stourbridge Town and Stourbridge Junction as part of a 12 month trial funded by Centro-PTA.</p> <p>The intention to install new technology in the region's bus shelters was also unveiled by Centro-PTA. Councillors approved plans to put in <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17833.aspx"">solar powered lighting</a> in almost 200 shelters<a href=""http://centro.journalistpresslounge.com/centro/news/index.cfm/fuseaction/details/id/95E70367-13D3-97AA-2D1D7D2553826D10/cnt/101/ref/archive/type/News%20Releases/ses/1.cfm"">,</a> while vandalism hit infrastructure in the region was fitted with <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17836.aspx"">hidden cameras</a> to catch the culprits.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">February</span></p> <p>In February Centro-PTA launched its <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17849.aspx"">Train Gang</a> website, a special resource aimed at children to teach them the importance of using sustainable transport.</p> <p>The middle of the month plans were unveiled for the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17854.aspx"">New Street Station</a> transformation � a joint project by Network Rail, Birmingham City Council, Advantage West Midlands and Centro-PTA. The Birmingham Gateway scheme, which will see £500 million of public and private investment, will completely redesign and refurbish the station and surrounding area. Centro-PTA welcomed the news, and marked the redevelopment as a top priority for the organisation as it will give the city and region the gateway station it needs and deserves.</p> <p>Centro-PTA also saw a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17858.aspx"">big increase</a> in the uptake of concessionary passes in the seven months after offering one of the best free travel deals in the country, free bus, train and tram travel for all over 60s and disable people after 9.30am. This was celebrated with a presentation to local MP <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17855.aspx"">Clare Short</a> of her pass for her 60<sup>th</sup> birthday.</p> <p>At the end of the February, Dudley Council announced it had approved plans for the major redevelopment of <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17859.aspx"">Halesowen bus station</a>. Centro-PTA, which will provide the £2.5 million expanded and modern interchange, welcomed the news.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">March</span></p> <p>The start of March saw Centro-PTA councillors agree for the organisation to <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17860.aspx"">sign a deal</a> with rail company Central Trains which would allow them to run trains in the West Midlands until November 2007.</p> <p>Later that month, Centro-PTA announced its hope to introduce smart public transport tickets which include a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17864.aspx"">microchip</a> which automatically charges people the cheapest fare available.</p> <p>March was a month of change for Centro-PTA, which announced the retirement of <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17865.aspx"">Director General Rob Donald</a>, and the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17876.aspx"">merger</a> of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (WMPTA) and Centro, its executive body, to give a clearer, more effective voice for passengers.</p> <p>It was also a month of change for public transport in Coventry, which saw preparations for the launch of <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17875.aspx"">Network Coventry</a>, which would integrate all services and give better public transport information, and the running of buses under the Whittle Arches into <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17871.aspx"">Pool Meadow Bus Station</a> again. At the same time, Wolverhampton residents gave the thumbs up for their refurbished bus station through a survey commissioned by Centro-PTA.</p> <p>At the end of March Centro-PTA announced that it and the seven Metropolitan Authorities had submitted the West Midlands bid for <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17878.aspx"">Local Transport Plan</a> funding from the Department for Transport.� The money will provide major transport schemes to tackle congestion and boost public transport.</p> <p>The announcement coincided with then Transport Secretary <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17877.aspx"">Alistair Darling</a> giving the go-ahead for a new Urban Traffic Control Centre, with £27 million funding, which will use technology and traffic control techniques to make road travel more reliable.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">April</span></p> <p>In April Centro-PTA councillors called for more to be done to promote <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17881.aspx"">late night bus services</a> in the West Midlands amid fears that services may be withdrawn due to low patronage.</p> <p>The organisation welcomed calls for public bodies like Centro-PTA to be given <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17883.aspx"">greater powers</a> over public transport in order to tackle global warming. The Local Government Association's Environment Board told MPs that it would be ""difficult nigh impossible"" to increase public transport usage and improve air quality due to the deregulation of bus service outside London.</p> <p>Following this, Centro-PTA also welcomed a top level <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17887.aspx"">inquiry</a> into the provision of bus services across the UK, announced by the House of Commons Transport Committee in an attempt to find out why bus use has continued to decline outside London.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">May</span></p> <p>At the start of May, Centro-PTA announced that they would be putting <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17890.aspx"">new bus shelters</a> in 50 locations across the West Midlands.</p> <p><a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17891.aspx"">Walsall</a> was the first place to in the region to benefit from new look public transport information under the Network West Midlands roll out, an initiative designed to provide better co-ordinated timetable information and promote the integrated transport network in the region.</p> <p>Centro-PTA opened extended park and pide sites at four locations across Birmingham and Solihull two years ahead of schedule. The £1 million car park expansions at Acocks Green, Chester Road, Wylde Green and Whitlocks End were not due to be completed until 2008 and beyond.</p> <p>Towards the end of May, Centro-PTA asked for people to give their views on proposals for Bus Rapid Transit in Coventry and Warwickshire. The <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17895.aspx"">£70m scheme</a> is being suggested to link Nuneaton, Bedworth, Warwick University, Kenilworth and Coventry city centre.</p> <p>Centro-PTA councillors also backed calls from the Government to do more to encourage people to use public transport, following a report by the influential <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17896.aspx"">House of Commons Public Accounts Committee</a> which found that a 40 year downward trend in bus usage was continuing almost everywhere outside London.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">June</span></p> <p>In June, a Centro-PTA survey revealed that passengers were <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17900.aspx"">happy with the location of bus stops</a> in the West Midlands. The news came as the organisation announced that it is to <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17901.aspx"">take control</a> of all the bus stops across the West Midlands from operators to ensure accurate timetable information is available at each one.</p> <p>Following the publication of the new West Midlands <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17903.aspx"">rail franchise</a> details by the Department for Transport, Centro-PTA welcomed the growth agenda set out in the consultation document, including some 40 extra services a day.</p> <p>However, councillors also promised to <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17902.aspx"">fight proposals</a> to end the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service after the Government said it was unwilling to underwrite the Black Country link.</p> <p>In mid-June, Centro-PTA together with Walsall, <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17909.aspx"">Staffordshire and Cannock Chase</a> councils began to draw up plans to improve the rail line between Walsall and Stafford including better stations and more frequent, faster trains.</p> <p>The end of June saw the launch of a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17914.aspx"">new text message service</a>, which allows bus passengers to receive information about the arrival time of their next bus on their mobile phone using each stops unique code and Real Time Information.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">July</span></p> <p>In July the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17916.aspx"">Government announced</a> almost a billion pounds of funding to pay for 34 transport schemes in the West Midlands, including better bus services, better links to Birmingham Airport and the NEC, rail station improvements and Bus Rapid Transit. The Department for Transport also announced 19 key road routes where local councils and Centro-PTA will be expected to limit <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17917.aspx"">congestion</a> over the next five years.</p> <p>On the hottest day ever recorded, Centro-PTA pledged its commitment to tackling global warming by becoming the first UK transport body to sign the Nottingham Declaration on <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17918.aspx"">Climate Change</a>.</p> <p>July was a busy month for <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17919.aspx"">Midland Metro</a> following the submission of the business case for the Phase One extensions. An independent panel of experts gave the proposals the green light, confirming that Centro-PTA has a robust and deliverable project. The findings were then sent to the Government department considering the business case for the £430m scheme.</p> <p>Westfield, the owners of Merry Hill, then signed an agreement with Centro-PTA detailing the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17924.aspx"">private sector's</a> largest funding contribution towards a UK light rail scheme, £36.5m.</p> <p>Station<em>link</em>, Birmingham's <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17927.aspx"">free city centre shuttle bus</a> service was launched at the end of July by Centro-PTA, and the organisation was also successful in its bid for <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17928.aspx"">£� million</a> Government funding towards improving passenger information at 25 stations across the region.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">August</span></p> <p>Network Rail submitted its outline <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17932.aspx"">planning application</a> for the redevelopment of New Street Station to Birmingham City Council in August.</p> <p>Centro-PTA backed plans to concentrate the future development of the Black Country into areas well-served by public transport to give local people the best access to jobs shopping and leisure opportunities in Wolverhampton, West Bromwich, Walsall and Brierley Hill/Merry Hill. The plan is a review of the Regional Spatial Strategy following the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17933.aspx"">Black Country Study</a>.</p> <p>And, towards the end of the month, Centro-PTA called for the Department for Transport to retain their status as a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17935.aspx"">co-signatory</a> on the new West Midlands rail franchise so they can continue to deliver improvements on the network, in a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport, Douglas Alexander.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">September</span></p> <p>September saw a big change in West Midlands public transport ticketing when Centro-PTA <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17938.aspx"">launched</a> their new, easier to use and colour co-ordinated Network West Midlands ticket range.</p> <p>The Government announced the names of the companies it had <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17941.aspx"">shortlisted</a> for the West Midlands rail franchise. Govia, the MTR Corporation of Hong Kong and SercoNed were listed as the pre-qualified bidders, meaning National-Express owned Central Trains will no longer operate the lines after November next year. MTR later pulled out, leaving just two rival bidders for the franchise.</p> <p>September was the month when the 'Gridlock or Growth � Choices and Challenges for the Future' report was published. The <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17943.aspx"">study</a>, the most comprehensive yet of congestion in the West Midlands revealed that congestion will continue to increase in the region and suggested road user charging as a possible solution. It concluded that doing nothing was not an option.</p> <p>Centro-PTA also welcomed Douglas Alexander's September promise during his Labour Party Conference speech to give local authorities <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17947.aspx"">'real powers'</a> over local bus networks.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">October</span></p> <p>In October Centro-PTA announced that a further twenty stations would <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17950.aspx"">benefit</a> from new live departure displays and platform announcements benefiting more than 100,000 passengers a week and <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17951.aspx"">Network West Midlands was launched in Birmingham</a>.</p> <p>The Midland Metro extension was a hot topic again during October after an adjournment debate in parliament. Stourbridge MP, <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17956.aspx"">Lynda Waltho</a> told the Government the importance of the scheme for regeneration of the Black Country and to counter the area's decline, linking it to the Black Country Study.</p> <p>Following the publication of the Stern Review on <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17957.aspx"">climate change</a>, Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke, highlighted the need for the implementation of key projects like Midland Metro and the redevelopment of New Street in the fight against global warming.</p> <p>Centro-PTA welcomed the announcement that the threatened Walsall to Wolverhampton line is to be included in the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17958.aspx"">new franchise</a>, but questioned why no funding has been identified to keep the trains running.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">November</span></p> <p>The New Street redevelopment was the subject of an adjournment debate in parliament at the beginning of November, during which MP Gisela Stewart, with the support of all <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17960.aspx"">city MPs</a> from all three parties, stressed the importance of redeveloping New Street Station.</p> <p>Centro-PTA celebrated its successful bid for Government funding to provide complete <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17961.aspx"">disabled access</a> at Northfield, Selly Oak and Sutton Coldfield rail stations, together with small schemes funding towards providing a new walkway at Stourbridge Junction and refurbished toilets at Cradley Heath.</p> <p>Together with Birmingham City Council, Centro-PTA launched the pilot of Community <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17963.aspx"">TravelWise</a> for the UK, a new high-tech travel initiative, which aims to reduce congestion and combat social exclusion through a web based portal which provides bespoke travel information.</p> <p><span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">December</span></p> <p>At the start of December, Centro-PTA <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17968.aspx"">launched Network West Midlands in Wolverhampton</a> and figures compiled by Centro-PTA and Birmingham City Council were released which show that <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17971.aspx"">more people than ever are switching to bus, train and tram</a> for their daily commute to work.</p> <p>In mid-December, the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17973.aspx"">Government announced</a> its plans to give local councils greater influence over bus services, admitting that deregulation had failed to deliver the full range of benefits to passengers.</p> <p>And, the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17977.aspx"">Government's allocation of £155m</a> towards public transport improvements in the West Midlands, including park and ride, road safety measures, cycle lanes and street lighting through the Local Transport Plan, was branded as a step in the right direction by Centro-PTA councillors.</p>"
A look back at main stories on this website over the past twelve months - with links to the stories in detail.
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Transport boss welcomes city's action on climate change
2006-12-21T00:00:00
2006-12-21T00:00:00
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"<p>A regional transport boss has congratulated Wolverhampton City Council for taking a stand on global warming.</p> <p>The city has become the latest to sign up to a national declaration on climate change, committing itself to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Councillors approved the charter at yesterday's (Wednesday's) full council meeting.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke said his organisation Centro-PTA would be working closely with the city council to promote more sustainable travel in the West Midlands.</p> <p>""It is becoming ever more apparent that we all need to think more about the energy we use and the carbon we burn and I congratulate the city council on showing the way forward for Wolverhampton,"" he said.</p> <p>Earlier this year, Centro-PTA became the first transport authority to sign up to the climate change declaration.</p> <p>""As transport is one of the main contributors to climate change we feel it is important to show our own commitment as the biggest authority responsible for public transport outside London. A public transport user consumes three and a half times less energy than a motorist,"" adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>""Seventy million commuters trips are made in the region every year and if those using a car were to switch to public transport for just one day a week it would reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into our atmosphere by 125 kilograms per person a year. That would be a real contribution to reducing climate change and the impact on the environment.""</p> <p>Recent forecasts based on official Met Office data show the West Midlands can expect to see much hotter and drier summers in the future. The computer model shows a rise in average temperatures of between four and five degrees Celsius and rainfall to decrease by as much as 60 per cent. A forecast based on lower levels of carbon emissions reduces the predicted temperature increase to around two degrees by 2080.</p> <p>Within the West Midlands metropolitan area, Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley and Walsall councils have also joined with Centro-PTA in signing up to the Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong></em> <a href=""http://www.ukcip.org.uk/climate_change/location_details.asp region_id=6"" target=""_blank""><em>regional climate change forecast</em></a></p>"
A regional transport boss has congratulated Wolverhampton City Council for taking a stand on global warming.
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Motorists can't park; back public transport policy
2006-12-21T00:00:00
2006-12-21T00:00:00
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"<p >Public transport policies for town and city centres in the West Midlands have received a festive endorsement from one of the country's biggest motoring organisations.</p> <p >The comments are contained in an RAC study, which found that almost half of car-based shoppers had been forced to turn back on at least one occasion in the past year because they could not find a parking space.</p> <p >""This shows the need for a balanced transport policy which considers parking provision required for our major retail centres, but also seeks to develop bus, train and tram networks to make sure there is an attractive public transport option,"" says Cllr. Gary Clarke, chairman of regional transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >In its report on shopping and transport policy, the RAC Foundation for Motoring calls for a number of actions to make public transport more attractive.  It says there should be more power  for local councillors to determine bus services, better real time information for passengers, travel planning advice to be made more available and 'smarter' use of park and ride. </p> <p>""These are all initiatives that we that have embraced in the West Midlands for many years,"" comments Cllr. Clarke.</p> <p><em><strong>Link: </strong></em> <a href=""http://www.racfoundation.org/index.php option=com_content&task=view&id=412&Itemid=31"" target=""_blank""><em>RAC study</em></a></p>"
Public transport policies for town and city centres in the West Midlands have received a festive endorsement from one of the country's biggest motoring organisations.
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Transport bosses welcome £155m funding boost
2006-12-19T00:00:00
2006-12-19T00:00:00
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"<p >The Government's decision to invest £155 million in the West Midlands transport system has been branded a step in the right direction by regional transport bosses.</p> <p >Councillor Gary Clarke, chairman of the regional public transport body, Centro-PTA, and chief executive, Geoff Inskip, welcomed the investment which will fund a range of improvements, including park and ride facilities, road safety measures, cycle lanes and street lighting.</p> <p >The money will come from the Local Transport Plan Settlement from the Department for Transport, which is in addition to the £185 million for major transport projects announced earlier this year as part of the Regional Funding Allocation Process.</p> <p >The investment delivers funding for 2007/08. Some of this year's money is awarded according to the performance of local authorities in delivering better transport over the first five-year Local Transport Plan period. Another part is based on the quality of their plans to improve transport over the next five years.</p> <p >Centro-PTA welcomed the Government's review of the West Midlands second Local Transport Plan submission, which it categorized as "excellent", meaning a very high standard of transport planning has been achieved.</p> <p >Additionally, the delivery report of the first Local Transport Plan was rated as "very good", with the Government highlighting the £22 million Outer Circle Bus Showcase Scheme as an example of the success achieved from the funding.</p> <p ><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/Content/Detail.asp ReleaseID=251147&NewsAreaID=2"" target=""_blank""><em>Department for Transport news release</em></a></p> <p >"Following the publication of the Gridlock or Growth report, we know that more needs to be done to relieve congestion in the West Midlands and this local investment is a definite step in the right direction," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"Together with the funding from the Regional Funding Allocations, this should go some way to providing the West Midlands with the integrated transport network it needs and deserves."</p>"
The Government's decision to invest £155 million in the West Midlands transport system has been branded a step in the right direction by regional transport bosses.
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Festive transport keeps on running
2006-12-18T00:00:00
2006-12-18T00:00:00
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"<p >People in the West Midlands will be able to use buses and trams every day except Christmas Day throughout the festive period, the region's public transport body Centro-PTA has announced.</p> <p >Throughout 2006 buses and the Midland Metro will have operated 364 days of the year, while rail services will have a two-day scheduled break on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.</p> <p >Centro-PTA and bus operators have worked closely in partnership to ensure that over 120 key services will run on Boxing Day this year, including extra subsidised services. Midland Metro will run a 20 minute service between 10am and 6pm.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA, has welcomed the news.</p> <p >"I am very pleased that, through our close working relationship with operators, services will keep running over the festive period. Our survey of passengers in previous years has shown that public transport has an important role in helping to bring families and friends together during the Christmas holidays – as well as to get to the shops for the sales," he says.</p> <p >Until recent years there had been no buses in the West Midlands on Boxing Day, but intervention by Centro-PTA has led to dramatic improvements for passengers.  The public transport body funded the setting up of a service pattern and much of this has now been taken over by a bus company which runs the services commercially. </p> <p >Centro-PTA still subsidises some essential routes to provide the West Midlands with a more complete network on Boxing Day and pays for all the buses in Coventry on New Years Day.</p> <p >On every other day over the festive period, buses, trains and trams will operate a normal or amended timetable. A special page has been set up on www.networkwestmidlands.com for more detailed timetable information including Boxing Day bus services.</p> <p ><strong>A dispute between rail unions and operator Central Trains, part of the National Express Group could lead to disruption with strikes threatened for 24 and 31 December and 01 January.</strong> Additionally some rail services may operate on a replacement bus service on some days over the festive period.</p> <p>Train timetable information and details of engineering works and strike action are available at <a href=""www.centraltrains.co.uk"" target=""_blank"">www.centraltrains.co.uk</a> or <a href=""http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.nationalrail.co.uk</a></p> <p><em><strong>Link: </strong></em> <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/templates/newsListNew.aspx id=434"" target=""_blank""><em><strong>Latest news on train strike</strong></em></a></p>"
"People in the West Midlands will be able to use buses and trams every day except Christmas Day throughout the festive period, the region's public transport body Centro-PTA has announced."
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Priceless passes easier to get hold of
2006-12-14T00:00:00
2006-12-14T00:00:00
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"<p >Over 60s in Sandwell wanting a free bus, train and Metro pass and hassle free public transport information can take advantage of a new service being launched by public transport promoter Centro-PTA and Sandwell Council.</p> <p >The two organisations have joined forces to offer senior citizens a special facility so they can apply for their free regional travel pass with the help of trained staff at Sandwell Council House in Oldbury.</p> <p >Advisors will also be on hand to offer people information on the best way to get from A to B using the West Midlands integrated public transport system of train, Metro and bus routes.</p> <p >Centro-PTA offers West Midland's senior citizens and disabled people one of the best concessionary travel schemes in the country, providing free travel on bus, train and Metro services after 9.30am on weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday.</p> <p >Over half a million people are now taking advantage of the offer, which was introduced in July last year, nine months ahead of Government's bus only scheme.</p> <p >"Free travel passes are really important to senior citizens, whether they're used to access healthcare, visit family and friends or simply go out shopping, and this has been shown by their popularity," explains Cllr Roger Horton, vice-chair of and Sandwell's lead member on Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"Our aim is to make these passes even easier to get hold of by extending the number of locations in which they are available, and this partnership between Centro-PTA and Sandwell Council is a great example of how two public bodies can work together to do just that."</p> <p >The new service will be available in the one stop shop contact centre at Sandwell Council House, which is open from 8am – 5.30pm Monday to Thursday, and 8am – 5pm on Friday.</p> <p >"We are delighted to have Centro PTA aboard to offer this important service to residents of Sandwell," says Cllr Pauline Hinton.</p> <p >"Improving accessibility for residents is on of Sandwell Council's top priorities and we would like to continue making partnerships with bodies like Centro-PTA to offer an even wider range of services, information and advice to people in the area."</p> <p>Centro-PTA also offers similar services in Solihull, Dudley and Birmingham and it is hoped that providing help with public transport information and applying for passes will boost public transport use in the West Midlands.</p>"
"Over 60s in Sandwell wanting a free bus, train and Metro pass and hassle free public transport information can take advantage of a new service being launched by public transport promoter Centro-PTA and Sandwell Council."
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"The weather outside is frightful, but this new shelter is delightful"
2006-12-14T00:00:00
2006-12-14T00:00:00
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"<p >Christmas shoppers in Bilston using the Ring & Ride bus service can wait for their bus in comfort thanks to an early Christmas present from the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA.</p> <p >A brand new top of the range shelter has been installed in Bilston town centre especially for people with mobility problems, who rely on the Ring & Ride service to get about independently.</p> <p >The new shelter is large enough to accommodate wheelchairs, and is enclosed with glass panels to ensure protection from the weather. Seats are provided for those without wheelchairs, and information and telephone numbers for Ring & Ride are available in the shelter.</p> <p >The shelter is located in Bilston Town Centre by HSBC bank on pedestrianised Broad Street where the Ring & Ride buses usually stop. Prior to the shelters installation, Ring & Ride users had to wait for their connection on an exposed bench with no shelter.</p> <p >"We are very pleased to have provided this important shelter for Ring & Ride users in Bilston," says Judith Rowley, Wolverhampton Councillor and lead member for diversity & equality for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"The service is a lifeline for many people across that West Midlands with limited mobility, and it is very important that people have the opportunity to wait for their bus in comfort. Many have already expressed their happiness at the installation of the shelter."</p> <p>Ring & Ride is a door-to-door bus service provided for people with limited mobility, funded by more than £10 million a year from Centro-PTA.</p>"
"Christmas shoppers in Bilston using the Ring & Ride bus service can wait for their bus in comfort thanks to an early Christmas present from the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA."
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Government shakes up bus industry
2006-12-12T00:00:00
2006-12-12T00:00:00
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"<p >Passengers in the West Midlands can look forward to better bus services following a shake up of the way the industry is run, according to bosses at the regional transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The Government today announced proposals to give local councillors a greater influence – admitting that the deregulation of bus services that took place two decades ago had failed to deliver the full range of benefits to passengers.</p> <p >"We welcome the Secretary of State's conclusion that carrying on as we are is not an option any more," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >He said the key thing now was to make sure that a draft bill to be published in the new year contained the clauses his organisation wants.</p> <p >"We have always made it clear we did not want to return to the days when local bus services were run by council departments.  Private sector involvement can and has been a catalyst for innovation and investment – and we want that to continue.  But we do need to ensure that the interests of passengers are given the highest priority," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >"Our cities need effective and attractive public transport networks – especially as we face the growing challenges of congestion and environmental responsibility."</p> <p >"It is very welcome that the Government has recognised those challenges and is prepared to give regional bodies, with local accountability, the tools we need to do the job.  The partnership approach will always be important no matter what legislative framework is in place.  We want to work with responsible bus companies so that the passenger gets more reliable, cleaner, punctual services that are part of a comprehensive and integrated transport network for the West Midlands."</p> <p >Today's announcement marks the most fundamental change in the operation of buses for twenty years according to Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander.</p> <p >He said Government proposals would change the way buses are run, strengthening the working partnerships between local authorities and bus companies to attract more passengers in the long term.</p> <p >""To many people buses are a lifeline, giving them access to jobs and shops and allowing them to stay in touch with family and friends. But since deregulation some areas have seen a free-for-all, with the needs of passengers being neglected," he says.  "By sharing best practice and giving local authorities and operators the tools they need to work effectively together, all passengers, regardless of where they live, should start to enjoy the benefits of top quality bus services.""</p> <p >Legislation announced in the Queen's Speech would be drawing together options for road pricing schemes, streamlining transport and highways powers and strengthened governance arrangements for regional bodies like Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"The new Road Transport Bill is shaping up to be a crucial piece of legislation for the future of our major cities, so we will be talking to ministers over the coming weeks and months to promote the interests of passengers and business interests in the West Midlands," adds Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p><em><strong>Links: </strong></em><br /> <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp ReleaseID=249661&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False"" target=""_blank""><em>Department for Transport news release</em></a><br /> <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_localtrans/documents/page/dft_localtrans_613800.pdf"" target=""_blank""><em><strong>Govt proposals in full (PDF file - 56 pages)</strong></em></a></p>"
"Passengers in the West Midlands can look forward to better bus services following a shake up of the way the industry is run, according to bosses at the regional transport body Centro-PTA."
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Show stopping ticket prices for Christmas train travellers
2006-12-11T00:00:00
2006-12-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Guys and Dolls can make show stopping savings and not gamble with the hassles of driving and parking at the theatre this Christmas if they travel by train, thanks to the region's public transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham is showing Guys and Dolls starring Bonnie Langford and ex-Eastenders star Nigel Harman, and has teamed up to offer a special discount to West Midland's rail users.</p> <p >Residents of Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton can get £5 off the top ticket price for performances from 12 – 19 December (excluding Friday and Saturday evening performances) if they travel to the show by rail.</p> <p >And for evening performances, return rail tickets purchased after 6.30pm cost only £1.50 for adults and 75p for children anywhere in the Network West Midlands area. A group of four can travel for just £4.</p> <p >It also means that people taking advantage of the offer don't need to worry about finding their way into the city centre by car through traffic jams, or finding a nearby parking space.</p> <p >The theatre is just a short walk from New Street station, and those travelling into Moor Street and Snow Hill for day time performances can catch the new free Station<i>link</i> bus service which stops by the markets and New Street which are both conveniently close by.</p> <p >Guys and Dolls tells the story of a group of small time gamblers and the ladies in their lives. Nathan Detroit bets his pal, Sky Masterson that he can't make the next lady he sees fall in love with him, and when the next 'doll' happens to be the prim and proper neighbourhood missionary Sarah Brown, the stage is set for an evening of high spirited entertainment, set to the toe-tapping beat of Loesser's score.</p> <p >The show includes all the classic Guys and Dolls songs, including 'Luck Be A Lady', 'Sit Down You're Rocking The Boat', 'Adelaide's Lament', 'If I Were A Bell' and of course the title song 'Guys and Dolls'.</p> <p >People wanting to take advantage of this exclusive offer should book their tickets on 0870 607 7546 quoting 'Network'. Rail tickets must be shown with theatre tickets for admission to the show.</p> <p >"This offer allows people in the West Midlands to travel to the theatre without the hassle of driving and parking in Birmingham City Centre, and saving money in the process," says Centro-PTA marketing manager Julia Lameris.</p> <p>"It also means people have the freedom of going for a drink before or after the show, with the comfort of knowing their journey home is already arranged."</p>"
"Guys and Dolls can make show stopping savings and not gamble with the hassles of driving and parking at the theatre this Christmas if they travel by train, thanks to the region's public transport body Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
0
"Tax breaks for bus, train and tram commuters "
2006-12-08T00:00:00
2006-12-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A pledge by Chancellor Gordon Brown to look at removing a so-called stealth tax on public transport in next year's Budget has been welcomed.</p> <p >The move could make it easier for companies to offer their employees discounts on bus, train and tram fares to get to work.</p> <p >In the West Midlands, similar schemes supported by the transport body Centro-PTA already take around two million car journeys a year off the region's most congested roads.</p> <p >"If the Chancellor includes this change in the Budget it will be an important step in giving equal consideration to public transport users and motorists," comments Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "As the need to tackle climate change moves ever higher up the political agenda, we need to see many more moves to encourage greener transport options."</p> <p >More than a hundred West Midlands firms participate in Centro-PTA's Corporate Travel Scheme scheme where employers pay up front for annual season tickets at a reduced price and then recharge the costs via monthly salary deductions.</p> <p >But where companies want to support the environment by paying to subsidise public transport passes for their staff, employees will find they are taxed on that as a benefit.  There is no similar tax on a company supporting car-users by providing free parking at work.</p> <p >The anomaly was raised again in the Commons debate on this week's Pre Budget Report.  As a result, Gordon Brown acknowledged an important point had been made and that Treasury officials would be asked to look at it in the run up to next year's Budget.  <a href=""http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmhansrd/cm061206/debtext/61206-0007.htm#06120652000530"" target=""_blank"">(Hansard link)</a></p> <p >Although the Chancellor announced increases in petrol duty and air passenger duty and some greener fuel incentives extended to trains, environmental groups have generally criticised him for not doing enough to encourage sustainable travel.</p> <p >In the last financial year public transport fares increased by between three and eight per cent, while the cost of motoring went up by less than one per cent.</p> <p >In contrast, Cllr Clarke points out that public transport users consume three times less energy than car users.</p> <p>"Seventy million commuters trips are made in the Centro-PTA region every year and if those using a car were to switch to public transport for just one day a week it would reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into our atmosphere by 125 kilograms per person a year," he says.  "That would be a real contribution to reducing climate change and the impact of transport on the environment."</p>"
A pledge by Chancellor Gordon Brown to look at removing a so-called stealth tax on public transport in next year's Budget has been welcomed.
9369
0
12
0
Train takes more of the strain as Brum motorists shun rush-hour jams
2006-12-08T00:00:00
2006-12-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >More people then ever before are switching to bus, train and tram for their daily commute to work in Birmingham.</p> <p >Latest statistics compiled by regional transport body Centro-PTA and the city council shows an increase in the number of people using public transport, while the number of car journeys is falling.</p> <p >Motorists have been in the minority during the Birmingham rush hour since 2003, when public transport users outnumbered drivers for the first time.  Now statistics published today show the gap has widened even further.</p> <p >"This shows we are moving in the right direction, even if there is a lot of work still to be done to tackle congestion in the West Midlands," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "An efficient and attractive public transport network is going to be vital if we are to avoid gridlock and take care of the environment in the years ahead."</p> <p >Despite the pressure on New Street Station, the number of rail passengers has shown the highest level of growth for people travelling to work in Birmingham.  More than one in five city commuters now travels by rail, with around half of them choosing to leave a car behind.</p> <p >The number of rush hour bus passengers has recovered from a slight decline to show a small amount of growth during the last two years. </p> <p >The Midland Metro showed the greatest level of growth – with passenger numbers up by more than 25 per cent in the morning peak.  But even though the trams are packed full, they still only account for a small amount of rush hour travel until the system is extended into Birmingham city centre where it will connect with New Street Station, shops and offices.</p> <p >"Expanding the Metro, sorting out New Street and getting the industry to work hard at improving the quality of bus services will all be key to providing a more balanced transport network for Birmingham in the future," comments Cllr Clarke.  "Everyone, including motorists, will then be able to feel the benefit."</p> <p >The latest statistics are part of a series of regular surveys carried out across the West Midlands to check the region's performance against Government targets.  Traffic counters are set up on major roads in and out of Birmingham and the results are then combined with passenger figures for bus, rail and tram services.</p> <p>Birmingham's target was to maintain the share of trips by public transport at the 1997 level of 46 per cent.  Performance has now exceeded that, with 54 per cent of commuters now shunning the car for their journey to work each day.</p>"
"More people then ever before are switching to bus, train and tram for their daily commute to work in Birmingham."
9369
0
12
0
Santa surprise for passengers
2006-12-06T00:00:00
2006-12-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People travelling on West Midland's public transport in the run up to Christmas will encounter extra festive cheer as Santa and his helpers board the region's trains and Metro, and the free city centre Station<i>link</i> bus service.</p> <p >Invited by Centro-PTA, Santa is taking time out of his busy Christmas schedule to greet travellers and shoppers on board regional public transport, giving out mince pies and sweets, and helping to get people into the festive spirit.</p> <p >In addition to this, the 1<sup>st</sup> A Boys Brigade will be playing seasonal tunes for customers on the bridge at Snow Hill Rail Station from 10am to Noon on Saturday 9<sup>th</sup> and Saturday 16<sup>th</sup> December.</p> <p >A spokesman for Centro-PTA said: "We have asked Santa to give up some of his time to meet travellers on Central Trains, Station<i>link</i> and the Metro as a way of thanking them for travelling by public transport, rather than adding to the already congested roads by using their car to commute to work and to do their Christmas shopping.</p> <p >'Hopefully his attendance will put a smile on both children's and adults faces, and make their journey even more enjoyable.'</p>"
"People travelling on West Midland's public transport in the run up to Christmas will encounter extra festive cheer as Santa and his helpers board the region's trains and Metro, and the free city centre Stationlink bus service."
9369
0
12
0
New look to encourage public transport use
2006-12-04T00:00:00
2006-12-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More passengers in the West Midlands are being given a new 'identity' to make travel easier.</p> <p>Wolverhampton city centre is the latest area to get the Network West Midlands makeover with a whole new range of easy-to-follow information at bus stops, Metro stops and the rail station.  It is part of a region-wide, £7m programme by transport body Centro-PTA to tackle congestion and improve the environment.</p> <p>Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke, together with senior figures from bus, tram and rail operators, are launching the new Network West Midlands name to Wolverhampton passengers at the Pipers Row bus station today (Tuesday 5 December).</p> <p>"This is a major piece of work to get many more people using public transport," says Cllr Clarke.  "It will add to our campaign to cut congestion in the West Midlands and make it so much easier for everyone to get about.  Our goal is for passengers to be offered a truly integrated transport system, with simpler ticketing and easy to use information to make finding your way about the network as easy as possible."</p> <p>The region's private sector operators are partners in the scheme to provide vastly improved passenger information across all forms of public transport.  Timetables, signs, maps and tickets will all carry the distinctive '<strong>n</strong>' logo to emphasise that they belong to a joined-up network.</p> <p>Eventually councillors want all bus, train and Metro services to become part of the comprehensive Network West Midlands to rival similar networks in Paris and London.</p> <p>Public body Centro-PTA recently took over control of more than 7,000 bus stops across the West Midlands conurbation and is promising to provide passenger information at more than 13,000 locations in total, with operator partners funding the maintenance and upkeep of the information.</p> <p>A host of different bus companies previously erected bus stops  and only around one in ten of these provided any timetable or route information.  The Network West Midlands programme is also providing digital displays showing 'live' bus and train departures on station platforms, in bus shelters and at key interchanges.</p> <p>"Vastly improved passenger information and promoting the network of services is a crucial step in our plan to make the network more attractive to use," comments Cllr Clarke.</p>"
"Wolverhampton city centre is the latest area to get the Network West Midlands makeover with a whole new range of easy-to-follow information at bus stops, Metro stops and the rail station."
9369
0
12
0
Santa's free bus link for Christmas shoppers
2006-11-29T00:00:00
2006-11-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Birmingham shoppers laden with bags can get a free lift to the city centre stations thanks to the region's public transport body.</p> <p >Centro-PTA has provided Birmingham with a free city centre bus service called Station<i>link</i> which connects Birmingham New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill stations with some of the key shopping areas of the city, the markets and Digbeth Coach Station.</p> <p >It means that people who are doing their Christmas shopping and are weighed down with bags don't need to struggle across town on foot to get the train home.</p> <p >And as a special treat this Christmas, Santa and his helpers are taking time out of their busy Christmas schedule over coming weeks to get on board and give out mince pies and sweets to people using the service.</p> <p >He will also be travelling on the region's train and Metro services as a way of saying thank you to public transport users who opt to use buses, trains and trams instead of their cars, and to bring some extra festive cheer into Birmingham.</p> <p >Station<i>link</i> is an ideal solution for those who want to do their Christmas shopping in Birmingham without the hassle of driving and parking in the city centre.</p> <p >Instead, they can park up at one of the Centro-PTA's 40 free regional park and ride sites and catch the train or Metro into Birmingham, without getting stuck in traffic jams.</p> <p >Once there, they can hop on and off one of the three distinctive blue and orange Station<i>link</i> buses which run around the city centre every eight minutes, free of charge.</p> <p >And, when they're ready to go home, they can get a lift directly to their station, jump on the train and get back into their car with their Christmas shopping.</p> <p >They are also of great advantage to visitors to the region, who can get off the train at one of the three city centre rail stations, or the coach at Digbeth Coach Station, and get straight onto Station<i>link</i> without the worry of getting lost or carrying heavy luggage.</p> <p >The buses travel in a circular route from New Street, past the Bullring, Moor Street and Snow Hill and then on to Park Street (a short walk from Millennium Point). They then go past Digbeth Coach Station and the markets, back past Moor Street station and Selfridges, and round to the starting point of New Street station again.</p> <p >"Station<i>link</i> is a free, hassle-free solution for people who want to do their Christmas shopping in Birmingham city centre without the cost and bother of parking and getting stuck in frustrating jams," says Stephen Rhodes, assistant director bus services at Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"Instead, they can have the convenience of getting a lift about town and to the station door with their shopping bags, all free of charge, while doing their bit to ease congestion and help the environment."</p>"
Birmingham shoppers laden with bags can get a free lift to the city centre stations thanks to the region's public transport body.
9369
0
12
0
Dismay at bus fares increase
2006-11-25T00:00:00
2006-11-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>News that some bus and tram fares charged by the West Midlands biggest operator are to rise by well over inflation in the New Year has been greeted with dismay by bosses at the region's public transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p>Travel West Midlands, part of the National Express Group, announced its cash fares are to rise by around 20 per cent from 2 January 2007.  The basic single bus fare will go up from £1.20 to £1.40 and the cheapest 'short hop' fare rises from 80p to £1.  There will be no increase, however, in the price of over fifty different daysaver and season tickets.</p> <p>"It is certainly good news that so many prices have been held and we welcome the fact that pre-paid travel will represent better value for money," comments Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>He said fares are set by private operators and, at present, there is nothing that councillors can do to intervene.</p> <p>"Whilst we are mindful of the commercial pressures faced by the bus company, any fare increase will make it harder to persuade people to use public transport – which in turn makes tackling congestion in the West Midlands and protecting the environment more difficult," he adds.</p> <p>"Any fares increase will be more palatable to passengers when they are matched by increases in quality – and we are working with bus operators to give passengers a better, more reliable service as part of an integrated public transport network."</p>"
News that some bus and tram fares charged by the West Midlands biggest operator are to rise by well over inflation in the New Year has been greeted with dismay by bosses at the region's public transport body Centro-PTA.
9369
0
12
0
Stourbridge railcar trials show the way forward
2006-11-24T00:00:00
2006-11-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A future mini-tram service may run seven days a week between Stourbridge Town and Stourbridge Junction when a new company takes over from Central Trains.</p> <p >Councillors believe a ten-minute shuttle service could build on the success of the trial operation that has been running on Sundays for the past year.</p> <p >Rail companies bidding to take over from Central Trains are being urged to draw up plans to offer Stourbridge passengers the improved service.</p> <p >Centro-PTA has helped fund the trial by the Parry People Mover railcar.  Although this comes to an end next week (Sunday 3 December<strong>*</strong>) the regional transport body believes it has shown the way forward.</p> <p >The Parry People Mover, which has been developed by a Black Country firm, is described as a unique vehicle that combines flywheel technology and a gas-powered engine to make it very cheap and clean to run.</p> <p >The experimental service on the Stourbridge branch line has proved popular with passengers, especially as it restored a Sunday service for the town.  The lightweight railcars have proved to be 100 per cent reliable on most days, with almost 99 per cent of services running on time.</p> <p >"The trial we have helped fund has shown how this new, locally-developed technology is able to provide a frequent, safe and reliable passenger service," comments Cllr Keith Chambers, Centro-PTA lead member for rail.</p> <p>"When the new rail franchise takes over from Central Trains, we think there is real scope for the heavy-rail service on the Stourbridge branch to be replaced by a more frequent seven-day shuttle service using lightweight railcars.  We are urging the companies now bidding for the West Midlands franchise to make this a part of their plans," he adds.</p> <p><strong>*</strong> (Footnote: Although funding came to an end on 3 December, Pre-Metro Operations Ltd are, we understand, continuing to run the service for at least another two weeks)</p>"
A future mini-tram service may run seven days a week between Stourbridge Town and Stourbridge Junction when a new company takes over from Central Trains.
9369
0
12
0
Birmingham pilots UK scheme to help communities be TravelWise
2006-11-20T00:00:00
2006-11-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Birmingham is to trial the UK pilot of a new high-tech travel initiative which aims to reduce congestion and combat social exclusion among communities.</p> <p >In a special partnership between the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA and Birmingham City Council, community and faith groups will be provided with free travel support to encourage people to travel to their venue by sustainable transport.</p> <p >This will be supplied in the form of a free, unique web-based portal bespoke to each organisation, which will provide specific public transport information including real time information, bus, rail and Metro timetables for services that operate near by, and electronic journey planners.</p> <p >Also available are tailored travel packs, details on free and discounted travel, information on Ring and Ride and park and ride, and support for walking, cycling, community transport and car sharing initiatives.</p> <p >It means that people who attend the groups will get specific public transport information about how to get to their venue. It will also open the door for people who would like to join in with their local community and faith groups more often, but are concerned about how to get there.</p> <p >The initiative is being launched on Thursday 23 November at St Teresa's Community Centre in Perry Barr, the first organisation to take advantage of the initiative.</p> <p >Birmingham Central Mosque is among other organisations that have shown interest in the scheme.</p> <p >The pilot is being funded by the seven West Midlands district councils, Centro-PTA and the Department for Transport's Mobility and Inclusion Unit, and is being watched closely by Local Authorities across the UK. If successful the scheme could be rolled out nationwide.</p> <p >"We are very pleased to be piloting this scheme which will bring so much to local communities across Birmingham," says Councillor Christine Mills, lead member for customer relations for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"It means that people who have difficulty in getting out and about can get the information they need to enjoy participating in local community activities, while helping the environment by reducing congestion and carbon emissions through promoting sustainable transport."</p> <p >"Community TravelWise is an exciting new concept for travel planning developed from an idea hatched in Birmingham," adds Councillor Gregory, cabinet member for transportation and street services for Birmingham City Council. "I believe that it will be of benefit not just to community facilities and places of worship, but also those Council's throughout the UK who will follow Birmingham's lead."</p> <p >Centro-PTA's TravelWise team already works with schools, companies, hospitals and other venues to help encourage healthy, safe and sustainable travel.</p> <p>"We are very pleased to be the first organisation in the country to pilot Community TravelWise," says H Raj (Rai), owner of St Teresa's Community Centre. "Organisations like ours are very important to local communities, as are good transport links and information, and by combining the two we are opening up even more opportunities to more members of society to integrate in their community."</p>"
Birmingham is to trial the UK pilot of a new high-tech travel initiative which aims to reduce congestion and combat social exclusion among communities.
9369
0
12
0
Angry reaction to cuts in disabled and elderly travel
2006-11-20T00:00:00
2006-11-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport bosses have reacted angrily to news that a bus operator has cut services provided specifically for elderly and disabled passengers at short notice.</p> <p>West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT), which operates the popular Ring and Ride services, has cut some cross-boundary routes.  But regional transport body Centro-PTA says there is no justification at all for this when there has been no reduction in funding.</p> <p>"To give vulnerable people just a few days warning that their lifeline minibus service is to be axed is despicable," comments Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "Passengers should not be treated in this way."</p> <p>He said the Ring and Ride services, including cross-boundary services, are a very important part of the West Midlands public transport network.  That is why Centro-PTA pays more than £10 million of its council tax revenue to support the service and funding is due to be increased by a further £300,000.  This pays for almost two million trips a year for people who are less able to use conventional bus, rail and Metro services. </p> <p>However without any consultation WMSNT this weekend announced it was withdrawing cross-boundary services in Coventry, Solihull and the Black Country, which means passengers will be unable to travel outside their own district.  Although these only make up a very small percentage of journeys, the operator has been criticised for raising fears among elderly and disabled passengers just before Christmas.</p> <p>"This really is a Scrooge-like approach," says Cllr Clarke.  "The operator has had fifteen months to plan its funding, so the way this announcement has been made is totally unnecessary."</p> <p>WMSNT is claiming that the way in which concessionary travel funding was reassessed back in September 2005 has left it with a shortfall – a claim that is disputed by councillors.  In common with West Midlands bus companies, the Ring and Ride operator is reimbursed from the council tax for the number of people travelling with concessionary passes.</p> <p>Centro-PTA explains the new system is fairer and more transparent and makes sure that operators receive an appropriate amount of public money in return for carrying pass holders.  Public transport bosses also point out that operators like WMSNT have had plenty of time to budget for the new arrangements.</p> <p>"We see no reason at all to make passengers suffer these cuts in services, especially as the operator is sitting on nearly £2 million of reserves it can use," adds Cllr Clarke.  "Centro-PTA is committed to providing one of the most generous concessionary travel schemes for people who are over 60 or disabled to travel on buses, trains and trams – and this is supplemented by the most comprehensive Ring and Ride service," he says.</p>"
Public transport bosses have reacted angrily to news that a bus operator is to cut services provided specifically for elderly and disabled passengers.
9369
0
12
0
New disabled access for three West Midlands stations
2006-11-10T00:00:00
2006-11-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses on the West Midlands public transport body, Centro-PTA are celebrating after the Government announced that local rail stations will benefit from funding for better disabled access.</p> <p >The Department for Transport has selected three of the region's rail stations for vital physical accessibility improvements in the second round of its Access for All funding.</p> <p >Northfield, Selly Oak and Sutton Coldfield are among 45 stations nationwide that will be adapted to give passengers an obstacle free, accessible route from station entrances and between all platforms from 2009 and 2011.</p> <p >The money is coming out of a £370 million Government pot to provide improved disabled access on the UK's rail network until 2015.</p> <p >47 stations were also allocated funding in March last year for work to be completed before 2009, but no West Midlands stations were chosen.</p> <p >"After missing out during the first round of funding, we are very pleased with yesterday's news and hope it is a sign of things to come for the region," says Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail on Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"More investment is needed across the West Midlands rail network as a whole, and it is vital that improvements in station access are not over looked."</p> <p >In addition to this, two more West Midlands stations have been granted funding through the Department for Transport's Access for All Small Schemes fund, following bids by Centro-PTA for the money.</p> <p >Stourbridge Junction has been allocated over £25,000 towards providing a new shorter walkway between the station and the recently extended Park and Ride site, while Cradley Heath will get £10,000 towards refurbishment of the toilet facilities.</p> <p >Work at these stations will begin shortly and is set to be completed by the end of March next year.</p> <p>"We hope that all these improvements will make train travel a more attractive and easy to use option for everyone, and encourage more people to use the rail network," concludes Cllr Chambers.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp ReleaseID=241001&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False"" target=""_blank""><em>Dept for Transport news release</em></a></p>"
"Transport bosses on the West Midlands public transport body, Centro-PTA are celebrating after the Government announced that local rail stations will benefit from funding for better disabled access."
9369
0
12
0
Transport boss to seek meeting with rail contenders
2006-11-10T00:00:00
2006-11-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The councillor at the head of the region's transport body Centro-PTA has pledged to meet with the two companies bidding to run crucial West Midlands rail services from next year. </p> <p>Cllr. Gary Clarke says he is concerned the growing number of passengers could face more over crowding and off-peak fare increases as a result of the new franchise specifications published by the Department for Transport.</p> <p>""The crowding measures we were previously able to enforce in the West Midlands will no longer automatically apply and are set to be replaced by the less comfortable London sardine standard. That does net make sense for our region and it is now being suggested we will have to pay from  the local council tax if we want to restore the situation,"" he says.</p> <p>Cllr. Clarke is also seeking clarification over a DfT proposal to ban Network West Midlands ticket holders from Cross Country services passing through the region.</p> <p>Centro-PTA, which represents passenger and regional business interests, has broadly welcomed the new rail franchises as it says they bring the prospect of growth, improved standards and a more West Midlands focussed train operator.  But Cllr. Clarke says the Government specifications present more of a shopping list of desirable improvements than a solid plan for the future.</p> <p>""The problem with shopping lists is they don't resolve the issue of who will pay when you get to the checkout,"" comments Cllr. Clarke.</p> <p>As things stand, his regional body is about to lose the contractual relationship it has had with current provider Central Trains.  That means, for example, that controls over off-peak fare levels will be removed - fuelling fears that train companies could put up these prices to pay for improvements.</p> <p>""We believe the Secretary of State should allow us to remain a co-signatory to the franchise agreement,"" says Cllr. Clarke.  ""If the rail network were to be planned and controlled solely by Whitehall that would seem contrary to the Government's stated desire to give more say over integrated transport planning to regional bodies.""</p> <p>Speaking at a rail conference in Birmingham industry commentator Christian Woolmar said he was suspicious over Government motives in stripping bodies like Centro-PTA of their rail franchise powers.  ""On the one hand it wants to devolve, on the other hand it pushes through this change,"" he said.</p> <p>He was supported by Anthony Smith of national rail watchdog Passenger Focus who said DfT partnership with bodies like Centro-PTA produce benefits for passengers.  ""Fare levels in Birmingham should be a democratic process for politicians of the city,"" he said.</p>"
The councillor at the head of the region's transport body Centro-PTA has pledged to meet with the two companies bidding to run crucial West Midlands rail services from next year.
9369
0
12
0
City MPs call for timetable on New Street redevelopment
2006-11-01T00:00:00
2006-11-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>In a Commons adjourment debate Birmingham MP Gisela Stewart, with the support of all city MPs from all three parties, stressed the importance of redeveloping New Street Station.  In reply, rail minister Tom Harris said the Government was considering the business case for the scheme.</p> <p>To see the debate from Hansard, <a href=""http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmhansrd/cm061101/debtext/61101-0022.htm#06110156000004"" target=""_blank"">click here</a></p>"
Adjournment debate presses case for redevelopment and Minister sets out process
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0
12
0
Black Country rail route to be included in new franchise - but at what price
2006-10-31T00:00:00
2006-10-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The threatened rail service between Walsall and Wolverhampton is to be included as a costed option in the new West Midlands franchise, the Government announced today.</p> <p>The three companies bidding to replace Central Trains as the operator of local services from November next year have been asked to include cost estimates for the retention of the Black Country passenger service in their forecasts.</p> <p>Rail minister Tom Harris today outlined the minimum service levels the new companies will be required to provide.  Bidders will also be able to operate extra new services and are being asked to look at ways to provide for recent and future growth in passenger numbers.</p> <p>"This announcement is certainly a small step in the right direction," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the regional transport body Centro-PTA.  "It does show that the Government has listened to our concerns – but there is a long way to go in the campaign, because no funding has yet been identified to keep the Walsall-Wolverhampton trains running."</p>"
"The threatened rail service between Walsall and Wolverhampton is to be included in the new West Midlands franchise, the Government announced today."
9369
0
12
0
Much work to be done to improve rail services
2006-10-31T00:00:00
2006-10-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p>There is still much work to be done to provide a better deal for West Midlands rail passengers, local transport bosses have warned.</p> <p>Regional transport body Centro-PTA has pledged to fight the prospect of more over-crowded trains and higher fares as pressure on the network continues to grow.  The comments come as rail minister Tom Harris today unveiled the contract details for companies bidding to replace Central Trains and Virgin Cross Country from November next year.</p> <p>""Although there are many positive headlines in the Government announcement and the new rail franchises create real opportunities for improvement, there are still some details that give us real concern,"" says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>The public transport promotion body, which represents passenger and local business interests, is welcoming the fact that overall service levels are to be maintained and that the Government is asking the train companies to plan for growth.  Comments on the future of smartcard ticketing and a requirement to support the redevelopment of New Street Station also receive a warm welcome - while there is a luke warm response to the strong hint from the Government that local council tax payers will have to fund the continuation of passenger services between Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p> <p>""There are several areas of the franchise specification where funding is distinctly unclear,"" comments Cllr Clarke.  ""For example, there is a strong suggestion that extra passengers will mainly be accommodated by squeezing more commuters onto the same size trains - unless local councils provide extra funding.  In other words, overcrowding will stay the same if we pay, or get worse if we don't.""</p> <p>In a related move, the Government is saying that travelcards and passes used by regional commuters need no longer be valid on Cross Country services.</p> <p>""That approach is contrary to Government policy to promote multi-modal public transport, especially in light of the current debate around climate change,"" says Cllr Clarke.  ""Banning local travellers from some services will only increase the pressure on other trains and could create real confusion on the already over-crowded platforms at New Street for example.""</p> <p>Centro-PTA has been lobbying the Government to retain a voice for local councillors in the franchise process.  They are currently a co-signatory to the Central Trains contract, but are set to lose this automatic right from next year.</p> <p>Local MPs, passenger and business groups have added their weight to the campaign.  Although today's announcement makes no mention of a decision, Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander has indicated he is still considering the Centro-PTA case.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_railways/documents/page/dft_railways_613538.hcsp"" target=""_blank""><em>Written statement</em></a><em> by Tom Harris, Transport Minister<br /> </em></p>"
"There is still much work to be done to provide a better deal for West Midlands rail passengers, local transport bosses have warned."
9369
0
12
0
Public transport improvements vital in fight against climate change
2006-10-30T00:00:00
2006-10-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Urgent improvements in public transport and the implementation of key projects like Midland Metro and the redevelopment of New Street station are needed in the fight against climate change, West Midlands transport bosses warn.</p> <p >Following today's publication of the Stern Review, Councillor Gary Clarke, Chairman of the region's public transport body Centro-PTA, urged the Government to help bring about the vital public transport improvements needed so the West Midlands can do its bit in the fight against climate change.</p> <p >"The Stern Review brings to our attention the dramatic consequences that climate change will have on the environment and the global economy, and transport is a large contributing factor," says Councillor Clarke.</p> <p >"The West Midlands is the busiest commuter region outside London and our economy is increasing. We need to act now to expand, improve and invest in our public transport system so that people have an attractive alternative to the car.</p> <p >"Projects like the Midland Metro extensions, the redevelopment of New Street station, Bus Showcase schemes and Park & Ride all help to give people choices."</p> <p >The Stern review concludes that the benefits of strong, early action on climate change outweigh the costs, a view shared by the Prime Minister Tony Blair.</p> <p >He said: "Investment now will pay us back many times in the future, not just environmentally but economically over all."</p> <p >Gordon Brown announced plans to cut carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2050, and to bring in enabling powers for emissions reductions through a new climate change bill.</p> <p >"If there is the possibility that people will be charged for their carbon use then people need to be offered attractive green alternatives in their current day-to-day life, and these need to be implemented now," continues Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >"In the West Midlands this means providing changes to our public transport system straight away. It is clear from today's report that delaying such vital steps in the fight against climate change is not an option."</p> <p >The West Midlands has already seen success in persuading people to change from using their car to public transport. The region's 6,400 free park and ride spaces take nearly three million journeys off the West Midland's roads every year - reducing carbon emissions by 6,200 tonnes - and Midland Metro Line One has seen a consistent 20 per cent modal shift from car to tram.</p> <p>According to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), congestion costs the UK economy £20bn a year, £2.6bn of which relates to the West Midlands.</p>"
"Urgent improvements in public transport and the implementation of key projects like Midland Metro and the redevelopment of New Street station are needed in the fight against climate change, West Midlands transport bosses warn."
9369
0
12
0
Transport bosses mark 20 years of bus 'D-Day' by pledging more improvements
2006-10-25T00:00:00
2006-10-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Over two decades have passed since an historic Act of Parliament threw open the running of public transport buses to private competition - moving it away from the control of local councils.</p> <p >Tomorrow (Thursday, October 26) will be the 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the 1986 Law which deregulated the buses and dramatically changed the way they were operated in the West Midlands. And Centro-PTA is reflecting on the advances that have been made and looking to the future of buses in the region with confidence.</p> <p >"Looking back to when the buses were deregulated in 1986, we can see that a great deal has been done to improve services and standards for the people of the West Midlands, but there is still a long way to go and a lot more important work to do," commented Councillor Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"Most large conurbations outside London have seen a decline in bus patronage and we are working together with bus operators and the seven District Councils in the West Midlands to reverse this trend. The strides we have made have been possible because of the excellent working relationship Centro-WMPTA has with the region's bus operators and we are striving to fulfil passenger expectations through working closely with them."</p> <p >Over recent years, substantial investment has been made to improve bus services and infrastructure including the introduction of Bus Showcase routes and Primelines, new stations and interchanges and the installation of the latest technology such as Real Time Information and text messaging at bus shelters to let you know when your bus is due.</p> <p >As part of the roll out of Network West Midlands – the initiative which will make using all modes of public transport easier and more integrated - every bus stop across the region will soon be updated with clear numbering showing which services are available at that particular stop and clear timetabling.</p> <p >"Together with the bus operators and the District Councils we are working very hard to make travelling by bus an attractive alternative," added Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"We are working to provide efficient, punctual, reliable and integrated bus services as this is crucial to the economic vitality of the West Midlands. It reduces congestion on our overcrowded roads, promotes social inclusion and is often the only way to get around for many people. Initiatives like the Safer Travel Police Team and CCTV monitoring provide a greater sense of security and safety on the bus network and we are doing all we can to increase passenger numbers."</p>"
West Midlands public transport bosses are pledging to continue their hard work with bus operators to improve bus services in the West Midlands on the 20th anniversary of bus deregulation.
9369
0
12
0
Metro is the solution to reversing Black Country decline Government told
2006-10-25T00:00:00
2006-10-25T00:00:00
9369
"<h3 align=""justify"">The Midland Metro extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill is key to the economic regeneration of the Black Country, the Government was told today.</h3> <p >In an adjournment debate in Parliament, Stourbridge MP Lynda Waltho explained how the phase one extension through the Black Country was needed to counter the area's decline.</p> <p >During the debate, the Black Country MP explained the benefits of the extensions to ministers. Among those presented include the creation of 4,000 jobs, providing access to work, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities, and giving an attractive alternative to the car bringing further economic and environmental benefits.</p> <p >She said: "The Midland Metro, as outlined today, is a vital component for improving the Black Country, connecting some of the most deprived wards and linking the four strategic centres of Brierley Hill, West Bromwich, Wolverhampton and Walsall.</p> <p >"It is a critical element of the Black Country Study which the Government has already shown its support for, and I have urged the minister to give the necessary approvals for the Phase One extensions for our region."</p> <p >Transport bosses on the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA - which is developing the Metro scheme - see the debate as a positive step forward in getting the extensions approved by the Government.</p> <p >The Government has already awarded Centro-PTA approval to build the Midland Metro Phase One extensions from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill and through Birmingham City Centre from Snow Hill to Five Ways by awarding Transport and Works Act powers in 2005 to construct the new lines.</p> <p >"There is no doubt that Midland Metro is crucial for the economic prosperity of the Black Country and the West Midlands as a whole, providing jobs, redevelopment, improved access to vital facilities and social inclusion," explains Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"We have provided the Government with a robust scheme which represents excellent value for money and wish to press forward with implementing the lines as soon as possible for the benefit of everyone."</p> <p >Transport minister Tom Harris responded positively to Lynda Waltho MP's comments agreeing that transforming the Black Country is crucial to the Regional Spatial Strategy and the future of the area and the West Midlands as a whole.</p> <p >He agreed that light rail schemes have a important role to play in regeneration, bringing considerable benefits in providing accessibility and reducing congestion.</p> <p >He said he recognised the need for an integrated public transport system and that Metro was a valuable part of that, and promised to work closely with West Midlands authorities following their submission of the Transport Innovation Fund bid, which will include Midland Metro.</p> <p >Ian Brough, chief executive of the Black Country Chamber says: "We are looking forward to seeing the new Midland Metro extension in operation as soon as possible due to the vital role it will play in the regeneration of the Black Country – providing jobs, accessibility for all, economic growth and much needed development along this corridor.</p> <p >"We would ask the Government to approve the scheme as soon as possible, in order to provide these much needed benefits to the area."</p> <p >Tom Slater, communications manager for Brierley Hill Regeneration Partnership adds: "Metro will help to keep Brierley Hill moving and support the town's future growth and prosperity."</p> <p >"It is an important ingredient of the regeneration of Brierley Hill and will help the town play its part in delivering the Black Country Study's vision for the region.</p> <p>"Westfield, Brierley Hill Regeneration Partnership's private sector partner, has shown its commitment to the Black Country with a unique £36.5 million contribution to the Metro scheme – one of the largest private sector contributions of its kind - which will improve the region's transport links and support the region's long term economic and social growth."</p> <strong><I>Link: </strong><a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_localtrans/documents/page/dft_localtrans_613465.hcsp"" target=""_new"">Alexander approves Nottingham tram extensions</a></i>"
"The Midland Metro extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill is key to the economic regeneration of the Black Country, the House of Commons was told today."
9369
0
12
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Terrifyingly terrific train discounts keep little horrors entertained during half term
2006-10-20T00:00:00
2006-10-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Parents wanting to keep their little horrors entertained this half term can take them to meet a host of mysterious and mythical creatures at Warwick Castle, and receive a GIANT discount if they travel by train.</p> <p >Public transport promoter, Centro-PTA has teamed up with the attraction to offer a £4 discount for adults and a £3 discount for children via a special admission ticket which is available from all staffed stations in the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p >Warwick Castle is putting on a number of special events for half term including trolls, giants and bad fairies, and the firing of pumpkins and fireballs from a giant catapult (trebuchet) twice a day.</p> <p >The Centro-PTA offer means a family of four can make a great saving of £14 on admission to the attraction, and avoid the hassle of driving and parking, if they leave the car at home and use the train instead.</p> <p >And, if that isn't enough, Centro-PTA has also teamed up with five other of the West Midland's top attractions to offer similar All-in-One discounts – often making combined travel and admission cheaper than standard admission alone.</p> <p >The tickets are available for Cadbury World, the National Sea Life Centre, Thinktank and Imax, the Black Country Living Museum, and the Severn Valley Railway.</p> <p >"These All-in-One offers are a great way for parents to keep their children entertained this half term, avoid the hassles of getting stuck in traffic jams and parking, and save money in the process," explains Julia Lameris, marketing manager for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"In addition to this, travelling to attractions on the train often adds to the enjoyment of a day out for children, while teaching our next generation of commuters the importance of using sustainable transport instead of relying on the car."</p> <p >Centro-PTA also offers over 6,000 free, safe and secure park and ride spaces in the Network West Midlands area, so people can drive to their local station and then catch the train to take advantage of the offers.</p> <p>For more information on Centro-PTA's All-in-Ones or to find out which stations offer park and ride facilities, people can visit www.networkwestmidlands.com</p>"
"Parents wanting to keep their little horrors entertained this half term can take them to meet a host of mysterious and mythical creatures at Warwick Castle, and receive a GIANT discount if they travel by train."
9369
0
12
0
New look to encourage public transport use
2006-10-18T00:00:00
2006-10-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers in the West Midlands are being given a new 'identity' to make travel easier.</p> <p>Birmingham city centre is the latest area to get the Network West Midlands makeover with a whole new range of easy-to-follow information at bus stops, Metro stops and rail stations.  It is part of a region-wide, £7m programme by transport body Centro-PTA to tackle congestion and improve the environment.</p> <p>Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke, together with senior figures from bus, tram and rail operators, are launching the new Network West Midlands name to Birmingham city centre commuters at the Snow Hill / Colmore Row interchange today (Thursday 19 October).</p> <p>"This is a major piece of work to get many more people using public transport," says Cllr Clarke.  "It will add to our campaign to cut congestion in the West Midlands and make it so much easier for everyone to get about.  Our goal is for passengers to be offered a truly integrated transport system, with simpler ticketing and easy to use information to make finding your way about the network as easy as possible."</p> <p>The region's private sector operators are partners in the scheme to provide vastly improved passenger information across all forms of public transport.  Timetables, signs, maps and tickets will all carry the distinctive '<strong>n</strong>' logo to emphasise that they belong to a joined-up network.</p> <p>Eventually councillors want all bus, train and Metro services to become part of the comprehensive Network West Midlands to rival similar networks in Paris and London.</p> <p>Public body Centro-PTA recently took over control of more than 7,000 bus stops across the West Midlands conurbation and is promising to provide passenger information at more than 13,000 locations in total, with operator partners funding the maintenance and upkeep of the information.</p> <p>A host of different bus companies previously erected bus stops  and only around one in ten of these provided any timetable or route information.  The Network West Midlands programme is also providing digital displays showing 'live' bus and train departures on station platforms, in bus shelters and at key interchanges.</p> <p>"Vastly improved passenger information and promoting the network of services is a crucial step in our plan to make the network more attractive to use," comments Cllr Clarke.  "Already there are more Birmingham city centre commuters using the bus, train or tram to get to work than choosing to travel by car – that's a big step in the right direction," he adds.</p>"
"Birmingham city centre is the latest area to get the Network West Midlands makeover with a whole new range of easy-to-follow information at bus stops, Metro stops and rail stations. It is part of a region-wide, £7m programme by transport body Centro-PTA to tackle congestion and improve the environment."
9369
nti_Centro_Snow_Hill_01.jpg
0
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Engineers call for progress on city tram plans
2006-10-18T00:00:00
2006-10-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Urgent investment in expanding the Midland Metro tram system is needed to tackle the region's growing problem of congestion, according to a major report released this week.</p> <p>The Institution of Civil Engineers' annual State of the Nation report calls on the Government to give full approval to crucial new lines through Birmingham city centre and the Black Country.</p> <p>In its comments on the West Midlands infrastructure, the report claims there is serious congestion and a public transport system that falls short of 21<sup>st</sup> century demands and expectations.</p> <p>""Much work has already been done to relieve the problems within the region, but government needs to press the accelerator in many areas and speed up the implementation of recognised solutions,"" it says.</p> <p>A business case for a 430m expansions of the Midland Metro was submitted to government by regional transport body Centro-PTA earlier this year.</p> <p><em><strong>Links:</strong></em><br /> <a href=""http://www.ice.org.uk/downloads//State%20of%20the%20Nation%20report%202006.pdf"" target=""_blank""><em>ICE State of the Nation full report</em></a></p>"
"Urgent investment in expanding the Midland Metro tram system is needed to tackle the region's growing problem of congestion, according to a major report released this week."
9369
0
12
0
"Better train information for 100,000 passengers"
2006-10-12T00:00:00
2006-10-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers are to be given better information at a further twenty rail stations across the West Midlands.</p> <p >Councillors on the regional transport body Centro-PTA approved funding for new 'live' departure displays and platform announcements.  It means more than three-quarters of all local stations in the Network West Midlands area will be fitted with the latest equipment.</p> <p >(see analysis for list of stations)</p> <p >The system tracks the movement of trains so that people waiting on the platform can get up-to-date information about whether their service is on time or delayed.  It is currently being rolled out to 28 stations on the Cross City, Coventry-Wolverhampton, Stourbridge, Walsall and Solihull lines.  The new funding of £1.5m agreed by Centro-PTA councillors will add a further 20 stations, used by more than 100,000 passengers a week, to the system. Installation of the equipment will occur next year.</p> <p >"These display screens and announcements give passengers extra confidence in the arrival times of services so that their journey is more pleasant and public transport becomes an even more attractive option," says Cllr Keith Chambers, Centro-PTA lead member for rail.</p> <p >Surveys have shown that the information systems can also add to feelings of personal safety because passengers know how long they have to wait before the next train.</p> Centro-PTA is applying to the Department for Transport for further funding which, if granted would allow virtually all of the region's 63 stations can be fitted with the latest passenger information.  All platforms will have live departure displays, plus automated announcements.  Further summary screens are being installed in some waiting rooms and ticket offices. <p> </p>"
Passengers are to be given better information at a further twenty rail stations across the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Grand designs on free travel
2006-10-02T00:00:00
2006-10-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People from the West Midlands wanting to go to Grand Designs Live at the NEC can get free travel and discounted entry if they travel by train.</p> <p>The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA has teamed up with the show to offer a special integrated return rail travel and entry ticket, which is £4 cheaper than the standard £16 admission charge to the show.</p> <p>It means that people can travel to Birmingham International (which serves the NEC) from anywhere in the West Midlands region and potentially save £11 on entry when when the £7 cost of parking at the NEC is taken into account.</p> <p>The show, which takes place from 6 – 8 October, attracts over 400 top quality exhibitors in the fields of interiors, gardens, building and kitchens and bathrooms, and is aimed at people from the heart of England passionate about home and garden design.</p> <p>Celebrities from the world of design, including Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud, Property Ladder's Sarah Beeny and chef John-Christophe Novelli, will be giving their expertise throughout the event.</p> <p>"This joint ticket offer means people across the region can travel to the NEC for free and have a brilliant day out at the show without the hassle of driving and parking," says Julia Lameris, Centro-PTA's marketing manager.</p> <p>"And by using the money saving offer people will have more money to pick up a bargain from the show."</p> <p>West Midland's residents wanting to take up the offer simply have to walk into any staffed rail station in the Network West Midlands area and ask for a ticket to Grand Designs Live. The outbound portion of the ticket must be redeemed at the NEC to gain admission to the show.</p>"
People from the West Midlands wanting to go to Grand Designs Live at the NEC can get free travel and discounted entry if they travel by train.
9369
0
12
0
Businesses join call for council body to have a greater say in regional rail franchise
2006-09-27T00:00:00
2006-09-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands business organisations have added the voices of more than 35,000 members to a campaign to win a greater say in the future of the region's railways.</p> <p>Councillors from transport body Centro-PTA have been lobbying for support at this week's Labour Party Conference.  They want to remain a full contractual partner in the new rail franchise to start next year and have already attracted hundreds of signatures for a petition to be presented to the Secretary of State Douglas Alexander.</p> <p>Speaking outside the Manchester conference, Keith Stanley, a director of the Black Country Chamber said his members see rail as playing an important part in an integrated transport system for the West Midlands.</p> <p>"This is an essential ingredient to the economy of the region and it is vital that if Centro-PTA is to represent the views of businesses they are allowed to participate fully.  We have already written to the Secretary of State to express our views on this and underline the strong benefits to the region," he said.</p> <p>Both the Black Country and Birmingham chambers have joined with regional MPs who fear the already limited local accountability will be lost when the Central Trains franchise comes to an end next year.  At the moment Centro-PTA, which represents passengers and regional interests, is a co-signatory to the agreement.  That gives local councillors a say in how the railways are run and powers to monitor the performance of the train company.</p> <p>"We strongly believe that the Secretary of State should use the powers he has to give us a direct contractual relationship with the region's new train company," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "We have over 30 years experience in overseeing rail services in the West Midlands and have worked closely with operators to bring about improvements in the past.  We are going to need even greater coordination to deliver the transport network this city region needs for the future."</p> <p>A recent report commissioned by Centro-PTA and West Midlands councils forecasts congestion in the region to increase by 22 per cent unless there is massive investment in public transport.  Already one in five Birmingham commuters travels to work by train but capacity for growth is seriously limited at the moment, it is claimed.</p>"
"West Midlands business organisations have added the voices of more than 35,000 members to a campaign to win a greater say in the future of the region's railways."
9369
0
12
0
Fresh start for buses in city regions welcomed
2006-09-27T00:00:00
2006-09-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed a promise by the Secretary of State Douglas Alexander to change the way buses are run in major cities.</p> <p >"This is what we have been lobbying for for some time and it shows that people in high places have been listening to our argument," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of West Midlands transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >In his major speech to the Labour Party Conference Douglas Alexander set out the need to radically change the way people travel in the years ahead.  He said that there would be an increasing need to tackle carbon emissions from transport and that road pricing would have to be brought in.</p> <p >He also gave a long-awaited commitment to give regional bodies like Centro-PTA 'real powers' over local bus networks.  The Government must ensure buses were run to the benefit of all communities, he said.</p> <p >"The 'free for all' for buses outside London has not delivered the quality services that passengers want," says Cllr Clarke.  "Certainly as our cities become more congested and we look to providing better and more integrated transport networks, the evidence clearly shows that the current structure of the bus industry cannot deliver the necessary improvements."</p> <p >Centro-PTA has argued the need to work in partnership with private sector bus operators and local highway authorities, but in a new framework of controlled competition.</p> <p >"We have to make sure that passengers come first and that public transport networks provide for both social need and economic growth," says Cllr Clarke.  "It's all about getting people to jobs, hospitals, shops and leisure opportunities – and we need to offer sustainable travel choices that minimise the impact on congestion and the environment."</p> <p >Cllr Clarke paid tribute to colleagues in Manchester who had also worked hard on the issue of bus regulation.  "We may be forced to compete for funding sometimes, but there are many more occasions where our common interests are more important and we can lobby together on behalf of the major cities outside London," he said.</p> <p >Centro-PTA's partner transport authorities from the other metropolitan areas also welcomed the Secretary of State's speech.</p> <p >Roy Wicks, from South Yorkshire and current chair of the Passenger Transport Executives Group, said they looked forward to working with Government on a fresh start for bus services in the major city regions.  "We are confident that with the right regulatory framework we can work with the private sector to bring about the better bus services that passengers deserve", he said.</p> <p >The Centro-PTA team is also at the Labour Party Conference to lobby for a greater say in the future of the West Midlands rail network and press the case for the region to benefit from the new Transport Innovation Fund.</p> <p>They are anticipating a Government White Paper later in the year which is expected to address whether regions should be given a greater say over their transport networks.</p>"
Transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed a promise by the Secretary of State Douglas Alexander to change the way buses are run in major cities.
9369
0
12
0
All that Jazz � without the jams
2006-09-26T00:00:00
2006-09-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in the West Midlands wanting to see the hit West End musical Chicago, can steer clear of congestion and get a special discount if they travel by train.</p> <p>The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA has teamed up with the Alexandra Theatre to offer £7.50 off the top two ticket prices for people travelling to the show by rail.</p> <p >"Chicago is one of the world's best enjoyed musicals and we are very pleased to be able to offer rail travellers this exclusive discount to see the show," comments Julia Lameris, Centro-PTA's marketing manager.</p> <p >"It means people can travel into Birmingham without sitting in frustrating traffic jams and the additional costs of petrol and parking, while saving money on their tickets for a fantastic evening out."</p> <p >The show, which runs from 27 September to 7 October, is an electrifying tale of murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery combined with showbiz, and stars former Brookside and Hell's Kitchen star Jennifer Ellison.</p> <p >The musical follows the story of murderesses Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart who find themselves on death row together and fight for the fame and the representation of lawyer Billy Flynn, which will keep them from the gallows in 1920s Chicago.</p> <p >To take advantage of the reduced ticket prices, which are available on Monday to Thursday performances, people should call the booking office on 0870 607 7546 and quote 'Network West Midlands offer'. People will be required to show their rail ticket in conjunction with their theatre ticket to gain entrance to the show.</p> <p >These offers are even applicable with Centro-PTA's special evening rail tickets where people can buy a return rail ticket for just £1.50 after 6.30pm from any rail station in the Network West Midlands area, including as far afield as Wolverhampton, Solihull and Coventry.</p> <p >And this works out even better for groups of four who can travel for just £4 in the evenings.</p> <p >More information on the offer, and information on tickets and how to plan your journey can be found at www.networkwestmidlands.com</p>"
"People in the West Midlands wanting to see the hit West End musical Chicago, can steer clear of congestion and get a special discount if they travel by train."
9369
0
12
0
MPs join call for a greater local voice in railways
2006-09-26T00:00:00
2006-09-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>MPs are signing up to a campaign to give passengers and West Midlands businesses a greater say in the future of the region's railways.</p> <p>Councillors from Centro-PTA are lobbying for support at this week's Labour Party Conference.  They want to remain a full contractual partner in the new rail franchise to start next year and have already attracted hundreds of signatures for a petition to be presented to the Secretary of State Douglas Alexander.</p> <p>MPs visiting the campaign stand in Manchester fear the already limited local accountability will be lost when the Central Trains franchise comes to an end next year.   At the moment, West Midlands transport body Centro-PTA is a co-signatory to the agreement and that gives local councillors a say in how the railways are run and powers to monitor the performance of the train company.</p> <p>"We strongly believe that the Secretary of State should use the powers he has to give us a direct contractual relationship with the region's new train company," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "We have over 30 years experience in overseeing rail services in the West Midlands and have worked closely with operators to bring about improvements in the past.  We are going to need even greater coordination to deliver the transport network this city region needs for the future."</p> <p>A recent report commissioned by Centro-PTA and West Midlands councils forecasts congestion in the region to increase by 22 per cent unless there is massive investment in public transport.  Already one in five Birmingham commuters travels to work by train but capacity for growth is seriously limited at the moment, it is claimed.</p>"
MPs are signing up to a campaign to give passengers and West Midlands businesses a greater say in the future of the region's railways - as Centro-PTA lobbies at the Labour Party Conference.
9369
0
12
0
"Report should stimulate crucial transport debate"
2006-09-21T00:00:00
2006-09-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new report on congestion in the West Midlands should be used to stimulate a crucial debate about the future of the city region, according to a senior transport politician.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the regional transport body Centro-PTA, will join with council leaders at the launch of study report on Friday (22 September).</p> <p >The comprehensive document, called '<i>Gridlock or Growth – Choices and Challenges for the Future</i>' contains stark new evidence about rising traffic and the threat it poses to the city region's ambitions for growth.</p> <p >"This latest report, which is the most comprehensive yet, reminds us that getting our transport network right is absolutely crucial to the future of this city region.  It seems clear that as congestion increases in the West Midlands the answer can only lie in a package of measures – and that will require massive investment in public transport," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >The report by independent consultants looks at a range of options for the West Midlands and the ways of securing around an initial £2bn of transport investment for the region.  It includes options for some form of road pricing in one of the suggested scenarios.</p> <p >"If there are some tough choices ahead, then we will need some brave decision-making," adds Cllr Clarke.  "It is essential that this is preceded by a full and informed debate so that, collectively, we can make the right decision for the future of this city region."</p> <p >Centro-PTA and the seven city and borough councils of the West Midlands metropolitan area jointly commissioned the report.</p> <p >Among the package of solutions discussed it highlights that public transport investment is, and will continue to be critical.  Measures will be needed to ensure there is enough capacity at rail stations and on trains to handle the growth in passenger numbers; there needs to be an expanded Midland Metro network, and the report points to moves required to drive up all aspects of bus quality and reliability.</p> <p >"The report provides further information so that we can discuss the best ways to tackle congestion and also raise the money we know we need for transport investment.  It's a discussion I look forward to having over the coming months because we can only continue to tackle congestion in partnership, with private and public sectors, and indeed with national government," says Cllr Clarke.</p>"
"A new report on congestion in the West Midlands should be used to stimulate a crucial debate about the future of the city region, according to a senior transport politician. He says massive investment in public transport is required."
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New evidence shows scale of congestion and tough choices ahead
2006-09-21T00:00:00
2006-09-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The most comprehensive study yet of congestion in the West Midlands contains stark new evidence about rising traffic and the threat it poses to the city region's ambitions for growth.</p> <p >The study, 'Gridlock or Growth – Choices and Challenges for the Future', has been carried out by independent experts commissioned by all the West Midlands Metropolitan Authorities and the Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >The full report is due to be released tomorrow (Friday 22 Sept) as a Green Paper for Discussion, it concludes that if action is not taken:</p> <ul> <li>Congestion across the area will collectively grow by nearly a quarter (22 per cent) on current levels by 2021</li> <li>That means more than 300,000 hours of <i>additional</i> travel delay <i>every day</i> and an extra 469,000 car journeys on West Midlands roads every day, compared to 2001</li> <li>This additional congestion is likely to cost the West Midlands (business and commuters) an additional £205m every year</li> <li>40,000 jobs expected to materialise over the next 15 years would be lost; the equivalent to seven Longbridge closures.</li> </ul> <p >The Green Paper also begins to examine the impact that different solutions, including road pricing, might have on congestion.</p> <p >It tests flexible 'lifestyle' measures like car-sharing and home working, combined with greater public transport promotion. The evidence suggests these measures would slow predicted increases in congestion, but vehicle trips would still increase by 317,000 per day (2001 to 2021).</p> <p >The study also tests the potential impact that substantial public transport investment (around £4 billion up to 2021) coupled with road pricing might have on congestion. It suggests that a combination of extra funds and road charging could cut congestion further, reducing the number of vehicle trips on West Midlands roads by 180,000 per day (2001 to 2021). But it points to the need for much more work and further consultation before any decisions are taken.</p> <p >Cllr Ted Richards, Leader of Solihull Council and Chairman of the West Midlands Joint Committee said: 'When the Metropolitan Authorities formally receive this study on 29 September they will need to take time to absorb its contents and decide on next steps. At the same time, we want businesses and individuals to get involved in this critical debate. We know that congestion is one of the biggest challenges the region faces, and as local council leaders we have a responsibility to look at what choices are available.'</p> <p >Coventry Chief Executive Stella Manzie, who chaired the study team steering group, said: 'The evidence of this report suggests that the status quo is not sustainable if we are to get to grips with congestion, which is increasingly damaging our competitiveness and quality of life.</p> <p >'No decisions about the way forward have been made. We will now engage in consultation and dialogue with the people of the city region on the issues the report raises. Any decision on road pricing would require greater clarity on national policy and clear commitments to significant additional investment in public transport.'</p> <p >The Green Paper for discussion will be formally received by Metropolitan Authority Leaders at the Joint Committee on 29 September.</p> <p >The study team tested three future scenarios. Each scenario includes a package of different measures which have been modelled and tested for the impact they can make on future congestion levels:</p> <ul> <li> <div ><em>Scenario A:</em> The West Midlands carries on as it has done up until now, maintaining current funding levels and polices. The evidence shows this would lead to an additional 469,000 car trips per day on West Midlands roads(2001 to 2021).<br /> </div> </li> <li> <div ><em>Scenario B:</em> Puts a greater focus on individual and collective 'lifestyle choices' as means of influencing traffic demand, e.g. car sharing, home working and greater public transport promotion. The evidence suggests this could slow the increase in congestion, but car trips would still increase by 317,000 per day (2001 to 2021).<br /> </div> </li> <li> <div ><em>Scenario C:</em> This would involve building on the measures outlined in Scenarios A and B, but also includes a significant package of public transport investment and an element of road user charging. The evidence suggests this would reduce the number of vehicle trips on West Midlands roads by 181,000 per day (2001 to 2021).</div> </li> </ul> <p >For Scenario C, a number of different road user charging schemes were scoped out for the West Midlands to model credibly their impact on traffic. These models do not represent road pricing policy for the region.</p> <p >The investment package (up to £2 billion to be spent before the introduction of any road pricing scheme and £2 billion after any road pricing were introduced), would include</p> <ul> <li> <div >Investment in commuter rail services</div> </li> <li> <div >Midland Metro</div> </li> <li> <div >Innovative bus services such as Bus Rapid Transit</div> </li> <li> <div >Park and Ride schemes</div> </li> <li> <div >Enhanced bus networks</div> </li> <li> <div >Highway improvements, amongst other priorities.</div> </li> </ul> <p >More work will now be done, in parallel to the Metropolitan Authorities receiving this discussion paper, to better understand how different solutions will impact on congestion, on business competitiveness and the environment, and on local people.</p> <p >Cllr Richards added: 'No decisions will be taken without further public debate and discussion. We are committed to tackling congestion, but only with solutions that are workable and fair, and that can be shown to help, not hinder, the West Midlands' competitive position.</p> <p >'This is just the latest stage in investigating solutions to congestion. Road pricing would not be contemplated without more clarity on the investment necessary to deliver the step-change in public transport the West Midlands needs. We also need a lot more information about the Government's national policy on congestion and plans for road pricing.'</p>"
The most comprehensive study yet of congestion in the West Midlands contains stark new evidence about rising traffic and the threat it poses to the city region's ambitions for growth.
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New company to run West Mids rail services
2006-09-19T00:00:00
2006-09-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The Government has today announced the names of companies in the frame to take over running regional rail services in the West Midlands from November next year.</p> <p>The new company, or consortium, will take over from National Express-owned Central Trains - which has not been shortlisted.</p> <p>In a statement to the Stock Exchange this morning the Department for Transport listed the pre-qualified bidders as Govia, MTR Corporation of Hong Kong and a joint venture between Serco and NedRailways.</p> <p>""These are all experienced operators and we will be very interested to see what improvements they can offer passengers in the West Midlands,"" commented Cllr gary Clarke, chairman of regional transport body Centro-PTA.  ""Whichever company is chosen, and no matter where their parent company is based, we will be looking for a very clear business focus on operations within the West Midlands and a strong desire to see service improvements.""</p> <p>In the Birmingham area more than one in five commuters travel to work by train and investment in public transport is considered critical to tackle congestion across the region.</p> <p>Although Centro-PTA has continually pressed for improvements from the current operator Central Trains, it has acknowledged that services have been getting better lately.  There is a fear however that reduced local involvement in the franchise process could be a backward step.</p> <p>""We want the Secretary of State to keep a locally-accountable body such as Centro-PTA as a co-signatory to the franchise,"" adds Cllr Clarke.  ""It is through PTA involvement across the country in recent decades that we have seen significant growth in passenger numbers and in the West Midlands we have been able to control fares and service levels and work towards turn-up-and-go frequencies on key routes.""</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp ReleaseID=228008&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False"">DfT statement</a></em></p> <p> </p>"
Government has announced names of shortlisted bidders for rail franchise
9369
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Great lights not brake lights for Walsall Illuminations
2006-09-14T00:00:00
2006-09-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA is advising people to use public transport to get to Walsall's biggest annual event and avoid frustrating traffic jams.</p> <p >The Walsall Illuminations are being switched on by TV presenter Bob Warman on Saturday 16 September at Walsall Arboretum and finish with a fireworks finale on Sunday 29 October.</p> <p >But, due to the popularity of the event, routes into Walsall and the town's ring road are likely to be more congested than usual during the evenings.</p> <p >"People travelling to the Illuminations want a hassle free, enjoyable evening, not being stuck in traffic jams where the only illuminations they can see are the line of brake lights ahead of them," explains Gary Clarke, Walsall councillor and chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"With the current road works on the M6 and the A34, and the congestion around Walsall town centre during the early evening, an easy way for people to get to the Illuminations is by public transport."</p> <p >People travelling to the Illuminations can catch a variety of regular bus and train services into Walsall town centre, which is a ten minute walk from the Arboretum.</p> <p >The 362, 394 and 396 bus services go from Walsall bus station directly past the Arboretum, and bus operator Travel West Midlands are offering a park and ride service directly to the Illuminations from the Broadway North ring road.</p> <p >People travelling to the event by train can also take advantage of Centro-PTAs evening return tickets which cost £1.50 for adults and 75p for children for return travel between any two stations after 18:30 in the Network West Midlands area.</p> <p >"This means people can travel into Walsall, from as far a field as Coventry, Solihull or Wolverhampton for a very small cost, instead of trying to find their way to Walsall, buying petrol, getting stuck in traffic, and finding and paying for parking," continues Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >"And, by using public transport, people will be doing their bit in reducing congestion and helping the environment. It is the best all round solution for everybody."</p> <p >People can plan their journey and get information on timetables and bus and train routes to Walsall Illuminations at www.networkwestmidlands.com</p> <p> </p>"
"The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA is advising people to use public transport to get to Walsall's biggest annual event and avoid frustrating traffic jams."
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West Midland's station car parks among safest in country
2006-09-08T00:00:00
2006-09-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The West Midlands has been named one of the safest areas in the country for rail users to park their car.</p> <p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA has been awarded the coveted Park Mark Safer Parking award for the car parks at 35 rail stations due to their low crime and high safety standards.</p> <p >It is the only public transport organisation other than the London Underground to have so many sites approved in the nationwide, Government backed scheme.</p> <p >To get the award, Centro-PTA had to show the police that steps had been taken to reduce criminal activity and antisocial behaviour, doing the best it can to prevent crime and reduce the fear of crime.</p> <p >The awards were granted after Centro-PTA implemented a number of safety features at the facilities, including CCTV, help points, better lighting and public address systems.</p> <p >"These awards mean people can park up their cars for free* in their local rail station car park and catch the train, avoiding the congested roads, and with the reassurance that steps have been taken to keep their car as safe as possible," explains Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"Figures already show that these facilities are key in our campaign to reduce congestion and carbon emissions, taking 2.75 million journeys off the region's roads every year. It is Centro-PTA's goal to continue this trend and provide more secure, free parking spaces at the region's rail stations."</p> <p >Vehicle crime accounts for up to 20 per cent of all crime in the UK and it is estimated that 22 per cent of vehicle crime occurs in car parks.</p> <p >Since implementing the new security measures and being allocated the Park Mark awards, Centro-PTA has seen a fall in vehicle related crime in its car parks of up to 87 per cent.</p> <p >"This is very good news for the West Midlands region," says Police Constable Dave Jones, crime reduction officer at the British Transport Police.</p> <p >"It shows that Centro-PTA is a responsible car park operator, taking steps to produce a safe parking environment for park and ride users, and people should feel much more confident in using these facilities, knowing that the risk of crime is relatively low."<br /> <br /> The news comes as the West Midlands Police revealed on Wednesday that there has been a 309 per cent rise in thefts of Satellite Navigation equipment across the West Midlands in the last ten months.</p> <p >"It is not just car park operators, but car owners who need to be responsible and take steps in the fight against vehicle crime," continues PC Jones.</p> <p >"People should remove all valuables, such as Sat Nav systems, PDAs and iPods, from their cars after parking to remove temptation from opportunist thieves."</p> <p >Centro-PTA provides over 6,400 free and secure park and ride spaces across the West Midlands. These spaces are calculated to take 53,000 journeys off the regions' gridlocked roads every week and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200 tonnes.</p> <p > </p> <p>*Charges apply for non-season ticket holders at Solihull and Sutton Coldfield stations.</p>"
The West Midlands has been named one of the safest areas in the country for rail users to park their car.
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All change for West Midlands ticketing
2006-09-01T00:00:00
2006-09-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Using buses, trains and trams is set to get easier for the West Midland's public transport users this month when the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, launches it's new ticket range.</p> <p ><strong>From 10 September</strong> the organisation is issuing easier to understand, colour co-ordinated tickets which fall under the Network West Midlands brand - the new name that connects all public transport in the West Midlands region.</p> <p >It is hoped that the new tickets together with improved passenger information will encourage more people to use public transport and make changing between different buses, trains and the Metro easier.</p> <p >They also continue to offer great savings compared to the cost of buying separate tickets each time a member of the public uses a bus, train or tram.</p> <p >"This is very good news for people of the West Midlands and visitors to the region," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"Changing between different modes of transport, or even buses run by different operators, is a common barrier to using public transport in the West Midlands.</p> <p >"The newly branded ticketing means passengers and operators will easily be able to see where and when their tickets are valid, and make using all modes of public transport easier and more affordable for all."</p> <p >Centro-PTA currently offers a range of tickets to benefit public transport users with different needs across the West Midlands, all carrying different names including Centrocard, Busmaster, Railmaster and Daytripper.</p> <p >The new tickets will all carry the Network West Midlands logo with their names changed to <strong>n</strong>network, <strong>n</strong>bus, <strong>n</strong>rail and <strong>n</strong>daytripper respectively.</p> <p >Free travel passes for the over 60s and people with a disability will now be called <strong>n</strong>concession.</p> <p >The tickets will be colour co-ordinated depending on which modes of transport they can be used. Green will apply to rail only tickets, orange for bus only tickets, and blue for those that can be used on buses, trains and trams.</p> <p >"By using uniform Network West Midlands branding across the ticket range, public transport users will find the ticket options available to them much clearer and easier to understand." explains Julia Lameris, Marketing Manager for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"It is an important step forward in the roll out of Network West Midlands which aims to give clear and up-to-date timetable, journey and ticketing information to make using public transport easier for the travelling public."</p> <p >Current Centro-PTA Busmaster and Railmaster tickets or Centrocards are valid until their date of expiry and do not have to be changed for the new look tickets until this time.</p> <p>For more information about the new tickets, or about Network West Midlands, people can pick up information leaflets from train stations and Centro and Travel West Midlands information centres. Alternatively, they can visit www.networkwestmidlands.com</p>"
"Using buses, trains and trams is set to get easier for the West Midland's public transport users this month when the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, launches it's new ticket range."
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0
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Full partnership essential in new rail franchise
2006-08-25T00:00:00
2006-08-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bosses on the regional transport body Centro-PTA are calling on the Department for Transport to retain their status as co-signatory for the new West Midlands rail franchise so they can continue to deliver improvements on the network.</p> <p >In a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport Douglas Alexander, acting director general of Centro-PTA Trevor Robinson outlined the reasons why Centro-PTA should remain a co-signatory on the franchise, due to begin in November 2007.</p> <p >These include building on the sustained growth and service improvements that the organisation has helped to deliver as a co-signatory over the past ten years.</p> <p >"Centro-PTA has over 30 years' in-depth experience of specifying, procuring and managing rail services in the West Midlands in partnership with many Government agencies," explains Mr Robinson.</p> <p >"If we are to continue to build on our track record of successfully managing stakeholder aspirations, and helping to deliver growth and improvements to the region's rail network, it is vital that Centro-PTA has close involvement in the new West Midlands franchise.  The best way to achieve this is through co-signatory status."</p> <p >Centro-PTA lost its automatic right to be a co-signatory to the West Midlands franchise under the 2005 Railways Act.  However, the Act gives public transport executives (PTEs) like Centro powers to enter into agreements with the Secretary of State in relation to passenger rail services and be co-signatories to franchise agreements.</p> <p >In addition to the letter to the Secretary of State, Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke appealed for the support of local MPs, councillors and other key stakeholders.</p> <p >He said: "Through its current co-signatory relationship with Central Trains, Centro-PTA havs delivered many crucial benefits, including increased frequency on many routes, more rolling stock, upgrades and expansion to station car parks, and enhancements to stations and trains.</p> <p >"If Centro-PTA is not a co-signatory to the new franchise its role would be marginalised and it would be much harder to deliver the further improvements needed.  It means that a cumbersome process of separate agreements is likely to lead to less rail investment occurring and both the Government's and Centro-PTA's objectives being harder to realise.  A full partnership is essential."</p> <p >There are also concerns that the loss of Centro-PTA's co-signatory status is at odds with the wider regional devolution agenda.</p> <p >"Taking away co-signatory status is inconsistent with the Government's proposals to give PTEs greater powers in relation to regulating bus services," continues Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"If the Government is serious about giving the city regions more powers to tackle key issues such as congestion, then the Department for Transport sharing the management of the West Midlands franchise with Centro-PTA as the key regional stakeholder responsible for public transport strategy in the West Midlands is surely a step in the right direction."</p>"
"Bosses on the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, are calling on the Department for Transport to retain their status as co-signatory for the new West Midlands rail franchise so they can continue to deliver improvements on the network."
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0
12
0
Perturbed parents get a helping hand from Centro-PTA
2006-08-15T00:00:00
2006-08-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA is offering perturbed parents free travel and discounted entry to five of the region's top attractions to help curb their children's boredom in the last two weeks of the summer holidays.</p> <p >It means parents struggling with ideas to keep their kids entertained can have a hassle free day out and save money without the added bother of driving and parking.</p> <p >Centro-PTA offers All-in-One tickets from any staffed West Midland's rail station to the Black Country Living Museum, Cadbury World, the National Sea Life Centre, Thinktank and Imax, and the Birmingham Wheel.</p> <p >The tickets include inclusive return rail travel and entry to any one of these attractions for cheaper than the standard admission price alone.<br /> <br /> </p> <p >For example, an All-in-One ticket to the National Sea Life Centre at Brindleyplace is just £10.00 for adults and £7.00 for children. This compares to the normal admission price of £12.00 for adults and £8.50 for children, a saving of £7.00 for a family of four.</p> <p >And, this does not take into account the additional cost of petrol or parking charges for families that choose to travel by car.</p> <p >"As the summer holidays draw to a close, parents often find it more difficult to come up with ideas to keep their children entertained," comments Councillor Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"These All-in-One offers mean families can have a fun day out on the train and at one of the West Midland's top attractions while avoiding sitting in frustrating traffic jams, finding and paying for parking - and they can save money in the process."</p> <p >In addition to the All-in-One offers, families can also take advantage of special discounted admission prices to the Severn Valley Railway and Warwick Castle If they travel to the attractions by train.</p> <p >And, for parents wanting to keep their children entertained at home, they can check out Centro-PTA's new Train Gang website at <a href=""http://www.traingang,co.uk/"">www.traingang,co.uk</a> where children can find out about public transport through interactive games and puzzles.</p> <p >"Taking children on the train to their favourite attractions and logging on to the Train Gang website is a great way to familiarise children with sustainable transport and the importance of using it," continues Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >"The West Midlands is already heavily congested and it is imperative that we raise awareness of the vitality of using public transport is in the next generation of commuters."</p>"
"The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA is offering perturbed parents free travel and discounted entry to five of the region's top attractions to help curb their children's boredom in the last two weeks of the summer holidays."
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0
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Transport routes to support Black Country growth
2006-08-14T00:00:00
2006-08-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A plan to concentrate the future development of the Black Country into areas well-served by public transport has been welcomed.</p> <p >Regional transport body Centro-PTA is backing the plan which is due to be considered by the Government.</p> <p >"This is a bold and ambitious plan for the regeneration of the Black Country," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "The strategy is based on creating strong and vibrant centres which will be well-connected by transport networks.  That gives local people the best access to jobs, shopping and leisure opportunities."</p> <p >The four strategic centres identified by the Black Country Consortium and local councils are Wolverhampton, Walsall, West Bromwich and Brierley Hill / Merry Hill.  The growth corridors between these are closely matched by existing and planned Midland Metro lines, for example. </p> <p >"Integrating land use and transport planning in this way is the best approach to support economic development in the city region.  By focussing particularly on bus, train and tram routes it is also the most environment-friendly approach," adds Cllr. Clarke.</p> <p >The plan being discussed is a review of the Regional Spatial Strategy following the Black Country Study.  A formal draft version is open for consultation until 23 August.</p> <p >One of the key issues identified is the need to prevent the 'leakage' of people and jobs from the area.  Planners acknowledge that improving access between homes and employment opportunities within the four Black Country districts will be important to reverse the trend.</p> <p >A report on the issue is to be considered by Centro-PTA councillors at an authority meeting on Monday (21 August).  They are being recommended to welcome the strategy review and their comments on the draft will be fed to the Black Country Consortium, along with the views of other organisations, before a public inquiry is conducted early next year.</p> <p>The Centro-PTA boss has stressed the need for funding to be identified to make sure transport improvements do not get left behind.  "It is essential that an effective transport system, with public transport improvements, is an absolute pre-condition of the economic regeneration of the Black Country," says the report to Monday's meeting.  "It must not be possible to 'un-pick' the strategy at some stage in the future by planning to deliver the redevelopment with the accompanying transport infrastructure – the two are inextricably linked."</p> <p><em><strong>Links:<br /> </strong></em><a href=""http://www.blackcountryconsortium.co.uk/page.asp PageRef=49"" target=""_blank""><em>Regional Spatial Strategy Review documents</em></a><br /> <a href=""http://www.blackcountryconsortium.co.uk/old/download.asp fileid=326&detailsid=123"" target=""_blank""><em>Phase One Revision draft (PDF)</em></a></p>"
A plan to concentrate the future development of the Black Country into areas well-served by public transport has been welcomed.
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0
12
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Plans submitted for New Street Station redevelopment
2006-08-10T00:00:00
2006-08-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Another major landmark was reached in the redevelopment of Birmingham's New Street station today, as Network Rail submitted an outline planning application to Birmingham City Council.  This progress follows the recent publication of a regional rail capacity study and vocal support from West Midlands MPs and leading figures from the business community in the region.</p> <p>The outline planning submission seeks agreement in principle from the city council to proceed with the detailed planning phase of the £500m investment programme to transform Birmingham New Street and regenerate a large part of the city centre. It also reveals more about the New Street Gateway scheme, including:</p> <p>Capacity to handle 150 per cent more passengers during the peak periods every day. Passenger flow and access to the platforms will be greatly improved by new lifts and escalators and a Concourse that is more than three times bigger</p> <p>The creation of a pedestrian street similar to the thoroughfare in the International Convention Centre linking the north and south sides of the station</p> <p>A new hi-tech atrium roof, which will be constructed from the same material used on the Eden Project. This will allow natural light to flood into the concourse, transforming the environment for passengers</p> <p>Plans to maximise the development opportunity on the South Side of the station by bringing in 200m of private sector investment. This will generate up to 3,000 new jobs, creating new commercial space and residential development</p> <p>A new public square in front of the station, improving pedestrian links to the Bullring and acting as a further catalyst for regeneration</p> <p>The project will be redeveloped in two phases enabling the station to continue to operate throughout construction. This will minimise disruption for passengers and make it possible for Gateway to deliver the first half of the project by early 2011.</p> <p>The submission of the outline planning application brings with it further confidence that the planned start of site work in early 2008 will be acheived. Network Rail will be using this time until the start of works to undertake detailed analysis of the construction plans to ensure the continued operation of the station throughout the construction period.</p> <p>More information available at the <a href=""http://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">Network Rail media centre</a></p>"
Network Rail has submitted an outline planning application to Birmingham City Council.
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0
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Better public transport needed to help tackle global warming say MPs
2006-08-07T00:00:00
2006-08-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A cross-party group of MPs has called for more to be done to encourage public transport use in an effort to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK.</p> <p>Launching its report today, chairman of the Commons Environmental Audit Committee Tim Yeo MP said that transport was the only sector of the UK economy in which carbon emissions have risen constantly since 1990.  Among the many recommendations, the committee called for local councillors to be given greater powers to improve bus services in urban areas.</p> <p>""From 2001 to 2005, bus use increased significantly in London but declined in every other region of England," the report says. "We welcome the Department for Transport's recent announcement of an examination of ways in which to reverse this trend, and look forward to the results. We recommend that the deregulated system of bus services outside London be reformed, to assist in providing services which attract people out of their cars."</p> <p>The conclusions have been welcomed by public transport bosses in the West Midlands – which has the busiest bus, train and tram network outside the capital.</p> <p>"More and more influential reports are stressing the link between promoting public transport use and protecting the environment," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of regional body Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"It is crucial that regions like the West Midlands are allowed to develop a first class integrated transport system to support economic growth and provide for personal mobility in a way that is much kinder to the environment."</p> <p>He points out that public transport users consume three times less energy than car users.</p> <p>Centro-PTA recently became the first metropolitan transport authority in the UK to sign a climate change declaration.</p> <p><em><strong>Links:<br /> </strong><a href=""http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmselect/cmenvaud/981/98102.htm"" target=""_blank"">Report of the Commons Environmental Audit Committee</a><br /> </em><em>related comment by the </em> <a href=""http://www.lga.gov.uk/PressRelease.asp lsection=344&id=SXDD83-A783C4A1&ccat=344"" target=""_blank""><em>Local Government Association</em></a></p>"
A cross-party group of MPs has called for more to be done to encourage public transport use in an effort to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK.
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Congestion slows economic growth
2006-08-03T00:00:00
2006-08-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Increasing levels of traffic congestion are hitting the competitiveness of the West Midlands region.</p> <p >The worrying trend is highlighted in latest Government statistics, which show the output of workers in the region increasing by less than the national average and the value of local-produced exports dropping.  At the same time, the amount of traffic on the roads is increasing by above average and vehicle speeds are falling.</p> <p >Cars and lorries caught up in West Midlands jams are now travelling almost six per cent slower, according to the Department of Trade and Industry report on competitiveness of the regions.  In contrast, average traffic speeds in every other English region increased between 1998 and 2003.</p> <p >In some cases traffic elsewhere was able to travel up to ten per cent faster, even though those regions saw similar increases in the actual number of vehicles on major roads.</p> <p >"This really does start to highlight how increasing levels of congestion can damage our regional economy," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of West Midlands transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"We need to persuade Government of the importance of investing in an integrated transport system to keep people and goods on the move – and we need to work together as a region to tackle congestion."</p> <p >The Dti statistics are for the wider West Midlands region, including shire counties, and show around three-quarters of people travelling to work by car.  Public transport use is much higher in the major conurbation and in Birmingham commuters using the bus, train and Midland Metro to get to work are now in the majority.</p> <p >"It seems pretty clear that greater use of an improved public transport network will be the way to improve quality of life and to keep the West Midlands competitive," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>Schemes funded by Centro-PTA, such as park and ride, are now taking almost three million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads – and a Government decision on expanding the Midland Metro tram network across Birmingham and the Black Country is awaited.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.dtistats.net/sd/rci2006/index.asp"" target=""_blank""><em>Government statistics on the web</em></a></p>"
Increasing levels of traffic congestion are hitting the competitiveness of the West Midlands region.
9369
0
12
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Public can have say at new transport forum
2006-08-03T00:00:00
2006-08-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new open forum for bus, train and tram users from Dudley has been set up by the region's transport body Centro-PTA, so that passengers can have their say on public transport in the area.</p> <p >The new Dudley Transport Users' Forum (TUF) will meet four times a year, at different locations across the borough, and is open for anyone to contribute their views on bus, rail and Metro issues.</p> <p >The meetings are due to start in September and will be attended by representatives from Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, bus, train and Metro operators and officers from Centro-PTA who will address any questions, ideas or problems the public may have.</p> <p >The new forum will replace the more formal Transport Users' Advisory Committee (TUAC), which had a fixed membership with the public only able to speak during a fixed half hour slot at the start of the session.</p> <p >The more informal meeting of a Transport Users' Forum means that any member of the public that attends will be able to fully take part in the proceedings throughout the meeting.</p> <p >"Getting public transport right is important to the lives of thousands of people and vital in our campaign to cut congestion," explains Cllr Angus Adams, Lead Member for Dudley for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"We want users of buses, trains and trams to be our eyes and ears to help operators provide better services and we have set up these new meetings to give more people a chance to have their say."</p> <p >Centro-PTA hopes that the new forums will persuade more people from all parts of society to come along and express their views.</p> <p>"We would like to see more women, young people and ethnic minorities – all of which make up a large proportion of the region's public transport users - attending these meetings and letting us know what they think so we can make public transport better for everyone," concludes Cllr Adams.</p>"
"A new open forum for bus, train and tram users from Dudley has been set up by the region's transport body Centro-PTA, so that passengers can have their say on public transport in the area."
9369
0
12
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Residents' views sought on town's new bus station
2006-07-28T00:00:00
2006-07-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA is seeking Stourbridge residents' views on the design of the town's new bus station.</p> <p >The organisation is working with Dudley Council to replace the old bus station with a new modern design which will provide an attractive, comfortable and safe area for passengers to wait for their bus.</p> <p >The new bus station will include a new facilities building, brand new enclosed bus stands, improved timetable information, new safety and security features including CCTV, on-site staff and a new café.</p> <p >Two design ideas have been produced by architects and Centro-PTA are asking local residents to have there say on which design they think is best for different factors of the passenger experience including safety, comfort and appearance.</p> <p >Their views will then be taken into account in developing the final design for the bus station to ensure that it effectively meets the passengers wants and needs.</p> <p >Centro-PTA are holding three public consultation events at Stourbridge bus station in the coming weeks and invite bus station users and local residents along to view the designs and make any comments they feel necessary.</p> <p >Centro-PTA officers will also be available to answer any questions and discuss any concerns or options that residents wish to raise.</p> <p >Details of the proposed scheme and a questionnaire are also being mailed out to people who live in the local area.</p> <p >It is estimated that work will begin between 2008 and 2010 when funding becomes available.</p> <p>It is hoped that the new bus station will help to persuade more people to use public transport in Stourbridge, and provide an attractive alternative to the car in a bid to reduce congestion and cut down on carbon emissions in Dudley and the West Midlands as a whole.</p>"
"The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA is seeking Stourbridge residents' views on the design of the town's new bus station."
9369
0
12
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Free city shuttle bus for public transport users
2006-07-28T00:00:00
2006-07-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Getting around Birmingham city centre will soon be much easier thanks to the introduction of a free shuttle bus service on Monday.</p> <p >The new Station<i>link</i> service is being launched by the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, on Monday 31 July in a bid to make it easier for public transport users to get to different destinations across the city centre.</p> <p >The distinctive blue and orange buses will provide a shuttle service between New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill rail stations and Digbeth Coach Station. They will also provide access to the Bullring, Millennium Point, the markets and links to key business, shopping and cultural areas of the city.</p> <p >"Station<i>link</i> is about giving people a convenient, reliable and easy way of getting from the station to where they want to be at no extra cost once they step off a train, tram, coach or bus," explains Councillor Gurcharan Sidhu, lead member for buses for Centro-PTA, which is funding the project.</p> <p >"The service's essential links between different modes of transport goes towards providing the integrated public transport system that Birmingham deserves, making life easier for each person that travels into the city."</p> <p >The idea for Station<i>link</i> originated from a scrutiny review in which councillors looked at providing better city centre bus services and links between the rail and coach stations, particularly Snow Hill and New Street.</p> <p >The buses will run from Monday to Saturday every few minutes between 7am and 6pm from specially signposted stops.</p> <p >The service will be free initially thanks to £250,000 from Centro-PTA to fund the first year. Councillors hope that support from rail and coach companies, as well as other sponsorship, can be found to continue the operation.</p> <p >The service is particularly good news for the elderly, disabled people, people with young children and those with luggage, especially taking into account the interchange between the city's different rail and coach stations. All the buses have easy low floor access.</p> <p >It also gives visitors to the city confidence in getting between Birmingham's public transport interchange points and the shopping and business areas of the city.</p> <p>"Station<i>link</i> should also help lead to a reduction in congestion by providing an attractive alternative to the car, which in turn will provide a better city centre environment for everyone," adds Cllr Sidhu.</p>"
Getting around Birmingham city centre will soon be much easier thanks to the introduction of a free shuttle bus service on Monday.
9369
0
12
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£� million to improve West Midland's rail information
2006-07-28T00:00:00
2006-07-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The West Midlands is to benefit from almost £¾ million Government funding towards improving passenger information at 25 rail stations across the region, following a bid from regional transport body, Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The funding comes from the Department for Transport's Access for All fund announced in March to improve disabled access and information at rail stations across England and Wales.</p> <p >The £737,000 allocated to Centro-PTA represents the largest commitment made to a single organisation under the initial £3.1 million allocated for accessibility works.</p> <p >The money will be used to provide upgraded customer information screens, automatic public address systems and induction loops to ensure accurate and up-to-date timetable information is available for people with visual or hearing impediments.</p> <p >This will go together with £1.2 million already pledged by Centro-PTA councillors to provide passenger Real Time Information at the stations so people know exactly when their next train is due.</p> <p >It is hoped that the new technology will help to improve access to rail stations for everyone, and encourage more people to use the train across the rail network.</p> <p >"We are very pleased that the Government has identified the importance of providing good disabled access and information at rail stations across the West Midlands region," comments Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail for Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The Government allocated funding to 104 stations as part of the Access for All programme.  In the West Midlands the 25 stations to benefit from the joint Centro-PTA and Department for Transport funding are Aston, Bournville, Cradley Heath, Dorridge, Duddeston, Erdington, Five Ways, Four Oaks, Jewellery Quarter, Kings Norton, Longbridge, Marston Green, Northfield, Rowley Regis, Sandwell & Dudley, Selly Oak, Shirley, Smethwick Galton Bridge, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, Tame Bridge Parkway, Tile Hill, Tyseley, University and Walsall.</p> <p >Centro-PTA is now actively developing proposals to install Real Time Information at the remaining 35 stations that do not already benefit from it, with a view to making a further funding submission to the Department for Transport in 2007/08.</p> <p >"It is important that we work to overcome the problems that face disabled people using the rail network and this funding is an important contribution towards achieving that goal," continues Cllr Chambers.</p> <p>"However we still have a long way to go and we will continue to work tirelessly towards improving accessibility to all at every rail station in the West Midlands region."</p>"
"The West Midlands is to benefit from almost £� million Government funding towards improving passenger information at 25 rail stations across the region, following a bid from the regions public transport body, Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
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Private sector funding boost for Metro extension
2006-07-27T00:00:00
2006-07-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A crucial agreement detailing the private sector's largest funding contribution towards the Midland Metro extension has been signed.</p> <p >Westfield, which owns the Merry Hill development and has significant interests across the Brierley Hill estate, has completed its agreement with Centro-PTA by pledging its support for the new tram lines through the Black Country with a £36.5m contribution towards the £268m project – the largest single private sector contribution to any UK light rail scheme.</p> <p >Today's agreement is one of the last to be completed for the 11km route, which will travel from the existing line at Wednesbury, through Dudley town centre and the Merry Hill Centre, to Brierley Hill.</p> <p >"We are keen for the Metro extension to be built at the earliest opportunity, and are pleased to offer our support to the project," comments Westfield's development director Peter Miller.</p> <p >The extension has already been given the green light by the Government, and regional transport body Centro-PTA has submitted what it describes as a confident and robust business case for financial approval by Ministers.</p> <p >Centro-PTA councillors welcomed the Westfield deal as an important step towards providing the area with a modern, integrated transport system.</p> <p >"This vital agreement means the Midland Metro extension is another step closer to becoming a reality," says Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"The expanded network will provide an excellent level of service for passengers.  Frequent high-capacity trams will provide a real boost to the accessibility of Birmingham city centre and the Black Country - with excellent links between shops, homes, offices, rail stations and major new developments.  It will make a real impact on our campaign to cut congestion for everyone," he adds.</p> <p >Centro-PTA has already signed agreements with both Sandwell and Dudley Metropolitan Borough Councils, detailing their respective roles in funding, construction, operation and maintenance of the route.</p> <p >"The Midland Metro extension is a very exciting prospect for local people," says Cllr David Caunt, Leader of Dudley Council.</p> <p >"Today's announcement shows how important the Metro is to business and the local economy.  It's also great for the people of Dudley and the Black Country who will gain from the regeneration, jobs and other benefits it will bring."</p> <p >The Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension will have 17 easy access stops, four of which will include park and ride facilities, and will include new, larger trams which will be able to complete the journey in just 23 minutes.</p> <p >Supporters of modern trams stress the environmental benefits of networks such as the Midland Metro which are becoming more common across Europe's major cities.  They are extremely effective at reducing congestion by attracting people on to public transport, while the vehicles themselves are quiet and produce much lower levels of emissions than other forms of transport.</p> <p >Centro-PTA's 'green' plans have received backing from the Minister of State for Environment and Climate Change and Dudley South MP Ian Pearson.  "This is exactly the kind of major strategic investment that will help the revitalisation of the Black Country," he says.</p> <p >"The economic and environmental benefits of the Metro extension will be huge and I am delighted that a major company like Westfield has the confidence to invest in the future of the area in partnership with the public sector."</p> <p >Three-quarters of the cost would come from Government and current studies show that it will get a minimum double return on investment. The rest of the money will come from local contributions, such as that given by Westfield.</p> <p>Midland Metro line one, between Wolverhampton and Birmingham via West Bromwich, caters for over five million passengers a year and has become the region's most reliable form of public transport. The expansion plans also include a new line through the streets of central Birmingham to serve the redeveloped New Street Station, the main shopping centre, Broad Street, the ICC and Five Ways.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://westfield.com/corporate/about/profile.html"" target=""_blank""><em>about Westfield</em></a></p>"
A crucial agreement detailing the private sector's largest funding contribution towards the Midland Metro extension has been signed.
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signing.jpg
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Longer trains to tackle overcrowding
2006-07-26T00:00:00
2006-07-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Ministers have backed a plan to increase space for passengers on the region's overcrowded rail network primarily by running longer trains.</p> <p>The plan put forward by rail industry partners supported by Centro-PTA has been endorsed by the West Midlands Rail Capacity Study.  The study's findings were published last night by the Department of Transport.  They said parts of the regional network have experienced a 50% increase in passenger numbers since 2001, with a further 50% growth forecast by 2026.  Against this background, the study examined the ability of the railway to accommodate even higher levels of growth as part of a longer-term review of rail capacity.</p> <p>Releasing the study on the last day before the Summer recess, the Government has removed doubt that the proposed redevelopment of New Street Station will be unable to cope with such growth in demand.  A plan submitted by regional bodies and Network Rail provides for a significant increase in the station's passenger handling areas, but no real changes to track infrastructure.</p> <p>""With one in five people arriving at peak times in Birmingham by train, redeveloping New Street station is a top priority,"" says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of regional transport body Centro-PTA.  ""We are fully backing these plans to give the city and region the gateway station it needs and deserves.""</p> <p>This latest study confirms that the regional network is so congested it would be difficult to meet the growth in demand by increasing train frequency, but it concludes that providing longer trains will be able to provide for expected growth at least until 2040.</p> <p>According to the study, the results of recent passenger counts have been assessed at peak periods, and a notional timetable developed to show it is possible to operate all services with longer trains, including at Birmingham New Street.  ""Typically, three-car units would be lengthened to six-car, and ultimately to nine-car units.  This would provide capacity for 120% growth at existing performance levels and is forecast to last until around 2040, depending on the rate of growth experienced,"" it says.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_railways/documents/page/dft_railways_612183.hcsp"" target=""_blank""><em>Birmingham and West Midlands Rail Capacity Review (DfT)</em></a></p>"
Ministers have backed a plan to increase space for passengers on the region's overcrowded rail network primarily by running longer trains.
9369
0
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�Passenger champion� appointed chief executive of West Midlands transport body
2006-07-26T00:00:00
2006-07-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >One of the key figures behind the development of Manchester's tram network and the improvement of bus services in the North West has been appointed to the West Midlands top transport job.</p> <p >Geoff Inskip, currently Deputy Director General of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, has been appointed to the new post of chief executive at Centro-PTA.</p> <p >As boss of the regional body he will head up a £200 million per year programme to improve public transport and tackle congestion – including expansion of the Midland Metro and the development of Network West Midlands to provide better coordinated bus, rail and tram information.</p> <p >"Geoff describes himself as a 'passenger champion' and that's exactly the sort of person we want – who can provide a strategic lead at a critical time for transport in the West Midlands, but never forget that the interests of passengers must always come top of our agenda," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >"This is a challenging time for our city region with the increasing cost of congestion, the possibility of some innovative solutions on the horizon and the ever greater need for an integrated system of road and track just to keep our people and economy on the move," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >The West Midlands has both the highest levels of road congestion and the busiest public transport network outside London.  Already in Birmingham's rush hour more commuters travel by bus, train and Midland Metro than use the car, but politicians want much more to be done.  They say better public transport for the three cities and four metropolitan boroughs is key to supporting regional economic growth, tackling inequality and caring for the environment.</p> <p >"I am taking on one of the biggest jobs in public transport and I am relishing the challenge," comments Geoff Inskip. "The West Midlands has ambitious plans in place and it will be my task to deliver these at the head of an organisation that will champion the interests of regional passengers and businesses."</p> <p >The job was created by the 'merger' of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority with its executive arm Centro.  It combines the post of Centro Director General Rob Donald, who retired earlier this year, with some of the PTA 'clerk' duties that were carried out by the chief executive of Coventry City Council.</p> <p >The new appointment will need to be approved by Centro-PTA councillors at their Authority meeting on Monday (31 July).</p> <p >Fifty-two year old Geoff Inskip moves from Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive where he is Deputy Director General and Director of Finance, as well as acting Director General in recent months.  Prior to that he ran his own company and worked in the private sector as a chartered accountant.  He is a fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants and Institute of Directors.</p> <p >At Manchester he was Project Director for  the city's hugely successful Metrolink tram system, he has developed the region's Integrated Transport Strategy and has been leading the current Transport Innovation Fund bid.  Among his recent successes, he has agreed punctuality improvement plans with bus operators in the North West and recently gave evidence on the subject to the all-Party Commons Transport Select Committee.</p> <p>"Geoff has worked for GMPTE for 14 years and during that time he has been involved in many projects and his record of achievement has been excellent," says the Greater Manchester authority chairman Cllr Roger Jones.  "He has been Acting Director General for the last eight months and I feel he has made a huge contribution culminating in the recent Government announcement on the expansion of Metrolink and our recent award of <i>PTA of the Year</i>."</p>"
One of the key figures behind the development of Manchester's tram network and the improvement of bus services in the North West has been appointed to the West Midlands top transport job.
9369
0
12
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Community centre first for free travel passes
2006-07-24T00:00:00
2006-07-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Over 60s in the West Midlands wanting to apply for their free bus, rail and Metro pass no longer have to queue at the post office and wait for their cardboard pass to be made, thanks to Centro-PTA.</p> <p >Instead they can take advantage of a brand new check and send service at special locations across the region, that allows the over 60s to apply for their travel pass with the help of trained staff, and receive a new plastic version on their door mat.</p> <p >Local community centre, the Heartlands Older Peoples Forum on the Coventry Road in Small Heath is the first charitable organisation to offer the service, in a unique partnership between Centro-PTA and the voluntary sector.</p> <p >Over 60s can go along to the Forum and sit down in a relaxed environment, getting support from qualified staff in filling out their application.</p> <p >The staff also provide help to those whose first language is not English including those speaking Urdu, Punjabi and other community languages.</p> <p >The application is then forwarded on, free of charge, to Centro-PTA's ticketing team, who then send the plastic pass directly to the customer's home within ten working days.</p> <p >The partnership is the first of it's kind between the region's public transport body and a voluntary sector organisation.</p> <p >It is an important part of Centro-PTA's wider strategy to encourage more people of all ages to use public transport, and to increase the availability of places where people can apply for their free travel passes.</p> <p >"Public transport is an important and convenient way for senior citizens to travel around the region, be it for work, leisure, shopping or to enjoy a day out," says Councillor Christine Mills, Centro-PTA lead member for customer relations.</p> <p >"It has long been Centro-PTA's policy to make concessions widely available. We hope that this new partnership can be extended to other community and voluntary organisations, so everyone over 60 can apply for their free travel pass at a convenient local venue."</p> <p >The partnership between Centro-PTA and the Heartlands Older People's Forum also provides free local public transport information, including timetables, maps and guides.</p> <p >For the past ten months, Centro-PTA's community liaison officer, Alison Harrington, has held a weekly Travel Surgery at the Forum for local residents, who can ask any questions they have about using public transport in the area and receive help applying for free concessionary travel.</p> <p >Mr Ishaq, chairman of the Forum, says: "The Heartlands Older People's Forum is dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing of all older people and providing support, services and benefits for those who find it difficult to access these things.</p> <p >"The weekly travel surgeries have proved very successful and helpful to our customers, and we are delighted to extend our service, in regards to public transport, in offering people help applying for their free travel pass."</p> <p >Nearly 50,000 senior citizens have now taken advantage of Centro-PTA's free off peak travel pass since it was introduced last July, nine months ahead of the national scheme.</p>"
"Over 60s in the West Midlands wanting to apply for their free bus, rail and Metro pass no longer have to queue at the post office and wait for their cardboard pass to be made, thanks to Centro-PTA."
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0
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"Senior citizens deserve more, say transport bosses."
2006-07-24T00:00:00
2006-07-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >West Midland's transport bosses are pledging to continue to give the region's senior citizens one of the best free public transport deals in the country when the Government's nationwide bus pass scheme begins in 2008.</p> <p >Centro-PTA councillors say they will continue to provide free travel on all modes of transport in the West Midland's, including trains and Midland Metro, to the region's senior citizens once the scheme begins, as has been the case for many years.</p> <p >And, during a meeting of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority next Monday, councillors will question the Government's idea to provide the nation's over 60's with free travel passes which are only valid on buses nationwide.</p> <p >"It is nonsense that trains and trams are not included in the national scheme," commented Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"They are an essential part of the integrated public transport system in the West Midlands and the UK as a whole, and key to getting people from A to B in the most efficient and comfortable way possible."</p> <p >The West Midlands has always provided senior citizens in the region with one of the country's best concessionary travel schemes.</p> <p >Centro-PTA councillors brought in free off-peak local bus, train and tram travel for anyone over the age 60 in the region nine months ahead of the Government's free bus pass scheme.</p> <p >Nearly half a million senior citizens in the West Midlands have now claimed their free travel pass, following a decline of uptake in recent years across the UK.</p> <p >"It has long been Centro-PTA's policy to make concessions widely available, offer an attractive alternative to the car, and encourage more people, of all ages, to use public transport. That is the greatest hope we have in the region's campaign to cut congestion," concludes Cllr Clarke.</p> <p> </p>"
West Midland's transport bosses are pledging to continue to give the region's senior citizens one of the best free public transport deals in the country when the Government's nationwide bus pass scheme begins in 2008.
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Experts back Midland Metro expansion plans
2006-07-23T00:00:00
2006-07-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Plans to expand the Midland Metro tram network across Birmingham and the Black Country have cleared another important hurdle.</p> <p >The proposals by transport body Centro-PTA for new lines through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley have been given the green light by an independent panel of experts.  Their findings will now be sent to the Government department considering the business case for the £430m scheme.</p> <p >"This was a detailed and independent investigation into the state of our plans, with some very searching questions.  The fact that we passed with flying colours sends a clear message to the Secretary of State that we have a robust and deliverable project for improving public transport in the West Midlands," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >The independent 'Gateway review' process is an important part of the Government's reaction to a critical report into the future of light rail projects by the all-party Public Accounts Committee last year.  In the wake of plans for tram networks in Liverpool, Portsmouth and Leeds being refused Government funding, the all-party committee of MPs commented that the Department for Transport had not acted soon enough when problems started to appear and costs started to escalate.</p> <p >Reacting to the criticism, Transport Minister responsible for light rail Derek Twigg said: "By the time a project is signed off, we need to have full confidence in its viability and cost-effectiveness."</p> <p >He said ambitious projects such as the Midland Metro expansion are now required to undergo rigorous health checks at critical stages of project development to make sure they are in a fit state to move forward.</p> <p >"It's all about improving project management, improving confidence in the process, and improving value for the taxpayer," the Minister said.</p> <p >The review of Centro-PTA plans for the Midland Metro was carried out by an independent  panel of experts including senior figures from project management, civil engineering and audit backgrounds who have been involved in similar schemes both in the UK and major international contracts.  It was carried out the Government-supported review body '4ps'.</p> <p >They questioned members of the Centro-PTA team as well as project consultants and partners from Birmingham, Dudley and Sandwell councils.  Their report concluded that Centro-PTA had a strong approach to managing and dealing with the risks of such an ambitious and complex project and said the organisation should be congratulated for securing substantial external support and financial contribution.</p> <p >The full summary will be reported to members of Centro-PTA at the authority's meeting next week (Monday 31 July).</p> <p >"This is a highly successful outcome.  The review could have given Metro expansion a red, amber or green light – and green means they are telling the Government we are on target to succeed," says Cllr Roger Horton, Centro-PTA vice chair and lead member for Midland Metro.</p> <p >"The expanded Midland Metro network will provide an excellent level of service for passengers.  Frequent high-capacity trams will provide a real boost to the accessibility of Birmingham city centre and the Black Country - with excellent links between shops, homes, offices, rail stations and major new developments," he adds.</p> <p >As well as improving the environment in Birmingham city centre, the Midland Metro extensions will provide high-quality public transport through both residential and commercial areas of the Black Country along a route from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill.  It will give direct access for people to Wolverhampton, Birmingham and West Bromwich centres, as well as supporting the regeneration of significant areas along the route and development of Merry Hill and Brierley Hill.</p> <p>Extensions to the Midland Metro were given planning approval by the Secretary of State last year following two public inquiries.  Agreements have since been reached with developers and local authorities allowing an Outline Business Case – effectively a funding bid – to be submitted to Government.</p> <p ><em><strong>Links:</strong><br /> </em><a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_localtrans/documents/page/dft_localtrans_038417.hcsp"" target=""_blank""><em>Derek Twigg speech on future of light rail and gateway reviews</em></a><br /> <a href=""http://www.4ps.co.uk/home.aspx PageID=4.1.5.6"" target=""_blank""><em>What is a Gateway review </em></a></p>"
Plans to expand the Midland Metro tram network across Birmingham and the Black Country have cleared another important hurdle.
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West Midlands first UK transport body to commit on climate change
2006-07-19T00:00:00
2006-07-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses in the West Midland's have pledged their commitment to tackling global warming on what could be the hottest July day ever.</p> <p>Centro-PTA has become the first regional transport authority to sign a declaration on climate change.</p> <p>The statement follows today's news of the Government's support for the scheme and speculation that current soaring temperatures are related to carbon emissions from cars and aviation which are causing the atmosphere to retain more of the sun's heat.</p> <p>Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and Acting Director General Trevor Robinson today signed the Climate Change Declaration, which has already been endorsed by over 100 councils.</p> <p>""Climate change is at the top of the Government's agenda, and local authorities can play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions,"" says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>""We have shown our commitment by becoming the first transport authority in the UK to sign the declaration and play a part in cutting down on global warming. We are determined to work towards curbing climate change through our work in promoting more sustainable forms of transport, and by monitoring our operations as an organisation.""</p> <p>""As transport is one of the main contributors to climate change we feel it is important to show our commitment as the biggest authority responsible for public transport outside London. A public transport user consumes three and a half times less energy than a motorist,"" continues Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>At present only district and county councils have signed the Nottingham Declaration to address the challenge of tackling global warming.</p> <p>Research shows that climate change is already taking its toll on the environment, with carbon emissions at their highest levels for 30 million years.</p> <p>Passengers in cars, trains, trams and buses have faced soaring temperatures this week with temperatures reaching 34C in the West Midlands, and predicted to reach 36C today, which will be the highest July temperature in the UK ever recorded.</p> <p>""All modes of travel can get hot, sticky and uncomfortable in this weather so we need to urge the public transport industry to think about passenger comfort and service reliability during extreme temperatures if we're going to face more hot summers like this,"" adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>""However, we also need to look at the bigger picture in tackling climate change and everybody needs to play a role in making the West Midlands and the UK and environmentally better place to live.</p> <p>""Seventy million commuters trips are made in the region every year and if those using a car were to switch to public transport for just one day a week it would reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into our atmosphere by 125 kilograms per person a year. That would be a real contribution to reducing climate change and the impact on the environment.""</p> <p>Recent forecasts based on official Met Office data show the West Midlands can expect to see much hotter and drier summers in the future. The computer model shows a rise in average temperatures of between four and five degrees Celsius and rainfall to decrease by as much as 60 per cent. A forecast based on lower levels of carbon emissions reduces the predicted temperature increase to around two degrees by 2080.</p> <p><em><strong>Links:</strong><br /> </em><a href=""http://www.ukcip.org.uk/climate_change/location_details.asp region_id=6"" target=""_blank""><em>Regional climate change forecast</em></a><br /> <a href=""http://www.est.org.uk/housingbuildings/localauthorities/NottinghamDeclaration/"" target=""_blank""><em>The Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change</em></a> </p> "
Transport bosses in the West Midland's have pledged their commitment to tackling global warming on what could be the hottest July day ever.
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Congestion targets for main routes announced
2006-07-18T00:00:00
2006-07-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The Government has identified 19 key routes in the West Midlands where local councils and transport authority Centro-PTA will be expected to limit congestion over the next five years.</p> <p >Journey times on main roads including the A38 Bristol Road and Tyburn Road, Hagley Road, Stratford Road, A34 Walsall Road, Dudley Road and A45 from the airport/NEC into Birmingham city centre will be used to measure the region's success at tackling congestion. A Government target announced today (Tuesday 18 July) provides for a growth in travel by four per cent but an increase in journey times of no more than five per cent. It endorses a target set out in the Local Transport Plan submitted to Government by councils and Centro-PTA earlier this year.</p> <p >Main radial routes into Coventry and Wolverhampton city centres will also be surveyed (see map)</p> <p >Figures will take into account the average rush hour speed and occupancy of cars, as well as delays to buses and the number of passengers using public transport. A total of 155 routes across the ten largest urban areas in England have been earmarked.</p> <p >Announcing the targets this morning, Secretary of State Douglas Alexander recognised the scale of the congestion problem to be tackled. ""The accessibility of our cities is key to their economic growth and success,"" he said. ""It is therefore important that local authorities take responsibility for addressing the problem of road congestion, and the impact on journey times caused by the increasing numbers of journeys being made.""</p> <p >West Midlands councils have already made tackling congestion a joint priority. Traffic congestion is currently estimated to cost the city region more than 2.5bn every year, and a major congestion study is currently underway to investigate both the problem and potential long term solutions.</p> <p >""Improving the quality and attractiveness of public transport will be absolutely crucial to finding long-term solutions to congestion in the West Midlands,"" says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. ""The evidence is already pointing to how major investment in bus, rail and tram networks can improve the West Midlands economy and help protect the environment of our city region.""</p> <p >Centro-PTA, which promotes and develops public transport, has welcomed the fact that the Government is now measuring journey times for people rather than vehicles. It means specific congestion targets can be met both by providing sustainable alternatives to car use and by improving bus journey times on main roads.</p> <p>""Ultimately, everyone benefits,"" adds Cllr Clarke. ""The region needs to provide the right package of transport choices, so that car travel and public transport both see improvements as part of an integrated package.""</p>"
The Government has identified 19 key routes in the West Midlands where local councils and transport authority Centro-PTA will be expected to limit congestion over the next five years. The targets include reducing delays to buses.
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Regional public transport package given green light
2006-07-06T00:00:00
2006-07-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed today's Government announcement which will provide almost a billion pounds of funding over the next ten years.</p> <p >"This shows the Secretary of State recognises the scale of the problem in the West Midlands which has the most congested metropolitan area outside London.  He has agreed with the great majority of our proposals which means we can move forward on a package of public transport improvements," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of regional body Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"Investing heavily in our bus, train and light rail networks really is the best opportunity this city region has for tackling congestion, improving the environment and boosting the West Midlands economy," he says.</p> <p >Today's announcement is in response to a submission from West Midlands authorities, including both the city region metropolitan area and the shire counties, which set out transport funding priorities.  The Government has broadly accepted that advice and has therefore given the go-ahead for a total of 34 schemes.  Three new schemes given funding approval for the first time include improvements to bus services in Leamington Spa and Warwick and a £10.4m package to boost public transport access to Birmingham International Airport and the NEC.</p> <p ><strong>In Coventry</strong>:</p> <p >Two major projects which were put forward by councillors as provisional items in the regional priority list have been accepted by Government.  These are the work on Coventry Station Interchange and the 'Sprint' bus rapid transit link between Kenilworth and Nuneaton via the city centre.  These could only be submitted as provisional because they were not fully worked up schemes – Sprint, for example, is still at the public consultation stage.</p> <p >"Improving public transport between Nuneaton, Coventry city centre and Kenilworth is an essential step to support regeneration in the area.  The idea of bus rapid transit is an exciting prospect and one that we now know is very capable of winning Government support and funding," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >The PrimeLines bus network improvements, already underway, remains in the Government's funding list for 2006/07 to 2008/09.</p> <p ><strong>In Wolverhampton and the Black Country:</strong></p> <p >The development of a Wolverhampton city centre transport interchange to link bus, rail and future Midland Metro services continues to receive Government support.  However further enhancements to the rail station, which were backed by Centro-PTA, have been turned down because they do not as yet offer sufficient value for money according to the Department for Transport.</p> <p >"Clearly those bodies putting schemes forward need to show that public money will be well spent, which is why we all need to come up with a robust package of proposals," comments Cllr Clarke.  "The Government's announcement today that it agrees with nearly all the regional priorities does mean that we can press on with providing a better transport network for Wolverhampton and the Black Country, while we continue to work up many more long-term projects and lobby hard for their funding."</p> <p>Other Black Country schemes in the programme include Cradley Heath and Walsall town centres, Brierley Hill improvements and West Midlands Traffic Control Centre to keep roads flowing smoothly.</p> <p><strong>In Birmingham and Solihull:</strong></p> <p>The Department of Transport today agreed to provide 100 per cent of the funding requirement to improve access to Birmingham International Airport and the NEC site.  The scheme is aimed particularly at supporting employment growth and existing workers with increased frequencies on key bus routes, new bus lanes and other priority measures along with better information at bus stops and real time passenger information.</p> <p>Buses feature strongly across the West Midlands £1bn package with, for example, continued funding for showcase routes in Birmingham.</p> <p>In the longer term, the Government has today recognised the regional top priorities of New Street Station and Midland Metro expansion in its funding plans.</p> <p>The redevelopment of New Street Station is given the go ahead for the second half of the funding period starting in 2009.  The 'gateway' project can be progressed ready to be added to the programme, according to today's Government statement.</p> <p>"The announcement is in line with what we expected and keeps this critical project on track," says Cllr Clarke.  "We do need to keep pressing the point to make sure commitments are honoured – as the redevelopment of New Street Station is crucial to promoting greater public transport use."</p> <p>As well as being a major gateway to Birmingham city centre for visitors, New Street is important for thousands of daily commuters as one in five now travel to work by train.</p> <p><strong>Midland Metro expansion:</strong></p> <p>In addition to announcing regional transport funding plans for the next ten years, Secretary of State Douglas Alexander today gave approval for an expansion of the Manchester Metrolink tram system.  Transport bosses in the West Midlands are taking this as a good sign that, where they can show they deliver value for money, the Government will approve schemes such as the expansion of the Midland Metro tram network in Birmingham and the Black Country.</p> <p>"We can show that the Metro expansion through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley more than meets Department of Transport criteria so we have a very solid case for approval," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>In his letter to the West Midlands, Douglas Alexander says he notes that expansions to the Midland Metro system are a top regional priority.  However funding has not been included in today's announcement on the understanding that local councils will include the new tram lines as part of a wider package of measures in their subsequent bid for the Transport Innovation Fund.</p> <p>"This is helpful recognition from the Secretary of State that TIF funding is about a comprehensive set of proposals to tackle congestion and that major investment in public transport will be a crucial part of the package," says Cllr Clarke.  "We have got to keep the Government talking about an integrated transport system so that the West Midlands gets vital funding for improving rail, bus and tram networks."</p> <p>"That is our best chance for boosting the regional economy and taking care of the environment too," he adds.</p> <p> </p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/Content/Detail.asp ReleaseID=212530&NewsAreaID=2"" target=""_blank""><em>news story from GNN</em></a></p>"
Welcome for billion pound transport funding
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West Mids passengers have more to gain from challenge to rolling stock costs
2006-07-02T00:00:00
2006-07-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A Government inquiry into the "excessive" profits of train leasing companies could bring extra benefits to West Midlands passengers it has been claimed.</p> <p>The Department for Transport has called in the Office of Rail Regulation to investigate whether more than  £1 billion a year being paid to the companies is offering taxpayers value for money.</p> <p>The cost of rolling stock is particularly significant in the West Midlands where more immediate capacity improvements are heavily dependent on running longer trains with more carriages.</p> <p>"Because this region lies at the heart of the national rail network and there is precious little spare track capacity, the only way to make room for more passengers is to provide longer trains," explains Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the regional transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"That means the West Midlands is particularly exposed to charges by the rolling stock companies, so we welcome any move towards providing better value for money," he says.</p> <p>Centro-PTA has already used its own funds, raised from the council tax, to provide extra carriages and reduce overcrowding on local rail services.  It says it is making an important investment in tackling congestion as more than one in five Birmingham commuters now travels by train and passenger numbers are rising faster than in London and the South East.</p> <p>To provide this benefit for passengers Centro-PTA pays more than £2 million a year towards the costs of deploying ten additional carriages built in the 1980s which are leased from a rolling stock company.</p> <p>The Government is now saying there is a lack of transparency as to how such leasing charges are applied and it is concerned because most of the cost of these are borne either by the taxpayer or by fare-paying passengers.</p> <p>In a statement the Department for Transport acknowledges that rolling stock leasing companies have invested £4 billion in new trains and carriages over the past ten years, but it says the competitive market envisaged at the time of rail privatisation has not materialised.  The Department has asked the Office of Rail Regulation to consider a further referral to the Competition Commission.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> DfT release </em>   <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp ReleaseID=210628&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False"" target=""_blank""><em>Government seeks action on Leasing costs for Rail Rolling Stock</em></a><br /> <br /> </p>"
A Government inquiry into the "excessive" profits of train leasing companies could bring extra benefits to West Midlands passengers it has been claimed.
9369
0
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Text and satellite technology ends bus stop wait
2006-06-26T00:00:00
2006-06-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in Birmingham can now have accurate bus arrival times at their fingertips, thanks to a real time information project using satellite and mobile phone technology.</p> <p >As part of the multi-million pound project over 1700 bus stops and shelters in the West Midlands have been allocated special codes, which allow passengers to receive information on their mobile phone about the arrival of the next bus.</p> <p >The project is a flagship partnership between the region's public transport body Centro-PTA, local authorities, the Department for Transport and Travel West Midlands.  More than 30 major bus routes into and out of Birmingham city centre will benefit from the equipment.</p> <p >The initiative works in conjunction with high-tech satellite navigation systems installed by bus company Travel West Midlands on 366 of their vehicles, which track the buses' exact locations on a route.             </p> <p >The technology means that bus arrival times at specific stops and shelters across the city can be accurately predicted.</p> <p >All bus passengers have to do is text the 8-digit bus stop ID code to the number 84268. They will then receive a text message telling them exactly how many minutes until the next few buses are due.</p> <p >Passengers at many stops in the West Midlands are already used to electronic displays in bus shelters, which use the same technology to display the Real Time Information.  Now they can also make a note of the code at their nearest bus stop, even if it doesn't have a shelter display, and find out the arrival time of the next bus before leaving home, work or anywhere else.</p> <p >"Wondering when the next bus will arrive can be very frustrating for bus passengers. This new technology means people have the confidence of knowing, to the minute, exactly when their bus will turn up," explains Councillor Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"The new technology shows passengers that bus companies can actively manage their fleets, with the potential of keeping buses to timetable during the day.  The control centre can keep an eye on traffic problems and watch out for the bunching of buses on busy routes.  It means they can move towards an efficient network and deliver a better service for passengers," he says.</p> <p >"Initiatives like this to provide better passenger information can make public transport much easier to use.  That is more and more important as we aim to tackle congestion in the West Midlands and do our bit to help the environment."</p> <p >Martin Hancock, Marketing & Development Director for bus company Travel West Midlands adds: "The new system provides an integrated package of information enabling customers to find out when their next bus is arriving wherever they are, at the bus stop, at their office desk or ordering their last pint.  We are pleased to be involved in this partnership with Centro-PTA and the Department for Transport."</p> Text messages will cost 25p plus users' standard network operator charges"
"People in Birmingham can now have accurate bus arrival times at their fingertips, thanks to a real time information project using satellite and mobile phone technology."
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New boss to drive forward public transport policy
2006-06-26T00:00:00
2006-06-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The West Midlands public transport body Centro-PTA has announced a new vice-chair at its Annual General Meeting today.</p> <p >Councillor Roger Horton (Labour, Sandwell) will join chairman Councillor Gary Clarke (Conservative, Walsall) at the top of the body responsible for the region's public transport policy.</p> <p >He replaces Councillor Paul Allen who held the position for two years. Cllr Horton will also continue his role as lead member for Metro matters for the Authority.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke, who maintains his seat as chairman for the third year in succession, welcomed Cllr Horton into his new position.</p> <p >And, despite coming from different parties, they pledged to maintain the good working relationship that has built up between Labour and Conservative members and work hard together in an aim to deliver better quality and reliable public transport.</p> <p >"The following year is very important for transport in the West Midlands, with many major projects taking place and with public transport continuing to move even higher on the Government's agenda," comments Cllr Horton.</p> <p >"It is vital that we, as councillors for Centro-PTA work hard together, as well as with officers, partners and leaders of local authorities, to overcome hurdles and deliver on projects so that people can have the public transport system they deserve."</p> <p >Centro-PTA is made up of 27 councillors nominated by the seven city and metropolitan borough councils of the West Midlands. Following the local elections in May, the balance of power has been 13 Conservative councillors, 11 Labour and three Liberal Democrat.</p> <p>At the meeting, new lead members were also announced for different policy areas. Cllr Gurcharan Sidhu is new lead member for bus matters, Cllr Les Kyles is new lead member for capital programme and Local Transport Plan, Cllr Len Clark takes over as lead member of resources and business plan, Cllr Angus Adams is new lead member for district liaison and Cllr Kath Hartley is new lead member for performance and review.</p>"
"The West Midlands public transport body, Centro-PTA, has announced a new vice-chair at its Annual General Meeting today."
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Snow Hill vital link reaffirmed
2006-06-25T00:00:00
2006-06-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses are expected to reaffirm their commitment to a major regeneration and transport scheme in Birmingham city centre next week.</p> <p>A report on the creation of a new northern entrance to Snow Hill Station recommends continued support despite concerns that the project is running late. (Update 3 July 2006: the report was approved)</p> <p>It highlights the fact that the Snow Hill Second Access scheme is a crucial link to rail services for the booming Jewellery Quarter / Great Charles Street area and is important to the city's regeneration.  The new northern entrance will also make journeys more convenient for thousands of passengers.  The issue is due to be discussed by members of regional public transport body Centro-PTA at a meeting next week (Monday 3 July).</p> <p>The report to councillors says the contractor Edmund Nuttall Ltd, who started work in June last year, ran into early difficulties excavating the complex Victorian structure where a new access way will be tunnelled under the tracks.  A number of project deadlines were then missed.  Engineers say the work is progressing, but the additional entrance to Snow Hill Station is now likely to open several months later than planned.</p> <p><em>(The new second entrance is shown top right of the aerial photo.  The existing entrance, in Colmore Row, is to the left)</em></p> <p>"We have kept a very close eye on progress to make sure this important scheme becomes a reality," comments Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "It will provide a significant improvement to public transport in this part of Birmingham and it has received all-party support, particularly because of the regeneration benefits which are already paying off."</p> <p>Centro-PTA is investigating the likelihood that costs will increase because of the delays and because of some extra work involved due to the difficult ground conditions – but councillors say they are determined rigorously assess claims made by the contractor.  The report to next Monday's meeting suggests the final cost for the £10 million scheme could rise, following notification by contractor Nuttalls that they believe their costs could rise by some £3.9 million.  Centro is working with its advisors and Nuttalls to minimise costs arising from the complex nature of the project.</p> <p>"I have already called in independent engineering experts to advise on the project and assess risks," says Cllr Clarke.  "Costs and delays have arisen because of the difficulties working within this historic railway structure.  We are validating all contract changes and charges to make sure they are appropriate before we will agree to any increases."</p> <p>Both Centro-PTA and Birmingham City Council, which approved the scheme last Spring, say the new station entrance will be much more convenient for passengers who currently have to cross the A38 by bridge or subway, then walk up a hill for five minutes before doubling back along the platform and ending back almost where they started in order to catch a train.  The regeneration benefits stressed by Birmingham City Council's Cabinet are even more significant.  The site adjacent to the new station entrance has recently been sold for almost five times its original value in a multi-million pound development deal to provide offices, leisure and retail, a hotel and city centre apartments.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em>  <a href=""http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/xdirectory/public/meetingsAndAgendas/decisionDetails.jsp recordId=2788"" target=""_blank""><em>Birmingham City Council cabinet report</em></a></p>"
Transport bosses are expected to reaffirm their commitment to a major regeneration and transport scheme in Birmingham city centre next week.
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Steer clear of jams for fantasmagorical show
2006-06-23T00:00:00
2006-06-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Road works and traffic jams may not cause a problem for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, but for people from the West Midlands without a flying car there is another way to soar into Birmingham to see the show, and save money in the process.</p> <p >Anyone travelling by train to the Birmingham Hippodrome for the critically acclaimed musical can avoid the hassles of driving and parking in the city centre and save £2.50 per ticket, thanks to a special arrangement between the theatre and the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The deal is especially good value for those travelling into the city centre after 6:30pm, who can take advantage of Centro-PTAs evening return ticket for just £1.50 per adult and 75p per child from any West Midlands rail station.</p> <p >Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is one of the West End's biggest ever theatre hits, and runs at the Birmingham Hippodrome from 23 June until the 2 September. It stars Brian Conley as Caractacus Potts until 31 July and Gary Wilmot there after.</p> <p >"This offer is great news for people wanting to go to the show, particularly parents wanting to do something different with their kids during the summer holidays," says Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"It means people can avoid sitting in frustrating traffic jams, do not have to pay parking charges in the city centre, and can save money on a fantastic evening out."</p> <p >The offer applies to tickets for any show on a Tuesday or Wednesday including matinee performances, and must be booked in advance on 0870 730 1234 or online at www.birminghamhippodrome.com quoting the promotion code "pcdCentro".</p> <p>Rail tickets must be purchased from a Centro-PTA rail station and must be produced on the door along with a theatre ticket to gain admission.</p>"
"Road works and traffic jams may not cause a problem for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, but for people from the West Midlands without a flying car there is another way to soar into Birmingham to see the show, and save money in the process."
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0
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Residents invited to give views on congestion busting scheme
2006-06-21T00:00:00
2006-06-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, is seeking local residents views on how a congestion-busting project for south Birmingham will look.  </p> <p >It is planning to create nearly 1,000 free park and ride spaces at Longbridge  rail station on the Cross City Line.  The station currently has no facility available for local commuters to park their cars and catch the train into Birmingham city centre or Redditch.</p> <p >Centro-PTA is working with Birmingham City Council to produce a new multi-storey car park off Longbridge Lane, in a bid to attract more people onto public transport and reduce congestion on the Bristol Road (A38) and other major routes into the city centre.</p> <p >Residents can have their say on a range of issues regarding the car park, including design, safety and security, disabled access and cycle facilities, at a series of consultation events taking place across the district.</p> <p >Centro-PTA officers will also be available to answer any questions and to discuss any concerns or options that residents wish to raise, and a scale model of three examples will be on display.</p> <p >Details of the proposed scheme and a questionnaire are also being mailed out to people who live in the local area.</p> <p >The £11m project will provide approximately 980 spaces, and is proposed to include staff, CCTV, secure cycle storage facilities and ground floor disabled access. It could also incorporate improvements to the walk link between the car park and the railway station and the passenger waiting facilities.</p> <p >Centro-PTA plan to take on board the views of residents and alter the design to take them into account before applying for planning permission from the City Council.</p> <p >The car park is already allowed for as part of the Longbridge Development Framework, and the principle has received widespread support in previous consultation.</p> <p>The new car park will be an attractive option for many commuters into Birmingham, as research shows that the quickest way of getting into the city centre from the area, particularly during rush hour, is by train.</p> <p><i>Link: <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/longbridge"" target=""_new"">public consultation website</a></i></p>"
"The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, is seeking local residents views on how a congestion-busting project for south Birmingham will look."
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Views sought on 'rail showcase' scheme for Cannock Line
2006-06-19T00:00:00
2006-06-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A major boost for public transport is being lined up for people living in Walsall and parts of Staffordshire.</p> <p >Plans now being discussed could see millions of pounds pumped into improvements for the rail line between Walsall and Stafford – with better stations and faster, more frequent trains Bloxwich and towns in Cannock Chase District].</p> <p >Transport bosses hope their ideas could persuade many more people to travel by train, which would in turn reduce traffic congestion and mean less damage to the environment.  They are now seeking support by contacting interest groups for their views. </p> <p >West Midlands transport body Centro-PTA, plus Walsall, Staffordshire and Cannock Chase councils have begun to draw up plans and look at ways of raising the funding for the improvements.  They are working with the track owner Network Rail and train operator Central Trains to come up with a range of proposals for the under-performing rail line.</p> <p >"Rather than individual station improvements, we are looking at the concept of a Rail Showcase scheme where partners work together on a range of developments to improve travel choices right along the route," explains Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >"The journey into Birmingham or Walsall could eventually be cut by as much as an hour a day when your compare the enhanced train service to travelling by road, while the improved accessibility of towns in this part of Staffordshire will also help support regeneration and boost the local economy," he claims.</p> <p >The Cannock Line provides an important link between the West Midlands conurbation and Staffordshire.  It was re-opened in the late 1980s when the services and stations were provided on an 'experimental' basis.  That meant platforms were only built with temporary materials and modernisation or upgrading of the facilities is now overdue.</p> <p >Project partners are now looking to provide new and extended platforms, ticket offices at the busiest stations, safety improvements throughout and passenger information displays at Bloxwich, Bloxwich North, Landywood, Cannock, Hednesford and Rugeley Town stations.</p> <p >Other improvements on the table include laying new rails to improve the speed and comfort of journeys, while new signalling could double the number of trains per hour.  The higher frequency and potential for longer trains would lead to a massive increase in passenger capacity.</p> <p >"We are keen to hear people's views and the level of support will help build our case for Government funding," comments Cllr Clarke.  "At the moment we are contacting stakeholder groups and existing users of the Cannock Line.  Once we get to the next stage of identifying funding there will be a more extensive public consultation exercise, including potential new passengers, later in the year."</p>"
"A major boost for public transport is being lined up which could see millions of pounds pumped into improvements for the rail line between Walsall and Stafford � with better stations and faster, more frequent trains."
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0
12
0
Residents invited for update on showcase gateway to Wolverhampton
2006-06-15T00:00:00
2006-06-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The development of plans to create a high quality public transport gateway to Wolverhampton is being presented to the public at a meeting next week.</p> <p >The region's public transport body, Centro-PTA, has invited Wolverhampton City Council to update residents on the city's Interchange project at the Wolverhampton Transport Users' Forum on Tuesday 20 June.</p> <p >The Forum is a regular meeting arranged by Centro-PTA to give local residents the chance to have their say on public transport issues.</p> <p >Representatives from Wolverhampton City Council, major bus and rail companies and Centro-PTA will be there to answer questions about the Interchange project and respond to any other queries about public transport in the city.</p> <p >The Council previously showcased the project, which will help people transfer between bus, road, rail and Metro services in the city more easily, in December last year, and have now revised proposals having taken into account the public's views on the scheme.</p> <p >Included in the plans is the regeneration of the city's railway station, better pedestrian and cycling links between bus and rail links, and a state-of-the-art public transport information system to help people plan their journey.</p> <p >It is hoped the new interchange will help to provide a better, safer and less polluted environment for people using public transport in Wolverhampton, and provide an attractive alternative to the car.</p> <p>The meeting is taking place at the Civic Centre in St Peter's Square at 7:00pm. For public transport information on how to find the venue, people can call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608.</p>"
The development of plans to create a high quality public transport gateway to Wolverhampton is being presented to the public at a meeting next week.
9369
0
12
0
Don't get in an M6 fix � use public transport
2006-06-14T00:00:00
2006-06-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midland's commuters can save time on their journey and help to reduce congestion during the impending M6 road works, by using buses, trains and trams, say transport bosses.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of regional body Centro-PTA, is suggesting commuters try an alternative method of getting to work, in a bid to reduce delays on and around the busy West Midlands motorway.</p> <p>Essential work begins later this month to resurface the M6 northbound at junction 8 (M5 Interchange) and the M6 southbound at junction 5– 6, making rush hour jams more likely on both the already busy stretch of motorway and the alternative routes.</p> <p>During the course of the work the road will be restricted to two lanes in each direction with contraflow at both locations, according to information from the Highways Agency. It also warns that some slip roads will be closed, with diversions in place.</p> <p>If more people switched to public transport it would help to reduce congestion for everyone, according to Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"During the road works it will be one way to avoid frustrating traffic jams and save time on journeys," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"We want to make sure people have a range of travel choices.  Making public transport easier to use means motorists can avoid jams when they want and we can all help to protect the environment.  This can produce long-term benefits as well as at the time of major roadworks, because a bus, train or tram user consumes three and a half times less energy than a motorist."</p> <p>Research shows that people travelling from Wolverhampton to Birmingham can do so in as little as 17 minutes by train during morning rush hour, or for those needing to get to and from West Bromwich or Wednesbury, the Midland Metro – the region's most reliable public transport system, is another option.</p> <p>People wanting to travel from Coventry into Birmingham can also complete the journey in less than twenty minutes by rail, while commuters from Walsall can take advantage of the Route 51 Bus Showcase along the A34, which benefits from bus priority measures and recently upgraded buses and shelters.</p> <p>For integrated timetable information on all bus, train and Metro services, and help in planning a journey people can visit <a href=""http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/"" target=""_blank"">www.networkwestmidlands.com</a>, call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 and any of the region's travel shops.</p> <p><em>Links:<br /> </em><a href=""http://www.trafficengland.com/map/browse.cgi client=tcc&X=400000&Y=300000&width=500&height=300&client=tcc&gride=&gridn=&coordsys=gb&scale=2000000&in.x=0&out.x=0&up.x=0&down.x=0&left.x=0&right.x=0&upleft.x=0&downleft.x=0&upright.x=0&downright.x=0&currentChk=checked&currentRdwksChk=checked&plannedChk=&plannedRdwksChk=checked&vmsChk=checked&trafficChk=checked&overviewmap=GB_small&trafficBox=on&current=on&currentRdwks=on&vms=on&plannedRdwks=on&emap.x=263&emap.y=146"" target=""_blank""><em>Highways Agency motorway roadworks information</em></a><br /> <a href=""http://www.highways.gov.uk/roads/projects/10291.aspx"" target=""_blank""><em>Live update</em></a></p>"
"West Midland's commuters can save time on their journey and help to reduce congestion during the impending M6 road works, by using buses, trains and trams, say transport bosses."
9369
0
12
0
Bus rapid transit proposal unveiled for Coventry and Warwickshire
2006-06-12T00:00:00
2006-06-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans for a major upgrade to public transport in parts of Coventry and Warwickshire are being put to local people from today (Tuesday 13 June).</p> <p>A 'bus rapid transit' proposal is being unveiled at meetings in Coventry and Nuneaton today.  These will kick off the consultation process with local residents, businesses and other key stakeholders to look at some detailed route options and gather support for the proposal, which is needed to secure around £70m of Government funding.</p> <p>The new plans show a route to link Nuneaton and Bedworth with Warwick University and Kenilworth, via Coventry city centre.  It would feature high quality, almost tram-like vehicles that would run both on the road and on newly-built track and would be given a high level of priority over private cars at junctions and other potential bottlenecks.  Similar innovative projects have proved successful elsewhere in Europe and in the USA.</p> <p>Passenger journey times on the new service, which has been given the working title of Sprint, would be significantly better than the existing alternatives.  It would provide fast and reliable links between key residential, business, retail and leisure areas, planners say. </p> <p>"Improving public transport between Nuneaton, Coventry city centre and Kenilworth is an essential step to support regeneration in the area.  We are now ready to move forward on a range of options and we need people's views to make sure that any chosen scheme will be well-supported," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands transport body Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"The idea of bus rapid transit is an exciting prospect and one that we think is capable of winning Government support and funding," he says.</p> <p>Councillors on Warwickshire County Council, Coventry City Council and Centro-PTA say they will continue to lobby the Government for rail improvements along what is called the 'north-south corridor' when opportunities arise.  However earlier plans to introduce tram-style vehicles on the existing railway track have been put on hold in favour of a bus rapid transit option. </p> <p>""The North South Corridor is essential for Coventry, not only for the growth of the city but for ease of travel between Nuneaton, Bedworth, Coventry and Kenilworth in order to access new facilities throughout all areas," says Coventry cabinet member Cllr David Arrowsmith.  "Transport proposals will enable ease of access to jobs, shops, leisure and entertainment facilities as well as links for business and retail outlets.""</p> <p>""We should continue to lobby central government for backing towards providing rail-based options, but in the meantime we press ahead with public consultations on Bus Rapid Transit proposals.""</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> More details of the proposals on the  <a href=""http://www.sprint-there.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">consultation website</a></em></p>"
Plans for a major upgrade to public transport in parts of Coventry and Warwickshire are being put to local people from today (Tuesday 13 June).
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0
12
0
Massive increase in rail services in prospect
2006-06-12T00:00:00
2006-06-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Commuters in a rapidly expanding area of Solihull could get more frequent train services to and from Birmingham city centre, as part of a new rail franchise agreement for the West Midlands.</p> <p >The Department for Transport has published details for consultation and asked train companies bidding to run West Midlands services to look at the feasibility of extending services from Shirley to Whitlocks End.</p> <p >It means that local residents could see the number of services increase by up to 300 per cent.</p> <p >At present, only trains travelling to and from Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon stop at Whitlocks End - as little as one service an hour. The majority of trains (up to three an hour) using the line terminate less than a mile before at Shirley.</p> <p >"The document shows an understanding of the importance of rail services to residents of Solihull, and plans for the rapidly increasing growth of local estates such as Dickens Heath," says Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"It makes sense to continue the service on to Whitlocks End and provide a better service for the nearby residents, especially since the free park and ride facility at the station has just been increased."</p> <p >In order to provide the extended train services a new set of points would need to be built and the funding for that needs to be found separately from the new rail franchise.  However Centro-PTA says that DfT recognition of the desirability of running trains through the Whitlocks End is certainly a step in the right direction. </p> <p>"One in five commuters to Birmingham travel by train and we hope they can look forward to better services in the years to come," concludes Cllr Clarke.</p>"
"Commuters in a rapidly expanding area of Solihull could get more frequent train services to and from Birmingham city centre, as part of a new rail franchise agreement for the West Midlands."
9369
0
12
0
Search to fill top transport role
2006-06-10T00:00:00
2006-06-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A search has been launched to fill one of the county's top transport jobs in local government.</p> <p >The post of chief executive for Centro-PTA is advertised this weekend. It is a new role created following the departure of Rob Donald, who held the job of director general for the West Midlands body for 11 years, and the 'merger' of the policy-making Passenger Transport Authority with its executive Centro.</p> <p >""This job will be crucial for the future of the West Midlands as we face growing levels of congestion. We need someone to help us deliver better services for millions of existing passengers and to attract even more people to using the bus, train and tram in our three cities and four metropolitan boroughs,"" says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >He says better public transport is key to supporting regional economic growth, tackling inequality and caring for the environment.</p> <p >The West Midlands has both the highest levels of road congestion and the busiest public transport network outside London. Already in Birmingham's rush hour more commuters travel by bus, train and Midland Metro than use the car, but politicians want much more to be done.</p> <p >A recruitment advert in the Sunday Times calls for someone with strong and visionary leadership who can build effective partnerships and manage complex public services in a political environment.</p> <p >""Centro-PTA is the biggest transport authority of its kind,"" comments Cllr Clarke. ""We have an annual budget of over 200m, plans to expand the Midland Metro and regenerate Birmingham New Street Station. We are looking at bus rapid transit proposals and expanding schemes that take over five million car journeys a year off our congested roads. We are rolling out Network West Midlands, with operators, across all modes of public transport. We want to introduce smart card ticketing and we have a whole host of capital projects on the go. We need to lobby hard to get a better deal from Government and, above all, we must focus on passengers and all the people of the West Midlands who need better transport choices.""</p> <p >""This is a big job and we need a premier division chief executive to help us achieve what we want,"" he says.</p> <em><strong>Links:</strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.centrofuturerecruitment.com/"" target=""_blank"">Recruitment agency website</a><br />"
A search has been launched to fill one of the county's top transport jobs in local government.
9369
0
12
0
Councillors to fight local rail axe
2006-06-08T00:00:00
2006-06-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Local councillors have pledged to fight proposals to end the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service next year.</p> <p>In a document published today setting out details of the new West Midlands rail franchise to replace Central Trains, the Government said it was unwilling to underwrite the Black Country rail link.  That means it can only be spared from the axe if local council taxpayers pick up the bill.</p> <p>"We have said all along that the Government should be looking to invest in and improve local rail services, "says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "While much of the new franchise plan is good news and even encourages train companies to think about passenger growth, this should be applied right across the West Midlands."</p> <p>Centro-PTA, which represents local passenger and business interests, now has until August to respond to the franchise proposals and fight for the Department for Transport to change its mind.</p> <p>The hourly Walsall to Wolverhampton service was given a 'stay of execution' earlier this year while the DfT considered the details of how to replace the existing Central Trains franchise.  At that time Cllr Clarke and his colleagues issued a 'use it or lose it' appeal to passengers on the line.</p> <p>"Elsewhere in the region train companies have been asked to provide costs for individual services to see whether should be included and we don't see why the DfT should not take the same approach in the Black Country," adds Cllr Keith Chambers, Centro-PTA lead member for rail.</p>"
Local councillors have pledged to fight proposals to end the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service next year.
9369
0
12
0
New rail franchise plans for West Midlands passenger growth
2006-06-08T00:00:00
2006-06-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport politicians in the West Midlands have welcomed the growth agenda set out in the details of new rail franchises published for consultation today.</p> <p>Regional body Centro-PTA says that although it knew there had been discussions about frequency cuts on some of the region's busiest lines, the Department for Transport is now proposing that services should be maintained and the new West Midlands franchise, to replace Central Trains' existing operation, includes some 40 extra services per day.</p> <p>"One in five Birmingham commuters travel by train and we hope they can now look forward to better services in the years to come," comments Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"This document does show an understanding of the importance of rail services to the West Midlands and we are very pleased that it encourages train operating companies to plan for growth.  The recognition that commuter services exist outside London and the South East and these services are vital to our regional economy is long overdue," he adds.</p> <p>The 12,000 word document was made available this morning to Centro-PTA, the local councillor body which had previously been a co-signatory to the Central Trains franchise.  A detailed response will be submitted to the Department for Transport before the August deadline.</p> <p>That response will set out local anger that the DfT is unwilling to underwrite the Walsall to Wolverhampton passenger service, leaving local taxpayers to pick up the bill if it is not to be axed.</p> <p>Other issues likely to be picked up by local councillors include suitable assurances that will actually deliver the reliability improvements if there is a change to existing monitoring arrangements and penalty regimes.  They will also be looking at protection against fare increases if some of the existing safeguards are removed and an assurance that staffing levels will be maintained at local stations.</p> <p>"With the clear exception of the axing of the Walsall to Wolverhampton service, this is basically good news for passengers and the future of the West Midlands transport network," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"There is support for some of our important policy initiatives such as integrated multi-modal ticketing and the introduction of smartcards – similar to the Oystercard in London – and we will use the opportunity of the consultation period to lobby hard on behalf of passengers where we want to see other improvements."</p> <p>"Centro-PTA is keen to play an active role in the management of the new West Midlands franchise, building on our successful involvement in the previous franchise, and we will be talking to the Department of Transport about our role and the best way of representing regional interests," he adds.</p> <p><em><strong>Links:</strong> <br /> </em> <em><a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp ReleaseID=206518&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False"" target=""_blank"">DfT news release</a><br /> </em><a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_railways/documents/divisionhomepage/611829.hcsp"" target=""_blank""><em>DfT consultation papers on the new West Midlands franchise</em></a></p>"
Transport politicians in the West Midlands have welcomed the growth agenda set out in the details of new rail franchises published for consultation today.
9369
0
12
0
More passenger info promised as bus stops change hands
2006-06-07T00:00:00
2006-06-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Local councillors are to take control of thousands of bus stops across the West Midlands – and are promising passengers much more up-to-date timetable information at every single one of them.</p> <p>The stops are currently owned by bus companies and most of them have little or no information attached to them.  Now public body Centro-PTA is to take over ownership of approximately 7,000 stops in addition to the 5,000 bus shelters it already takes care of.</p> <p>Each stop will be fitted with an information display to help passengers find their way around the combined bus, rail and Metro services. </p> <p>Bus passengers in Walsall town centre and Coventry city centre have already started to see new look 'Network West Midlands' bus stops and more, easier-to-read timetable information at interchanges.</p> <p>"This is a major piece of work to get many more people using public transport," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "It will add to our campaign to cut congestion in the West Midlands and make it so much easier for everyone to get about.  Our goal is for passengers to be offered a truly integrated transport system, with simpler ticketing and easy to use information to make finding your way about the network as easy as possible."</p> <p>Eventually Centro-PTA councillors want all bus, train and Metro services to become part of the comprehensive Network West Midlands to rival similar networks in Paris and London.</p> <p>Under the previous arrangements it was left to bus operators to decide what information was displayed at bus stops – and most locations had no timetable or route information at all.</p> <p>Now Centro-PTA is undertaking a £7m programme to roll out the new range of improved passenger information over a two year period.  The finished project also involves a recognisable 'n' logo to show that services are part of the network.  This is appearing at bus and rail stations, Midland Metro stops and on tickets, signs and vehicles.  The cost of on-going maintenance of the information will be shared amongst operators.</p> <p>Research showed that currently people didn't perceive there to be a real network of public transport services, even though there is comprehensive coverage of the West Midlands by a range of bus and train companies.  It also showed that the lack of passenger information meant both users and non-users of public transport often lacked the confidence or knowledge to use more routes.</p>"
Local councillors are to take control of thousands of bus stops across the West Midlands � and are promising passengers much more up-to-date timetable information at every single one of them.
9369
0
12
0
Bus stops in pole position - but more shelters needed say passengers
2006-06-02T00:00:00
2006-06-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The convenient location of bus stops across the West Midlands has been given a vote of confidence by passengers.</p> <p >Regional transport body Centro-PTA is aiming to make sure everyone lives within easy reach of a bus stop and has a target that less than ten per cent of people should face a walk of more than 250 metres.</p> <p >"We want to make sure access to public transport is as convenient as possible so that everyone in the West Midlands has a range of travel choices," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. "That is our best chance to tackle congestion and look after the environment."</p> <p >But while passengers were happy with the location of stops, more than half said they wanted more and better bus shelters.</p> <p >The results come from a survey of passengers to measure satisfaction with the bus network.  Details are being reported to councillors as the watchdog authority moves to set a range of performance measures for public transport in the West Midlands.</p> <p >The customer satisfaction survey for bus services found that 55 per cent of the 1,200 people questioned were dissatisfied with the overall comfort level while waiting for the bus.  They wanted a better environment such as a shelter where there wasn't one or seating and lighting in existing shelters.</p> <p >The news comes as Centro-PTA revealed that they are putting in 50 shelters at new locations across the West Midlands as well as replacing 100 old shelters with brand new ones.  The work is funded by a shelter advertising contract which will pump millions of pounds investment into the bus network.</p> <p >"Centro-PTA has worked tirelessly with local authorities over the last few years to improve and install more bus shelters across the region with initiatives such as Bus Showcase and Network West Midlands," continues Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >"The survey confirms that there is still a lot to be done, but we will continue to work closely with bus companies and the region's seven councils to make bus travel as attractive as possible."</p> <p >On a positive note, results also revealed that nearly 80 per cent of people feel safe and secure while aboard the bus, with the same proportion being satisfied with the ease of bus travel.  However, over half of passengers were unhappy with the cleanliness of the vehicles and 44 per cent were displeased with the reliability of services.</p> <p >The fact that eight out of ten people found it easy to use services, and three quarters rated the comfort on board reflects the large investment made in new vehicles by bus operators.  Over £100 million has been spent on new vehicles in recent years by the region's biggest bus company Travel West Midlands.</p> <p>Denis Wormwell, the new chief executive of the bus division for the National Express Group, which owns Travel West Midlands, said: "We are aware that there are many issues that must be addressed to make the travelling experience more comfortable and enjoyable for bus passengers, but we are committed to improving our service and attracting more people onto the buses together with Centro-PTA."</p>"
The convenient location of bus stops across the West Midlands has been given a vote of confidence by passengers.
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0
12
0
"Discover the region, urge transport bosses"
2006-05-26T00:00:00
2006-05-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses are encouraging families to travel further afield this half term and discover more about the famous people and places that have put the West Midlands on the map.</p> <p >Public transport promoter, Centro-PTA is supporting the Footsteps of Giants festival, which celebrates the giant ideas, individuals and inventions from the region, including jet engine pioneer Sir Frank Whittle and Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkien.</p> <p >"Our support will make it easier for people in Birmingham and Coventry to explore Wolverhampton, for example, and, perhaps, for people in the Black Country to visit Coventry's Herbert Museum and Art Gallery for the first time," explains Centro-PTA marketing manager, Julia Lameris.</p> <p >Special Footsteps of Giants events are taking place at venues in all three cities and families can see what each area has to offer by taking advantage of Centro-PTA's 'Daytripper' ticket.</p> <p >The special daily pass means a family of up to six people can travel on as many buses, trains and trams in the region as they like for only £7.30.</p> <p >"The 'Daytripper' ticket is a great way for families to see what the whole of the West Midlands has to offer, not just what's on their doorstep," continues Julia.</p> <p >"And for as little as £1.20 per person for travel, and with many of the Footsteps of Giant's events being free of charge, families can enjoy an educational and inexpensive day out without the worry of driving or parking in unfamiliar areas."</p> <p >More information on the Footsteps of Giants events can be found at www.footstepsofgiants.co.uk</p>"
Transport bosses are encouraging families to travel further afield this half term and discover more about the famous people and places that have put the West Midlands on the map.
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0
12
0
Free travel offer for bank holiday trip that's out of this world
2006-05-26T00:00:00
2006-05-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p >West Midland's families who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life this half term can experience life on another planet without paying to get there, thanks to the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA.</p> <p >Two of the region's top attractions, Thinktank and Cadbury World, have recently opened two brand new exhibitions which take visitors from Earth into outer space as part of new interactive displays.</p> <p >Both attractions have teamed up with Centro-PTA to offer special All-in-One admission tickets which provide free rail travel from any West Midlands station and entrance to either of the attractions for cheaper than the normal admission price.</p> <p >Thinktank at Millennium Point recently unveiled its new Science of Aliens exhibition, which takes visitors on a journey through the real science of alien life, and includes displays of real science-fiction film props and the exploration of far flung planets and stars.</p> <p >The display complements the world's most advanced digital planetarium system which opened at the museum in December last year, which offers visitors: "a totally immersive science experience, taking you on an exciting exploration of the night sky, our galaxy and beyond."</p> <p >For families with younger children, Purple Planet at Cadbury World is a state of the art interactive exhibition, where visitors can grow their own cocoa beans, chase a Cadbury Crème Egg and experience chocolate rain.</p> <p >Also new at the museum is Essence, a chance to discover the secret behind Cadbury chocolates' unique taste and make your own sweet creation.</p> <p >Additionally, Centro has teamed up with five other top West Midlands attractions to offer special All-in-One rail and admission prices so families can have affordable days out throughout this half term without the additional hassles and costs of driving and parking.</p> <p >Parents can take their children to the National Sea Life Centre, the Black Country Living Museum, Severn Valley Railway, Warwick Castle and the Birmingham Wheel and make great savings – in some cases paying less than the normal admission price to the attraction.</p> <p >"Travelling by rail is easily the best way to save money, and avoid sitting in traffic or looking for parking when going out and about this half term," says Centro Marketing Manager, Julia Lameris. "There is plenty going on at many locations across the region and all are easily accessible by public transport."</p> All-in-One tickets can by purchased from any staffed rail station in the Centro area. Further details on the offers can be found at www.centro.org.uk or on the new children's website: www.traingang.co.uk. Traveline has travel information on 0870 608 2 608"
"West Midland's families who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life this half term can experience life on another planet without paying to get there, thanks to the region's public transport body, Centro-PTA."
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0
12
0
Transport policy-makers named
2006-05-25T00:00:00
2006-05-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The names of the councillors who will steer the region's public transport policy have been released.</p> <p >Twenty-seven representatives have been chosen by the three cities and four borough councils of the West Midlands to sit on the coordinating body Centro-PTA.  They will be responsible for promoting public transport and spearheading a campaign to cut congestion on the region's roads and railways.</p> <p >"We face some important challenges in the year ahead with a big shake up in the region's railways to be planned and more work to be done to improve bus services.  We will need to improve partnership working with companies such as Travel West Midlands and continue to lobby so the voice of the passenger is heard in Westminster," says current Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. </p> <p >"We have delivered a lot of improvements in recent years and we also need to make sure there is no let up in the programme to redevelop New Street Station and expand the Midland Metro across Birmingham and the Black Country," he adds.</p> <p >The chairman and vice-chair of Centro-PTA, together with 'cabinet' members, will be chosen at the Authority's annual meeting in June.  Transport policy is likely to remain in the hands of a Conservative-Labour coalition as there are 13 Conservative, 11 Labour and three Liberal Democrat councillors.</p> <p >"We have been working as a coalition for two years because we don't want policy for buses, trains and trams to be treated as a political football," explains Cllr Clarke.  "It is important that we all work together for the sake of improving transport for everyone in the West Midlands."</p> <p >All seven of the councils in the West Midlands metropolitan county have now held their annual meetings at which appointments to various bodies are made.  The full list of Centro-PTA members for 2006-07 is as follows…</p> <h3>Birmingham</h3> <ul> <li>Gurdial Singh Atwal (Lab - Handsworth Wood)</li> <li>Len Clark (Con - Quinton)</li> <li>Jerry Evans (Lib Dem - Springfield)</li> <li>Kath Hartley (Lab - Ladywood)</li> <li>Ernest Hendricks (Lib Dem - Moseley and Kings Heath)</li> <li>Jon Hunt (Lib Dem - Perry Barr)</li> <li>Timothy Huxtable (Con - Bournville)</li> <li>Chaman Lal (Lab - Soho)</li> <li>Bruce Lines (Con - Bartley Green)</li> <li>Keith Linnecor (Lab - Oscott)</li> </ul> <h3>Coventry</h3> <ul> <li>Susanna Dixon (Con - Wyken)</li> <li>John McNicholas (Lab - Lower Stoke)</li> <li>Andrew Williams (Con - Bablake)</li> </ul> <h3>Dudley</h3> <ul> <li>Angus Adams (Con - Norton)</li> <li>Bryan Cotterill (Lab - Quarry Bank and Dudley Wood)</li> <li>Adrian Turner (Con - Lyle and Wollescote)</li> </ul> <h3>Sandwell</h3> <ul> <li>Roger Horton (Lab - Soho and Victoria)</li> <li>Mavis Hughes (Con - Wednesbury North)</li> <li>Gurcharan Sidhu (Lab - Greets Green and Lyng)</li> </ul> <h3>Solihull</h3> <ul> <li>Susan Gomm (Con - Silhill)</li> <li>Les Kyles (Con - Knowle)</li> </ul> <h3>Walsall</h3> <ul> <li>Keith Chambers (Lab - Bentley and Darlaston North)</li> <li>Gary Clarke (Con - Streetly)</li> <li>Marco Longhi (Con - Pelsall)</li> </ul> <h3>Wolverhampton</h3> <ul> <li>David Jones (Lab - Wednesfield North)</li> <li>Christine Mills (Con - Merry Hill)</li> <li>Judith Rowley (Lab - Blakenhall)</li> </ul>"
The names of the councillors who will steer the region's public transport policy have been released.
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Views to be sought on 'bus rapid transit' for Coventry and Warwickshire
2006-05-23T00:00:00
2006-05-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans for a major upgrade to public transport in parts of Coventry and Warwickshire are to be put to local people – with a view to getting Government approval to fund a £70m scheme.</p> <p>A route is being suggested to link Nuneaton and Bedworth with Warwick University and Kenilworth, via Coventry city centre.  It would serve a number of important regeneration areas and could be running by 2011 if the Government gives the green light.</p> <p>Councillors on Warwickshire County Council, Coventry City Council and public transport body Centro-PTA are to consider the options at meetings over the next few weeks, before a series of public consultation meetings which will start along the route in June.</p> <p>The councillors are being recommended to continue to lobby the Government for rail improvements along what is called the 'north-south corridor' when opportunities arise.  Earlier plans to introduce tram-style vehicles on the existing railway track are to be dropped however in favour of a bus rapid transit option.  Similar innovative projects have proved successful elsewhere in Europe and in the USA.</p> <p>"Improving public transport in the north-south corridor between Nuneaton, Coventry city centre and Kenilworth is an essential step to support regeneration in the area.  We are now ready to move forward on a range of options and we need peoples views to make sure that any chosen scheme will be well-supported," comments Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"The idea of bus rapid transit is an exciting prospect and one that we think is capable of winning Government support and funding," he says.</p> <p>Reports to agree the way forward for public transport along the corridor are to be discussed at Warwickshire County Council's Nuneaton and Bedworth area committee on Wednesday 24 May and by Coventry City Council's cabinet on Tuesday 30 May.</p> <p>The plans now being put together would feature high quality, almost tram-like vehicles that would run both on the road and on newly-built track and would be given a high level of priority over private cars at junctions and other potential bottlenecks.  Passengers would board the vehicles at 'stations' situated at key residential, business, retail and leisure areas.</p> <p>""The North South Corridor is essential for Coventry, not only for the growth of the city but for ease of travel between Nuneaton, Bedworth, Coventry and Kenilworth in order to access new facilities throughout all areas," says Coventry cabinet member Cllr David Arrowsmith.  "Transport proposals will enable ease of access to jobs, shops, leisure and entertainment facilities as well as links for business and retail outlets.""</p> <p>""We should continue to lobby central government for backing towards providing rail-based options, but in the meantime we press ahead with public consultations on Bus Rapid Transit proposals in partnership with Centro-PTA, Warwickshire County Council and the relevant district councils.""</p> <p>The councils and Centro-PTA are expected to agree a joint programme of consultation with local residents, businesses and other key stakeholders.  This will look at more detailed route options and gather support for the proposal, which is needed to secure Government funding.</p> <p><strong><em>Links to council reports (these contain full details of the options appraisal):</em></strong></p> <p><a href=""http://cmis.coventry.gov.uk/CMISWebPublic/Binary.ashx Document=4776"" target=""_blank"">Coventry City Council Cabinet, 30 May</a></p> <p><a href=""http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/corporate/committe.nsf/471ece76d69bff9780256a140057d7f8/b0336d8d4ff8c5df80257172002d1790/$FILE/ww1%20North-South%20Public%20Transport%20Corridor%201827Kb.pdf"" target=""_blank"">Warwickshire County Council area committee</a></p> <p> </p>"
Plans for a major upgrade to public transport in parts of Coventry and Warwickshire are to be put to local people � with a view to getting Government approval to fund a £70m scheme.
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Call for Government to address downward trend in bus use
2006-05-23T00:00:00
2006-05-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A call for the Government to do more to encourage people to use public transport has been backed by councillors in the West Midlands.</p> <p>A report by the influential House of Commons Public Accounts Committee found that a 40 year downward trend in bus usage was continuing almost everywhere outside London.  The cross-party group of MPs called for the Department of Transport to take more concerted action to persuade people to get out of their cars and on to buses.</p> <p>Only in London, where there was much more public subsidy, better services and the introduction of a congestion charge, had there been any significant change.  Bus use in the capital had soared by a third in recent years.</p> <p>""It is far more difficult to turn things around in the unregulated bus market outside the capital," comments the Public Accounts Committee chairman Edward Leigh MP.  "The Department must rely on the actions and commitment of local authorities who, in turn, can't directly influence operators in respect of their commercial routes."</p> <p>In the West Midlands, the councillor body Centro-PTA performs a co-ordinating role and uses council tax to subsidise some services, while the vast majority of bus routes are run by commercial operators.  In common with most other city-regions, there is also a dominant private company that operates more than 80 per cent of routes.</p> <p>"We all want to see cleaner, more reliable bus services and, outside London, we are dependent on this being provided by the private sector," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "Recently we have had some positive meetings with the new boss at the region's biggest bus company Travel West Midlands and I think we can look forward to a greater degree of customer focus as well as improved partnership working."</p> <p>"We also need the support of local councils which are the highway authorities if we are to deliver better bus priority and enforcement of bus lanes for example.  We know that where all these things are done together, as they have been on Showcase routes in the West Midlands, we can make public transport much more attractive," he says.</p> <p>"Providing high quality public transport is essential if we are serious about tackling congestion in the West Midlands."</p> <p>In its report published today, the committee of MPs argued that bus usage has been in steady decline in England since the 1950s, as a consequence of rising economic prosperity and increased car ownership.  But growth in car usage has led to increased congestion and vehicle emissions which contribute to climate change.</p> <p>In 2000, as part of its ten-year transport strategy, the Government set a target for increasing bus usage which it amended in 2002 and 2004, to increase bus and light rail usage by 12% between 2000 and 2010, whilst at the same time achieving growth in every English region.</p> <p>Overall growth in bus and light rail usage in England now seems likely to reach the national target level, but this is mainly because of the substantial increase in bus passenger numbers in London since 2000-01.  Passenger figures in all other regions have declined, however, and it seems unlikely that the target for growth in every region will be achieved.  MPs say the increase in London can be attributed to the commitment of Mayor Ken Livingstone and Transport for London, increased public subsidy, congestion charging and enhanced bus services.</p> <p><strong><em>Link:</em></strong> <a href=""http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/committee_of_public_accounts/pac230506_pn43.cfm"" target=""_blank""><em>Public Accounts Committee report</em></a></p>"
A call for the Government to do more to encourage people to use public transport has been backed by councillors in the West Midlands.
9369
0
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"Commuters save time � and the planet, thanks to congestion busting scheme"
2006-05-22T00:00:00
2006-05-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Commuters travelling from Solihull into Birmingham could save over an hour every day by taking advantage of a new congestion busting facility which has opened four years early.</p> <p >Public transport bosses hope a new extended car park at Whitlocks End will encourage more people to make the quicker journey by train rather than using congested roads.</p> <p >Figures show that travelling by train from Whitlocks End station into the city centre takes just 17 minutes compared to 50 minutes by car during morning rush hour. The same applies to workers travelling out of Birmingham at 5pm. It means commuters can cut over one hour off their travelling time every day.</p> <p >In order to satisfy the high demand for spaces in the station's car park, Centro-PTA councillors chose to bring forward the £235k car park expansion from its proposed start date of 2010 more than doubling the amount of spaces to a total of 111.</p> <p >It is hoped that it will encourage more commuters to park up and catch the train into Birmingham, rather than contribute to the city's already clogged up roads and high carbon dioxide emissions.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA, and Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail, will officially open the site at Whitlocks End on Thursday 25 May 2006.                                                                                                                                     </p> <p >"By bringing forward this project, we are giving nearby residents, including those in the expanding village of Dickens Heath, the opportunity to save time and money, while doing their bit for the planet," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >The extended car park also has new security, lighting and safety features which have already lead to a dramatic reduction of vehicle crime and antisocial behaviour in station car parks across the region.</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >Centro-PTA now provides over 1,000 free and secure park and ride spaces at seven rail stations in Solihull.</li> <li >There are now over 6,400 spaces in the West Midlands region as a whole. This equates to a ten per cent increase in just eight months.</li> <li >These spaces are calculated to take over 53,000 journeys off the road per week, saving 66,000 litres of fuel. This is the equivalent to 94 tankers a year.</li> </ul> <p >The nearby Acocks Green station park and ride has also been extended to accommodate 53 more cars, an increase of 67 per cent.</p> <p> </p>"
Commuters travelling from Solihull into Birmingham could save over an hour every day by taking advantage of a new congestion busting facility which has opened four years early.
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Sutton Coldfield congestion-busting scheme opens two years early
2006-05-22T00:00:00
2006-05-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A £1/2 million congestion-busting project to provide more free park and ride spaces at two Sutton Coldfield stations has opened two years ahead of schedule.</p> <p >Work to expand the car parks at Wylde Green and Chester Road was not due to begin until 2008 and 2009 respectively, but councillors chose to bring forward the work due to the very high demand for spaces and in a bid to reduce carbon emissions.</p> <p >It is hoped that the initiative will encourage more commuters to park up and catch the train into Birmingham, rather than contribute to the city's already clogged up roads.</p> <p >The extensions mean that the Sutton Coldfield area alone has over 920 park and ride spaces taking nearly ½ million car journeys off the road every year, and preventing more than 1,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere.</p> <p >Additionally, workers who take advantage of the park and ride can save time on their daily commute, and avoid the frustrations of sitting in traffic.</p> <p >Figures show that travelling by train from Wylde Green into the city centre takes just 16 minutes compared to 33 minutes by car during morning rush hour. The same applies on the return journey in the evening meaning commuters can cut over half an hour off their travelling time every day.</p> <p >"A public transport user consumes three and a half times less energy than a motorist, so getting more people onto our buses, trains and trams is important for the future of our cities," comments Cllr Clarke, chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >"Bringing forward the expansion of these park and ride sites is an important step towards doing just that."</p> <p >Each extended site also has new security, lighting and safety features which have already lead to a dramatic reduction of vehicle crime and antisocial behaviour in station car parks across the region.</p> <ul type=""disc""> <li >The two car parks previously provided parking for over 140 cars, but were still full on most weekdays. Centro-PTA has now supplied over 60 extra spaces, an increase of 43 per cent, to help satisfy demand.</li> <li >Centro-PTA now provides over 3,000 free and secure park and ride spaces in Birmingham and Solihull.</li> <li >There are now over 6,400 spaces in the West Midlands region as a whole. This equates to a ten per cent increase in just eight months.</li> </ul> These spaces are calculated to take over 53,000 journeys off the road per week, saving 66,000 litres of fuel. This is the equivalent to 94 tankers a year. <p> </p>"
A £1/2 million congestion-busting project to provide more free park and ride spaces at two Sutton Coldfield stations has opened two years ahead of schedule.
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0
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West Mids congestion-busting scheme opens two years early
2006-05-15T00:00:00
2006-05-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A congestion-busting scheme, which takes 2.75 million journeys off the region's gridlocked roads and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200 tonnes, has been extended two years ahead of schedule.</p> <p>In a bid to ease traffic on the city's roads and reduce carbon emissions, Centro-PTA councillors chose to bring forward the £1 million car park expansions at Acocks Green, Whitlocks End, Chester Road and Wylde Green from their proposed start times of 2008 and beyond.</p> <p>It is hoped that it will encourage more commuters to park up and catch the train into Birmingham, rather than contribute to the city's already clogged up roads.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA, and Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail added the finishing touches at Acocks Green this week.</p> <p>""A public transport user consumes three and a half times less energy than a motorist, so getting more people onto our buses, trains and trams is important for the future of our cities,"" comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>""Bringing forward the expansion of these park and ride sites is an important step towards doing just that.""</p> <p>The four car parks previously provided parking for over 260 cars, but were still full on most weekdays. Centro-PTA has now supplied nearly 200 extra spaces, an increase of 70 per cent, to help satisfy demand.</p> <p>Each extended site also has new security, lighting and safety features which have already lead to a dramatic reduction of vehicle crime and antisocial behaviour in station car parks across the region.</p> <ul> <li>Centro-PTA now provides over 3,000 free and secure park and ride spaces in Birmingham and Solihull.<br /> </li> <li>There are now over 6,400 spaces in the West Midlands region as a whole. This equates to a ten per cent increase in just eight months.<br /> </li> <li>These spaces are calculated to take over 53,000 journeys off the road per week, saving 66,000 litres of fuel. This is the equivalent to 94 tankers a year.</li> </ul>"
"A congestion-busting scheme, which takes 2.75 million journeys off the region's gridlocked roads and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 6,200 tonnes, has been extended two years ahead of schedule."
9369
0
12
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Walsall first for new look public transport info
2006-05-12T00:00:00
2006-05-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus passengers in Walsall are the first in the Black Country to benefit from a new scheme designed to make travel by public transport easier and more attractive.</p> <p >West Midlands public transport body Centro-PTA is providing new timetable information at bus stops together with better-coordinated information that knits together bus, train and tram networks.</p> <p >""This is a major piece of work to get many more people using public transport,"" says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. ""It will add to our campaign to cut congestion in the West Midlands and make it so much easier for everyone to get about. Our goal is for passengers to be offered a truly integrated transport system, with simpler ticketing and easy to use information to make finding your way about the network as easy as possible.""</p> <p >Passenger information for the combined <strong><i>Network West Midlands</i></strong> is now starting to appear across the area, with Walsall bus station first on the list and an aim to boost bus travel into the town centre.</p> <p >Eventually Centro-PTA councillors want all bus, train and Metro services to become part of thecomprehensive Network West Midlands to rival similar networks in Paris and London.</p> <p >Under the previous arrangements it was left to bus operators to decide what information was displayed at bus stops and most locations had no timetable or route information at all.</p> <p >Now Centro-PTA is undertaking a 7m programme to roll out the new range of improved passenger information during the next two years. The finished project will also involve a recognisable 'n' logo to show that services are part of the network. This will appear at bus and rail stations, Midland Metro stops and on tickets, signs and vehicles. The cost of on-going maintenance of the information will be shared amongst operators.</p> <p>Research showed that currently people didn't perceive there to be a real network of public transport services, even though there is comprehensive coverage of the West Midlands by a range of bus and train companies. It also showed that the lack of passenger information meant both users and non-users of public transport often lacked the confidence or knowledge to use more routes.</p>"
Bus passengers in Walsall are the first in the Black Country to benefit from a new scheme designed to make travel by public transport easier and more attractive.
9369
NWMbusflag.jpg
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You wait for a bus shelter � then fifty come at once!
2006-05-09T00:00:00
2006-05-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >More of the West Midlands' million bus passengers a day will be able to wait in the dry after Centro-PTA councillors approved expenditure on new shelters.</p> <p >The queue of places where passengers have been asking for shelter from the rain will be cut by a quarter after fifty new locations were given the green light.</p> <p >"The quality of bus shelters is very important in our campaign to make public transport more attractive and to help cut congestion," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >There is currently a waiting list of 200 stops where local people are asking for shelters to be provided, but the public transport body admits some of these will have to wait.  It says the consultation process means choosing the exact location can sometimes be a lengthy process.</p> <p >"We often need to strike a balance between the interests of the large number of passengers who would like a new bus shelter and the residents who live right next to the stop.  We also need highway authority approval to make sure the location is safe," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >At its committee meeting, Centro-PTA approved new expenditure of £350,000.  It also agreed to draw up a list of the worst shelters which are showing their age in both design and general condition.  One hundred of these are set to be replaced over the coming year.</p> <p>It is all part of a rolling programme part funded by bus shelter advertising.  Over the last six years more than 1200 of the ageing roadside structures have been replaced.</p>"
More of the West Midlands' million bus passengers a day will be able to wait in the dry after Centro-PTA councillors approved expenditure on new shelters.
9369
0
12
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"Eat, drink and be ferried, thanks to exclusive rail offer"
2006-05-04T00:00:00
2006-05-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People from the West Midlands can take advantage of an exclusive deal which gives discounted entry and free travel to two NEC shows.</p> <p >Public transport promoter, Centro-PTA has teamed with BBC Haymarket exhibitions to offer a special integrated rail and admission ticket to the new <a href=""http://www.summer.bbcgoodfoodfestival.com/"" target=""_blank"">Summer BBC Good Food Festival</a> and the <a href=""http://www.bbcgoodhomesliveit.com/"" target=""_blank"">BBC Good Homes Show Live it!</a> from 18 – 21 May.</p> <p >The special ticket means that people can travel to Birmingham International (which serves the NEC) from any rail station in the Centro-PTA area, and gain entrance to both shows for cheaper than the normal door cost of admission.</p> <p >For example, adults taking advantage of the offer will pay only £13 for their combined rail and entrance ticket, saving £1 on normal admission price on weekdays and £3 on weekends. This is before taking into account the cost of driving to the venue and the £7 car parking charge.</p> <p >The Summer BBC Good Food Festival follows the consistent success of the BBC Good Food Show, and is described as "the UK's ultimate summer eating festival". The event includes cooking demonstrations by top chefs, drinks tasting, ideas for picnics and barbecues and over 250 exhibitors selling the latest in kitchen gadgetry and speciality foods.</p> <p >The BBC Good Homes Show Live it! gives visitors the latest news and tips on home decorating and interior design, including demonstrations by leading home and garden experts and the opportunity to fulfil all their interior design needs from the many exhibitors in attendance.</p> <p >The shows will also include a host of celebrities including chefs Gordon Ramsay and Ainsley Harriot, designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and gardening expert Tommy Walsh.</p> <p >West Midlands residents wanting to take up the offer simply have to walk into any staffed rail station in the Centro-PTA area and ask for a ticket to the BBC Good Food Festival, which includes admission to the BBC Good Homes Live it! show. The outbound portion of the ticket must be redeemed at the NEC to gain admission to the shows.</p> <p>"This joint ticket offer means people across the region can travel to the NEC for free and have a brilliant day out at two BBC shows without the hassle of driving and parking, and save money in the process," says Julia Lameris, Centro-PTA's marketing manager.</p>"
People from the West Midlands can take advantage of an exclusive deal which gives discounted entry and free travel to two NEC shows.
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0
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MPs bus services probe welcomed
2006-04-23T00:00:00
2006-04-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Local transport bosses have welcomed a top level inquiry into the provision of bus services across the UK.</p> <p>The influential House of Commons Transport Committee, with MPs from all main parties, announced it is to conduct an inquiry to find why bus use outside London has continued to decline.</p> <p>It will look at whether bodies such as Centro-PTA in the West Midlands should be given new powers to regulate bus networks.  The vast majority of services outside London are operated on a commercial basis by just a handful of big companies.</p> <p>"The MPs say they will be asking whether the structure of the industry has meant bus services are better, more frequent or meeting passenger need   We think they are not and that passengers in the West Midlands do deserve a lot better," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>The MPs investigation will hear evidence from a range of interested parties and look into the respective roles of Government departments, bus companies, local highway authorities and transport authorities like Centro-PTA.</p> <p>"Where we have been able to bring different agencies together to deliver improvements, as we have done with bus showcase schemes, this has led to significant increases in service quality and patronage," adds Cllr Clarke.  "The current structure of the bus industry does not make it easy to expand that same level of service quality right across the West Midlands."</p>"
Local transport bosses have welcomed a top level inquiry into the provision of bus services across the UK.
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0
12
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Midland Metro expansion plans to be submitted to Government
2006-04-22T00:00:00
2006-04-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Final plans for a £430m expansion of the Midland Metro are ready to be submitted to Government.  Centro-PTA councillors are now expected to approve the details at a special meeting on Monday (24 April).  <em>(update at Monday 3.30pm: the recommendation was passed unanimously)</em></p> <p>The business case submission, which would follow the meeting, is effectively a bid for £322m of Government funding.  The document shows a strong business case and highlights the fact that the required level of local contribution has been identified. </p> <p>A report to Monday's meeting of the Passenger Transport Authority sets out the details of how new lines through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley would be funded and built.  The plans show trams running in early 2012.</p> <p>"We are really pleased to be in a position where we can finally get our business case into Government," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"The expanded Midland Metro network will provide an excellent level of service for passengers.  Frequent high-capacity trams will provide a real boost to the accessibility of Birmingham city centre and the Black Country - with excellent links between shops, homes, offices, rail stations and major new developments.  It will make a real impact on our campaign to cut congestion for everyone," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>As well as improving the environment in Birmingham city centre, the Midland Metro extensions will provide high-quality public transport through both residential and commercial areas of the Black Country along a route from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill.  It will give direct access for people to Wolverhampton, Birmingham and West Bromwich centres, as well as supporting the regeneration of significant areas along the route and development of Merry Hill and Brierley Hill.</p> <p>Extensions to the Midland Metro were given planning approval by the Secretary of State last year following two public inquiries.  Agreements have since been reached with developers and local authorities that clear the way for the plans to move on to the next stage.</p> <p>Birmingham City Council has set out its support for the scheme in a letter to Cllr Clarke.  It says that whilst there are a number of outstanding issues to be discussed by the city's Cabinet on 1 June they believe these can be resolved within the parameters of the Outline Business Case and recognise the importance of its earlier submission to Government.</p> <p>The business case shows the benefits of expanding the Metro would far exceed the costs and figures show it would be classed as 'good value' in line with the latest Department for Transport guidance.</p> <p>Once the business case has been submitted it is hoped that the Government will grant 'conditional approval', giving the green light to go out to tender for three separate contracts for building the line, supplying the trams and operating the network - an approach that has already received a warm response from a Government keen to reduce the risk of cost escalation.  </p> <p>Latest figures estimate the cost of building the new lines to be £384m after an allowance is made for inflation up to the year 2012 when the trams will be running.  Around three-quarters of the cost would come from Government, while the remaining local contribution has already been earmarked by local councils and private sector funding.  Recent discussions with Government have allowed Centro-PTA to include some earlier costs into the funding bid and this will reduce the overall cost to tax payers by over £38m. </p> <p>"We have put together a very solid case for expanding the Midland Metro.  The planning inspectors have already ruled overwhelmingly in favour at public inquiry stage; we have the backing of the business community and local councils; now we can show that the business case more than meets Government targets for funding approval," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"The submission of this business case is an important part of our mission to bring quality public transport to the people of the West Midlands," he adds.</p>"
Final plans for a £430m expansion of the Midland Metro are ready to be submitted to Government. Centro-PTA councillors are now expected to approve the details at a special meeting on Monday (24 April).
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newtramBroadSt.jpg
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"Public authorities need more power to curb climate change, MPs told"
2006-04-21T00:00:00
2006-04-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bodies like Centro-PTA need to be given greater powers over public transport in order to tackle global warming, an influential group of MPs has been told.</p> <p>Cllr Tony Page and Cllr Shona Johnstone from the Local Government Association's Environment Board spoke yesterday to the House of Commons Environmental Committee.</p> <p>They told MPs that it would be "difficult nigh impossible" to increase public transport usage and improve air quality due to the deregulation of bus services outside London, pointing out that bus companies had their own agendas to follow and shareholders to look after.</p> <p>There is therefore a need for enhanced powers for local authorities to deliver these sorts of improvements, the Committee was told.</p> <p>"The sharpest decline in bus patronage has been in Public Transport Authority areas [such as the West Midlands] and therefore PTAs need more powers to secure more stability in the network," Cllr Page said.</p> <p>The West Midlands has, by far, the busiest bus network outside London, and, since deregulation in 1986, bus patronage has declined by 30 per cent, fares have risen by more than a quarter in real terms, and reliability is well below Government targets.</p> <p>"Something needs to be done to turn this situation around. We need a new approach, such as that suggested yesterday, to deliver the bus services our big cities need and deserve," says Cllr Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p>At the committee meeting, Cllr Johnstone went on to tell MPs that transport policy needs to be more explicitly geared to emissions reductions with more encouragement of public transport.</p> <p>She also said that there is a need for better integration of all forms of public transport, including better parking for bicycles at stations and integrated timetables.</p>"
"Bodies like Centro-PTA need to be given greater powers over public transport in order to tackle global warming, an influential group of MPs has been told."
9369
0
12
0
Train deal for theatre lovers
2006-04-21T00:00:00
2006-04-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the West Midlands wanting to catch one of the last few shows of the critically acclaimed Miss Saigon production can get an added discount if they travel by rail.</p> <p >Centro-PTA have got together with the Hippodrome theatre to offer people travelling to the venue by train a £7.50 discount on tickets on Monday 24 and Tuesday 25 April.</p> <p >Set in 1975 during the final days leading up to the American evacuation of Saigon, Miss Saigon is an epic love story about the relationship between an American GI and a young Vietnamese woman.</p> <p >Cameron Mackintosh's production, originally penned by Boublil and Schonberg, has received rave reviews from both local and national critics</p> <p >All people wishing to take advantage of the offer have to do is book their tickets (in the top three price bands) by calling the Hippodrome box office on 0870 734 1234 quoting "Centro special rail offer".</p> <p >They can then collect their discounted tickets from the box office at the theatre on production of their rail ticket.</p> <p >"This offer allows people in the West Midlands to travel to the theatre without the hassle of driving and parking in Birmingham City Centre, and saving money in the process," says Centro-PTA marketing manager Julia Lameris.</p> <p>"It also means people have the freedom of going for a drink before or after the show, with the comfort of knowing their journey home is already arranged."</p>"
People in the West Midlands wanting to catch one of the last few shows of the critically acclaimed Miss Saigon production can get an added discount if they travel by rail.
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0
12
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A wheel treat for youngsters this Easter
2006-04-13T00:00:00
2006-04-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Children wanting to the see the sights of Birmingham this Easter can get a birds eye view of the city without paying to get there, thanks to public transport promoter Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The organisation has teamed up with the Birmingham Wheel to offer people from the West Midlands a special inclusive return rail travel and admission ticket. It means children can catch the train to and go on the 60m high attraction at a discounted rate of £3.25 - 25p less than the normal Birmingham Wheel admission price.</p> <p >It means parents can do something different with their children this Easter without the stress of driving and parking in the city centre, and saving money in the process. The adult ticket means that return rail travel costs just 50p.</p> <p >If that's not enough, Centro-PTA has also teamed up with seven other top visitor attractions in the West Midlands with similar All-in-One rail and admission ticket offers.</p> <p >Families can save money by travelling by train to Cadbury World, the National Sea Life Centre, the Black Country Living Museum, Severn Valley Railway, Warwick Castle, and Thinktank and IMAX at Millennium Point.</p> <p >""Travelling by rail is easily the best way to save money, and avoid sitting in traffic or looking for parking when going out and about this Easter," says Centro-PTA Marketing Manager, Julia Lameris. "There is plenty going on at many locations across the region and all are easily accessible by public transport."</p> <p >To take advantage of any of the offers people can just walk into any staffed train station in the Centro-PTA area and pick up their All-in-One ticket from the ticket office.</p> <p >Details of all the offers can be found at www.centro.org.uk, which also includes train timetable information.</p> <p>Alternatively children can look at the offers themselves, and plan how to get there on the special website www.traingang.co.uk which has been produced to teach kids the importance of using sustainable transport.</p>"
"Children wanting to the see the sights of Birmingham this Easter can get a birds eye view of the city without paying to get there, thanks to public transport promoter Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
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More work needed on night owl bus services
2006-04-13T00:00:00
2006-04-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors are calling for more to be done to promote late night bus services in the West Midlands.  They fear that services in Birmingham could be withdrawn, as they have been recently in Wolverhampton.</p> <p>A recent study by the watchdog and co-ordinating body Centro-PTA found that in Birmingham there were only an average of eight passengers per bus on a Friday night and just over a dozen per bus when the city centre pubs and clubs emptied on a Saturday night.</p> <p>There is currently a network of eleven routes radiating out from Birmingham city centre, which  operates until 4.00am on Friday and Saturday nights.  Two of these routes already depend on a council tax subsidy to keep going.</p> <p>The Centro-PTA study was set up to look into early morning and late evening public transport across the West Midlands.  Councillors invited comments on the existing situation and took on board passenger views from the regular users meetings.  Proposals submitted were in favour of a 24 hour bus network – although evidence suggested that the existing late-night weekend services in the West Midlands are not well used.</p> <p>"There needs to be more research done into changing demands for public transport, especially as some places aspire to become 24-hour cities," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"This work will then help us to shape future public transport policy for the West Midlands to make sure it provides what passengers are asking for wherever possible.  In the meantime, we will be working with bus, train and tram companies to encourage them to extend and promote services where they can."</p> <p>Councillors researched late night bus services across the country and found that, where they exist, most are run on a commercial basis by a local bus company.  They tend to be concentrated in areas with a high student population and are most successful when they are run along normal daytime routes.  Manchester and Liverpool have commercially-run night services which require no special security arrangements.  However in Cardiff, a subsidised weekend late night network is about to be withdrawn because few passengers have used it despite intensive marketing and the provision of security staff.</p> <p>The report on existing early morning and late evening provision in the West Midlands has been prepared by Councillors Angus Adams and Keith Linnecor.  It will be considered by members of Centro-PTA's scrutiny committee at its meeting on Monday 24 April.</p>"
"Councillors are calling for more to be done to promote late night bus services in the West Midlands. They fear that services in Birmingham could be withdrawn, as they have been recently in Wolverhampton."
9369
0
12
0
Franchise agreement secures good news for West Mids rail passengers
2006-03-31T00:00:00
2006-03-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A deal to maintain rail services for West Midlands passengers has been completed and will come into force tomorrow (Saturday 1 April). </p> <p >The franchise extension agreement has been signed by Central Trains, the Department for Transport and regional body Centro-PTA.  It will maintain existing service levels on Birmingham's busy Cross City Line and protects the rail link between Walsall and Wolverhampton, as well as other service standards across the region.  The DfT has also introduced new terms to encourage improvements in performance.</p> <p >""Ever since the Transport Secretary Alistair Darling announced a shake up of rail franchises, we have been lobbying hard to make sure services in the West Midlands are protected," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >There had been fears that the Department for Transport would cut back on the grants it gives Centro to support local rail services.  Last year a Strategic Rail Authority study recommended the Black Country rail link should be scrapped and the DfT had also asked to be given costings for a reduced frequency on the Birmingham Cross City Line.</p> <p >The West Midlands has now been spared these cuts – at least for the next eighteen months.  Councillors said it would be inappropriate for the Government to be reducing public transport options at the same time that it is hoping to tackle congestion on the roads.</p> <p >A new set of rail franchises will come into force after November 2007, one of which will be a new West Midlands franchise providing local rail services and links to London.</p> <p >"The new West Midlands rail franchise is a great opportunity – but clearly we need to keep up the pressure to make sure Government provides the necessary funding to deliver a new focus on West Midlands rail needs, including more capacity to accommodate continued growth in patronage," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>The West Midlands has experienced significant rail growth in recent years – faster than the national average.  One in five commuters into Birmingham use the train and the on-going developments in the city centre will continue to drive up rail usage.</p>"
A deal to maintain rail services for West Midlands passengers has been completed and will come into force tomorrow (Saturday 1 April).
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0
12
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Alistair Darling announces £27m for West Mids congestion plan
2006-03-30T00:00:00
2006-03-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The West Midlands efforts to ease congestion on the region's roads and create an integrated transport system has been given a £27m boost by the Government.</p> <p>Visiting Birmingham today (Thursday 30 March), Secretary of State Alistair Darling gave the go-ahead for a new Urban Traffic Control Centre, to be based alongside the new National Centre at Quinton.</p> <p>The scheme will create a new computerised control centre to tackle congestion and make journeys more reliable on local roads.  It is promoted by transport co-ordination body Centro-PTA along with the three cities and four boroughs of the West Midlands as part of their Local Transport Plan.</p> <p>"This announcement is a good sign that the Government recognises our efforts to give the region an integrated network that combines public transport improvements with smarter use of the highways network," says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"We are looking for continued support to bring forward a package of proposals that offers travel choices to people in the West Midlands, tackles congestion and boosts regional business."</p> <p>In a statement released today the Department for Transport says it is working closely with the region on tackling long-term congestion through the Transport Innovation Fund.</p> <p>""We are matching investment to innovative ways of getting the most out of our road network. A traffic centre for the West Midlands area has great potential to tackle congestion and make journeys more reliable," says Secretary of State Alistair Darling.</p> <p>The UTC scheme will cover the West Midlands Metropolitan Area – Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.  It will apply the latest intelligent transport technologies to the existing road network and traffic lights. This will improve traffic flows for all road users and make it much easier to keep traffic moving when there is an incident or accident.</p> <p>One of the aims of the scheme is to achieve traffic control coverage across the West Midlands 24 hours a day, seven days a week.</p> <p>Congestion is currently estimated to cost the West Midlands £2.5bn every year and recent official figures show the Centro-PTA area has the busiest roads and the slowest motorways outside London.</p> <p>The West Midlands currently has five traffic control centres across the region – the 'eyes and ears' of traffic control on a daily basis.  The UTC scheme will introduce technology and traffic control techniques which for the first time will create a Metropolitan Area-wide network of traffic management.</p> <p>During his visit to formally open the National Traffic Control Centre, the Secretary of State also gave the green light to the £49m Selly Oak New Road scheme in Birmingham.  The road will cut some 50% of through traffic from the existing A38 through Selly Oak, with environmental improvements and better conditions for public transport, cyclists and pedestrians using the centre.</p>"
The West Midlands efforts to ease congestion on the region's roads and create an integrated transport system has been given a £27m boost by the Government.
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0
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Bold schemes and tough targets for West Midlands transport network
2006-03-30T00:00:00
2006-03-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The West Midlands today makes its case to Government for more than £1 billion of vital funding for major transport schemes to tackle congestion and boost public transport.</p> <p>All seven Metropolitan Authorities and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (Centro-PTA) are jointly submitting the final version of the West Midlands' Local Transport Plan (LTP) to the DfT. In addition to existing targets to tackle congestion, ambitious new transport targets have also been announced to speed up the time it takes to get to hospitals and doctors' surgeries, attend job interviews and get children to school.</p> <p>""This is an ambitious package for improvements across the network and real people-focused targets for all partners to deliver,"" says Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>The new LTP sets out plans for a step-change in the Metropolitan transport system, and the investment needed to deliver this. Major projects include:</p> <ul> <li>An expansion of the Midland Metro tram system from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley, and from Snow Hill to Five Ways in central Birmingham<br /> </li> <li>The £500 million redevelopment of Birmingham New Street Station<br /> </li> <li>A 261 mile (419km) network of Red Routes to help traffic flow more freely and increase road capacity by 10 per cent. Red Routes tackle inconsiderate parking and control parking and loading to protect local traders.</li> </ul> <p>The Final LTP comes at a key time for transport investment in the region and follows a number of recent successes. The Government has just awarded £16.62m to fund The Walsall Town Centre package, which will increase capacity on the ring road and remove through traffic from the town centre. The area will also benefit from the £4.1 million Coleshill Transport Interchange. The latest transport success for the region is the high-tech £26.6m Urban Traffic Control (UTC) scheme – the largest of its kind in the UK – which won initial Government approval on 24th March.</p> <p>West Midlands transport champion Cllr Roger Lawrence said: "The Local Transport Plan sets out a bold vision for transport in the West Midlands which will improve quality of life and boost competitiveness. It includes major new schemes such as Metro extension and New Street Station that will deliver improved capacity and tackle congestion, and innovative initiatives to make the most of our road network. By delivering this plan we can also meet new targets for improving transport to key services like hospitals, workplaces and schools, and make a real difference to people."</p> <p>The West Midlands LTP includes the following pledges:</p> <ul> <li>To increase by 50 per cent the number of people who can reach a major NHS hospital by accessible public transport within half an hour, over the next five years.</li> </ul> <p>Currently more than two million people out of the region's population of 2.6 million (78%) are unable to get to our major hospitals this readily. The Plan outlines a bus improvement programme and closer partnership with bus operators as the key to bringing good transport links to poorly served areas.</p> <ul> <li>To double the number of people using initiatives that offer free transport to attend job interviews.</li> </ul> <p>This target will be met by working with Job Centre Plus to expand the award-winning "WorkWise" initiative that currently operates out of job centres in Sparkhill (Birmingham), Chelmsley Wood (Solihull) and a "Steps to Work" office in Bloxwich (Walsall). A similar project operates in Wolverhampton, run by JobCentre Plus.</p> <p>For every school in the West Midlands to have its own travel plan within five years. The travel plan is a written document setting out practical measures for reducing the number of car trips made to school and for improving safety on the school journey e.g. 'Walking buses', cycle training and road safety information.</p> <p>Other targets within the Final LTP include:</p> <ul> <li>Improving bus punctuality so that 83 per cent of buses arrive no more than five minutes late by 2010/11. To be achieved by Bus Showcase and Red Routes.<br /> </li> <li>Increasing light rail use from 5.1 million trips per year in 2003/4 to 5.8 million in 2010/11;<br /> </li> <li>Improving personal safety on public transport by 10 per cent over the next five years.</li> </ul>"
The West Midlands today makes its case to Government for more than £1 billion of vital funding for major transport schemes to tackle congestion and boost public transport.
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0
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Wolverhampton residents proud of bus station 'gateway' to city
2006-03-30T00:00:00
2006-03-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p >One of the Midland's busiest bus stations has vastly improved and feels much safer after a £1.7 million makeover, according to passengers.</p> <p >A newly refurbished Wolverhampton Bus Station was officially opened in September last year and a recent passenger survey by Centro-PTA, which funded the work, shows that the revamp was definitely worth the wait.</p> <p >88 percent of people using the facility said it gave a 'very good' or 'good' first impression of Wolverhampton, with the same amount agreeing that the bus station environment had improved.</p> <p >Additionally, a massive 84 per cent of passengers said they now felt safer, with two thirds being aware of the new PA system, CCTV and Emergency Help Points, and 57 per cent considering the new lighting as 'very good'.</p> <p >Part of the makeover included the installation of electronic bus departure boards and improved signage. 96 percent of passengers said the information provided was 'very good' or 'good' and nearly half used it every time or most times that they visited the bus station.</p> <p >"Personal safety, good quality facilities and reliable information are all factors people expect when using public transport," explains Centro-PTA Services Director, Robert Smith.</p> <p >"This survey proves that the people of Wolverhampton have a modern bus station which fulfils their needs and that they can be proud of."</p> <p>The survey also highlighted passengers' views on the new toilet facilities in the Queen's Building, which were considered 'very good quality' by nearly 70 per cent of users, and the information desk service, which was deemed as good by 95 per cent.</p>"
"One of the Midland's busiest bus stations has vastly improved and feels much safer after a £1.7 million makeover, according to passengers."
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0
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New guide is one stop shop for Coventry bus changes
2006-03-28T00:00:00
2006-03-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers can get a complete picture of public transport in Coventry thanks to a new guide just published by Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The Network Coventry Map & Guide is a clear and concise one-stop-shop for information about bus and rail services run by all operators throughout the city.</p> <p >It includes information about a number of recent changes by bus operators, and the reintroduction of services to Pool Meadow Bus Station.</p> <p >The guide allows passengers to work out the best route from their starting point to their destination, which bus numbers would be most appropriate, where they will need to change buses, and the frequency of buses on those routes.</p> <p >It also shows travellers where they can interchange between bus and rail and includes a large-scale view of the city centre, where each bus stop has been given a code to help people find the right stop for their bus.</p> <p >"The new Network Coventry Map & Guide is an excellent example of our drive to improve service and timetable information for passengers across the West Midlands," explains Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-PTA.</p> <p >The guide is part of the new Network Coventry, which has been introduced to connect the city's bus and rail services, and to provide improved timetable information and maps helping people switch between buses, trains and trams more easily.</p> <p >Network Coventry is part of the wider 'Network West Midlands', connecting the whole region's bus, rail and Metro services.</p> <p>Other information provided on the Map & Guide includes ticket information, useful contact numbers for bus operators, Traveline and Ring & Ride, and information on Network Coventry.</p>"
Passengers can get a complete picture of public transport in Coventry thanks to a new guide just published by Centro-PTA.
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0
12
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West Midlands public transport 'merger' to sharpen operation and lobby harder
2006-03-28T00:00:00
2006-03-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The region's public transport watchdog and its executive body are to 'merge' it has been announced.</p> <p >Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority voted for the move which is designed to give a clearer, more effective voice for passengers and regional interests.</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro and the decision-making PTA will now share a single administration.  Support for councillors on the PTA was previously carried out by officers from Coventry City Council.</p> <p >''There will be no reduction at all in the very successful partnership arrangements with local councils or other bodies.  But within Centro-PTA the new streamlined arrangements will make us more responsive and efficient,"" says chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >The WMPTA was first formed in the late 1960s to cover the Birmingham journey-to-work area and was then re-shaped 20 years ago when the former West Midlands County Council was abolished.  Policy is set by councillors from the seven city and borough councils in the metropolitan area. (see footnote)   For historical reasons Centro, the body that carries out PTA policy, has remained a separate entity.  </p> <p >"While we work together on promoting and developing public transport, differentiation between what is Centro and what is PTA has been unnecessarily complicated.  It is far more important that we get the job done," comments Cllr Clarke.  "Providing the region with first-class public transport and working to cut congestion has never been more important."</p> <p>"The new arrangements will bring the excellent work of Centro officers and the political direction given by elected councillors into a single organisation.  That gives Centro-PTA even greater ability to get things done and makes us a more effective lobbying voice for transport in the West Midlands," he adds.</p> <p>The seven councils are: Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton</p>"
The region's public transport watchdog and its executive body are to 'merge' it has been announced.
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0
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Metro expansion business case "ready for submission"
2006-03-27T00:00:00
2006-03-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A positive business case to expand the Midland Metro tram network is being prepared for submission to the Government next month.</p> <p >Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority today agreed the submission programme for routes to Dudley and Brierley Hill and on-street through Birmingham city centre. </p> <p >The submission of the business case is effectively an application for Government funding.  The detailed routes have already been agreed by the Secretary of State following public inquiries and endorsed by Sandwell, Dudley and Birmingham councils.</p> <p >At this afternoon's meeting councillors were told that remaining agreements with developers should be completed by the end of the week.  A steering group to take forward proposals for Birmingham city centre has worked productively to resolve outstanding issues of detail.</p> <p >All the required information is in place and Centro-PTA is confident that the planned service offering 15 trams per hour through Birmingham is the best solution for passengers and that modern trams running every few minutes will do most to reduce congestion in the city centre.</p> <p>To deliver a quality public transport system, the business case needs to show an operational plan that would respond to the high levels of passenger demand.  This would mean that trams are less crowded, journeys are comfortable and there is a fast and frequent service giving maximum interchange with other forms of public transport and much improved access to the city centre.</p>"
A positive business case to expand the Midland Metro tram network is being prepared for submission to Government next month.
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0
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"West Mids pensioners will still get more than a bus pass, despite Budget announcement"
2006-03-24T00:00:00
2006-03-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Senior citizens in the West Midlands will continue to get free travel on all forms of public transport, councillors have pledged.</p> <p >The reassurance comes in the wake of Budget announcements of a bus pass scheme for all local authority areas from next week and a nationwide scheme from April 2008.  This provides fewer travel options than those enjoyed by residents of the West Midlands for many years.</p> <p >The region's Passenger Transport Authority had already introduced free off-peak travel on all buses, trains and trams from last July.</p> <p >"We believe in integrated transport here in the West Midlands – and I am determined that travel concessions should apply to all forms of public transport, not just buses," explains Centro-PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "As local councillors, we will seek to top up the national scheme if necessary."</p> <p >Everyone over 60 years old or who qualifies as disabled can apply for a travel pass – and more than 50,000 people have already done so in the West Midlands metropolitan area.  A recent report showed some three million extra trips have been made on the bus, train and Midland Metro.</p>"
"Senior citizens in the West Midlands will continue to get free travel on all forms of public transport, councillors have pledged."
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Details of major congestion study announced
2006-03-22T00:00:00
2006-03-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The West Midlands today gives further details of its £1.2m congestion feasibility study, the largest of its kind ever undertaken in the region.</p> <p>Congestion is currently estimated to cost the West Midlands around £2.5bn every year and the seven Metropolitan Authorities, together with the Passenger Transport Authority, have committed to investigating how it should be tackled.</p> <p>The West Midlands Metropolitan Area was awarded the single largest slice of Transport Innovation Fund cash by Government at the end of last year to help fund the project. The study will investigate the scale and cause of congestion in the West Midlands and a range of potential solutions, including road pricing.</p> <p>The study will explore what's needed to tackle congestion in the West Midlands now and in future. It will look at how current policies within the Local Transport Plan will impact on congestion; the difference that measures like more flexible working hours, parking policies and travel plans, would make; and the impact of the more intensive demand management measures which could include possibilities such as specific investment in improved public transport alongside options like road user charging.</p> <p>Coventry City Council Chief Executive Stella Manzie, who chairs the feasibility study Steering Group, said: 'The West Midlands is at the forefront of national efforts to tackle congestion. Action is needed if we are to head off very real threats to regeneration, growth and quality of life. We are committed to finding a long term solution.</p> <p>'This feasibility study will be an evidence-based process that will help us get to the bottom of where and why there is congestion, and explore the pros and cons of different solutions. We are appointing leading independent experts in this field to carry out this work to ensure a rigorous approach. We are also directly involving many of the groups affected by congestion to feed into the study including representatives of business, environment groups and transport providers.'</p> <p>Work on the study is now underway with expert consultancies taking responsibility for specific areas over the coming months.</p> <p>The feasibility study workstreams and consultancies appointed are:</p> <p>·         Congestion feasibility study project management - Faber Maunsell</p> <p>·         Congestion/transport modelling and assessment - Mott MacDonald</p> <p>·         Review of congestion management options - Steer Davies Gleave</p> <p>·         Supporting measures (eg public transport improvements) - WS Atkins</p> <p>·         Business impact study - ECOTEC</p> <p>·         Environmental impact study - Scott Wilson</p> <p>·         Social impact study - Integrated Transport Planning</p> <p>·         Communications, public information, consultation and involvement - Fishburn Hedges</p> <p>A West Midlands feasibility study project team which includes the Department for Transport and Highways Agency will be reporting regularly to the seven metropolitan authorities through Leaders and the Chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority. The views of business, environment and other stakeholders will also continue to be sought as part of this process through a Stakeholder Reference Group.</p> <p>This first stage West Midlands congestion feasibility study is due to be completed in the summer.The West Midlands was awarded £2.6m of pump-priming money from the Government's Transport Innovation Fund in November 2005, the largest share of the funding awarded. £600,000 of this funding, matched by funding from the Metropolitan Authorities, is paying for this initial £1.2m congestion feasibility study. The remaining £2m of funding is a commitment from Government should the West Midlands continue with its congestion investigations beyond this first stage feasibility study.</p>"
"The West Midlands today gives further details of its £1.2m congestion feasibility study, the largest of its kind ever undertaken in the region."
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0
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0
Underneath the arches - more buses use Pool Meadow
2006-03-21T00:00:00
2006-03-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Buses will pass underneath the Whittle Arches in Coventry for the first time this week.</p> <p>A new link road under the arches is set to improve access to the city's Pool Meadow Bus Station. It means many more routes will be able to pass through the interchange with the number of buses increasing from 25 buses an hour to more than 100 buses an hour.</p> <p>Pool Meadow itself has also been refurbished ahead of full operation returning from Sunday 2 April. This has included improved passenger waiting areas to accommodate bendi-buses, redecoration, new signs and better access for people with disabilities.</p> <p>The new road layout has been designed and built by Coventry City Council and is part-funded by the West Midlands public transport body Centro, which runs the station. Bus companies had previously been reluctant to use Pool Meadow because of access issues.</p> <p>""What is most important for us is that people are provided with the public transport services they need to get to and from their destination as quickly and reliably as possible and that their journey and the waiting environment is as comfortable as it can be,"" says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>The revised road layout means around 100 buses an hour will be able to use the newly refurbished bus station.</p> <p>At the same time, many of the bus departure points in Coventry city centre will be revised. An information pack to explain the changes is being sent to every home in the city. It also provides details on the changes operators are making to some of the city's bus services.</p> <p>""We listened to local people who told us that they wanted to use Pool Meadow and I am delighted to say that we have been able to make it happen,"" says Councillor Dave Arrowsmith, Cabinet Member for Urban Regeneration and Regional Planning and a Coventry member of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>""At the same time local operators have chosen to refresh their networks and we are all moving ahead on improvements such as better passenger information. We want to help minimise the inconvenience of any change-over and these packs will help us do just that.""</p> <p>""A city the size of Coventry should have a bustling, well used bus station at the heart of it city centre and from the beginning of April that's exactly what we will have. The new road access will allow smooth access into Pool Meadow and it will once again be the hub for the city's bus services like it used to be,"" he adds.</p> <p>The information pack landing on doormats across the city this week is the first public appearance of Network Coventry the new name that connects all public transport in the city.</p> <p>Centro-PTA, Coventry City Council and bus operators have all committed to work together under the new name to deliver better passenger information and encourage public transport use. For example, a new suite of passenger information will appear at all bus stops and shelters within the city centre to help make using buses easier.</p>"
Buses will pass underneath the Whittle Arches in Coventry for the first time this week. A new link road under the arches is set to improve access to the city's Pool Meadow Bus Station.
9369
0
12
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West Mids in Shadow transport talks
2006-03-19T00:00:00
2006-03-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >West Midlands transport bosses were today (Monday 20 March) outlining their plans for tackling congestion to the Conservative Shadow Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling MP.</p> <p >They are aiming to win support for an ambitious programme of improvements to bus and rail services, expansion of the Midland Metro and cutting congestion on the roads.</p> <p >"We need to make more national politicians aware of the issues we face here in the West Midlands," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the region's Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >He will be pointing out that the West Midlands has the busiest public transport network outside London and has seen 50 per cent growth in rail passengers.  The number of people using the bus has been falling however, and councillors are looking for political support to make bus companies deliver a better service for passengers.</p> <p >"The public transport system needs to be improved to be able to offer the motorist an attractive choice and help us all look after the environment," adds Cllr Clarke.  "We are seeking to develop a more integrated public transport network with high quality services underpinned by better information, simpler ticketing, and improved personal security."</p> <p >Councillors in the West Midlands have established a cross-party consensus to drive the public transport agenda, with a Conservative-Labour coalition running the PTA.</p> <p>"Issues as important as this should not be a political football," comments the Authority's Labour vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen.</p>"
"West Midlands transport bosses were today (Monday 20 March) outlining their plans for tackling congestion to the Conservative Shadow Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling MP."
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Transport boss urges: lower carbon dioxide - use public transport
2006-03-17T00:00:00
2006-03-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport boss, Councillor Gary Clarke is urging more people to travel by public transport as new figures show that carbon dioxide levels are at an all time high.</p> <p >Scientists claim that the current levels of the greenhouse gas are at their highest for 30 million years and are close to causing irreversible damage to our atmosphere.</p> <p >In the West Midlands, park and ride schemes run by Centro-PTA, already prevent 140 tonnes of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere every week by taking 2.5 million journeys off the region's roads.</p> <p >"Current carbon dioxide levels are very worrying and action needs to be taken before the problem gets any worse. It is important that every one in the West Midlands does their bit in helping to cut emissions," says Cllr Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p >"The park and ride scheme is already proving that public transport can be the way forward to a greener and cleaner world.</p> <p >Carbon dioxide levels are now at a level of 381 parts per million (ppm), up 70ppm in the last 50 years and only 19ppm lower than the critical level.</p> <p >The Government's chief scientific advisor, Prof Sir David King discussed the findings at a meeting earlier this week. He said: "That's higher than we've been for over one million years, possibly 30 million years. Mankind is changing the climate."</p> <p>"70 million commuter trips are made in the region every year and if more of these were made by sustainable transport we could significantly contribute to lowering the amount of greenhouse gases emitted in Britain and decrease their devastating impact on the environment," Cllr Clarke concludes.</p>"
"Public transport boss, Councillor Gary Clarke is urging more people to travel by public transport as new figures show that carbon dioxide levels are at an all time high."
9369
0
12
0
Passengers must not be let down - network capacity is critical in the West Midlands
2006-03-15T00:00:00
2006-03-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail passengers in the West Midlands must not be let down by today's Government announcement on the future of the network.</p> <p >Passenger numbers are growing at above the national average, so it is vital that the region does not miss out on investment – that's the view of West Midlands regional transport bosses reacting to Alistair Darlings' speech at the National Rail Conference earlier today.</p> <p >Although the Secretary of State focused once again on long distance services and commuting in London and the South East, he did acknowledge the needs of city-regions outside the Capital.</p> <p >"We must now ensure we get our fair slice of the cake," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >He said Centro-PTA would be working with the business community and other partners to lobby on behalf of the region.</p> <p >"Network capacity really is critical in the West Midlands which lies at the hub of the national network," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >"We have inter-city, cross-country, suburban off-peak and essential commuter services all competing for the same track.  And when we get rail gridlock in the West Midlands there is very quickly a knock-on effect for the wider network."</p> <p >In Birmingham, one in five commuters now travels by rail and public transport use is the dominant mode of travel in the city's rush hour.</p> <p >This was acknowledged by the Secretary of State, who said that if we want our cities to drive economic success in the future then their rail capacity problems need to be addressed.</p> <p >"This is welcome news," says Rob Donald, director general of passenger transport body Centro.  "We will now be looking to the forthcoming White Paper to address the rail capacity problems here in the West Midlands."</p> <p >Local councils in the West Midlands are seeking Government funding for a £500m improvement at New Street Station – but that only addresses station capacity and does nothing at the moment to solve the rail bottleneck.</p> <p >"Alistair Darling's comments today show that, in some areas at least, the Government is thinking along the right lines," comments Cllr Paul Allen, vice-chair of the West Midlands PTA and the lead member for budget issues.</p> <p >"Certainly it is a positive step that we are seeing improvements to bus services, light rail networks and even the conurbations roads all mentioned together by Alistair Darling at a railways conference.  This sort of integrated thinking is what we really need to tackle the growing issue of congestion – and bodies like Centro-PTA are working hard to lead the way," he adds.</p>"
"Passenger numbers are growing at above the national average, so it is vital that the region does not miss out on investment � that's the view of West Midlands regional transport bosses reacting to Alistair Darlings' speech at the National Rail Conference earlier today."
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0
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0
"Cleaner, 'more reliable' trains back on track after £1.3 million revamp"
2006-03-15T00:00:00
2006-03-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The first of Central Trains' diesel sprinter trains will re-enter service today (Thursday 16 March) following a major refurbishment aimed at improving the experience of West Midlands' rail passengers.</p> <p >All of Central Trains' busiest diesel fleet is going through the refurbishment to brighten the interiors and improve the reliability of the vehicles.  The £1.3m improvements are jointly funded by the train operator, the fleet owners Angel Trains and West Midlands public transport body Centro.</p> <p >Each of the 74 refurbished Class 150 trains will have brighter interiors with new floor coverings throughout, re-painted wall panels and renovated passenger toilets.  The sliding doors have been overhauled and there have been a range of mechanical improvements. The trains have also been given a complete re-spray in the new bright and distinctive Central Trains/Centro livery.  To finish off the refurbishment every train has a thorough spring clean.</p> <p >Last year, Class 150s carried more than 33.5 million passenger journeys around the Midlands and beyond, they operate on all Central Trains' Snow Hill Line services as well as on services between Birmingham New Street, Walsall and Stafford.</p> <p >Central Trains Managing Director; Steve Banaghan said: "The Class 150 Sprinters will continue to be our busiest diesel fleet for some time to come.  That's why this refurbishment is good news for passengers, as well as showing what can be done through rail industry partnership with Centro-PTA.  It is a major investment to ensure that our passengers have a new standard of clean and reliable trains". </p> <p >The bright new floors complement the new seat covers paid for by Centro-PTA 18 months ago and the technical modifications should lead to fewer train cancellations.</p> <p >"There are more and more people travelling by train within the West Midlands, so we think it is important to invest in the comfort of passengers.  This all helps to make rail travel more attractive and supports our efforts to cut congestion," comments Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p >"Most of these trains had not been upgraded since they were first introduced more than 20 years ago, so the improvements were long overdue.  The trains looked shabby even when they were clean," he adds.</p> <p >Central Trains Managing Director; Steve Banaghan said: "The Class 150 Sprinters will continue to be our busiest diesel fleet for some time to come.  That's why this refurbishment is good news for passengers, as well as showing what can be done through rail industry partnership with Centro-PTA.  It is a major investment to ensure that our passengers have a new standard of clean and reliable trains".</p> <p>Peter Rigby, UK Director, Angel Trains said: "We are committed to investing in Britain's railways and look forward to working again with Wabtec and our customers on this challenging programme, which will further improve the quality of passenger rolling stock in the UK."</p>"
Central Trains' diesel sprinter trains re-enter service today following a major refurbishment aimed at improving the experience of West Midlands' rail passengers.
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0
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0
Info pack debut for Network Coventry
2006-03-15T00:00:00
2006-03-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An information pack to explain major changes to Coventry's bus services is being sent to every home in the city.</p> <p >The information includes details of all new bus stop locations in the city centre and in the newly refurbished Pool Meadow Bus Station, operated by Centro. It also provides details on the changes to some of the city's bus services. The new routes and stops come into effect from Sunday 2 April 2006.</p> <p >""We listened to local people who told us that they wanted to use Pool Meadow and I am delighted to say that we have been able to make it happen,"" says Councillor Dave Arrowsmith, Cabinet Member for Urban Regeneration and Regional Planning and Coventry member of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >""At the same time local operators have chosen to refresh their networks and we are all moving ahead on improvements such as better passenger information. We want to help minimise the inconvenience of any change-over and these packs will help us do just that.""</p> <p >""A city the size of Coventry should have a bustling, well used bus station at the heart of it city centre and from the beginning of April that's exactly what we will have. The new road access will allow smooth access into Pool Meadow and it will once again be the super efficient hub for the city's bus services like it used to be,"" he adds.</p> <p >The information pack landing on doormats across the city this week is the first public appearance of Network Coventry the new name that connects all public transport in the city.</p> <p >Centro-PTA, Coventry City Council and bus operators have all committed to work together under the new name to deliver better passenger information and encourage public transport use.</p> <p >""Getting the most out of public transport is a whole lot easier if you are given clear, easy-to-follow information,"" explains PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >Over the next 18 months, improved timetable information and route planning maps will start to appear at bus stops and information centres across Coventry and the West Midlands. The idea is that a more coherent network will make it easier for people to switch from bus to bus, or bus to train persuading more people out of their cars and helping to cut congestion.</p> <p>Another development will see greater use of satellite tracking technology for buses, to provide digital displays at Centro bus shelters, and more bus priority measures from Coventry City Council.</p>"
An information pack to explain major changes to Coventry's bus services is being sent to every home in the city.
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Centro Director General to retire
2006-03-14T00:00:00
2006-03-14T00:00:00
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"<p >Rob Donald, Director General of Centro, has announced he will be retiring from his post at the end of April after eleven years developing and promoting public transport throughout the West Midlands.</p> <p >He joined Centro in 1995, and his achievements include obtaining funding and overseeing the opening of Metro Line One, securing investment to improve rail services, and introduction of improvements to the quality of bus facilities, as well as campaigning for better quality bus services to be provided by bus operators. He is also the current Chair of the Passenger Transport Executives Group – PTEG.</p> <p >Rob Donald said 'I have hugely enjoyed my time at Centro and am proud that we now have a very good professional organisation that is able to improve all aspects of public transport throughout the West Midlands and deliver the policy objectives of the Passenger Transport Authority.   Much is now happening to improve bus passenger information and seeking Government support for renewing New Street railway station and expanding Midland Metro.  Much more needs to be done and I am confident that the PTA leadership working well with local authority Leaders and a very capable Centro working with public and private sector agencies will achieve much in the years ahead."</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the policy setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority said: 'Rob has worked tirelessly to improve the quality and capacity of public transport in the West Midlands and he is the longest serving Director General of Centro.  We understand his desire to take time out now to enjoy an active retirement with his wife who also retires this year.'</p> <p >Cllr Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the WMPTA said: 'Rob's whole career has been about  making public transport better and meeting peoples needs, a job we'll be pursuing with continued vigour across the West Midlands. We wish Rob all the best in his well-earned retirement.'</p>"
"Rob Donald, Director General of Centro, has announced he will be retiring from his post at the end of April after eleven years developing and promoting public transport throughout the West Midlands."
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"Chips are down for the future of bus, train and tram travel"
2006-03-13T00:00:00
2006-03-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Intelligent bus tickets with a micro-chip that records every journey made and automatically charges passengers the cheapest fare available could be introduced in the West Midlands.</p> <p>After checking in with the bus driver, the tickets would connect to the vehicle's satellite navigation equipment and then automatically detect when they got off.  It means passengers could even be sent a monthly print-out of their travel habits. </p> <p>The same on-board satellite equipment would be able to 'announce' when the bus arrived at each stop, as well as feed information to passengers waiting at bus stops further along the route.</p> <p>This glimpse into the future is revealed in a report by West Midlands public transport body Centro-PTA to be discussed by the scrutiny committee next week (Monday 20 March).</p> <p>Councillors are stepping up efforts to promote cash-less travel and have set a target date of 2007 for the introduction of 'smart card' tickets on at least some services in the region.  They believe the new technology could help passengers and cut congestion by persuading more people to use buses, trains and trams.</p> <p>An initial study has found that the 2007 target date would be 'challenging' and that the way bus services are currently run in the West Midlands – with a host of different operators – would be a significant hurdle.  Any scheme would have to be introduced gradually, probably starting with concessionary travel passes.</p> <p>"If we are serious about making public transport more attractive we have to be considering this sort of futuristic project," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "There could be massive benefits for passengers and city-regions like the West Midlands really do need to be investing more in public transport in order to tackle the growing problem of congestion."</p> <p>The majority of people travelling by bus and tram in the West Midlands already use some form of travelcard rather than part with loose change – and a smartcard trial among senior citizens in Coventry was both successful and popular. </p> <p>An experimental intelligent ticket system has already been tested in the German city of Dresden, although the system favoured by Centro-PTA is not yet commercially available.  As well as being more convenient for passengers, the data recorded by the system could save money by helping to plan better public transport networks.</p> <p>In London the Oystercard system has expanded rapidly.  Passengers check in by touching a card reader as they board the bus or pass through Underground ticket barriers.  The smartcard is now used for more than 50 per cent of all bus and tube journeys and is enabling Transport for London to introduce new types of tickets, passenger discounts and to reduce fraud.</p> <p>The cost of introducing a similar system – or better – in the West Midlands has not yet been calculated, but councillors have allocated £100,000 to investigate the options.  They believe that Government funding could be on offer as part of a wider package of public transport improvements and congestion measures.</p> <p>Monday's meeting of the PTA scrutiny committee will receive a report from the member panel that has already started to look at different systems in use.</p> <p>"We are offering a clear pointer that some form of Smartcard is the optimum solution for ticketing across the West Midlands," says Scrutiny chair Cllr Chaman Lal.</p> <p>The report recommends a phased approach, starting with concessionary passes and leading to the type of intelligent tickets like those used in Dresden at a later date.</p>"
Intelligent bus tickets with a micro-chip that records every journey made and automatically charges passengers the cheapest fare available could be introduced in the West Midlands.
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Bus passengers face more delays
2006-03-10T00:00:00
2006-03-10T00:00:00
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"<p>Bus passengers in north Birmingham face continuing delays to their journey, unless city council plans are overturned it is claimed.</p> <p>Several organisations have now lodged formal objections to the scrapping of bus lanes along the Tyburn Road.  They say thousands of passengers a day have faced slower journeys since the bus priority measures were suspended as an 'experiment' in summer 2004.  A city council report acknowledged that the move had only led to a very slight improvement for the smaller number of motorists and that local residents had also had to endure heavier traffic flows as a result.</p> <p>Although consultation on the future of the bus lanes has been put back to 2007, the temporary  suspension order will expire this month.  This has forced Birmingham City Council to seek a permanent order to remove the bus lanes – a procedural move that is now being opposed by the West Midlands public transport body Centro-PTA, as well as major bus company Travel West Midlands and other passenger groups.</p> <p>Centro, which carries out policy on behalf of councillors across the West Midlands, says its work to tackle congestion could be threatened.  It says the region's bus strategy agreed with Birmingham City Council aims to deliver high quality services and increase passenger numbers to 355 million trips a year by 2010/11.  These targets will be difficult to achieve without bus priority measures like the Tyburn Road bus lanes, it claims.</p> <p>West Midlands councils were recently 'fined' £2.2m in reduced transport funding because Government targets were not being met.</p> <p> </p> <p><em>Update: Birmingham City Council decided to permanently suspend the bus lane despite opposition.  An attempt to 'call in' the decision for scrutiny failed by one vote, the casting vote of the chairman.</em></p>"
"Bus passengers in north Birmingham face continuing delays to their journey, unless city council plans are overturned it is claimed."
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0
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All Aboard - Centro joins forces with Solihull Connect
2006-03-02T00:00:00
2006-03-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport promoter Centro and Solihull Council have joined forces to make it easier for people in the borough to access public transport information and to apply for travel passes.</p> <p >People over 60 who qualify for free off-peak travel on all buses, trains and trams, can now apply for their pass at the council's Solihull Connect customer service centres in Chelmsley Wood and Library Square Solihull.  The passes could previously be obtained only through main post offices.</p> <p >Under the partnership with Centro, the Solihull Connect sites will also display public transport information and trained advisors will be able to help people find their way around the bus, train and Metro network. </p> <p >These are the latest in the growing list of services available from Solihull Connect – giving customers one simple point of contact for information about the Council and its partner's services. Both sites have a team of Customer Service Advisors who are available to provide personal advice and guidance about a full range of services including Housing Benefit, Council Tax and Blue Badge applications.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke chairman of Centro's policy-setting body, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "The partnership arrangements at Solihull Connect are a great example of two public bodies working together to give local people extra service and information to help boost public transport use. One of the reasons we introduced the 'check and send' system for concessionary passes was to extend the number of locations where people could apply for their pass – so I'm delighted Solihull Council has taken this step to provide an enhanced service for its residents."</p> <p >Cabinet Member for Resources, Councillor Ian Hillas, said: "We are delighted to have Centro aboard. It shows the great opportunities that Solihull Connect offers for new ways of working, both for the council and with partners like Centro."</p> <p>"Through Solihull Connect, we are making it easy for people to get services and information on both council and partner services and as we open more Solihull Connect sites across the borough this will become even easier for people to get the information or service they want, in one place."</p> <p><strong>Note to editors:</strong></p> <p>Anyone aged over 60 can get a concessionary travel pass giving free off-peak local public transport.  The new "check and send" service will ensure that applicants have the correct documents and submit this to Centro, which then posts the pass to the person's home address. It replaces the cardboard passes previously issued at post offices with more hard-wearing and secure plastic passes. </p> <p> </p>"
Public transport promoter Centro and Solihull Council have joined forces to make it easier for people in the borough to access public transport information and to apply for travel passes.
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Airport urged to encourage public transport
2006-03-02T00:00:00
2006-03-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Birmingham International Airport should work more closely with public transport promoter Centro to get more people to give up their cars, according to local councillors.</p> <p >Members of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (WMPTA) were commenting on a draft Master Plan. They have added their support to expand the airport, but say more needs to be done to encourage more passengers and employees to travel by bus, train or tram.</p> <p >"We want to ensure that the planned expansion of Birmingham International Airport reduces impact on road congestion and the environment by providing better public transport links," explains PTA chairman Councillor Gary Clarke.</p> <p >"Our hope is that the Airport Company, which runs BIA, will support public transport by making adequate provision for buses, trains and light rail within the expansion project."</p> <p >The Government's Future of Air Transport White Paper set the Airport Company a target of 25 percent of people arriving at the airport by public transport.</p> <p >"We hope this target can be achieved or even bettered," continues Cllr Clarke. "We also welcome the airport's continuing support for the planned Midland Metro lines, and hope to secure a protected route for the trams alongside the A45 and within the expanding airport."</p> <p >In a letter to airport bosses commenting on the Master Plan, Cllr Clarke says the main issues with the expansion are capacity on the surrounding motorway network, capacity on the rail network and at Birmingham International station, provision of bus priority in and around the site, and provision of public transport services which meet the needs of employees.</p> <p >"Most of these issues are acknowledged in the Master Plan," comments Cllr Clarke. "However there is not sufficient information about provision. So, we must request that there remains a close liaison with Centro officers in the coming months and years as these issues are addressed and schemes developed."</p> <p>Centro, which carries out policy for the WMPTA, also wants to see car parking provision minimised, thereby reducing land take, adverse environmental issues and traffic levels, and will continue to work with partners to improve bus and rail services to the site.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> <a href=""http://www.bhx.co.uk/page.aspx type=T0NaZj9WNoU=&id=gIjx8gqnTxk="" target=""_blank"">Birmingham International Airport master plan consultation</a></em></p>"
"Birmingham International Airport should work more closely with public transport promoter Centro to get more people to give up their cars, according to local councillors."
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Centro-PTA secures good news for West Mids rail passengers
2006-03-01T00:00:00
2006-03-01T00:00:00
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"<p>Councillors are expected to agree a deal that would guarantee the immediate future of local rail services in the West Midlands.</p> <p>They will vote at a special meeting on Monday (6 March) to give public transport coordinating body Centro the authority to sign a franchise deal with rail company Central Trains to run until November 2007.  The package includes continued Government funding for a turn-up-and-go service on Birmingham's busiest commuter route and retention of the Black Country rail link between Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p> <p>""Ever since the Transport Secretary Alistair Darling announced a shake up of rail franchises, we have been lobbying hard to make sure services in the West Midlands are protected – so we welcome this confirmation from the Department for Transport," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>Centro-PTA councillors said it would be inappropriate for the Government to be reducing public transport options at the same time that it is hoping to tackle congestion by persuading more motorists out of their cars.</p> <p>""We believe in integrated transport and increased funding for public transport will be vital in the campaign to cut congestion," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>There had been fears that the Department for Transport would cut back on the grants it gives Centro to support local rail services.  Last year a Government study recommended the Black Country rail link should be scrapped and the DfT had also asked to be given costings for a reduced frequency on the Birmingham Cross City Line.</p> <p>The West Midlands has now been spared these cuts – at least for the next eighteen months.  A new set of rail franchises will come into force after November 2007, one of which will be a new West Midlands franchise providing local rail services and links to London.</p> <p>"The new West Midlands rail franchise is a great opportunity – but clearly we need to keep up the pressure to make sure Government provides the necessary funding to deliver a new focus on West Midlands rail needs, including more capacity to accommodate continued growth in patronage," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>The West Midlands has experienced significant rail growth in recent years – faster than the national average.  One in five commuters into Birmingham use the train and the on-going developments in the city centre will continue to drive up rail usage.</p>"
Councillors are expected to agree a deal that would guarantee the immediate future of local rail services in the West Midlands.
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0
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Planning approval for new Halesowen bus interchange
2006-02-28T00:00:00
2006-02-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A major redevelopment of Halesowen bus station was given the go-ahead by Dudley Council last night.</p> <p>The £2.5m proposals by public transport promoter Centro-PTA will provide for an expanded, modern interchange with enclosed waiting areas for passengers.</p> <p>"This will be a vast improvement on the existing collection of bus shelters," comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "I am delighted we can now get on with providing the town with the standard of bus station it really deserves."</p> <p>Plans were approved by Dudley Council's Development Control Committee last night (Tues 28 Feb) after earlier receiving unanimous support from the Halesowen Area Committee.  The granting of planning permission now clears the way for members of the West Midlands PTA to agree the funding at their meeting on Monday (6 March).  The new bus station is scheduled to be completed by 2008.</p> <p>"We have finished up with the best design we can go with.  This is a highly attractive plan," said Cllr Bob James, vice-chairman of the Development Control Committee.  He welcomed the fact that latest plans allowed for a popular pensioners drop-in centre to be retained.</p> <p>He told the meeting Centro-PTA had consulted widely on the plans and sought the views of all those concerned.</p> <p>In the approved scheme, there will be eight bus stop stands with easy access kerbs and glass doors that open automatically when the bus is in position. The enclosed waiting area will have seating, lighting, electronic passenger information and CCTV.  A new pedestrian link will cross the Queensway and provide a gateway to the new Cornbow Centre.</p> <p>Cllr James praised the fact that Centro had been able to resolve final design issues and that objections had been withdrawn just ahead of the meeting.</p> <p>The Cornbow developers reached agreement with Centro over the design of the bus station roof and Dudley's head of traffic and road safety Graham Isherwood reassured councillors that buses turning right into the new interchange would not be a hazard.</p> <p>Earlier concerns over the location of a Ring and Ride facility were also quashed.  Centro has had discussions with the shopping centre about a location for a Ring and Ride stop within the Cornbow development.  If this cannot be provided, then space will be found within the new bus station.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://cmis.dudley.gov.uk/CMISWebPublic/MeetingDetails.aspx Meeting=422"" target=""_blank""><em>Dudley committee meeting agenda and reports</em></a></p>"
A major redevelopment of Halesowen bus station was given the go-ahead by Dudley Council last night.
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0
Big increase in West Midlands travel pass numbers
2006-02-26T00:00:00
2006-02-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The West Midlands is leading the way in offering free travel on its bus, train and tram networks.</p> <p>Applications for Centro concessionary travel passes have shot up by 30 per cent since they were made available to everyone over 60 years old.  The West Midlands scheme came into force eight months ahead of the national scheme announced in Gordon Brown's last budget.</p> <p>Among 60-64 year olds, who previously only qualified for half-fare passes, the take up rate has increased by 50 per cent.</p> <p>The latest statistics are revealed in a report to the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  They show more than a thousand new people a week applied for passes immediately after the more generous scheme was introduced last July – and three million extra trips have been made on the bus and Midland Metro.</p> <p>"We were keen to make the additional benefits available as soon as possible," comments PTA member Cllr Christine Mills.  "It was also very important to us that free travel should be available on all forms of public transport."</p> <p>The national scheme, which comes into force next April, only covers free local off-peak travel by bus.  However, as the promoter of an integrated public transport system, Centro-PTA offers the concession on all bus, rail and tram services in the West Midlands.</p>"
"The West Midlands is leading the way in offering free travel on its bus, train and tram networks. Applications for Centro concessionary travel passes have shot up by 30 per cent since they were made available to everyone over 60 years o"
9369
0
12
0
Discount for dog lovers who travel by train
2006-02-24T00:00:00
2006-02-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p ><strong>NB This offer relates to Crufts 2006, please visit www.networkwestmidlands.com for details of current offers.</strong></p> <p >Dog lovers in the West Midlands who want to go to the world's greatest dog show this year can get to the event for free if they travel by rail.</p> <p >More than 24,000 dogs and 120,000 people are expected to attend Crufts at the NEC next month and public transport promoter Centro is offering a special inclusive rail travel and entrance ticket at all West Midland's stations.</p> <p >The offer means people can get to Birmingham International station which serves the venue, and gain admittance to the show for the same price or <i>cheaper</i> than the standard price of admission alone.</p> <p >It means that a couple taking advantage of the offer will travel to the event for free, and save £7.00 on car parking as well as any booking fees and postage costs. The special inclusive tickets can be bought in advance or on the day of travel at any rail station within the Centro area.</p> <p >Crufts is taking place at the NEC from Thursday 9 – Sunday 12 March and is the most popular and well-attended dog show in the world, drawing people from all over the globe. As well as the famous Best in Show, other attractions include a Discover Dogs area displaying 190 different breeds of pedigree dog for prospective owners and dog lovers to get to know, and 400 trade stands offering all the latest dog delights.</p> <p >Julie Lameris, Marketing Manager for Centro says: "Crufts makes a great day out for all the family with plenty on to interest all ages, and Centro's rail offer allows for it to be enjoyed without the hassle and expense of driving and parking."</p> <p>More information is available in Centro's Winter What's On guide, available at rail stations and travel shops across the West Midlands, or view the leaflet online at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/wwwroot/Marketing/crufts%20POSTER%202006.pdf"" target=""_blank"">www.centro.org.uk</a>.</p>"
Dog lovers in the West Midlands who want to go to the world's greatest dog show this year can travel to the event for free if they take the train.
9369
0
12
0
Clare Short turns sixty � and gets free travel
2006-02-23T00:00:00
2006-02-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Member of Parliament for Birmingham Ladywood, the Rt Hon Clare Short is to get free travel on all buses, trains and trams in Birmingham, the Black Country and Coventry.</p> <p>The former Shadow Secretary of State for Transport (1995 – 96) will receive a travel pass from public transport promoter Centro which gives her free off-peak travel in the West Midlands, to mark her sixtieth birthday.</p> <p>But this benefit is not an exclusive offer for the MP. Every senior citizen and disabled person in the West Midlands now gets free off-peak travel on all the conurbation's buses, trains and Midland Metro trams.</p> <p>She said: "This scheme is a great benefit for thousands of people within my constituency. If more people take advantage of using public transport, it helps to beat congestion and is better for the environment."</p> <p>Clare is one of over 50,000 people over sixty that have taken advantage of Centro's new concession scheme which was launched in July last year, nine months ahead of the national scheme announced by Gordon Brown, which will begin in April.</p> <p>She will be presented with her new travel pass on Friday (24 February) by Cllr Renée Spector, Birmingham Councillor on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which approved the scheme.</p> <p>She said: "The WMPTA believes strongly in making concessions widely available to give everybody the mobility they deserve.</p> <p>"The national scheme only offers free off-peak local bus travel, but we feel it is imperative that passes are valid on buses, trains and trams as part of an integrated public transport system. I am very pleased to say that everybody over the age of sixty will be eligible."</p>"
"Member of Parliament for Birmingham Ladywood, the Rt Hon Clare Short is to get free travel on all buses, trains and trams in Birmingham, the Black Country and Coventry."
9369
0
12
0
Better service for passengers as bus company replaced
2006-02-23T00:00:00
2006-02-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A bus service improvement is being promised for people living in the Eastern Green, Tile Hill and Canley areas of Coventry.  The region's transport authority has stepped in following concerns about poor performance.</p> <p>Flights Hallmark Ltd will cease operating the 43 and 43A routes on behalf of Centro from Monday 6 March.  The council-funded body which subsidised the services, has awarded a replacement contract to Diamond Bus instead.</p> <p>"As far as passengers are concerned this simply means a different-coloured bus and a more reliable service," explains Centro services director Robert Smith.  "There will be no change to fares or timetables and the same range of Centrocards, Busmaster and concessionary passes will all be accepted."</p> <p>The hourly bus service is used by people to get to the Cannon Park shops as well as workers and students at the Warwick University campus.  It also serves the Westwood Business Park.</p> <p>In a number of checks carried out by Centro, some buses were missing out a part of the route.</p> <p>Bus services in England, outside London, are mostly operated on a commercial basis by private companies.  That means passengers have little say in influencing operations and co-ordinating bodies like Centro have only limited opportunity to control the quality of services.  However, in the West Midlands, Centro does contract around 200 routes to plug gaps in the commercial network.</p> <p>Where routes are funded in this way, as is the case for the 43 and 43A in Coventry, Centro is able to set timetables, fares and to take action in the event of poor service.</p>"
"A bus service improvement is being promised for people living in the Eastern Green, Tile Hill and Canley areas of Coventry. The region's transport authority has stepped in following concerns about poor performance."
9369
0
12
0
New Street transformation unveiled
2006-02-16T00:00:00
2006-02-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans to transform New Street station into a world class gateway for Birmingham and the region were unveiled today. The ""Birmingham Gateway"" scheme would see £500 million of public and private investment in the complete redesign and redevelopment of the station and surrounding area.</p> <p>Plans for the station include:</p> <ul> <li> <div>More space, greatly increasing passenger capacity and relieving congestion</div> </li> <li> <div>World class passenger facilities:</div> <ul> <li> <div>Brighter, cleaner and clearer platforms</div> </li> <li> <div>Better access to platforms facilitated by 42 new escalators and 14 new lifts</div> </li> <li> <div>A new, enlarged concourse three and a half times bigger than the current space</div> </li> <li> <div>A hi-tech transparent roof</div> </li> <li> <div>Transformation of the concourse level into a giant atrium, flooding the station with natural light</div> </li> <li> <div>Comfortable, spacious and modern waiting lounges</div> </li> <li> <div>World class customer information systems, improving communications with passengers</div> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <div>A new contemporary station exterior, in keeping with a modern city centre</div> </li> <li> <div>Two new open public spaces: a piazza on the south side of the station and a public square opposite the Bullring</div> </li> <li> <div>New pedestrian links across the city centre with direct access and interchange with the planned Metro stop in Stephenson Street</div> </li> </ul> <p>The new plans are the product of 18 months of detailed analysis by a study group including senior representatives from Network Rail; Birmingham City Council; Advantage West Midlands; Centro; and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (WMPTA). The analysis shows that Birmingham Gateway is good value for money, and meets transportation and regeneration objectives.</p> <p>Robin Gisby, Network Rail's Director, Operations and Customer Services said: ""Birmingham New Street station handles 3.5 million passengers every year. The Gateway project would transform the station, increasing capacity and significantly easing passenger congestion. It would provide passengers with world class facilities, enabling New Street to accommodate the growth of the railway for generations to come. It will be a great gateway to a great city.</p> <p>Councillor Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council added: ""Birmingham Gateway is the product of a lot of hard work and analysis by a strong partnership of dedicated professionals. As well as being a catalyst for economic development at the heart of our city, this scheme is good value for money and would deliver significant wider regeneration potential for the region.""</p> <p>Nick Paul, Chairman of Advantage West Midlands said: ""This scheme would deliver a world class gateway to the region, acting as a catalyst for regeneration and redevelopment in the hinterland. The analysis shows that Birmingham Gateway would mean better access to jobs and training for local people, and an increase in the number of business travellers and visitors seeking to invest or spend in the region.""</p> <p>Councillor Gary Clarke, Chairman of the WMPTA concluded: ""With one in five people arriving at peak times in Birmingham by train, redeveloping New Street station is a top priority for WMPTA and Centro. We're fully backing these plans to give the city and region the gateway station it needs and deserves.""</p> <p>Over the next year the Birmingham Gateway partners will be working on funding arrangements and planning processes to get the scheme moving. Work on the project could start as early as 2008.</p> <p>Please contact Network Rail's press office for further information on 0121 345 3100</p> <p>Notes to editors:</p> <ol> <li> <div>Visual images of the plans for New Street are available, contact Network Rail press office on 0121 345 3100</div> </li> <li> <div>The Birmingham Gateway project allows for £500 million investment to improve and modernise the passenger facilities and space at New Street station. Of this £350 million will come from the public sector including regional government and development agencies. It is envisaged the scheme will also lever in £150 million worth of private investment by commercial redevelopment on the south side of the station</div> </li> <li> <div>The redevelopment of New Street will take around four and a half years from the start of work in 2008. The station would remain open throughout, minimising disruption for passengers and the railway while the work is carried out</div> </li> <li> <div>More information on the Birmingham Gateway project can be found at <a href=""http://www.renewstreet.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.renewstreet.co.uk</a></div> </li> <li> <div>Network rail is the 'not for dividend' owner and operator of Britain's railway infrastructure, which includes the tracks, signals, tunnels, bridges, viaducts, level crossings and stations - the largest of which they also manage</div> </li> <li> <div>Network rail are working to rebuild Britain's railway and provide a safe, reliable and efficient rail infrastructure for freight and passenger trains to use</div> </li> <li> <div>Network Rail's website is: <a href=""http://www.networkrail.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.networkrail.co.uk</a><br /> <br /> </div> </li> </ol>"
Plans to transform New Street station into a world class gateway for Birmingham and the region were unveiled today. The "Birmingham Gateway" scheme would see £500 million of public and private investment in the complete redesign and redevelopment of the station and surrounding area.
9369
0
12
0
Dudley leader in the driving seat
2006-02-15T00:00:00
2006-02-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The leader of Dudley council will get an early taste of what is to come for the borough this Friday as he gets in the driving seat of a Midland Metro tram.</p> <p ><br /> Cllr David Caunt is meeting the Chairman of the PTA, Cllr Gary Clarke and lead member for Metro, Cllr Roger Horton at the Metro Depot on Potters Lane in Wednesbury. After a short introduction, he will drive a tram within the sidings.</p> <p >The event comes just over a month after Dudley Borough Council and public transport promoter Centro signed an agreement to extend the Midland Metro route through the town centre and surrounding area.</p> <p >The contract outlines the two parties respective roles in the funding, construction, operation and maintenance of the 11km route from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley town centre and the Merry Hill Centre.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Horton comments: "Cllr Caunt's interest in driving a tram shows his enthusiasm for the Metro extension through the Dudley borough. The project is very important for transport and regeneration in the Black Country and having the ongoing support of Dudley Council is a great benefit for the scheme."</p> <p >The tramlines will include13 easy-access stops, four of which are served by park and ride facilities. New larger trams will be introduced on the line and will be able to complete the journey from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill in only 23 minutes.</p> <p >Recent research has already shown that the existing Metro is the most efficient of the Midland's public transport options, with a reliability rate of over 98 per cent. The service caters for five million passengers</p> <p>  "The Metro extension is a very exciting prospect for local people," says Cllr David Caunt. "The extended line will not only make travelling around the area much easier and more convenient for everyone, providing an attractive alternative to the car, but it will also bring regeneration, jobs and other socio-economic benefits to this part of the Black Country."</p>"
The leader of Dudley council will get an early taste of what is to come for the borough this Friday as he gets in the driving seat of a Midland Metro tram.
9369
0
12
0
Centro offers free travel into space
2006-02-10T00:00:00
2006-02-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Leisure travel into space is happening sooner than people might think.</p> <p >According to recent news reports, space tourism is gearing up for blast off in 2009, but public transport promoter Centro has jumped ahead and is offering West Midland's residents the chance to travel into space this half term – and it's free!</p> <p >The organisation has teamed up with Thinktank at Millennium Point to offer a special All-in-One admission ticket which provides free train travel from any West Midlands station and entrance to the museum and the new planetarium for <i>cheaper</i> than the normal admission price.</p> <p >For example, where normal admission excluding travel to Thinktank would be £11.00 for adults and £8.00 for children, admission and rail travel combined in the Centro offer is only £9.00 for adults and £6.00 for children. The cost of entering the planetarium is just £1.00.</p> <p >The offer coincides with the recent opening of Thinktank's state-of-the-art planetarium, which offers visitors: 'a totally immersive science experience, taking you on an exciting exploration of the night sky, our galaxy and beyond'.</p> <p >The new attraction uses the world's most advanced digital planetarium projection system, allowing people to look at images of the West Midlands night sky, see views through the Hubble Space Telescope, watch the birth of the Universe or have a tour of our Solar System. Some shows include talks from special presenters, and people can also participate in astronomy classes and special lectures.</p> <p >Additionally, Centro has teamed up with six other top West Midlands attractions to offer special All-in-One rail and admission prices so families can have affordable days out throughout this half term without the additional hassles and costs of driving and parking.</p> <p >Parents can take their children to Cadbury World, the National Sea Life Centre, the Black Country Living Museum, Severn Valley Railway, Warwick Castle and the Birmingham Wheel and make great savings – in some cases paying less than the normal admission price to the attraction.</p> <p >"Travelling by rail is easily the best way to save money, and avoid sitting in traffic or looking for parking when going out and about this half term," says Centro Marketing Manager, Julia Lameris. "There is plenty going on at many locations across the region and all are easily accessible by public transport."</p> <p >All-in-One tickets can by purchased from any staffed rail station in the Centro area. Further details on the offers can be found at www.centro.org.uk or on the new children's website: www.traingang.co.uk. The Centro Hotline has travel information on 0121 200 2700 (02476 559559 in Coventry).</p> <p >Notes to editors:</p> <p >Journalists and/or photographers wishing to attend should meet Babs Coombes and Sophia Mckain (who negotiated the offers) from Centro in the booking office area of Moor Street Station, Queensway, Birmingham, B4 7UL at 11:00am for a short security briefing.</p> <p >The child being used in the photocall is aged six and will be wearing a space suit.</p> Entering the planetarium at Thinktank carries an additional charge of £1 per person and can be booked in advance on 0121 202 2222 or at the box office on site. <p> </p>"
"Leisure travel into space is happening sooner than people might think. According to recent news reports, space tourism is gearing up for blast off in 2009, but public transport promoter Centro has jumped ahead and is offering West Midland's residents the chance to travel into space this half term � and it's free!"
9369
0
12
0
Solar-powered bus shelters just the ticket for green campaign
2006-02-08T00:00:00
2006-02-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Solar power is being used to prevent hundreds of West Midlands bus shelters adding to global warming.</p> <p>The new initiative approved by councillors on the conurbation's Passenger Transport Authority will see improved lighting for passenger safety and comfort at almost 200 shelters over the coming years.</p> <p>As well as saving more than £1000 per shelter, the plan by public transport body Centro has been calculated to cut down greenhouse gas emissions by 13 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.</p> <p>Instead of burning mains electricity, the new lighting units will re-charge their batteries during the day to illuminate the shelter at night.  They will only switch on when a sensor indicates that someone is waiting for a bus – at all other times the lights are dimmed to save even more energy.</p> <p>"Our ultimate aim is for all bus shelters in the West Midlands to be fitted with lighting," says Cllr Len Clark, lead member for buses on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  "This new shelter initiative means we can make faster progress on passenger comfort and safety in a way that also delivers value for money and protects the environment."</p>"
Solar power is being used to prevent hundreds of West Midlands bus shelters adding to global warming.
9369
0
12
0
Visiting experts on tram ride to regeneration
2006-02-08T00:00:00
2006-02-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport developments in the West Midlands are being highlighted as the way forward for towns and cities across the UK.</p> <p>Senior councillors and regeneration experts are to be shown how the Midland Metro system has benefited the local economy since it opened in 1999.  They will also see the impact of the award-winning West Bromwich Bus Station on the regeneration of the town.</p> <p>Their study visit is part of a national conference supported by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott.</p> <p>"The Midland Metro is established as the most reliable form of public transport in the region, but the benefits to passengers is only a part of the story, " comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "This study visit will also stress the importance of an integrated transport system and how getting this right is vital to the future of all our towns and cities."</p> <p>More than 500 delegates are attending the conference on delivering sustainable communities, which is being organised by the Local Government Association over three days at Birmingham's International Convention Centre.  Environment Secretary Margaret Beckett and four Government ministers, including transport minister Karen Buck, will be among the key speakers.</p> <p>The conference is on 13-15 February and the study tour of the Midland Metro and West Bromwich Bus Station is on Monday 13<sup>th</sup>.</p>"
Public transport developments in the West Midlands are being highlighted as the way forward for towns and cities across the UK.
9369
0
12
0
Kids learn about traffic jams online
2006-02-07T00:00:00
2006-02-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new website designed to teach children about the benefits of using buses, trains and trams is being launched this week by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p ><a href=""http://www.traingang.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.traingang.co.uk</a> is a free website aimed at children between the ages of five and eleven who live in the West Midlands county. It acts as a fun, interactive learning tool to teach children the benefits of using sustainable methods of transport. </p> <p >Children who log on can take part in competitions with prizes, test their knowledge on public transport history and safety, and play interactive games including planning journeys by public transport.</p> <p >There are also details of local attractions that can be reached by public transport such as the Sea Life Centre, Dudley Zoo and Warwick Castle, and information on All-In-One travel and admission offers which can save families money if they travel by train.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the PTA says: ""The Train Gang is an excellent way to teach children about the benefits of using public transport instead of cars.</p> <p >""The West Midlands is already heavily congested and it is vital that we raise awareness of the importance of using public transport in the next generation of commuters at an early age.""</p> <p >The website is being launched to support the Train Gang magazine – TGX, which was introduced by Centro in 2003. The magazine includes more information on days out by train, puzzles and competitions. </p> <p >It is hoped that both the magazine ad web site will get more children and families out of the car and onto the train, bus or Metro.</p> <p>The website is being launched at Anderton Park Primary School on Thursday 09 February.  The website will be used to form part of their school travel plan  which is being developed in conjunction with Shabana Wilder-Mirza of Birmingham City Council and supported by Centro  to cut congestion outside the school and to make the environment safer for the children.</p>"
"A new website designed to teach children about the benefits of using buses, trains and trams is being launched this week by public transport promoter Centro."
9369
0
12
0
Congestion-busting work starts two years ahead of schedule
2006-02-06T00:00:00
2006-02-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Work has commenced on a £1 million congestion-busting project to provide more free park and ride spaces at four West Midlands' rail stations - two years ahead of schedule.</p> <p >Expansion of the park and ride facilities at Acocks Green, Whitlocks End, Chester Road and Wylde Green were not due to start until at least 2008, but councillors chose to bring the work forward due to the high demand for spaces during rush hour. The projects are due to be completed in April.</p> <p >The four car parks already provide parking for over 260 cars but are still full on most weekdays. Centro-PTA will now supply nearly 200 extra spaces, an increase of 70 per cent, to help satisfy demand and prevent parking problems on nearby streets.</p> <p >"I'm very pleased that work on these park and ride sites has been brought forward," says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. "The growing number of park and ride spaces are proving very popular with West Midlands' commuters and make an important contribution to tackling congestion in the region."</p> <p >Each extended site will also have new security, lighting and safety features, which have already lead to a dramatic reduction in vehicle crime and antisocial behaviour in station car parks across the region.</p> <p>Centro-PTA provides around 6,000 free, secure park and ride spaces in the West Midlands, with more sites than any other major rural area in Britain. The park and ride programme takes 2.5 million car journeys off the regions already congested roads every year, saving the equivalent of nearly 60,000 litres of fuel.</p>"
Work has commenced on a £1 million congestion-busting project to provide more free park and ride spaces at four West Midlands' rail stations - two years ahead of schedule.
9369
0
12
0
Black Country invention could herald new future for community rail service
2006-01-31T00:00:00
2006-01-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new type of rail-car service is officially launched in the West Midlands this weekend. </p> <p>The gas-powered Parry People Movers railcar is set to boost a vital public transport route for residents in Stourbridge, where a shuttle service connects the town centre rail station with the rest of the network.</p> <p>A trial of the new vehicle is now running on Sundays to complement the Monday to Saturday 'heavy rail' diesel service.  It is being jointly funded by the regional public transport body Centro-PTA and the former Strategic Rail Authority's Community Rail programme. </p> <p>"We are always keen to look at innovative ways of providing better public transport - and this new technology could prove to be just the answer for maintaining a vital link," says PTA chairman councillor Gary Clarke.</p> <p>The light railcar will run four times an hour between Stourbridge Town and Stourbridge Junction stations, operated by Pre Metro Operations Ltd.  If successful it could be explored as an option for other times or routes.</p> <p>Local MP Lynda Waltho, Cllr Clarke, Centro director general Rob Donald and John Parry, the man who developed the technology, will officially launch the new service on Sunday morning.</p> <p>Parry People Movers railcars make use of a revolutionary ""Kinergetic"" propulsion system to store and re-use the braking energy of the vehicle.  The Black Country-based inventors say this makes it a very environmentally-friendly system, as the 50-passenger, 10-tonne railcar can run for over an hour on just a few litres of propane fuel, with low noise and imperceptible emissions.  The vehicle is also fully compliant with safety and accessibility regulations, and level access from platforms ensures wheelchair users can enter and leave the railcar without ramps.</p> <p>It is the first time the local branch line has had a Sunday service since 1915.  The trial will run for 12 months and is being watched keenly by key figures in the rail industry to see if this is the way forward for community rail lines.  Centro-PTA has part-funded the development costs of the project and is also subsidising the running costs with £35,000 support.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> <a href=""http://www.parrypeoplemovers.com/PPM50-spec.htm"" target=""_blank"">more detailed specification of the vehicle</a></em></p>"
"A new type of rail-car service is officially launched in the West Midlands this weekend. The gas-powered Parry People Movers railcar is set to boost a vital public transport route for residents in Stourbridge, where a shuttle service connects the town centre rail station with the rest of the network."
9369
0
12
0
Do you give a hoot about public transport
2006-01-30T00:00:00
2006-01-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Night owls and early-bird workers in Coventry are being invited to give their views on public transport at a meeting organised by the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >Currently late-night and early-morning services on public transport are limited, with many services finishing at around 11.30pm and not starting again until around 6am.  This means people travelling home from a night out or going to work early in the morning either have to drive or pay for taxis.</p> <p >Now West Midlands councillors want to hear from people so their views can be fed into a scrutiny report.  Following this, Centro-PTA will discuss with operators how improvements could be provided to suit peoples wants and needs.</p> <p >"Night transport is becoming increasingly important in today's 24 hour society and we would like people to come along to the meeting and tell us what sort of provision they think is needed in Coventry," says Cllr Dave Arrowsmith, who is chairing the Transport Users Forum at the Council House on Tuesday evening.</p> <p >It is a regular meeting of the Forum and local residents are invited to also have their say on any other issues they may have on public transport.  Representatives from the major bus and train companies, the city council and co-ordinating body Centro-PTA will all be at available for comment at the event.</p> <p>There will also be a presentation about the provision of bus services to Stoke Aldermoor.</p> <p>The meeting is in Coventry Council House at 6pm.</p>"
Night owls and early-bird workers in Coventry are being invited to give their views on public transport at a meeting organised by the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.
9369
0
12
0
New landmark for public transport interchange
2006-01-25T00:00:00
2006-01-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new landmark has been erected at Sandwell & Dudley transport interchange.</p> <p >The striking sculpture of a peacock, made from coloured and textured stainless steel sheets, was designed by local artist Anu Patel to represent the multi-cultured community found in Sandwell, Dudley and across the West Midlands.</p> <p >The introduction of the two metre high sculpture on top of the station's information point is part of public transport promoter Centro's public art programme. The scheme aims to create familiar sights at key public transport points in the West Midlands to help people travel through the region</p> <p >Councillor Roger Horton, PTA lead member for Sandwell, explains: "Landmarks like this help to raise people's pride in their local area, and help people to navigate their way around the public transport network.</p> <p >"This eye-catching sculpture of a peacock brilliantly reflects Sandwell and Dudley's multi-cultural community and enhances to the appearance of this important public transport interchange."</p> <p>"The symbol of the peacock seems appropriate as it has references made to it in many of the world cultures," explains Anu. "My intention was to create a work of art that people from all walks of life and across the ages can appreciate and take pleasure in."</p>"
A new landmark has been erected at Sandwell & Dudley transport interchange.
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peacock.jpg
0
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Options discussed for town interchange
2006-01-25T00:00:00
2006-01-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A cold and windswept wait for the bus could become a thing of the past for passengers in Stourbridge town centre if plans to improve the bus station get the green light.</p> <p >Local councillors will be discussing options for the busy interchange at an Area Committee meeting this week (Monday 30 January - but see below).  State of the art facilities are likely to include enclosed waiting areas, with automatic doors that open when the bus has arrived.  There would also be safety equipment such as CCTV and airport-style departure screens for the 35 routes and more than 600 buses per day.</p> <p >West Midlands public transport promoter Centro is to present alternative layouts for a £3.5m development to Monday's meeting, before taking ideas forward to its policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority later in the year.</p> <p >""The existing bus station functions well, but it is really not a great deal more than a collection of shelters,"" comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  ""The people of Stourbridge certainly deserve better and this sort of facility will help make public transport much more attractive,"" he adds.</p> <p >Similar Centro developments such as those at Wednesbury and West Bromwich have been very successful in recent years and have been warmly welcomed by passengers.</p> <p >Ultimately, Stourbridge bus station could be relocated depending on the outcome of plans for major town centre redevelopment - but Centro-PTA bosses have decided to press on with more immediate improvements because of the urgent need for better passenger facilities.  Any future relocation of the bus station would expect to be funded, at least in part, by the wider redevelopment.</p> <p ><em><strong>Please note:</strong> this meeting was cancelled due to a problem with the venue.  The discussion will go ahead at the re-scheduled date to be advised.</em></p>"
A cold and windswept wait for the bus could become a thing of the past for passengers in Stourbridge town centre if plans to improve the bus station get the green light.
9369
0
12
0
"Black Country bus, train and tram travel on the increase"
2006-01-23T00:00:00
2006-01-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More people are travelling into Wolverhampton by bus, train and tram, according to latest statistics released this week.</p> <p>The annual report by public transport promoter Centro shows the city is now beating its Government target for persuading commuters out of their cars in the morning rush hour.  Some 30.1 per cent of passengers used public transport, compared to a Local Transport Plan target of 29 per cent.</p> <p>"This shows we are heading in the right direction in our campaign to cut congestion," says Cllr Paul Allen, vice chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets Centro policy.  "Improving public transport has to be the way forward for the city."</p> <p>Centro's figures show a 6.5 per cent increase in bus passengers heading for Wolverhampton city centre in the morning peak.  Rail trips were up by almost 20 per cent and Midland Metro figures grew by nearly three per cent.  In contrast, the number of cars on the road fell slightly.</p> <p>Elsewhere in the Black Country, the proportion of rush hour passengers using public transport grew in West Bromwich.  The town has now met its target, although this was against a background of falling bus and car trips.  Walsall met its target last year, with 31 per cent of commuters using the bus and train.</p> <p>Dudley and Brierley Hill both had lower levels of public transport use.  This is expected to improve considerably once the Midland Metro is extended to serve the area and following improvements to Dudley bus station.  Dudley is however still making good progress to meet its Government target of 16 per cent by the 2006 deadline.</p>"
"More people are travelling into Wolverhampton by bus, train and tram, according to latest statistics released this week."
9369
0
12
0
West Mids rail figures hit all-time high
2006-01-23T00:00:00
2006-01-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The number of people travelling by train in the West Midlands has hit an all-time high of almost 30 million passengers a year.</p> <p>Figures released this week by Centro, the region's public transport promotion and development body, are expected to fuel calls for greater Government investment in expanding the network.</p> <p>Local politicians complain that investment decisions are often biased towards London commuter services, even though passenger growth in the West Midlands outstrips that of the South East.</p> <p>There were more than 29.3 million passenger train journeys taken in the West Midlands last year, an increase of seven per cent, according to the Annual Statistical Report compiled by Centro.  It is the fifth year on year increase in a row and comes despite the continuing poor performance of local rail services, particularly those operated by Central Trains.  Passenger numbers on local Centro-supported services also grew faster than long-distance services.</p> <p>"The fact that we are seeing such high levels of growth despite the fall in reliability shows there is massive demand for regional rail services," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>Such major growth in rail last year led to the revelation that public transport had become the dominant mode of travel during the Birmingham rush hour.  For the first time, morning peak passengers on buses, trains and trams out-numbered motorists stuck in traffic jams.</p> <p>Outside the rush hour, the number of people arriving at Birmingham city centre rail stations has also increased.  More than 71,000 passengers used Centro-supported and Chiltern Railways services on a typical weekday.  The figure will be even higher when long-distance passengers are added in.  Shopping developments such as the Bull Ring are believed to be behind the increase – although evening patronage also increased significantly to its highest level in five years.</p> <p>These latest statistics reveal that Government-set Local Transport Plan targets for encouraging public transport use have also been met or exceeded in Wolverhampton, West Bromwich and Walsall. </p> <p>In Wolverhampton 30.1 per cent of rush hour journeys are now on public transport, compared to a target of 29 per cent.  More than a third of commuters into West Bromwich now travel by bus, train or Midland Metro, where the public transport share of 34.3 per cent is now 1.3 per cent above the target level.  Walsall had already beat its Government target of 31 per cent last year.</p> <p>"All this shows our plans are on the right track and underlines the growing importance of rail services and other modes of public transport in tackling congestion in the region," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>A consultation exercise carried out on behalf of all West Midlands councils recently showed public transport improvements to be the main concern among local people, environmental groups and businesses.  The largest number of responses to independent research listed 'work towards better rail services' among their top four priorities.</p> <p>Centro's annual statistics also show significant growth in use of the congestion-busting park and ride schemes and in sales of multi-operator bus and rail tickets.  There has been a stemming of the decline in concessionary travel with 102 million trips by pass holders in 2004/05.  Although bus patronage generally has continued to fall in line with national trends, the West Midlands now has the highest level of bus use of any metropolitan area – almost forty percent higher than in Manchester for example.</p> <p>"The continued decline in bus passenger numbers is a matter of concern nevertheless and we are taking a fresh look at how best to promote growth in this area with local councils and bus companies during the coming year," comments Cllr Clarke.</p>"
The number of people travelling by train in the West Midlands has hit an all-time high of almost 30 million passengers a year.
9369
0
12
0
Passengers meeting to hear of rail improvements
2006-01-19T00:00:00
2006-01-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Improvements to rail facilities in a rapidly-expanding area of Solihull go on show next week.</p> <p >Commuters attending a public transport users meeting will be able to see the details of a 150 per cent increase in the number of park and ride spaces at Whitlocks End.</p> <p >The £500,000 improvements are to be carried out by public transport promoter Centro and will add 68 new spaces to the car park which is already full on most weekdays.</p> <p >At Tuesday's meeting councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, will announce that building work is to start by the end of this month.</p> <p >"This is great news – particularly for people living in the expanding new village of Dickens Heath," says Cllr Les Kyles, the PTA member who will chair the meeting.</p> <p >Members of the public can raise any issues about public transport at the meeting, which will also be attended by representatives from Solihull Council and bus and rail companies.  It is one of a number of such meetings organised by the PTA across the West Midlands to give passengers a greater voice.</p> <p >"Our goal is to champion improvements to public transport across Solihull and the West Midlands," adds Cllr Kyles.  "The Transport Users Advisory Committee is a chance for passengers who share our aim to speak to decision makers and to raise issues face-to-face with public transport operators."</p> <p>The meeting takes place on Tuesday 24 January, at 6pm in Solihull council offices.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> <a href=""http://www.solihull-online.com/dheath.htm"" target=""_blank"">Dickens Heath page on solihull-online.com</a></em></p>"
Improvements to rail facilities in a rapidly-expanding area of Solihull go on show next week. Commuters attending a public transport users meeting will be able to see the details of a 150 per cent increase in the number of park and ride spaces at Whitlocks End.
9369
0
12
0
Action on unreliable bus service
2006-01-19T00:00:00
2006-01-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Action has been taken to improve bus services in Sandwell as transport companies take time to listen to the most knowledgeable people on the subject, the local travelling public.</p> <p >Following a public forum organised by local councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority steps are being taken to improve a notoriously unreliable bus service.</p> <p >At the Sandwell Public Transport Users Forum, in which residents were given the opportunity to air their views on local buses, trains and the Metro to transport bosses, people raised their concerns about the regularity of the 644 West Bromwich to Tipton service.  This often left passengers stranded for up to an hour, they said. Bus company Travel West Midlands has now agreed to put an extra vehicle on the route.</p> <p >Councillor Roger Horton, lead member for public transport for Sandwell, says: "This proves that transport companies are willing to listen to customers and put things right.</p> <p >This is just one of a number of success stories that has resulted from similar meetings across the region organised by Centro and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >"Transport users are our eyes and ears in uncovering problems with the buses, trains and Metro and I'd encourage local residents to come along to these meetings and have their say on any public transport issues they may have," Cllr Horton adds.</p> <p >Sandwell residents are now being given the chance to bring up any more areas of public transport concern they may have at the next Sandwell Transport Users Forum which will be taking place on Wednesday 25 January at 6pm in the Professional Learning Centre, Owen House, Owen Street, Tipton.  Local people will also be given an update on the progress of issues raised in the last meeting.</p> <p>All local residents are invited to attend and pose questions to representatives from the major bus and train companies, the Midland Metro operator, public transport promoter Centro and Passenger Transport Authority councillors.</p>"
"Action has been taken to improve bus services in Sandwell as transport companies take time to listen to the most knowledgeable people on the subject, the local travelling public."
9369
0
12
0
Public transport top of West Mids congestion-busting wish list
2006-01-12T00:00:00
2006-01-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Improvements to public transport are top of the shopping list for people in the West Midlands when asked how the region should tackle the growing problem of congestion.</p> <p>Better rail services and extensions to the bus showcase and Midland Metro networks all scored highly, as almost nine out of ten people said they believed more should be done to avoid a future gridlock.</p> <p>Of more than 5,000 people who responded to the consultation on the draft Local Transport Plan, 88 per cent favour doing more to tackle congestion – which costs the region's businesses £2.6 billion per year.</p> <p>And three quarters of those who responded feel that the West Midlands should consider the pros and cons of a variety of options for tackling congestion, including charging those who drive on congested roads at the busiest times and introducing flexible working hours to reduce peak flows of traffic. Residents, environmental groups and businesses were amongst those consulted by independent researchers.</p> <p>Bus Showcase routes use the latest advances in travel technology to make traveling on buses easier for passengers.   A large majority (83 per cent) of people questioned are in favour of extending the Bus Showcase network.   A growing number (79 per cent) were also in favour of expanding the Midland Metro tram network across Birmingham and the Black Country.</p> <p>The consultation also asked people to prioritise, from a list of 14 options, which transport improvements they feel are the most important. The priorities for respondents are:</p> <ul> <li> <div align=""left"">Work towards better rail services – 50 per cent rank this in their top four transport priorities</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Spend more on highway maintenance – 43 per cent rank it as a top four priority</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Extend the Midland Metro tram network – 40 per cent rank it as a top four priority</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Extend the Bus Showcase network – 38 per cent rank it as a top four priority</div> </li> </ul> <p>The results of this consultation have now been incorporated into the draft final West Midlands Local Transport Plan (LTP). This important strategy document, used by the Government to decide future funding levels for transport, will now be considered by all the Metropolitan Authorities, starting with the West Midlands Planning and Transportation sub-committee on January 13. The final, approved, LTP 2006 will be submitted to Government in March this year.</p> <p>Cllr Roger Lawrence, the West Midlands Transport Champion, said: 'It is heartening to see that many of the transport improvements proposed in the West Midlands Local Transport Plan have such high levels of public support. West Midlands residents are telling us they wish to see more done to tackle congestion. Their views confirm the challenge we face.' </p> <p>He added: 'More and more cars are using our roads and the region is predicted to have to cope with more than 165 million extra journeys by 2011. If we don't address this, gridlock looms. It's why we've started a process of debate, consultation and research to look longer term at all the potential solutions to our traffic problems.'</p> <p>The West Midlands LTP sets out more than £1bn worth of measures to reduce traffic congestion, improve public transport and make the best use of the roads and rail network across all the Metropolitan Authorities in the West Midlands.</p> <p>Last November, £2.6million was granted to the seven West Midlands Metropolitan Authorities from the Government's Transport Innovation Fund (TIF). This money will be used to carry out an in-depth feasibility study into traffic congestion and possible solutions.</p>"
Improvements to public transport are top of the shopping list for people in the West Midlands when asked how the region should tackle the growing problem of congestion.
9369
0
12
0
Hidden cameras to catch bus shelter vandals
2006-01-10T00:00:00
2006-01-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus shelter hooligans in the West Midlands could be 'named and shamed' following the installation of secret cameras at some of the region's worst vandalism hot spots.</p> <p>Councillors frustrated by the continual cost of repairing the damage have approved the trial of a new high-tech security system for Centro's showcase shelters.  The plan was agreed at this week's committee meeting of the Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>A similar scheme in Yorkshire has been claimed to cut bus shelter vandalism by three-quarters and has already led to a number of criminal prosecutions.</p> <p>"It's certainly a big challenge – but if we can stamp out graffiti and vandalism it will be an enormous step forward in making public transport more attractive," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "We know that people are put off from travelling by bus because of a perception that they are unsafe.  Even if this perception is wrong, we have to do something about it, " he says.</p> <p>Replacing broken glass currently costs more than £200,000 a year – but most of that is a result of damage at a tiny proportion of Centro's 5,000 bus shelters across the West Midlands.</p> <p>Showcase shelters are inspected six days a week.  Any broken glass is generally cleaned up within two hours and panes replaced by the next day.  Two dedicated teams constantly tour the network cleaning up graffiti and a new roving Police unit has been funded by Centro-PTA through bus shelter advertising.</p> <p>Councillors say the effort is worthwhile to provide for the comfort and safety of more than a million passengers a day.</p> <p>"Bus shelters are important to passengers.  They are public property and we should not give in to the unsocial behaviour of a thoughtless minority," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>To back up the 'get tough' approach, up to eight surveillance cameras will be built into certain bus shelters and video recorded 24 hours a day.  A control centre checks the footage and automatically spots shelter damage or graffiti.  The offenders can then be identified and prosecuted.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro asked its policy-setting body, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, to approve a two-year trial of 25 of the CCTV systems at an initial cost of £62,500.  The spy units would be moved around to different shelters across the West Midlands identified in conjunction with the new Safer Travel Police Team.</p>"
Bus shelter hooligans in the West Midlands could be 'named and shamed' following the installation of secret cameras at some of the region's worst vandalism hot spots.
9369
0
12
0
On the road to a brighter future
2006-01-09T00:00:00
2006-01-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People recovering from mental health problems in Birmingham are being offered help and advice about travelling on public transport.</p> <p >Research has identified transport as a key issue for mental health sufferers in gaining and returning to work, and in taking part in learning and leisure opportunities.</p> <p >A series of road shows has been organised to raise awareness of the problems faced by this disability group when travelling around the region and to look at improvements and solutions.</p> <p >The events are part of the 'All Aboard' project organised by the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Trust and public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p >Sue Ash and Mary Deacon, who are managing the project explain: "Many people experiencing or recovering from mental health problems find it difficult to sustain college courses, find jobs or just get out and about socially, and using transport is often a key factor in this.</p> <p >"The road shows have been organised to help mental health professionals, public transport companies and community agencies such as Job Centres recognise and understand patients concerns about using public transport such as personal safety, anxiety or cost."</p> <p >The road shows will also provide people with useful information about using public transport such as details on how to get concessionary passes and fares, stress management techniques, timetables and route planning.</p> <p >Visitors to the events will be asked to fill out short questionnaires to put forward their views and experiences of public transport and say what would encourage them to use it more frequently. Results will then be used to plan future work to further improve awareness of the needs of this group of people.</p> <p >Cllr Judith Rowley, Lead Member for Diversity and Equality for the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "The road shows are an important step towards improving all areas of life for people with mental health difficulties by improving their access to education, employment, healthcare and leisure activities.</p> <p >"I hope that other community, charity, voluntary groups and public sector organisations apply for help and support from Centro to kick start more projects that will benefit socially excluded people."</p> <p >The road shows are taking place on Tuesday 10 January at Ten Acres Centre, Dogpool Lane, Stirchley and Tuesday 24 January at Ladywood Community Centre, St Vincent St West. People are able to come by on a drop-in basis between 10:30am and 3:00pm. For further details please call 0121 678 2700.</p> <p >The 'All Aboard!' project is partially subsidised by Centro from a fund set up to assist projects to address unmet transport needs for socially excluded groups or communities to help access to either employment, health, education services and/or other social needs.</p>"
People recovering from mental health problems in Birmingham are being offered help and advice about travelling on public transport.
9369
0
12
0
Motoring survey reveals public transport savings
2006-01-05T00:00:00
2006-01-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new survey by the RAC has revealed that the cost of motoring is almost ten times the cost of using public transport in the West Midlands.</p> <p>The average cost of motoring has risen to nearly £5,000 a year for the eight million owners of cars under three years old, according to the breakdown company.</p> <p>In contrast, Centro – the body which promotes public transport in the West Midlands – offers a pass that gives the freedom to use every bus across its area for just £10 a week.  If you want to travel on all the Midland Metro trams and all rail services in Coventry, Birmingham and the Black Country it costs only £5 a week more.</p> <p>The switch to public transport could also reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by around three tonnes per person, according to Government statistics.</p> <p>In its most comprehensive survey of motoring costs, the RAC discovered that the average motorist pays more in interest on their car loan than the cost of a go-anywhere, bus, Metro and train season ticket for the whole of the West Midlands metropolitan area.  (see news analysis below for details of cost comparisons)</p> <p>The environmental lobby group Transport 2000 said that the true costs of motoring should be made much clearer to drivers to help to persuade them to use public transport.</p> <p>Stephen Joseph, the group's director, said: "If there was a meter in each car showing the total costs of car ownership then drivers would be much more inclined to consider catching a bus or cycling.  Bus industry research shows that most people don't even take into account the cost of petrol when deciding to make a car journey.  The cost of parking at their destination is the only thing which registers."</p> <p>In the West Midlands, Centro provides free car parking at 40 rail and Metro stations.  It's park and ride scheme is calculated to take more than 2.5 million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p>"
A new survey by the RAC has revealed that the cost of motoring is almost ten times the cost of using public transport in the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Solar power adds to passenger safety
2006-01-04T00:00:00
2006-01-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A plan to help make the bus network safer and easier to use in the evening is set to be approved by West Midlands councillors.</p> <p>It means hundreds of extra bus shelters will be fitted with lighting over the coming years – so that passengers waiting for the bus can be seen more clearly.  They will also have enough light to read new improved timetable information.</p> <p>In the latest move, almost 200 Centro bus shelters are to be fitted with solar-powered lighting.</p> <p>"Our ultimate aim is for all bus shelters in the West Midlands to be fitted with lighting," says Cllr Len Clark, lead member for buses on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  "This new shelter initiative means we can make faster progress on passenger comfort and safety in a way that also delivers value for money."</p> <p>The solar-powered units have the added advantage that pavements around the shelter will not need to be dug up to install electricity cables and they are cheaper too, according to the report to next Monday's (9 January) meeting of the PTA's key committee.</p> <p>The cost will be £242,000 and will be paid for out of Government funding and the money raised by Centro from bus shelter advertising.  Solar-powered lighting, which recharges its batteries during the day to light the shelter at night, costs £600 less than a mains-powered unit and can save about £100 a year in electricity bills per shelter.</p>"
A plan to help make the bus network safer and easier to use in the evening is set to be approved by West Midlands councillors.
9369
0
12
0
Centro-PTA Review of the Year 2005
2005-12-29T00:00:00
2005-12-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>�</p> <p>Each <span style=""text-decoration: underline;"">link</span> is to the relevant news story or background item. These open in the same window - so use the ��button to return to the Review of the Year each time.</p> <h1 align=""left"">January</h1> <p>The year began with Centro commissioning a substantial survey of bus and train passengers in Birmingham City Centre, one of the biggest reviews of public transport users completed in the last ten years. The <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17669.aspx"">study</a> was done to help public transport bosses plan future bus networks, rail services and the expansion of the Midland Metro.</p> <p>Benefits started to be felt from Centro's deal with advertising company Adshel, after last year selling the company advertising rights to its 5,000 shelters across the region. As a direct result of the agreement, <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17674.aspx"">£70 million</a> will be pumped into bus services over the next ten years, starting with the improvement of five major Wolverhampton bus services by the end of January.</p> <p>As in 2004, information on the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17671.aspx"">Midland Metro expansion</a> has featured heavily in the news in 2005, beginning in January when design work took place on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill route. The eight-week investigation into the land on which the new tram tracks will run was performed to ensure that design, construction and operation were as well prepared for as possible.</p> <h1 align=""left"">February</h1> <p>February saw proposals for a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17683.aspx"">£10 million</a> improvement of Birmingham's second busiest rail station approved. Snow Hill station will now have a second entrance built at the northern end of the station by the Jewellery Quarter. WMPTA (West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority) councillors agreed there was a good business case for the scheme, and proposed that the work will make a difference to approximately half a million journeys a year.</p> <p>Also this month, the Strategic Rail Authority published the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17691.aspx"">West Midlands Route Utilisation Strategy</a> in an attempt to make better use of existing trains and tracks. Centro hopes that the proposals outlined in the report will mean more trains and a better co-ordinated timetable for passengers, but criticised the lack of investment in the plan.</p> <h1 align=""left"">March</h1> <p>During the 2004 - 2005 financial year, Centro had allocated a budget of £25m to spend on improving facilities and new developments in the region's transport infrastructure, and figures in March showed that Centro was on track to do just this.</p> <p><a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17696.aspx"">£8 million</a> was spent on work to expand the Midland Metro, with more money spent on the completion of a new bus station at Wednesbury, and rail park and ride interchanges at Smethwick and Blake Street, Sutton Coldfield. Work had also begun on construction at Stourbridge Junction and the refurbishment of Wolverhampton bus station was nearing completion.</p> <p>Plans were unveiled to have <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17702.aspx"">Braille and tactile signage</a> introduced to all Centro operated bus stations across the region to make travelling by public transport easier for blind and partially sighted passengers.</p> <p><a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17703.aspx"">Bilston Bus Station</a> had a double treat this month, not only was it having it's signage updated, but the whole Station was having a makeover thanks to a £489,000 input from Centro. This will include easy access kerbing, speed calming measures and upgraded CCTV facilities among other improvements.</p> <h1 align=""left"">April</h1> <p>April was a busy month for public transport in the West Midlands. Plans for new Metro lines in the Midlands got a boost when an influential group of MPs pushed for Whitehall to improve the planning and approval process for light rail schemes. The report from the powerful House of Commons Transport Committee found that tram schemes in the UK can take up to 15 years to deliver compared to four or five years elsewhere in Europe.� The report was <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17711.aspx"">backed by Centro</a> and councillors on the WMPTA, as they reinforce the approach already being taken locally into the new Metro development.</p> <p>Following the demise of Rover at <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17724.aspx"">Longbridge</a>, Centro and the WMPTA stepped in to offer their support to former Rover workers by campaigning to improve their job prospects. The transport bosses hope to improve public transport services to the South-West Birmingham areas where many of the former workers live, helping to improve its economic prosperity.</p> <p>""Many studies have shown that there is a strong link between the quality of an area's transport and its economic prosperity � and this is where we can help,"" said PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. ""Investment in public transport can help make this part of the West Midlands more attractive to new employers and increase the mobility of the workers now seeking new jobs.""</p> <p>The One Day Busmaster ticket, promoted by Centro, really took off in its first seven months, with sales increasing by almost 400 per cent over this period. The day ticket allows passengers to hop on and off buses run by different operators in the West Midlands, helping to cut costs for people who have to use more than one bus to complete a journey.</p> <p>A new <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17720.aspx"">park and ride facility</a> was opened in Hall Green, cutting a potential 2.5 million car journeys a year from the region's congested roads together with other schemes. A newly extended free car park means commuters can simply hop on the train for a ten minute journey into the city centre, avoiding parking problems and jams.</p> <h1 align=""left"">May</h1> <p>In May, the way in which elected councillors influence the region's bus, rail and tram networks was altered. The PTA, which sets policy and budgets for Centro and monitors the organisations performance, moved towards the modern style of working adopted by most city and borough councils, replacing the outdated committee structure.</p> <p>The move means that the PTA now has a single key committee with lead members getting more involved in policy development. A scrutiny committee will keep a check on the effectiveness on policy and a new network of district-based Transport User Forums are proposed to involve members of the public across the West Midlands. Previous to this Centro officers had taken the lead in drafting policy reports and then presented them to one of three or more <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17733.aspx"">PTA committees</a> for approval.</p> <p>£150,000 was spent on improvements to a local bus service in Dudley, one of the first local estate bus services to receive a major upgrade. <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17736.aspx"">Route 222</a> now has more buses in the mornings, new shelters, better timetable information and easy access kerbs to help with wheelchairs, buggies and heavy shopping. Nine of the new stops will even use solar power to illuminate timetables and shelters. The improvements were thanks to a new initiative by Centro, and went on to be nominated in bus industry awards for accessibility.</p> <h1 align=""left"">June</h1> <p>June was a positive month for <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17741.aspx"">Midland Metro</a>, when the Government approved plans for trams to run through Birmingham city centre. An order was made under the Transport and Works Act (TWA) giving powers to extend the Metro through city centre streets. In the announcement Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman, said Centro would be granted powers to build and operate a tramline from the existing Midland Metro line one at Snow Hill via New Street, to the ICC, Brindley Place and Five Ways.</p> <p>The announcement received a warm welcome from the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17740.aspx"">business community</a>.</p> <p>This was not the only success for Midland Metro this month. <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17744.aspx"">Celebrations</a> were also taking place for the new Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension, as an agreement signing at Dudley Zoo was a roaring success.</p> <p>Regional <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17760.aspx"">congestion</a> was also hot on the agenda this month, as councillors debated on finding a long-term solution to the problem, which is estimated to be costing the West Midland's economy £2.5 billion a year. In the following months, councillors were set to meet with a range of stake holder groups across the region to discuss transport issues, including the provisional Local Transport Plan which includes plans to make the best use of the West Midlands' road and rail network and improve public transport.</p> <h1 align=""left"">July</h1> <p>Being close to a bus stop, train station or Midland Metro stop is one of the top priorities for people deciding how they feel about their neighbourhood, a poll by <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17754.aspx"">MORI confirmed</a>. Birmingham residents found that good access to public transport is twice as important as having low levels of traffic congestion, and that having bus services nearby was essential to having a better quality of life.</p> <p>In addition to this, using the bus, train and metro became even easier this month for the elderly and disabled when Centro gave out <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17757.aspx"">free off-peak travel passes</a> to people over the age of 60 and the disabled. This came nine months ahead of the start of Gordon Brown's initiative to give free bus travel to the over 60s.</p> <p>Centro also <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17771.aspx"">backed plans</a> to ease the congested rail network by using longer trains during peak times, and extending off peak services to reflect new passenger growth forecasts. The proposals were published in the Route Utilisation Strategy for the West Midlands from the Strategic Rail Authority. Centro also supported plans to offer fare incentives to spread the rush hour, but contested proposals to end passenger services between Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p> <p>Furthermore, July saw the introduction of the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17758.aspx"">Safer Travel Police Team</a> on the region's buses, working in partnership with Centro and the PTA. The scheme aims to reassure the public of the safety of bus travel and will include six PCs, 20 Police Community Support Officers and two Sergeants.</p> <h1 align=""left"">August</h1> <p>Work on improving Metro access in West Bromwich began in August with the installation of a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17762.aspx"">new ramp</a> at the Lodge Road stop. The £400,000 ramp was put in by Centro-PTA as part of an aim to widen transport access, and means that passengers can get on the Metro at Victoria Street, closer to the centre of West Bromwich and a new retail park.</p> <p>Bus stop improvements featured highly in the news this month, initially with the opening of the new <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17775.aspx"">£2.1m Wolverhampton bus station</a>. The station includes electronic bus departure boards plus a new waiting area for coach passengers and toilets in the historic Queens Building on Pipers Row.</p> <p>Following this Centro announced that it is going to spend <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17772.aspx"">£7 million</a> on ensuring that timetable and route information is available at every bus stop over the next three years. At main interchanges the improved information will help passengers find their way and make connections with other forms of public transport. This was previously the responsibility of the bus companies, but after finding that only 20 per cent of stops had any information at all, Centro and the PTA decided to take charge. It is hoped that this will help plans for Birmingham to have a network of public transport services to rival London and Paris.</p> <h1 align=""left"">September</h1> <p>In September Centro-PTA ran a number of campaigns to try to save the threatened Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service. Buy one get one free tickets to Walsall Illuminations were offered to travellers on the rail route to attempt to encourage more people to use the service. And, during the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17784.aspx"">Walsall Fun Run</a>, supporters of the rail route handed out leaflets in the hope that it may increase the number of users.</p> <p>Later in the month, Centro and Local councillors unveiled a new <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17787.aspx"">poster campaign</a>, with leaflets and newspaper adverts, to inform the public that the 13-minute journey is far quicker and cheaper than travelling by bus.</p> <p>Since the campaigns, the service has now been given a reprieve until October 2007, and Centro-PTA is continuing to urge commuters to use the rail link.</p> <p>This was not the only campaign launched by Centro this month to encourage people to use public transport. The organisation offered <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17785.aspx"">free travel on local buses</a>, trains and trams for 'in town without my car day' on 22 September as part of a major international green campaign. People who pledged to leave their car at home for the day could apply for a free one day travel pass on the Centro website.1350 commuters took them up on the offer, helping to reduce city congestion and pollution for the day.</p> <p>And, as the threat of more fuel protests loomed, Centro revealed that the West Midland's park and ride schemes are helping to <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17783.aspx"">reduce the demand for petrol</a>, in turn saving more than 80 tankers of fuel each year. This was also linked to the current high prices of petrol and the extremely congested West Midlands roads in an attempt to encourage people out of their cars and to use public transport instead.</p> <h1 align=""left"">October</h1> <p>Transport Minister Derek Twigg opened one of the region's largest jam-busting schemes in October at Stourbridge Junction rail station. The new <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17800.aspx"">£2.7 million</a> park and ride facility is the latest edition to a Centro-PTA programme which is calculated to take more than 2.5 million car journeys a year off the West Midlands' congested roads.</p> <p>Work also began by Coventry City Council to build a new link road underneath the Whittle Arches to connect Hales Street with the city's <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17795.aspx"">Pool Meadow Bus Station</a>. Use of the bus station had dwindled because of access problems and this new link helps to assure the future of the facility.</p> <p>After announcing in July that Centro was to issue free travel passes to all over 60s, the organisation revealed in October that over <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17801.aspx"">40,000 people</a> were benefiting from the scheme.</p> <p>Later in the month, <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17802.aspx"">Birmingham City Council</a> reaffirmed its support for city centre street trams after a study showed that an underground plan would not meet Government funding criteria. The tram proposals were further supported after a survey by the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) was published which said that the only way to prevent gridlock in the West Midlands is by providing better public transport.</p> <h1 align=""left"">November</h1> <p>The West Midlands was one of seven conurbations that put in a successful bid for Transport Innovation Funding to develop innovative schemes to tackle congestion, including work on the feasibility of road pricing.</p> <p>The region received one of the highest amounts of pump priming funding of £2.6 million, more than double the amount requested. The money will be used to conduct a West Midlands feasibility study on <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17816.aspx"">tackling congestion</a>, including road pricing, by the end of the year, and could be followed by a larger bid for Government funding to set up a road pricing pilot. It was stressed, however, that a London style congestion charge was not an option but a pay-as-you-drive system would be more likely, should the proposal go ahead.</p> <h1 align=""left"">December</h1> <p>December was a superb month for the Midland Metro, with a number of occurrences backing the region's bid for more tramlines, even though other light-rail projects across the UK had Government funding withdrawn.</p> <p>At the beginning of the month, Centro revealed that the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17821.aspx"">Midland Metro expansion</a> is expected to show a benefit-cost ratio of between 1.5 and 2.0 when the business case is submitted to the Department for Transport early next year.</p> <p>Centro also announced that local councillors have <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17819.aspx"">approved</a> the replacement of existing Midland Metro trams to a new higher-capacity fleet for the expanded network. Bigger trams are already needed as the current vehicles running into Birmingham Snow Hill are struggling to cope with rush hour demand. Calculations show that replacing all trams would save money when compared against waiting for the mid-life refurbishment of existing vehicles due in 2010.</p> <p>Later in December an <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17826.aspx"">agreement</a> was signed between Dudley Council and Centro to define their roles in funding, construction, operation and maintenance of the 11km new Metro route from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley town centre and the Merry Hill centre.</p> <p>Finally, local councillors approved the final stages of the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17817.aspx"">Outer Circle Showcase Project</a>. The £17 million scheme from Centro, Birmingham City Council and Sandwell MBC has already improved a number of the vital bus route's shelters and stops and has seen brand new low-level buses being introduced. From March next year the rest of the shelters under the responsibility of Centro will be improved, including CCTV installation at interchanges, and by March 2007 Real Time Information will be provided at stops and via text message and internet so travellers know exactly when buses are due. Travel West Midlands will fit all the Outer Circle buses with satellite tracking devices so the information is precise and to avoid the notorious bunching of buses on the route.</p> <p>�</p>"
A month by month guide to the big stories in West Midlands public transport - with links to all the background
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Rail strike cancellation welcomed
2005-12-23T00:00:00
2005-12-23T00:00:00
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"<div>The chairman of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority has welcomed the cancellation of two threatened Christmas and New Year one day rail strikes.</div> <div> </div> <div>The news follows a high level meeting between PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and Vice-Chair Cllr Paul Allen, with Central Trains boss Steve Banaghan yesterday.  Cllr Clarke spoke up for passenger and local business interests and urged the two parties to solve their differences as soon as possible to minimise disruption to the travelling public over the festive period.</div> <div> </div> <div>""I am very pleased that an agreement between Central Trains and the RMT has now been reached, and this strike action has been called off,"" he says.</div> <div> </div> <div>""Our survey of passengers in previous years has shown that public transport has an important role in helping to bring families and friends together during the Christmas holidays - as well as get to the shops, and I'm delighted that rail conductors decision not to strike has restored a season of goodwill.""</div> <div> </div> <div>The action was called off yesterday evening following talks between Central Trains, part of the National Express Group, and the RMT union which represents conductors.</div> <div> </div>"
The chairman of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority has welcomed the cancellation of two threatened Christmas and New Year one day rail strikes.
9369
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New solution put forward for Walsall-Brownhills transport
2005-12-23T00:00:00
2005-12-23T00:00:00
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"<p>A new type of bus could be the answer for public transport problems in North East Walsall.</p> <p>The futuristic 'bus that thinks it's a tram' is being suggested by public transport promoter Centro as a possible improvement for a route between Walsall town centre, Brownhills and Burntwood. </p> <p>It could use a mixture of an old railway line, with on-street sections in the town centre and along Norton Road and Pelsall Road to Brownhills.  From there, an old railway line would be turned into a busway before picking up the road again to reach Burntwood and Chase Terrace.</p> <p>The ambitious plan is just an idea at the moment – but councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority are being asked to agree for the proposals to be investigated.</p> <p>"This is certainly an idea worth considering," comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "The initial work by Centro has shown that there could be a business case to secure Government funding and that it would bring a better service for passengers – so I think we should look at it."</p> <p>The Walsall to Brownhills corridor is classed as an area of high demand for public transport and has previously been earmarked for phase three of the Midland Metro tram network.  A more recent study by Centro, the public body which implements PTA policy, has explored all public transport options and the results of this study are being presented to councillors at a meeting in the New Year (Monday 9 January).</p> <p>Consultants found that the number of passengers would not be high enough to justify the significant expense of building a rail or Metro link at the moment.  They also investigated the  idea of an ultra-light rail system such as the Parry People Mover gas-powered tram being tested on a route in Stourbridge - but this still did not have enough passenger demand and could create problems for future heavy rail use of the old track alignment.</p> <p>Only the option of Bus Rapid Transit – sometimes called 'the bus that thinks it's a tram' – was considered worth pursuing for the next stage of the study.  This will also look at options for upgrading conventional bus routes.</p> <p>A fully-segregated busway would not be cost-effective, councillors are told, but a mixture of busway and street-running could just about clear the Department for Transport funding hurdles.  It could work if the new super-bus was integrated with existing services and then provided faster journey times for passengers.</p> <p>"There are a lot of question still to be answered," comments Cllr Clarke.  "We need a thorough study of the options to find solutions that will be both good news for passengers and value for money for Council tax payers."</p>"
"The futuristic 'bus that thinks it's a tram' is being suggested by public transport promoter Centro as a possible improvement for a route between Walsall town centre, Brownhills and Burntwood."
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Car park astronomically good for stargazers
2005-12-22T00:00:00
2005-12-22T00:00:00
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"<p >A West Midlands Car Park has been named as a top spot for stargazers.</p> <p >The British Astronomical Association has presented an award to public transport promoter Centro for the astronomically friendly design of the car park at Stourbridge Junction, as part of its Campaign for Dark Skies.</p> <p >The Campaign aims to preserve and restore the beauty of the night sky by protesting against inefficient and irresponsible lighting that shines where it is not wanted or needed. They claim that not only is more responsible lighting easy to achieve and cost effective, but also helps to eradicate the orange mist that hangs over towns and cities at night, destroying the view of the star-lit sky.</p> <p >Only using lighting where needed can also reduce global warming by cutting down on the millions pounds worth of electricity being wasted each year in the UK through poor illumination.</p> <p >Martyn Filsak, local officer (Stourbridge) for the British Astronomical Association's Campaign for Dark Skies said: 'It is regrettable that many people, especially in towns and cities, install lighting which is not environmentally friendly and implicates those who get enjoyment from viewing the night sky through light pollution.</p> <p >'We are delighted to be giving this award to Centro for their unimposing, considerate lighting at Stourbridge Junction park and ride and we hope that other developers and designers in Birmingham, and across Britain will follow their example.</p> <p >Project Manager Duncan Fry was responsible for managing the extension of the award winning car park at Stourbridge Junction, which opened in June this year, and is one of the biggest park and ride facilities in the West Midlands. Of the award he said: "We are very pleased to receive this honour from the British Astronomical Association.</p> <p >'The lighting in the new car park at Stourbridge Junction park and ride has been specifically designed to face downwards so as not to create excess glare into the night sky. We chose environmentally friendly lighting and design in principle so as not to disturb our neighbours, but we are very pleased that local astronomers in the area will also benefit from the sympathetic illumination.'</p> <p >This is not the first time the West Midlands park and ride facilities have been celebrated for being environmentally friendly. Earlier this year it was revealed that some 2.5million car journeys have been taken off the road due to the schemes saving over 80 tankers of fuel a year.</p> <p>The award comes at a particularly exciting time for stargazers with a spectacular meteor shower called <a href=""http://www.britastro.org/meteor/index.html#OBSERVING%20PROSPECTS"" target=""_blank"">Ursids</a> peaking on the date the award was granted. It promises to be particularly impressive this year due to its location in the sky and an unobtrusive moon.</p> <p><em><strong>Link: </strong></em> <a href=""http://www.britastro.org/dark-skies/index.html"" target=""_blank""><em><strong>Campaign for Dark Skies website</strong></em></a></p>"
"A West Midlands Car Park has been named as a top spot for stargazers. The British Astronomical Association has presented an award to public transport promoter Centro for the astronomically friendly design of the car park at Stourbridge Junction, as part of its Campaign for Dark Skies."
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Festive transport keeps on running
2005-12-22T00:00:00
2005-12-22T00:00:00
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"<p>People in the West Midlands will be able to use buses and Metro trams every day except Christmas Day throughout the festive period, Centro has announced.</p> <p>There is just one day off Christmas Day for the bus and tram network and a two-day scheduled break for the railway.</p> <p>Bus and tram companies in the metropolitan area will be operating with amended timetables and there will be extra subsidised services to keep the buses running on both Boxing Day and New Years Day.</p> <p>Until recent years there had been no buses in the West Midlands on Boxing Day, but intervention by public transport promoter Centro has led to dramatic improvements for passengers. The publicly-funded body paid for the setting up of a service pattern and much of this has now been taken over by a bus company which runs the services commercially. Centro still subsidises some essential routes to provide the West Midlands with a more complete network on Boxing Day and pays for all the buses in Coventry on New Years Day.</p> <p>Although there will be no trains, more than 120 bus routes plus the Midland Metro will be running on Boxing Day.</p> <p>The rail industry has chosen the holiday period to carry out major engineering works at New Street Station. This will mean disruption to the timetable, but services will keep running or be replaced by buses.</p> <p>A dispute between rail unions and operator Central Trains, part of the National Express Group, could lead to further disruption with strikes threatened for 27 December and 1-2 January. Centro-PTA is urging both sides to try and resolve their differences as soon as possible to avoid any additional inconvenience to passengers. PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke held an urgent meeting earlier today with Central Trains boss Steve Banaghan to press the case on behalf of passengers. <em>(see news analysis below for update)</em></p>"
"People in the West Midlands will be able to use buses and Metro trams every day except Christmas Day throughout the festive period, Centro has announced."
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Lucky numbers for community transport project
2005-12-20T00:00:00
2005-12-20T00:00:00
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"<p>A community transport project, which was set up with support from Centro-PTA, is to keep on running after it received a major grant from the National lottery.</p> <p>The award of more than £260,000 from the Big Lottery Fund has guaranteed a further three years for the West Midlands Prison Visiting Transport Service. The service provides 5,000 minibus journeys a year for West Midlands family members to those prisons which are hardest to reach by public transport.</p> <p>It was first set up after Centro made a funding bid to the Government's Urban Bus Challenge.  When this funding ended in April 2005, the West Midlands public transport promoter stepped in to plug the gap, along with support from the Lankelly Chase charitable trust, the Bryant Trust and other sources.</p> <p>""Our goal is to provide the West Midlands with a comprehensive public transport system and arranging funding for socially necessary services is key to this,"" comments Cllr Judith Rowley of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>""The prison visiting service is a dramatic example of how important public transport links can be in keeping families together,"" she adds.</p> <p>The service is run by the national charity Community Transport.  A good example of the benefits for people is given by "Annie" from Birmingham (name changed) who has a daughter of toddler age.   Before she used the service, it was taking her all day and three changes of bus to make a round trip of 100 miles into Shropshire - something the two of them could only manage once a week.</p> <p>The Prison Visiting Transport Service cut the time needed so that she could do the journey three times a week.   That meant precious contact time for baby and father.   On release, a strong family relationship has been a key part of his successful rehabilitation into the community.</p> <p>""Keeping families together is what we are all about"", said Annamarie Balram, Community Transport's Development Manager for the service. ""If we can help people keep in contact, it's a huge plus in preventing family breakdown and reducing the possibility of further re-offending. A third of our trips are for children - their futures are important too. The service is winning increasing recognition within the Prison Service, and now we'll be working on plans to roll the service out to other parts of the UK.""</p>"
"A community transport project, which was set up with support from Centro-PTA, is to keep on running after it received a major grant from the National lottery."
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Reaction to lack of trains on Sunday 18 December
2005-12-16T00:00:00
2005-12-16T00:00:00
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"<p>Reacting to the news that there will almost no Central Trains services in the West Midlands metropolitan area this Sunday, Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which represents passenger and local interests, said:</p> <p>""This news has come out of the blue and I am extremely disappointed.  It will cause significant disruption on what could have been the busiest Sunday of the year for local trains services with thousands of people heading to the city and town centres for Christmas shopping.""</p> <p>""I would urge Central Trains, ASLEF and the drivers to resolve their differences as soon as possible to ensure there is no future similar disruption at such short notice.""</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has been trying to win new passengers to the railways and is in the midst of an advertising campaign urging people to use the train for their Christmas shopping in Birmingham.</p>"
Comment by Centro-PTA
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Agreement sealed for Dudley town centre trams
2005-12-16T00:00:00
2005-12-16T00:00:00
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"<p>A crucial agreement to extend the Midland Metro tram network through Dudley is to be finalised this week.</p> <p>It means the ambitious £200m project is now one step closer to becoming reality.  The route has been given the green light by the Government and public transport promoter Centro aims to submit the business case early next year.</p> <p>Dudley Borough Council has now completed an agreement with Centro to define their respective roles in funding, construction, operation and maintenance of the 11km route from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley town centre and the Merry Hill Centre.</p> <p>"Signing this major agreement with Dudley cements the determination of both parties to deliver this important transport and regeneration project scheme to people in the Black Country as soon as possible," says Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>One aspect of the agreement concerns Dudley Council's role as the local highway and planning authority.  A design guide has been approved to smooth the way for detailed aspects of the tram stops to receive planning permission, for example.  "Removing as much risk and uncertainty as possible at this stage of the project will help is to keep the construction price lower and make sure everyone gets value for money," adds Cllr Horton.</p> <p>Three-quarters of the cost would come from Government and current studies show the expansion of the Midland Metro is likely to deliver up to £2 of benefits for every £1 it invests.  Local contributions have also been earmarked, with the lion's share coming from the developers of sites along the route.</p> <p>The tramlines will run from Wednesbury, through Dudley and Merry Hill, to Brierley Hill with 17 easy-access stops, four of which are served by park and ride facilities.  New larger trams will be introduced on the line and will be able to complete the journey in only 23 minutes.  It is hoped the service will be up and running in 2011.</p> <p>On Monday (19 December), councillors representing both partners to the latest agreement, including the Leader of Dudley Council and Chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority will meet in Dudley town centre on the line of the proposed route to make the deal official.</p> <p>"This Metro extension running up through Castle Hill, Dudley and Brierley Hill is a very exciting prospect for local people," says Cllr David Caunt, Leader of Dudley Council.  "The extended line will not only make travelling around the area much easier and more convenient for everyone, providing an attractive alternative to the car, but it will also bring regeneration, jobs and other socio-economic benefits to this part of the the Black Country.  I am extremely pleased to be signing this agreement with Centro, which brings such an important project even closer to reality."</p> <p>A similar agreement between Centro and Sandwell Council was completed earlier this year and another is ready to be signed between Centro and Westfield, the owners of the Merry Hill Centre, in January.</p> <p>Midland Metro line one, between Wolverhampton and Birmingham via West Bromwich, caters for over five million passengers a year and has become the region's most reliable mode of public transport.  The expansion plans also include a new line through the streets of central Birmingham to serve New Street Station, the main shopping centre, Broad Street, the ICC and Five Ways.</p>"
A crucial agreement to extend the Midland Metro tram network through Dudley is to be finalised this week.
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Rail boss turns sixty � and gets free travel
2005-12-14T00:00:00
2005-12-14T00:00:00
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"<p >The councillor in charge of rail matters in the West Midlands is to get free travel on all trains in the Black Country, Birmingham and Coventry.</p> <p >But this is no special treatment for an elected member, Cllr Keith Chambers has simply reached the age of sixty.  Every senior citizen in the West Midlands now gets free off-peak travel on all the conurbation's buses, trains and Midland Metro trams.</p> <p >"The idea that the Bus Pass is just a membership card for the Old Age Club should be consigned to history," comments Cllr Chambers.  "This card gives freedom to travel right across the West Midlands – and I want to remind people they also get free travel on the trains  as well as buses."</p> <p >Cllr Chambers will be presented with his new travel pass on Thursday (15 December) by Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which funds the scheme.</p> <p >"The West Midlands has extended the national scheme announced by Gordon Brown in his last budget to keep our scheme among the most generous in the country," says Cllr Clarke.  "Local people are feeling the benefit nine months earlier than the rest of England and we also offer free travel on all modes of public transport, not just buses."</p> <p>National trends have shown that people no longer automatically give up their car when they reach retirement age and fewer than half in the UK bother to apply for a bus pass.</p>"
"The councillor in charge of rail matters in the West Midlands is to get free travel on all trains in the Black Country, Birmingham and Coventry."
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Green flag for new Walsall commuter train
2005-12-08T00:00:00
2005-12-08T00:00:00
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"<p >Commuters travelling on the Walsall and Wolverhampton rail link will have cause for more than just seasonal cheer as trains become more regular during morning rush hour.</p> <p >From this Monday (12 December) there will be a new timetable with an added departure just after eight o'clock.  Public transport promoter Centro says that means commuters will now have the choice of three trains to Wolverhampton at the height of the morning peak – at 7:30, 8:04 and 8:44. The journey takes as little as twelve minutes.</p> <p >Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, will be on the platform at Walsall on Monday morning to raise the signal for the new train.</p> <p >"Our influence over timetable planning has helped produce this change which will be welcome news for Walsall commuters heading for work in Wolverhampton," he says.</p> <p >Centro-PTA has been lobbying to keep the trains running since a Government study recommended closure of the Black Country passenger route earlier this year.  The report by the former Strategic Rail Authority said the hourly trains between Walsall and Wolverhampton should be replaced by an 'express' coach service.</p> <p >Local politicians have argued that the number of train passengers had dwindled because of the poor quality of the service.  They say that instead of wielding the axe, investment is needed before the true level of demand can be measured.</p> <p >"We think instead that the Government should be investing in the local rail network to make it more attractive to passengers," adds PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "If local people can show there is a demand for the service, we would even like to see the frequency doubled to trains every half hour."</p> <p >"In the past the route has been something of a Cinderella service that has been difficult to promote, now we want this to change," he says.</p> <p >In addition to the more regular rush hour trains, Monday will also see the start of Walsall's new direct train link to Birmingham International. Trains will run in half-hourly intervals between 10am and 7pm on weekdays, with a journey time of just over 45 minutes. This will allow Walsall residents easier access to Birmingham International Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC).</p> <p>Both the Walsall – Wolverhampton and Walsall – Birmingham International services are operated by Central Trains.</p>"
Commuters travelling on the Walsall and Wolverhampton rail link will have cause for more than just seasonal cheer as trains become more regular during morning rush hour.
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New Metro tram fleet approved
2005-12-06T00:00:00
2005-12-06T00:00:00
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"<p >This is how Midland Metro could look once trams start running through Birmingham city centre streets and from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill in the Black Country.</p> <p >Councillors this week approved the purchase of a new fleet of around 40 modern trams to operate the expanded network.</p> <p >The new higher-capacity trams would also operate on the existing Wolverhampton to Birmingham route from 2011.  By this date the existing rolling stock would be more than 12 years old and due for a major overhaul.</p> <p >Bigger trams are already needed as the current vehicles running into Birmingham Snow Hill are struggling to cope with rush-hour demand.  Calculations show that replacing all the trams would save money when compared against waiting for the mid-life refurbishment of the existing vehicles.</p> <p>Expansion of the network has now cleared two public inquiries and been given the green light by the Government.  The scheme's promoter Centro expects to submit a final business case early next year.  Progress on the project, including the 'excellent' case for funding was presented this week to councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  It was given unanimous, all-party approval.</p>"
This is how Midland Metro could look once trams start running through Birmingham city centre streets and from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill in the Black Country.
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newtramBroadSt.jpg
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Metro expansion looks more certain as councillors approve funding plan
2005-12-06T00:00:00
2005-12-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The future of the Midland Metro expansion, with new routes through Birmingham and the Black Country, was looking more certain this week after councillors approved a new way of financing the ambitious £370m project.</p> <p >Members of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for scheme promoter Centro, agreed a three-way split of contracts for constructing the expanded network, supply of the trams and operating the system.  It will be a similar model to that used successfully for the Dockland Light Railway and replaces the design-build-operate contract used for Midland Metro line one.</p> <p >A report to the PTA meeting this week said the revised approach had already received a warm welcome from Government and a number of positive approaches from major companies who could potentially tender for the scheme.</p> <p >By de-risking the project at an early stage, West Midlands transport bosses expect to avoid the pitfalls that have led to cost increases elsewhere and the Government withdrawing funding for light rail schemes in other cities.  The Midland Metro expansion ahs increased in price, mostly due to construction inflation – however the business case due to be submitted early next year will show a very positive benefit to cost ratio and, crucially, the local funding contribution of 75 per cent has already been earmarked.</p> <p>Councillors from all parties gave the new procurement approach unanimous approval at this week's meeting of the PTA.</p>"
"The future of the Midland Metro expansion, with new routes through Birmingham and the Black Country, was looking more certain this week after councillors approved a new way of financing the ambitious £370m project."
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0
12
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Outer circle buses turn final corner for real-time information
2005-12-02T00:00:00
2005-12-02T00:00:00
9369
"Passengers travelling on the Outer Circle bus route will no longer need to wonder when the next bus will arrive as work on the Outer Circle Showcase Project turns the final corner. <p >Satellite and digital technology will mean that approximately 200 shelters on the 43km route will have accurate Real Time Information (RTI), which will tell passengers exactly when the next bus is due. In addition to this, there will be on-street information displays, with travellers also being able to obtain bus time information via text message to their mobile phones and on the Internet.</p> <p >West Midlands public transport promoter, Centro is investing £6m into the Project and is also responsible for implementing the RTI equipment.</p> <p >Bus company Travel West Midlands will install satellite-tracking devices on all Outer Circle buses to ensure that timetable information is kept completely accurate, and to put an end to the notorious bunching of buses on the route.</p> <p >The Outer Circle Showcase Project has already seen brand-new low floor buses and improvements Centro has made to 230 of the route's 271 bus shelters and stops. A further 25 shelters will be improved by March 2006 and CCTV installation at interchanges will also be completed by this date.</p> <p >Cllr Len Clark, Lead member for buses on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, said: "We have already seen a substantial improvement to the Outer Circle bus route thanks to the Showcase Project. With the addition of real-time information this highly important West Midland's bus route will become even more convenient for it's passengers.</p> <p >"I am sure everyone is looking forward to the completion of this massive project."</p> <p>Local councillors are expected to approve completion of the seven-year project, which is set for March 2007, on Monday 05 December 2005.</p> <p>The £17m project is a partnership between Centro, Birmingham City Council and Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council.</p>"
Passengers travelling on the Outer Circle bus route will no longer need to wonder when the next bus will arrive as work on the Outer Circle Showcase Project turns the final corner.
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0
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Santa surprise for passengers
2005-12-02T00:00:00
2005-12-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People travelling on West Midland's public transport this December will encounter extra festive cheer as Santa and his helpers board the region's trains and Metro.</p> <p>Invited by Centro, Santa is taking time out of his busy Christmas schedule to greet travellers and shoppers on board regional public transport, giving out mince pies and sweets, and helping to get people into the festive spirit.</p> <p>In addition to this, the 1<sup>st</sup> A Boys Brigade will be playing seasonal tunes for customers on the bridge at Snow Hill Rail Station from 10am to Noon on Saturday 3<sup>rd</sup> and Saturday 10<sup>th</sup> December.</p> <p>A spokesman for Centro said: 'We have asked Santa to give up some of his time to meet travellers on Central Trains and the Metro as a way of thanking them for travelling by public transport, rather than adding to the already congested roads by using their car to commute to work and to do their Christmas shopping.</p> <p>'Hopefully his attendance will put a smile on both children's and adults faces, and make their journey even more enjoyable.'</p>"
People travelling on West Midland's public transport this December will encounter extra festive cheer as Santa and his helpers board the region's trains and Metro.
9369
0
12
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Double your money bonus for new look Metro
2005-11-28T00:00:00
2005-11-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new look for Midland Metro trams and an 'excellent' case for Government funding are to be presented to local councillors.</p> <p>A report to next week's meeting (see footnote) sets out how expanding the tram network on-street through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill would provide at least a 150 per cent return on the investment by Government, local councils and businesses.</p> <p>The latest figures provide some welcome comfort for public transport bosses in the West Midlands, following problems encountered by Liverpool, Leeds and other cities in securing Government funding for light rail projects.</p> <p>Even allowing for cost increases through inflation over the 12 year life of the project and design upgrades, the Midland Metro expansion is expected to show a benefit-cost ratio of between 1.5 and 2.0 when the business case is submitted to the Department for Transport early next year, councillors are told.</p> <p>"That means the West Midlands would benefit by considerably more for every £1 invested," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "And what is particularly excellent news for us is that, when you add in developer and local contributions, the Government would be getting a minimum double return on its investment: £1.50 of benefit for every 75p it invests."</p> <p>"With those sort of figures, it becomes pretty difficult to argue that Midland Metro expansion does not represent good value for money," he adds.</p> <p>The remaining 25p in the pound, which the Government requires to be found from local contributions, has already been earmarked according to the scheme's promoter Centro.  The lion's share will be funded by the developers of major sites that will be served by the 14.2 km (9 miles) routes.  The Leaders of West Midlands city and borough councils have agreed for the remaining balance to be financed from prudential borrowing.</p> <p>A report to next week's meeting of the Passenger Transport Authority outlines steps taken in the West Midlands to keep project costs under tight control.  They include bringing forward advance works to minimise risk and splitting the contracts between designing, building and operating the system.  This revised format has already led to positive approaches from major construction companies who might tender for the scheme.</p> <p>At the same time, councillors are being asked to approve the replacement of existing Midland Metro trams to provide a new, higher-capacity fleet for the expanded network. Bigger trams are already needed as the current vehicles running into Birmingham Snow Hill are struggling to cope with rush-hour demand.  Calculations show that replacing all the trams would save money when compared against waiting for the mid-life refurbishment of the existing vehicles due in 2010.</p> <p>Both the Birmingham city centre and Black Country routes have cleared public inquiries and have been given the green light by the Government.  The Secretary of State approved provisional funding for the extensions, which totalled £212m at the time of the public inquiries.  This has now increased to £281m, with construction inflation likely to take the final bill to around £370m by the time the first trams are running in 2011.</p> <p>"There is no major construction scheme in the UK that does not increase in price year on year," comments Centro director general Rob Donald.  "The business case we submit early next year will clearly show how the benefits far outweigh the cost of construction and that we are confident this will satisfy Government criteria."</p> <p>"Midland Metro is an important part of the integrated public transport system contained in the West Midlands Local Transport Plan and a key to the continued economic growth of the region," he says.</p> <p>Centro says its new procurement approach has already received a warm welcome from Whitehall officials.  They confirmed that the West Midlands is in line with the views of Transport Secretary Alistair Darling, who said there was a need to "look urgently at how light rail could be made affordable, including the best approach for procurement".</p> <p>Councillors are reminded in the report that the West Midlands still has to draw on the £1bn for transport projects promised by Alistair Darling in 2003 and the prospect of new funding coming to the region through the Government's Transport Innovation Fund.</p> <p><strong>Footnote - Monday 5 December.<br /> </strong>The report mentioned above was approved by the meeting of the PTA</p>"
A new look for Midland Metro trams and a 'confident' case for Government funding are to be presented to local councillors.
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0
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West Midlands selected for congestion study pilot
2005-11-28T00:00:00
2005-11-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport Secretary Alistair Darling has named the West Midlands as one of seven pilot areas for the Government's new Transport Innovation Fund.</p> <p>This new fund is providing up to £18m over the next three years to local authorities prepared to investigate bold schemes – including road pricing – to tackle congestion.</p> <p >"West Midlands leaders have clearly stated that we want to be at the forefront of the debate to find innovative ways to tackle the growing problem of congestion," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority.  "If there are major new sources of funding on the horizon, let's look at the opportunity to position our region to be among the first to benefit."</p> <p >"This first stage would be about investigating options before any decisions are made – but it is clear there is already broad agreement that any solution will need to include ways that, with Government support, we can bring about significant improvements in public transport," he says.</p> <p >Following today's announcement that its bid has been successful, the West Midlands will carry out an in-depth feasibility study to fully investigate levels of traffic congestion and examine a range of solutions, including necessary public transport improvements.   The study will take place between autumn this year and next summer.</p> <p ><em><strong>Link to DfT news release:</strong> </em>  <a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/environment/fullDetail.asp ReleaseID=179352&NewsAreaID=2&NavigatedFromDepartment=False"" target=""_blank""><em>Tackling congestion: next steps</em></a></p>"
Region to get Government funding for feasibility study
9369
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Rail growth up and road congestion tops UK table
2005-11-17T00:00:00
2005-11-17T00:00:00
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"<p>Rail passenger growth in the West Midlands has continued to out-strip London and the South East, according to Government figures released today.</p> <p>Over the last decade the number of people travelling by train has shot up by almost 50 per cent – compared to under 30 per cent in the capital.  Regional public transport bosses say this continues to reinforce the argument for investment in the West Midlands rail network.</p> <p>"We need to remind Government that rail commuting is not just an issue for the South-East," says West Midlands PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "In the Birmingham rush hour we now have one in five commuters travelling by train and around half of them have left a car behind.  That makes a significant impact in cutting congestion on our roads.  It is clear that without public transport improvements we face even greater gridlock," he says.</p> <p>Today's figures also show the West Midlands already has some of the busiest roads in the country.</p> <p>Traffic levels on motorways in the Centro-PTA area have reached an average of 96,500 vehicles per day last year, the highest figure in Britain and more than for motorways in the London and Greater Manchester regions, according to the Department for Transport.</p> <p>The amount of traffic on minor urban roads in the West Midlands metropolitan area was also the highest in Britain with an average of 3,600 vehicles per day, 50% above the national average.  Traffic on urban A-roads averaged 22,500 vehicles per day, a figure surpassed only in London.</p> <p>"These official figures confirm what the public and business in the West Midlands know only too well - the West Midlands has the busiest roads in Britain. We're taking action now to tackle this through better use of existing road space, and improvements to public transport", says Councillor Roger Lawrence, Leader of Wolverhampton council and transport lead on behalf of all the West Midland Metropolitan Authorities.</p> <p>""But we are in no doubt that bold action is needed if we are to avoid future gridlock in the West Midlands, with a knock on effect for the rest of the UK transport system, and the economy as a whole," he says.  "That's why we have submitted a bid to the Department for Transport for money from the Transport Innovation Fund to undertake a study into a range of long-term solutions, including road pricing. Progress is vital not just for West Midlands but for the sake of keeping the country moving."</p> <p>According to today's figures, the West Midlands region has suffered one of the largest falls in traffic speeds on trunk roads, with the average speed in the morning peak down to less than 50mph in 2003, compared with more than 55mph in 1995. In the evening peak, the average speed has fallen even further to just 47 mph, the lowest of any region in England outside London.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_control/documents/contentservertemplate/dft_index.hcst n=8176&l=3"" target=""_blank""><em>DfT Regional Transport Statistics</em></a></p>"
"Rail passenger growth in the West Midlands has continued to out-strip London and the South East, according to Government figures released today."
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Soaring footie aspiration creates new landmark
2005-11-17T00:00:00
2005-11-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A football-themed work of public art has been erected at the Hawthorns park and ride site, alongside the West Bromwich Albion ground.</p> <p>The striking feature has already scored with fans.  It has been created by local artist Anu Patel to represent both football and the world community – with three figures either within or holding a ball, as they strive to the ultimate goal.</p> <p>"This is a reminder of our footballing aspirations and a fitting landmark for the excellent public transport links we have at the Hawthorns," says WBA club secretary John Evans.</p> <p>One of the people behind the project, PTA councillor Roger Horton and lead member for the Midland Metro, is himself a Baggies fan.</p> <p>"Landmarks like this help raise people's pride in their neighbourhood, while helping others to navigate around the public transport network," he says.</p> <p>"This striking feature reflects Sandwell's fame for football and being a multi-cultural community, and improves an already outstanding integrated transport facility."</p> <p>As well as a Metro stop and rail station, the Hawthorns has a 180-space car park for commuters and shoppers.  Across the West Midlands, Centro's park and ride sites have been calculated to take more than 2½ million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p>"
"A football-themed work of public art has been erected at the Hawthorns park and ride site, alongside the West Bromwich Albion ground."
9369
0
12
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Public transport offers route to employment
2005-11-17T00:00:00
2005-11-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Jobseekers at a Wolverhampton jobshop are being offered information on how to get to interviews by bus, train and tram.</p> <p >West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has been helping the Jobzone Action Team  at Blakenhall Gardens to improve the level of information it offers.  The centre will now have a full range of timetables, route maps and details of travel passes and concessionary fares.</p> <p >Local councillor Judith Rowley, a member of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, has helped to organise the link.</p> <p >"A comprehensive and accessible public transport network helps break down barriers to finding employment.  It is very important to provide jobseekers with the mobility they need to get work," she says.</p>"
"Jobseekers at a Wolverhampton jobshop are being offered information on how to get to interviews by bus, train and tram."
9369
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Welcome reprieve for Black Country rail route
2005-11-15T00:00:00
2005-11-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors on the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority have welcome the announcement from Central Trains that the company will continue to run services between Walsall and Wolverhampton until at least October 2007.</p> <p>The PTA has been campaigning against Government proposals to axe the route and replace it with a bus service, which would take much longer than the 12-minute rail trip.</p> <p>"We have always said that the best approach is to invest in local rail services as part of an integrated public transport system," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "It would be wrong to weild the axe until the Walsall-Wolverhampton service is up to scratch and passenger demand can be properly assessed."</p> <p>Centro-PTA has recently launched a promotional campaign for the threatened line and also persuaded the rail industry to amend the timetable so that there are three trains to Wolverhampton at the height of the morning rush hour.</p> <p>"Ideally we would like to see a half-hourly service.  That is for the future, but at least these recent changes are moving in the right direction," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p><em><strong>Click on download to view the Central Trains news release</strong></em></p>"
Councillors on the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority have welcome the announcement from Central Trains that the company will continue to run services between Walsall and Wolverhampton until at least October 2007.
9369
0
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"Bus, train and tram views sought for new regional plan"
2005-11-15T00:00:00
2005-11-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Local views on improvements to the bus, train and tram network are to be built in to a new plan for transport in the region.</p> <p>Almost a million leaflets are being delivered to homes in the West Midlands for people to have their say on the Provisional Local Transport Plan (LTP) which will be sent to Government next year. The views of hundreds of local businesses, environment, community and voluntary groups are also being canvassed.</p> <p>The LTP sets more than £1bn worth of measures to reduce traffic congestion, improve public transport and make the best use of the roads and rail network across all seven Metropolitan Authorities in the West Midlands.</p> <p>The results of the consultation will be taken on board before the final plan is produced and submitted to government in March 2006. The LTP is the document used by government to decide future levels of transport funding.</p> <p>Cllr Roger Lawrence, the West Midlands' Transport Champion, said: 'Transport is at the top of the agenda in the West Midlands and I would urge everyone to take this opportunity to have their say before we finalise the Local Transport Plan. The Government will use our plan to decide the levels of transport funding the West Midlands should receive in the future.</p> <p>'The Metropolitan Authorities want to tackle congestion and see a step-change in the local transport system. This will require investment. Without investment we are putting our competitiveness at risk by limiting the growth of new jobs and housing in the conurbation, the wider region and the UK as a whole. We want everyone in the West Midlands behind the plan so please do get involved in this major consultation.'</p> <p>The West Midlands' Local Transport Plan is produced jointly by the seven Metropolitan Authorities and public transport body Centro-PTA. Everyone can get involved in the LTP consultation by logging on to <a href=""http://www.westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.westmidlandsltp.gov.uk</a> and following the on-screen instructions.</p> <p>The consultation is also explicitly asking for views on the pros and cons of tackling congestion. The West Midlands has submitted a bid to government to help fund a feasibility study to look at congestion and the options for tackling it, including road pricing.</p>"
"Local views on improvements to the bus, train and tram network are to be built in to a new plan for transport in the region."
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Former engineer remembered on Midland Metro
2005-11-09T00:00:00
2005-11-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A former engineer who helped set up the Midland Metro is to be honoured by having one of the network's trams named after him.</p> <p>Gerwyn John died of cancer last year while employed by the system's operator Travel Midland Metro.  He had been with the company since 1997 and helped develop engineering practices and then to run the tram maintenance programme.</p> <p>His colleagues have nominated him to be remembered with a nameplate on one of the Midland Metro trams, which will be unveiled by Gerwyn's former boss Dean Watkins and his widow Christine John.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority will also say a few words at the brief ceremony at the Midland Metro maintenance depot in Wednesbury.</p> <p>"The success of any network depends on the people behind it and Gerwyn John brought all of his experience, expertise and enthusiasm to bare at the very outset of the tram fleet's life.  He made a valuable contribution to turning round the early technical teething problems to help make the Midland Metro today the most reliable mode of public transport in the West Midlands," he says.</p> <p>Gerwyn trained as an engineer in the RAF, rising to the rank of chief technician at the end of 28 years service.  He was a tram and train enthusiast who spent much of his spare time working on the diesel hydraulic engines as a volunteer at the Severn Valley Railway.</p>"
A former engineer who helped set up the Midland Metro is to be honoured by having one of the network's trams named after him.
9369
0
12
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Sandwell offers a mouse click to fitness
2005-11-07T00:00:00
2005-11-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new computer link is aiming to help people get fit and healthy at their local leisure centre.</p> <p>The tie up between Sandwell Leisure Trust and public transport promoter Centro means the route to fitness is just a mouse click away for people living in the borough.</p> <p>Anyone checking out details of swimming pools, sports centres and golf courses on the council website (<a href=""http://www.laws.sandwell.gov.uk/ccm/navigation/leisure-and-culture/sports/"" target=""_blank"">www.sandwell.gov.uk</a>) can now get instant information about public transport.  The new weblink connects to Centro's live timetable information for bus and train companies.</p> <p>"We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get to leisure facilities in Sandwell," says Mark Wildman of Sandwell Leisure Trust.  "This partnership with Centro demonstrates how accessible our venues are and gives practical help to our customers."</p> <p>"Not everyone has access to a car and walking or catching the bus to a leisure facility is actually a healthier option," he adds.</p> <p>Research has shown that a lack of information is one of the main barriers to public transport use.  "It is important we help make bus, train and Metro services as easy to use as possible," says Centro TravelWise officer Kerry Slater.</p>"
A new computer link is aiming to help people get fit and healthy at their local leisure centre.
9369
0
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Wednesbury tram link on show
2005-11-07T00:00:00
2005-11-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>There's a new chance for people in the Black Country to see how plans to extend the Midland Metro are developing.</p> <p>Public transport body Centro, working with Sandwell Council, has been amending plans for the tram route as part of continuing public consultation.  A link from Wolverhampton, via  Walsall to the existing line at Wednesbury is being planned for a second phase of the network expansion.</p> <p>A route from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill was given the go-ahead by the Government earlier this year.</p> <p>"It will be a few years before the trams are running, but we want to keep local people on board throughout the planning process," comments Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>The plans can be viewed in a mobile exhibition at Camphill Lane, next to the new Wednesbury bus station on Tuesday 15 November, between 10am and 3pm.  Centro and city council staff will be on hand to answer any questions.</p>"
There's a new chance for people in the Black Country to see how plans to extend the Midland Metro are developing.
9369
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New hospital bus link welcomed
2005-11-02T00:00:00
2005-11-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A Wolverhampton councillor has welcomed a new bus service for people living in the Moseley Parklands area of the city.</p> <p>The 613 route, which is part-subsidised by public transport promoter Centro, has been extended from Northwood Park to Fordhouses from this month.</p> <p>"This new service now gives residents a direct link with New Cross Hospital," says Cllr Paul Allen, vice-chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>"Where commercial bus routes fail to provide for a community need, we have the power to step in with public subsidy," he says.  "Local people told us they wanted a better bus service to the hospital, so we have done just that."</p> <p>Centro funds more than 200 bus services across the West Midlands to plug gaps in the commercial bus network.  The subsidised services are generally to local estates or at off-peak times not considered profitable by bus operators.</p> <p>The extended 613 service is operated by Travel West Midlands and accepts all Centro cards, concessionary passes and Busmaster tickets.  Over the new section of route it operates as a 'hail and ride' service without bus stops.  Passengers can pick up the bus at any safe point along the route simply by giving a clear signal to the bus driver.</p>"
A Wolverhampton councillor has welcomed a new bus service for people living in the Moseley Parklands area of the city.
9369
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Dudley makes it easier to apply for travel passes
2005-11-01T00:00:00
2005-11-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport promoter Centro and Dudley Council have joined forces to make it easier for people in the borough to apply for travel passes.</p> <p>People over 60 who qualify for free off-peak travel on all buses, trains and trams, can now apply for their pass at the council's Dudley Council Plus customer service centre in Castle St, Dudley.  The passes could previously be obtained only through main post offices.</p> <p>Under the partnership with Centro, the Dudley Council Plus centre will also display public transport information and trained advisors will be able to help people find their way around the bus, train and Metro network.  Anyone visiting the centre can even plan their journey on public transport using Dudley Council Plus' free internet points.</p> <p>The 'check and send' service for concessionary passes is available to visitors to the Castle St centre only, while journey planning information is also available in the centre or by ringing 01384 812345.  Both services are open from 8am – 7.30pm on weekdays and from 9am to 12 noon on Saturdays. <a href=""http://www.dudley.gov.uk/welcome/dudley-council-plus"" target=""_blank"">(view website)</a></p> <p>These are the latest in the growing list of services available from Dudley Council Plus – giving customers one simple point of contact for council information and services.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke chairman of Centro's policy-setting body, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "One of the reasons we introduced the 'check and send' system for concessionary passes was to extend the number of locations where people could apply for their pass – so I'm delighted Dudley Council has taken this step to provide an enhanced service for its residents."</p> <p>"The partnership arrangements at Dudley Council Plus are a great example of two public bodies working together to give local people extra service and information to help boost public transport use."</p> <p>Cllr David Caunt, council leader, said: "We are delighted to have Centro aboard for this West Midlands first. It shows the great opportunities that Dudley Council Plus offers for new ways of working, both for the council and with partners like Centro."</p> <p>"Through Dudley Council Plus, we are making it easy for people to get services and information on both council and partner services and as we open more Dudley Council Plus centres across the borough this will become even easier for people to get the information or service they want, in one place."</p>"
Public transport promoter Centro and Dudley Council have joined forces to make it easier for people in the borough to apply for travel passes.
9369
0
12
0
City tram link on view
2005-11-01T00:00:00
2005-11-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>There's a new chance for people in Wolverhampton to see how plans to extend the Midland Metro are developing.</p> <p>Public transport body Centro, working with Wolverhampton City Council, has been amending plans for the Black Country tram route as part of continuing public consultation.  A link from the city centre, via Wednesfield and Willenhall to Walsall, is being planned for a second phase of the network expansion.</p> <p>A route from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill was given the go-ahead by the Government earlier this year.</p> <p>"It will be a few years before the trams are running, but we want to keep local people on board throughout the planning process," comments Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>Public exhibitions this month will include details of the proposed tram link between Wolverhampton's new transport interchange and the city centre, as well as plans to improve access for New Cross Hospital.</p> <p>The plans can be viewed in a mobile exhibition at Chevrill Rise, Heathtown on Thursday (3 Nov), in Queens Square, Wolverhampton, on Saturday 12 November and in Wednesfield town centre on Friday 18<sup>th</sup>, between 10am and 3pm.  Centro and city council staff will be on hand to answer any questions.</p>"
There's a new chance for people in Wolverhampton to see how plans to extend the Midland Metro are developing.
9369
0
12
0
"Save the planet � you can do it, says B&Q boss"
2005-10-27T00:00:00
2005-10-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands business leaders are being shown how they can help cut congestion by providing more travel choices for their employees.</p> <p>A free seminar in Birmingham will also help unlock Government funding for a more environment-friendly approach.</p> <p>Regional public transport promoter Centro and Birmingham City Council are encouraging bosses to sign up for the event, which they have organised with the West Midlands TravelWise Group.  The idea is for companies to develop a package of measures, tailored to their own needs, to encourage employees to ditch the car and use other more sustainable forms of transport for their daily commute.</p> <p>Store giant B&Q has been rolling out this Travel Plan approach to all its stores and claims 40 per cent have already met targets for modal shift.</p> <p>"Within B&Q we feel that there has been a very good response to staff taking up Travel Plan initiatives," says John Miller, who will be speaking at the Birmingham seminar.</p> <p>"It is however, still a big challenge to get people out of their cars and to think about the advantages of car sharing, cycling, walking or using public transport for their journey to work," he adds.</p> <p>B&Q has a dedicated Travel Plan budget for its Hampshire headquarters and 70 stores nationwide.  This has been used to obtain pool bikes, provide discounted bus tickets and install cycle storage for those who have been willing to try other ways of travel. <em>(</em><a href=""http://www.diy.com/diy/jsp/bq/templates/contentlookup.jsp content=/aboutbandq/2004/social_responsibility/transport.jsp"" target=""_blank""><em>Link to B&Q corporate website</em></a><em>)</em></p> <p>In the West Midlands, Centro and local authorities are working with businesses to provide help and advice to those wishing to develop a travel strategy for their organisation.</p> <p>Reducing dependence on the car can lead to big savings for employers, particularly those based in major urban areas.  Birmingham companies could save more than £1000 per member of staff by persuading employees who drive to work to switch to public transport instead, it has been claimed.</p> <p>In an opinion poll conducted for the TravelWise campaign, more than 70 per cent of people in the West Midlands said their employer provided car parking spaces for staff.  At the same time, the price of a leasing a car parking space in central Birmingham has rocketed to more than £1700 per car.</p> <p>Using the same money to offer staff a discount on travel passes through a scheme operated by public transport promoter Centro could cost closer to £120 per person instead.</p> <p>"The seminar we are organising will offer the opportunity for companies to hear directly from companies that already have developed a Travel Plan and the benefits they have achieved," comments Centro TravelWise officer Kerry Slater.</p> <p>"We see travel plans as part of the bigger picture in improving travel choice. Moving around is something that is important to all of us, whether it be to work or meeting, taking our children to school or getting out and about at the weekend.  Improving travel choice means we have the opportunity to address issues of traffic congestion, air quality and health," she adds.</p> <p>The free Travel Plan seminar is at Austin Court, Birmingham on Thursday 24 November.  Companies need to book before 18 November to guarantee a place and the details can be found on the Centro website at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/travelwise"" target=""_blank"">www.centro.org.uk/travelwise</a>.  The organisers can also be contacted by email: <a href=""mailto:travelwise@centro.org.uk"">travelwise@centro.org.uk</a></p>"
West Midlands business leaders are being shown how they can help cut congestion by providing more travel choices for their employees.
9369
0
12
0
Council support for Midland Metro expansion follows outcome of Birmingham underground study
2005-10-25T00:00:00
2005-10-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Birmingham City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to expansion of the Midland Metro and voted for work to proceed on a route through city centre streets from Snow Hill to Five Ways and Edgbaston.</p> <p>The formal decision at a Cabinet meeting on Monday (24 October) follows an announcement by council leader Mike Whitby at a press conference earlier.</p> <p>It will allow Centro to press on with its plans that had already cleared the significant hurdles of securing provisional Government funding and getting Secretary of State approval following a public inquiry.</p> <p>Following the press conference, Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro said:</p> <p>"We believe the extension of the Midland Metro from Snow Hill to Five Ways will bring huge benefits to the city and make great strides towards giving Birmingham the world-class public transport system the city needs and deserves.</p> <p>"Our task now is to work with the city council and other partners to submit the outline business case to the Government as soon as possible.  We already have provisional funding approval and the powers to build the extension, which were granted by the Secretary of State following a public inquiry last year."</p> <p>The 3.2km tramway through the centre of Birmingham would enable people to journey from Snow Hill to Hagley Road in just 13 minutes.  There would be ten, easy-access stops at street level and the route would serve the main shopping and business areas, as well as provide easy interchange with other forms of public transport.</p> <p>The first Midland Metro line opened six years ago.  It now carries a growing number of passengers and has the enviable record of being the region's most reliable public transport system – but it was always envisaged as part of a much wider and integrated network.  Another route from Wednesbury, through Dudley, to the Merry Hill Centre was approved six months ago following a similar public inquiry process to that for Birmingham city centre.</p> <p>The next step will be to submit an outline business case to Government to confirm funding for both Metro phase one extensions.  This could still be on target for completion by the end of the year.  It envisages construction work to start in 2008 with the first trams running by 2011.</p> <p>The implications of the Birmingham City Council decision for future phases of Metro expansion will be considered by the Passenger Transport Authority at its next meeting on Monday 31 October.</p>"
Birmingham City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to expansion of the Midland Metro and voted for work to proceed on a route through city centre streets from Snow Hill to Five Ways and Edgbaston.
9369
0
12
0
Thousands take up free travel concession
2005-10-21T00:00:00
2005-10-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More than 40,000 people in the West Midlands are saving money and getting more mobile since free travel was introduced for everyone over 60 years old.</p> <p>Three months since the launch of the scheme, public transport promoter Centro has revealed the take-up rate for the new off-peak travel passes.</p> <p>Staff at Centro's Birmingham offices to cope with a flood of enquiries, including 1800 phone calls in one day.  They also had to cope with a real flood during the deluge of last week's storms.</p> <p>The passes give free off-peak travel on bus, train and Midland Metro services across the West Midlands county.  Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority introduced the scheme in July, nine months ahead of a national scheme announced in Gordon Brown's budget.  The West Midlands offer is also more generous as it covers all forms of public transport, not just bus travel.</p> <p>"It has been PTA policy in the past to make concessions widely available and we want to get more people, of all ages, using public transport.  That is the greatest hope we have in the region's campaign to cut congestion," said Authority chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>Public transport bosses believe the offer of free travel – and its earlier introduction locally – may tempt more people to travel by bus, train and tram.  Statistics due to be published in full next month show an increase of more than one million journeys a year by people using senior citizens passes in the West Midlands.</p> <p>Across the UK, take-up of concessionary passes has declined in recent years to the extent that in 2003 less than half of all pensioners bothered to apply for a 'bus pass'.  Higher levels of car ownership and the fact that people have remained healthier in their old age are considered the main factors behind the decline.</p>"
"More than 40,000 people in the West Midlands are saving money and getting more mobile since free travel was introduced for everyone over 60 years old."
9369
0
12
0
Minister's praise for West Mids congestion-busting
2005-10-19T00:00:00
2005-10-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport Minister Derek Twigg has officially opened one of the region's largest jam-busting schemes at Stourbridge Junction rail station.</p> <p>Cutting the ribbon this morning, the Minister with responsibility for rail said he was delighted to underline the importance of projects like this in combating congestion.</p> <p>""Park and ride is important in encouraging people to use the trains,"" he said.  ""It is about giving people as many journey options as possible and making the public transport option an attractive one.""</p> <p>The new park and ride facility is the latest addition to a Centro-PTA programme which is calculated to take more than 2½ million car journeys a year off the West Midlands' congested roads.</p> <p>Centro encourages public transport use by providing free, secure parking for rail commuters, who then benefit from a frequent train service to Birmingham.  Already one in five of the city's rush hour commuters travel by train and around half of those have opted to leave a car behind.</p> <p>"The growing number of park and ride spaces are proving very popular with local people and can make a significant contribution towards tackling the congestion that could make our lives a misery in the West Midlands," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>This latest £2.7million investment by Centro-PTA doubles the size of the existing facility at Stourbridge Junction by adding 400 new spaces off Rufford Road.  These are linked to the station by a new footbridge.</p> <p>The previous car park was regularly over-subscribed, leading to frustration for users and parking problems on nearby streets.  Following the expansion there are now spaces available throughout the day, encouraging people in the Stourbridge area to park and ride for the regular off-peak rail services as well.</p>"
Transport Minister Derek Twigg is to officially open one of the region's largest jam-busting schemes at Stourbridge Junction rail station.
9369
0
12
0
Rail shake-up looks positive for the West Midlands
2005-10-18T00:00:00
2005-10-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed a greater focus on local rail services following an announcement by Transport Secretary Alistair Darling this morning.</p> <p>"This looks like positive news for the rail industry, now we have to make sure it leads to good news for passengers," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>In a written statement to Parliament the Secretary of State set out a new structure of rail franchises for the Midlands, which will take effect following the end of the Central Trains franchise in Autumn 2007.</p> <p>From this date there will be a new West Midlands franchise to operate regional and local services, as well as 'outer suburban' services to and from London Euston.  There will be an option to transfer Central Trains services through Birmingham Snow Hill to Chiltern Railways if this proves to offer better value for money.</p> <p>"This suggests we will have a Birmingham-based train company with a clear focus on the conurbation's journey to work area," comments Rob Donald, director general of the region's public transport body Centro.  "The idea of having a single operator for the Snow Hill Line could also lead to greater efficiencies and better services for passengers," he says.</p> <p>The importance of rail services to cutting congestion and supporting the economic growth of the West Midlands cannot be underestimated.  The region has shown faster passenger growth than London and the South East, with around one in five Birmingham rush hour commuters now travelling by train.</p> <p>Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, will be keen to see a franchise structure that provides for continued growth as well as more reliable services.</p> <p>"This new franchise map could provide a solid foundation for improving rail services, but what will be really crucial is the franchise specification that will now be set by the Department for Transport," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "We still need the reassurance that the new train operator will be required to provide the same routes and frequencies as Central Trains at the very least – and we will be looking for better performance and quality too."</p> <p>As well as the West Midlands franchise announced today, the Secretary of State said there would be a new East Midlands franchise and a new Cross Country franchise, to replace that currently operated by Virgin Rail Group.  Discussions are still taking place with Transport for London about the inner-suburban services operated by Silverlink Metro and there is a possibility that Nottingham-Sheffield-Liverpool services could be switched to TransPennine Express.</p> <p>"It does look as if the Department of Transport has taken on board many of the comments made by Centro-PTA and our colleagues in the Passenger Transport Executives Group (pteg)," adds Rob Donald.  "That shows how we have all been creating good working relationships as the new structure of the rail industry falls into place."</p> <p>Centro boss Rob Donald currently chairs the pteg group, which represents passenger and regional interests in all the major metropolitan areas outside London.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/pns/DisplayPN.cgi pn_id=2005_0102"" target=""_blank""><em>DfT news release</em></a><br /> <em>This has onward links to supporting documents</em></p>"
Public transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed a greater focus on local rail services following an announcement by Transport Secretary Alistair Darling this morning.
9369
0
12
0
Council clears way for city centre trams on street
2005-10-17T00:00:00
2005-10-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Birmingham City Council today reaffirmed its commitment to the Government-approved extension of the Midland Metro from Snow Hill to Five Ways via the city centre streets and New Street Station.</p> <p>The announcement by city council leader Mike Whitby will allow Centro to press on with its plans that had already cleared the significant hurdles of securing provisional Government funding and getting Secretary of State approval following a public inquiry.</p> <p>At a press conference this morning, Cllr Whitby also set out his vision for improving integrated transport and praised the improved working relationship with the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>A report will now be considered by the city's Cabinet on Monday 24 October.</p> <p>Following the press conference, Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro said:</p> <p>"We believe the extension of the Midland Metro from Snow Hill to Five Ways will bring huge benefits to the city and make great strides towards giving Birmingham the world-class public transport system the city needs and deserves.</p> <p>"Following today's announcement from the city council, the most important things is to move forward together.</p> <p>"Our task now is to work with the city council and other partners to submit the outline business case to the Government as soon as possible.  We already have provisional funding approval and the powers to build the extension, which were granted by the Secretary of State following a public inquiry last year."</p> <p>The 3.2km tramway through the centre of Birmingham would enable people to journey from Snow Hill to Hagley Road in just 13 minutes.  There would be ten, easy-access stops at street level and the route would serve the main shopping and business areas, as well as provide easy interchange with other forms of public transport.</p> <p>The first Midland Metro line opened six years ago.  It now carries a growing number of passengers and has the enviable record of being the region's most reliable public transport system – but it was always envisaged as part of a much wider and integrated network.  Another route from Wednesbury, through Dudley, to the Merry Hill Centre was approved six months ago following a similar public inquiry process to that for Birmingham city centre.</p> <p>The next step will be to submit an outline business case to Government to confirm funding for both Metro phase one extensions.  This could still be on target for completion by the end of the year.  It envisages construction work to start in 2008 with the first trams running by 2011.</p>"
Birmingham City Council today reaffirmed its commitment to the Government-approved extension of the Midland Metro from Snow Hill to Five Ways via the city centre streets and New Street Station.
9369
0
12
0
Public transport the answer to jams � says expert report
2005-10-17T00:00:00
2005-10-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Better buses, trains and trams are the only way to prevent gridlock in the West Midlands, a survey has found.</p> <p>A 'State of the Nation' report by the Institution of Civil Engineers, published today, includes a new public opinion survey to canvass views on transport problems.  It found that nearly three-quarters of people believed improved public transport was the best way to beat road congestion – and only one in ten said the answer was to build more roads.</p> <p>"People are willing to get out of their cars if sensible transport options are available," said Christina Jackson, who chaired the State of the Nation panel.  "It's time for decisions and actions – especially on public transport.  Without this, the region's transport will continue to decline and potentially inhibit economic development."</p> <p>The West Midlands conurbation has already made significant progress according to public transport promoter Centro.  In the Birmingham rush hour, commuters on buses, trains and trams already out-number motorists stuck in traffic jams – but the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, agrees much more could be done.</p> <p>This week Birmingham City Council reaffirmed its commitment to the next phase of Midland Metro expansion allowing Centro to press on with plans to deliver the Government-approved project for trams on city centre streets. </p> <p>Transport Minister Derek Twigg is also opening the latest park and ride expansion at Stourbridge.  Centro's free park and ride provision is the largest scheme of its kind and now takes more than 2½ million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p>"
"Better buses, trains and trams are the only way to prevent gridlock in the West Midlands, a survey has found."
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0
12
0
Pool Meadow access works welcomed
2005-10-14T00:00:00
2005-10-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A West Midlands public transport boss has welcomed road works to make the city's Pool Meadow Bus Station more accessible.</p> <p>Coventry City Council started work this weekend (Saturday 15 Oct) on building a new link road underneath the Whittle Arches to connect Hales Street with the under-used interchange.</p> <p>"This will make a real difference to securing the future of Pool Meadow," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>He says passengers had made it clear they wanted Pool Meadow to stay open but bus companies were reluctant to use the facility unless access could be improved.  Centro, which operates the bus station on behalf of the PTA, depended on the fees paid by bus companies to stop there.</p> <p>"The most important thing is that passengers get the best deal.  If, between us, we can provide better services then more people can be tempted on to public transport and that will help cut congestion and pollution as well," says Cllr Clarke.</p>"
A West Midlands public transport boss has welcomed road works to make the city's Pool Meadow Bus Station more accessible.
9369
0
12
0
Don't miss the Autumn train warning
2005-10-14T00:00:00
2005-10-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority today welcomed the prospect of more reliable train services in the Centro area during the Autumn season – but the watchdog body is warning regular passengers to check timetables carefully.</p> <p >Train operators say this is always a particularly difficult time because of the conditions caused by leaves on the line.  Each Autumn, fallen leaves, compressed by passing trains, produce an oily residue along the tracks causing rails to become slippery.  This residue is similar to black ice that can be found on the roads.</p> <p >To allow for this, a special timetable comes into force this Monday 17 October which maintains most of the peak hour services on the Cross City, Snow Hill and Walsall rail lines.</p> <p >"We recognise there will be some inconvenience – which we would have liked to avoid," says Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail on the Passenger Transport Authority.  "But we do also recognise the efforts that the operator Central Trains has put in to come up with a solution that will at least minimise that inconvenience to passengers."</p> <p >"Centro officers have helped work on the Cross City timetable and I am happy that we have found a solution that both protects peak hour services and maintains the capacity of off-peak services, even though there will be fewer trains."</p> <p >The train operator's solution has been agreed by Centro, the executive arm of the PTA.  It has adjusted the timetable to allow for the seasonal conditions by slightly extending journey times and running fewer trains during the off-peak.  During the rush hour the crucial ten minute frequency is maintained on the <strong>Cross City Line</strong>.</p> <p >In previous years the number of rush hour trains have been cut but this was opposed by councillors on the PTA.  Last year, using the new approach, inconvenience to passengers was reduced and Central Trains was able to maintain 83 per cent punctuality during the leaf fall season.  That represented an improvement of ten per cent over the previous year, with a quarter fewer cancellations.</p> <p >There will also be special 'leaf fall' timetables to help maintain reliability on the <strong>Shirley, Stourbridge, Solihull</strong> and <strong>Walsall</strong> lines for the first time.  No services are being cut on these lines, but passengers are being warned to watch out for earlier departure times.</p> <p >"This is a good example of Centro-PTA working with the rail industry and train operators so that passengers can get a more robust and reliable service in the West Midlands," adds Cllr Chambers.</p> <p >The special 'leaf fall' timetables will be introduced from Monday 17th October 2005 and will remain in operation until the next National Rail Timetable change on Sunday 10th December.</p> <p >Passengers are advised to check the pocket timetable supplements available at stations for any changes to their local rail services as some trains may depart slightly earlier or later than at present.</p> <p ><strong><em>Links:<br /> </em></strong><a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_popups/news/news_detail.asp id=20051013172618-117"" target=""_blank""><em>Central Trains news release</em></a><br /> <em>More </em> <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_your_journey/leaf_fall.htm"" target=""_blank""><em>timetable information</em></a><em> from Central Trains website</em><br /> </p>"
Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority today welcomed the prospect of more reliable train services in the Centro area during the Autumn season � but the watchdog body is warning regular passengers to check timetables carefully.
9369
0
12
0
Jet pioneer remembered in Metro naming
2005-10-10T00:00:00
2005-10-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A famous Midlander who made his mark on the world of transport is to have a Midland Metro tram named after him at a ceremony this Tuesday, 11 October.</p> <p>The Coventry-born inventor of the jet engine Sir Frank Whittle is the latest local figure to have his nameplate fixed to one of the fleet of modern trams running between Birmingham, the Black Country and Wolverhampton.</p> <p>The chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and other senior figures from the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority will attend the tram naming ceremony along with Barry James, chairman of the board of trustees at the Midland Air Museum<strong><i>,</i></strong> who will unveil the plaque with Cllr David Arrowsmith of Coventry City Council.  The Midland Air Museum has a number of exhibits about Sir Frank Whittle and one of its volunteers, Peter Buckingham, is also a Metro tram driver.  He will be at the controls for the ceremony on Tuesday at 11.00am.</p> <p>This is the latest of a series of tram names chosen by the WMPTA and local authorities, which represent key figures nominated by the districts or those instrumental in bringing Midland Metro to the West Midlands.</p> <p>Since opening six years ago Line One, which runs between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton St Georges, has achieved 98 per cent reliability and is used by more than five million passengers a year – nearly a third of them former car users.</p>"
"A famous Midlander who made his mark on the world of transport is to have a Midland Metro tram named after him at a ceremony this Tuesday, 11 October."
9369
0
12
0
New group to speak up for public transport
2005-10-06T00:00:00
2005-10-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in Walsall are being given a greater say over public transport in the town.</p> <p>Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority have set up a new forum for users of buses, trains and trams to quiz operators and to help shape policy for the area.</p> <p>The future of rail services to Wolverhampton is likely to be the hot topic for the first meeting on Tuesday evening (11 October) according to PTA chairman Gary Clarke, who is also a Walsall councillor.</p> <p>"We want to give ordinary people a chance to express their views on public transport and I'm sure there will be a lively debate," he says.  "We are working hard to create a first class public transport network and welcome as much input as possible from the users of buses, trains and trams.  They are the people who really matter and with their views behind us we will be able to lobby harder for improvements and for investment."</p> <p>The PTA is inviting representatives of the companies operating local services to regular meetings of the new Walsall Transport Users' Forum to answer questions from passengers. </p> <p>Anyone can speak at the meeting and the watchdog body will also be able to take up any issues of concern to local people.   It is already campaigning against Government plans to axe the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail link.</p> <p>Tuesday's meeting takes place at Walsall Council House, Lichfield Street, from 6.00pm.  There will be light refreshments at 5.30pm.</p>"
"Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority have set up a new forum for users of buses, trains and trams to quiz operators and to help shape policy for the area."
9369
0
12
0
Council subsidy to keep hospital bus link running
2005-10-04T00:00:00
2005-10-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A vital bus service connecting Bilston with Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital has been saved after councillors stepped in with a rescue package.</p> <p>It was feared patients and visitors would need to change buses several times or be forced to get a taxi after bus company Travel West Midlands announced it was axing the 531 service from this month.</p> <p>The rescue move follows a campaign by local residents and MP Pat McFadden to keep the service running.  They failed to persuade the bus company – even though it's claimed almost 400 people a day rely on the service.  But Centro, the public transport body funded by local councils, is to subsidise the route instead.</p> <p>"Public transport is a public service and a vital lifeline for many people," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets Centro policy.  "Although our funds are not unlimited, we do support more than 200 bus services across the West Midlands on routes and at times not considered profitable enough by bus operators."</p> <p>Councillor Clarke say he is hoping to win the support of the local MP for a reform of the bus industry which would help protect vital community services.</p> <p>A recent survey of MPs found that 68% of all MPs, and 86% of Labour MPs, think bodies like Centro-PTA should have a greater role in determining and specifying bus networks and service quality.</p>"
A vital bus service connecting Bilston with Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital has been saved after councillors stepped in with a rescue package.
9369
0
12
0
Kids launch campaign to keep cars from school gate
2005-10-02T00:00:00
2005-10-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A group of young Birmingham children are helping to launch a new green travel campaign as part of international Walk to School Week.</p> <p>Events at the Colebourne Primary School coincide with the TravelWise campaign <i>'Wedded to the Car '</i> aimed at getting motorists to think about using alternative ways to travel.  The campaign is due to launch on the back of 140 buses across the West Midlands from this week.</p> <p>Recent figures show the number of parents driving their children to school has more than doubled in the past twenty years.</p> <p>"Not only is this encouraging dependence on the car at an early age, it also adding to congestion as around one in ten cars on the road each morning are on the school run," comments Centro TravelWise officer, Rachel Hooper.</p> <p>West Midlands public transport promoter Centro is supporting the TravelWise campaign and the school's environment week, to get more children walking, cycling or catching the bus to school.</p> <p>Four, five and six year old pupils at Colebourne Primary School will role play getting on and off a bus as part of the school's week of environmental activities.</p> <p>"This will be a fun event for the children as part of our environment week but it also carries a serious message," says Colebourne Primary School's deputy head Stuart Guest.</p> <p>"It is becoming increasingly important that we enable our children to become aware of environmental issues in our local community, but also in a wider sense as global citizens," he says.</p>"
A group of young Birmingham children are helping to launch a new green travel campaign as part of international Walk to School Week.
9369
0
12
0
Government innovation fund sought to boost public transport and tackle West Mids congestion
2005-09-30T00:00:00
2005-09-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are planning a joint bid, with local councils, for Government money to look at new ways of cutting congestion.</p> <p >The conurbation is hoping for preliminary 'pump-priming' money from the government's Transport Innovation Fund (TIF).  This new fund is providing up to £18m over the next three years to local authorities prepared to investigate bold schemes – including road pricing – to tackle congestion.</p> <p >"West Midlands leaders have clearly stated that we want to be at the forefront of the debate to find innovative ways to tackle the growing problem of congestion," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority.  "If there are major new sources of funding on the horizon, let's look at the opportunity to position our region to be among the first to benefit."</p> <p >"This first stage would be about investigating options before any decisions are made – but it is clear there is already broad agreement that any solution will need to include ways that, with Government support, we can bring about significant improvements in public transport," he says.</p> <p >The West Midlands' TIF bid is proposing an in-depth feasibility study, to take place between autumn this year and next summer, to fully investigate levels of traffic congestion and examine a range of solutions, including necessary public transport improvements.</p> <p >The West Midlands has already ruled out the possibility of a London-style 'cordon' congestion charge. The funding bid to be submitted to Government next week commits the local councils and Centro-PTA to investigating the role of road user charging, but not to implementing any scheme. </p> <p >Congestion in the West Midlands is an urgent problem which currently costs the local economy £2.5bn every year.  Traffic levels are likely to rise by 15 per cent in the decade to 2011 and a recent poll showed drivers rate congestion as a more serious issue than health, education and housing, and second only to crime as something they want tackled.</p> <p >"Future competitiveness and quality of life in the West Midlands depends on finding effective long term solutions to our congestion problem," says Wolverhampton Leader Councillor Roger Lawrence, transport lead on behalf of all the Metropolitan Authorities.  "What works today may not be effective tomorrow.  Bidding for this money doesn't commit us to any scheme. If we are successful it simply gives us the means to assess which options will work for the West Midlands, and which ones won't."</p> <p >Chair of the Metropolitan Authorities, Solihull Leader Ted Richards, adds: "This isn't just about transport, this is about looking at how best to tackle a congestion problem that threatens our competitiveness and limits the growth of new jobs and housing in the conurbation, the wider region and the UK as a whole.  This is not a commitment to adopt any particular congestion scheme, but it is a recognition that we must look in-depth at congestion – and potential ways of tackling it."</p> <p>Substantive TIF funding is due to become available from 2008/09 and is likely to reach £2.5bn nationally by 2014/15.</p>"
"Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are planning a joint bid, with local councils, for Government money to look at new ways of cutting congestion."
9369
0
12
0
Praise for quick restoration of Birmingham rail services
2005-09-27T00:00:00
2005-09-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Rail workers have been praised for restoring hundreds of services in the West Midlands after the network was seriously disrupted by trackside vandalism on Monday (yesterday).</p> <p>Thousands of people struggled to get into Birmingham yesterday following a fire in signalling equipment.  Nearly all trains into Moor Street and Snow Hill stations were affected.</p> <p>Commuters' problems were eased this morning, however, with Central Trains running a near normal service from 5.00am. <em>(see attached analysis page for latest updates on services)</em></p> <p>"Network Rail did a great job carrying out emergency repairs and Central Trains worked hard to get services up and running again.  They both put in a lot of effort to make sure the serious  disruption didn't continue into a second day," comments Cllr Keith Chambers, lead member for rail services on the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>Cllr Chambers also condemned the actions of the arsonist, who police believe knows where to strike to cause maximum disruption.</p> <p>British Transport Police and Network Rail have offered a £50,000 reward for information leading to conviction of what they believe may be a serial attacker.  Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.</p> <p><strong><em>Links:</em></strong> <br /> <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">Central Trains website</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/giving/givinginformationoncrime/"" target=""_blank"">CrimeStoppers</a></p>"
Rail workers have been praised for restoring hundreds of services in the West Midlands after the network was seriously disrupted by trackside vandalism on Monday (yesterday).
9369
0
12
0
Urgent move to replace bus services after company axes routes
2005-09-23T00:00:00
2005-09-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors have stepped in to provide a transport lifeline for people in Dudley and Sandwell after a bus company pulled the plug on local services with just a few days notice.</p> <p>West Bromwich-based People's Express announced this week it was axing services on the 74a route between Dudley and Great Bridge and its daytime services between Stourbridge and Kingswinford (route 267). The distinctive yellow buses will also stop running on most daytime journeys on service 445 between Quinton and Smethwick from Monday (26 Sept).</p> <p>Centro, the public transport body funded by local councils, is hastily organising replacement buses. It already subsidises more than 200 bus services in the West Midlands at times where there are gaps in the commercial network. These are usually at off-peak times or on routes not considered profitable enough for private bus companies.</p> <p>""We think that everybody in the West Midlands should have reasonable access to public transport, so where there are gaps we have to use public money to provide a more complete network,"" says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>The changes threatened to leave some people in Mount Pleasant (Kingswinford), Marine Crescent (Wordsley) and Morrison Road (Great Bridge) stranded without a bus service at certain times of the day.</p> <p>Bus operators normally have to give the Traffic Commissioner, a Government agency, 56 days notice before making changes to routes or timetables. In this case, People's Express gave only a few days warning.</p> <p>""This means there could be some disruption to passengers while we organise a replacement service, but we are doing all we can at such short notice,"" adds Cllr Clarke. ""I am pleased to say we have already organised cover for most of the routes.""</p>"
Councillors have stepped in to provide a transport lifeline for people in Dudley and Sandwell after a bus company pulled the plug on local services with just a few days notice.
9369
0
12
0
Inflatable poster bid to save town rail link
2005-09-21T00:00:00
2005-09-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Local councillors in Walsall are unveiling a new poster campaign in a bid to save the town's rail link with Wolverhampton.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which represents the interests of passengers, will be joined by Walsall council leader Councillor Tom Ansell and cabinet member for environment Councillor Marco Longhi to help launch a Centro advertising campaign among High Street shoppers on Friday.</p> <p>A Government policy wants to replace the poorly-used rail service with buses, but local councillors argue that the line should not face the axe until a true level of demand can be measured.  They say passengers have shunned the service because it has been unreliable in the past and has not been properly promoted.</p> <p>"We want the Government to be investing in the West Midlands rail network, not making cuts because it has been starved of investment in the past," says Cllr Clarke.  "The trains will keep running at least into next year.  If more people use the Walsall to Wolverhampton line in the meantime that will help make the case for keeping it open."</p> <p>Now Centro-PTA is paying for posters, leaflets and newspaper ads to encourage more people to use the threatened rail service.  The campaign makes the point that the 13-minute train journey to Wolverhampton is far quicker and cheaper than travelling by bus.</p> <p>Cllr Clarke says if local people can show there is a demand for the service, he would like to see the frequency doubled to trains every half hour.</p> <p>"Across the West Midlands, we want to be increasing local services," he adds.</p> <p>The campaign has been supported by Walsall Council transport leaders, who are calling on Government rail chiefs to invest in reliable and more frequent services on the Walsall-Wolverhampton line.</p> <p>"Proposals to axe this service and replace it with buses are utter madness – we should be investing in rail services, such as this, to get congestion off our roads," says Cllr Marco Longhi.</p> <p>He says that closing the rail link is completely at odds with national policy to get people out of their cars and onto public transport.</p> <p>"Walsall Council is committed to making it easier for people to get around and we will fight for the service to Wolverhampton to remain open and receive extra investment. If the service were made more reliable and frequent, we'd soon see passenger numbers rising," adds Walsall Council Leader Cllr Tom Ansell.</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> <a href=""http://www.walsall.gov.uk/default.asp"" target=""_blank"">Walsall Council website</a></em></p>"
Local councillors in Walsall are unveiling a new poster campaign in a bid to save the town's rail link with Wolverhampton.
9369
0
12
0
Bus reliability on agenda at public meeting
2005-09-19T00:00:00
2005-09-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus services on a major Sandwell route are better than elsewhere in the West Midlands, but often bear little resemblance to the timetable, according to a report to councillors on the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>Poor performance on the busy bus routes from Birmingham, along the Dudley Road to Bearwood, Oldbury and Blackheath is set to be a hot topic at the first meeting of a new <strong>Sandwell Transport Users Forum</strong> on Wednesday (21 September, 6.00pm).</p> <p>The forum has been set up by councillors on the PTA to give members of the public a greater say in the work of the Authority to coordinate and influence public transport in the borough.</p> <p>"Getting public transport right is important to the lives of thousands of people and vital in our campaign to cut congestion," comments Cllr Roger Horton, Sandwell lead member on the Passenger Transport Authority.  "We want users of buses, trains and trams to be our eyes and ears to help operators provide better services and we have set up these regular meetings to give more people a chance to have their say."</p> <p>Representatives from the major bus and train companies, as well as the Midland Metro operator, have been invited to the meeting at Sandwell Council House.  They will all face questions from members of the public about their services.</p> <p>A report by public transport promoter Centro, the executive arm of the PTA, reveals an array of problems on routes 82, 87 and 88 through Sandwell.  They include gaps of between 15 and 25 minutes on so-called 'frequent' services, as many as two-thirds of buses not being on time and others showing the wrong destination or no destination at all.</p> <p>Overall, the Centro survey showed only three per cent of buses failed to show and 65 per cent were on time.  This is better than the West Midlands average, but still fails to meet Government agency and local council targets.</p>"
"Bus services on a major Sandwell route are better than elsewhere in the West Midlands, but often bear little resemblance to the timetable, according to a report to councillors on the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority."
9369
0
12
0
Over a thousand West Mids motorists give up their car for a day
2005-09-18T00:00:00
2005-09-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More than a thousand people in the West Midlands have agreed to give up their car for the day as part of an international green campaign.</p> <p>The region's public transport promoter Centro extended its offer to commuters to give a free travel pass for In Town Without My Car Day on Thursday (22 September) in return for pledging to leave their car behind and travel by bus, train or tram instead.  A total of 1350 motorists agreed to take part.</p> <p>"This shows that as the public transport offer in the West Midlands continues to improve we can all help to cut congestion," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>He says if a reasonable proportion of those taking part in car free day continue to use public transport it will make a big difference.  Motorists are already outnumbered during the Birmingham rush hour by commuters on buses, trains and trams.</p> <p>During European Mobility Week, which started on Friday 16 September, the focus is on clever commuting and offering people travel choices.</p> <p>"We are not anti-car.  Our aim is for public transport to be a viable and cost effective alternative for motoring, especially for the daily commute.  That way everyone benefits from reduced congestion," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>Recent statistics showed that one of Centro's most successful congestion-busting schemes saves West Midlands commuters around £10 million a year in motoring costs.  The park and ride facilities at rail stations and Metro stops also take more than 2.5 million car journeys off the region's congested roads.</p> <p><strong><em>Link:</em></strong> <a href=""http://www.22september.org/"" target=""_blank""><em>International campaign website</em></a><br /> </p>"
More than a thousand people in the West Midlands have agreed to give up their car for the day as part of an international green campaign.
9369
0
12
0
Congestion-busting scheme saves 80 tankers of fuel
2005-09-14T00:00:00
2005-09-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A congestion-busting scheme in the West Midlands is helping to reduce the demand for petrol by saving more than 80 tankers of fuel each year.</p> <p>The free park and ride sites offered by public transport promoter Centro-PTA have been praised for helping take millions of car journeys off the region's congested roads.  Now with world oil prices on the rise and worries over petrol supply making headlines, new figures have shown how would-be motorists are cashing in by leaving their car behind.</p> <p>"A public transport user consumes three and a half times less energy than a motorist, so getting more people to use our buses, trains and trams is important for the future of our cities," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>He points out that in the Birmingham rush hour there are already more people travelling to work by bus, train and tram than stuck in their cars in traffic jams.</p> <p>"Now as petrol prices increase and motorists feel the pinch, switching to public transport is going to be even more attractive," he adds.</p> <p>The increase in forecourt prices means that users of park and ride in the West Midlands are now saving almost £10 million a year in motoring costs between them.</p> <ul> <li> <div align=""left"">Centro provides 5,874 spaces at rail and Metro park and ride sites<br /> </div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">These are calculated to take more than 50,000 car journeys per week off the region's congested road network – equivalent to an estimated mileage of more than 400,000 miles<br /> </div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Based on Government fuel consumption statistics, these journeys would have used up 56,800 litres of fuel.  This is equivalent to 81 tankers a year.</div> </li> </ul>"
A congestion-busting scheme in the West Midlands is helping to reduce the demand for petrol by saving more than 80 tankers of fuel each year.
9369
0
12
0
Keep on running for Walsall rail route
2005-09-14T00:00:00
2005-09-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People taking part in this weekend's Walsall Fun Run are being encouraged to help the town's rail service to Wolverhampton to keep on running.</p> <p>Supporters of the threatened rail route will be handing out leaflets during the event at the Arboretum on Sunday.  They want to persuade more people to use the train service which is facing the axe because of claims that it is poorly-used.</p> <p>"We think instead that the Government should be investing in the local rail network to make it more attractive to passengers," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "If local people can show there is a demand for the service, we would even like to see the frequency doubled to trains every half hour."</p> <p>"In the past the Walsall to Wolverhampton route has been something of a Cinderella service that has been difficult to promote, now we want this to change," he says.</p> <p>A promotional campaign by Centro-PTA, which is opposed to the Government's planned cuts, will include special offers for passengers, advertising in local papers and leaflets delivered to 60,000 homes.  It makes the point that travelling by train is cheaper than the bus and the trip from Walsall Station to Wolverhampton takes just 13 minutes.</p>"
People taking part in this weekend's Walsall Fun Run are being encouraged to help the town's rail service to Wolverhampton to keep on running.
9369
0
12
0
�Light at the end of the tunnel� for Walsall rail route
2005-09-13T00:00:00
2005-09-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Travellers on a Black Country rail route are being offered free tickets to the Walsall Illuminations.</p> <p>The special offer has been set up by West Midlands public transport promoter Centro-PTA as part of a campaign to encourage more local people to use the threatened rail service.  Passengers can buy one ticket and get one free for admission to the annual family event at the Arboretum.</p> <p>"In the past the Walsall to Wolverhampton route has been something of a Cinderella service that has been difficult to promote, now we want this to change," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>Government proposals to axe the service have been fiercely resisted by Cllr Clarke and his colleagues at the PTA which sets policy for Centro.  They are opposed to plans to replace the poorly-used train service with a so-called express coach link between Walsall and Wolverhampton.</p> <p>"Our view has been that it would not be an acceptable alternative and instead of looking for cuts, the Government should be investing in the rail network to make it more attractive.  The trains will keep running at least into next year.  If more people use the Walsall to Wolverhampton line in the meantime that will help make the case for keeping it open," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>He says if local people can show there is a demand for the service, he would like to see the frequency doubled to trains every half hour.</p> <p>"Across the West Midlands, we want to be increasing local services," he adds.</p> <p>The promotional campaign will include special offers for passengers, advertising in local papers and leaflets delivered to 60,000 homes.</p>"
Travellers on a Black Country rail route are being offered free tickets for the Walsall Illuminations. The special offer has been set up by West Midlands public transport promoter Centro-PTA as part of a campaign to encourage more local people to use the threatened rail service.
9369
0
12
0
Sunday opening for Centro travel centre
2005-09-09T00:00:00
2005-09-09T00:00:00
9369
<p>Bus and train passengers in Birmingham will have better access to information with extended opening hours at a New Street travel centre.</p> <p>The Travel Information Centre operated by public transport body Centro at New Street Station is to open on Sundays in September and until 23<sup>rd</sup> October.</p> <p>The start of the new term is a very busy time for the sale of scholars and student travel passes – and Sunday is now one of the busiest days for city centre shops.  Opening the Travel Information Centre on Sundays will allow people a greater choice of times to purchase their pass and reduce queuing times for customers.</p> <p>Centro says it will monitor demand for the service over the next seven weeks before considering whether to make Sunday opening a permanent feature.</p>
Bus and train passengers in Birmingham will have better access to information with extended opening hours at a New Street travel centre.
9369
0
12
0
Passengers benefit from Bilston bus station makeover
2005-09-09T00:00:00
2005-09-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The makeover of a busy Black Country bus station is officially completed this week.</p> <p>Passengers at Bilston bus station are already feeling the benefits of a brighter interior with better passenger information and safety facilities.  Public transport promoter Centro has spent nearly half a million pounds on upgrading the interchange, which caters for 700 bus services a day and is adjacent to Bilston Central Midland Metro stop.</p> <p>"This investment will make the bus station even easier for passengers to use.  It is a first class facility which helps provide vital, integrated transport for the whole community," says Cllr Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  "By making these improvements, we are underlining the importance of Bilston as an important part of the public transport network for Wolverhampton and the Black Country."</p> <p>The bus station first opened in October 1991.  This year's extensive refurbishment has included new easy access kerbing, improved signage, speed calming measures, upgraded CCTV for passenger safety and security, better internal facilities and complete redecoration.</p>"
The makeover of a busy Black Country bus station is officially completed this week. Passengers at Bilston bus station are already feeling the benefits of a brighter interior with better passenger information and safety facilities.
9369
0
12
0
Funding agreed for cleaner train interiors
2005-09-08T00:00:00
2005-09-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors in the West Midlands have allocated more than £300,000 to make trains more comfortable for commuters.</p> <p>The money will be spent on renewing the floors which 'look dirty even when clean' on some of the region's 20 year old rolling stock.  Two years ago, councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority also spent £400,000 on renewing seat covers.</p> <p>"There are more and more people travelling by train within the West Midlands and we think it is important to invest in the comfort of passengers," says PTA lead member for rail Cllr Keith Chambers.  "This all helps to make rail travel more attractive and supports our efforts to cut congestion."</p> <p>Passengers on the Stourbridge, Shirley, Solihull and Walsall lines operated by Central Trains into central Birmingham will benefit from the improvements – with the first of the refurbished carriages re-entering service later this month.</p> <p>A report by public transport promoter Centro, which coordinates and monitors the rail industry in the region, told councillors most of the interior of the 74 class 150 trains had not been upgraded since the trains were first introduced more than 20 years ago.  The carriages are expected to keep running in the West Midlands for at least the next five years.</p> <p>"The interior of these trains, especially the floor areas, is looking shabby and in urgent need of enhancement.  Whilst the new seat covers have had a significant impact on the passenger ambience, the overall appearance of the train interiors is still let down by the worn dirty grey flooring, which looks dirty even when clean," the report says.</p> <p>Cllr Chambers told members of the PTA key committee that £160,000 would be saved by scheduling the refurbishment at the same time as an engineering overhaul managed by Angel Trains, the leasing company that owns the carriages.  Operator Central Trains would also be paying for addition reliability improvements taking the overall total to £1.4m, or around £22,000 per vehicle.</p>"
"Councillors in the West Midlands have allocated more than £300,000 to make trains more comfortable for commuters."
9369
0
12
0
Smoother tram ride welcomed
2005-09-07T00:00:00
2005-09-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport bosses have welcomed work by the operator of the Midland Metro to make the tram ride through West Bromwich smoother and quieter.</p> <p>Specialist track maintenance is now underway and set to continue for the next few weeks.  The work will take place overnight and only cause minimal disruptions to services on two Sunday mornings.</p> <p>The operator has given the assurance of a better ride following recent complaints by members of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA).</p> <p>"The noise problem is due to wear and tear on the track and wheels, which is to be expected from such a heavily-used system," says Cllr Roger Horton, Metro lead member on the PTA.  "Travel Midland Metro runs more than 98 per cent of journeys on time and the number of passengers is growing so that's all good news.  We just want a smoother ride as well."</p> <p>Wheels on the critical centre section of Midland Metro trams are now 're-profiled' more regularly as part of routine maintenance.  To smooth some of the rails on the six year-old network, tram operator Travel Midland Metro has also called in specialist equipment which is based in mainland Europe and had to be booked well in advance.  Costs for the rail grinding equipment to visit the UK are being shared with London Trams, as similar work is required on the capital's tram network.</p>"
Public transport bosses have welcomed work by the operator of the Midland Metro to make the tram ride through West Bromwich smoother and quieter.
9369
0
12
0
Cheap travel offer to city arts festival
2005-09-07T00:00:00
2005-09-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Arts fans heading for the UK's biggest free festival in Birmingham this weekend are being offered cheap travel by train.</p> <p>Centro, the West Midlands public transport promoter, has set up a special deal to help people make the most of the cultural experience.</p> <p>On all three days of ArtsFest - September 9 to 11 - return rail fares from any station in the Centro area to stations in the centre of Birmingham will cost £1.50 for adults and 75p for children.  The offer is available by simply completing a coupon in Centro's What's On Summer 2005 guide available from rail stations and travel shops.</p> <p>The latest in theatre, comedy, music, dance and drama will be on show at 18 venues across Birmingham city centre during ArtsFest, allowing people the chance to see and do for free everything from ballet at BullRing to choirs in the pub, whilst children can enjoy a range of workshops.  </p> <p>More information and a free copy of the ArtsFest brochure listing all the events is available by calling 0121 248 1300 or by visiting <a href=""http://www.artsfest.org.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.artsfest.org.uk</a>.</p>"
Arts fans heading for the UK's biggest free festival in Birmingham this weekend are being offered cheap travel by train.
9369
0
12
0
Family savings on the Balamory special
2005-09-01T00:00:00
2005-09-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Families planning a visit to the new stage version of hit children's TV programme Balamory can make great savings if they travel by train.</p> <p>The West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has arranged a special deal for Balamory Live 'Strike Up The Band', which is at the NIA Academy in Birmingham on September 16–18.</p> <p>'Strike Up The Band' will be a fun and interactive mix of music, songs, dancing and stories with all the favourite characters from the BBC series, including Archie and PC Plum.</p> <p>To get a £9 saving on a family ticket, people only need to quote 'Centro Special Rail Offer' when booking their ticket on 0870 010 0616.</p> <p>Full details and information about travelling to the NIA by public transport are on the Centro website <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.centro.org.uk</a></p> <p> </p>"
Families planning a visit to the new stage version of hit children's TV programme Balamory can make great savings if they travel by train.
9369
0
12
0
West Mids offers free travel for car free day
2005-08-30T00:00:00
2005-08-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p >People in the West Midlands are being offered free travel on local buses, trains and trams if they are prepared to give up their car as part of an international green campaign.</p> <p >The region's public transport promoter Centro is calling on people to support 'In Town Without My Car Day' next month.  In return the organisation is offering free travel cards for the day.</p> <p >""This campaign day is an ideal opportunity for anyone who wants to do their bit to cut congestion and help the environment - and if they are persuaded to give up their car on a regular basis that would be even better,"" says TravelWise officer Rachel Hooper.</p> <p ><a href=""http://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/mk2/live/listings/shows_2004/more.asp ShowID=77"" target=""_blank""></a>The car free day is being backed by the roller skating train stars of Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit musical STARLIGHT EXPRESS currently on tour at the Birmingham Hippodrome. </p> <p >To take advantage of the campaign, motorists need to pledge to leave their car behind on international In Town Without My Car Day, on Thursday 22 September.  In return for completing the pledge form via the Centro website they will be sent a One Day Centrocard, valid for travel on all buses, trains and trams in the West Midlands county.</p> <p >Centro, which coordinates and promotes public transport in the West Midlands has already had considerable success with other congestion-busting projects.</p> <p >They include a scheme to offer discounted travel passes via major employers, which is calculated to save two million car journeys a year, and the offer of free park and ride at rail and Metro stations - which now takes more than 2.5 million trips a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p >""Traffic congestion is a major source of frustration.  It also costs the West Midlands economy a great deal of money and adds to pollution,"" says Cllr Roger Horton of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p ><em><strong>Links:</strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.22september.org/"" target=""_blank"">International campaign website</a></em><em><br /> More details of  <a href=""http://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/mk2/live/listings/shows_2004/more.asp ShowID=77"" target=""_blank"">STARLIGHT EXPRESS</a></em></p>"
"People in the West Midlands are being offered free travel on local buses, trains and trams if they are prepared to give up their car as part of an international green campaign."
9369
0
12
0
Better bus wait for Wolverhampton passengers
2005-08-30T00:00:00
2005-08-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Wolverhampton passengers no longer face a cold and drafty wait for the bus following the completion of a £2.1 million improvement to the city's bus station. </p> <p>The latest phase, which will be officially opened on Thursday (1 Sept), includes electronic bus departure boards plus a new waiting area for coach passengers and toilets in the historic Queens Building on Pipers Row. </p> <p>"This has been the final piece in the jigsaw to give the city a modern facility and make bus travel more attractive," says Cllr Paul Allen, vice-chair of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The Pipers Row bus station is one of the busiest in the West Midlands with more than 180 departures per hour – an average of one bus leaving every twenty seconds.   Eventually the facility is to become part of a new public transport interchange which will also include the nearby main line rail station and Midland Metro.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has been refurbishing the bus station over the last four years with improved stands, carriageways, crossings, passenger information, lighting, seating and safety and security all now installed.</p> <p>The final phase of the project cost £1.5m and was completed earlier this month (August).  The main contractors were Chase Norton and Halcrow were the design consultants.  Wolverhampton City Council contributed £50,000 towards restoration aspects of the Grade Two listed building.</p>"
Wolverhampton passengers no longer face a cold and drafty wait for the bus following the completion of a £2.1 million improvement to the city's bus station.
9369
0
12
0
New improved travel pass on the cards
2005-08-29T00:00:00
2005-08-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Further improvements are being planned for the passes that give West Midlands senior citizens free travel on all buses, trains and trams.</p> <p>A proposal to introduce credit-card style plastic passes is to be considered by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority.  Changes in the way passes are issued could also make them available at many more convenient outlets.</p> <p>Centro, the public transport promoter that carries out policy for the PTA, is suggesting the improvements to make the travel passes more hard-wearing.  At the moment more than 40,000 people have had to be issued with replacement passes because the cardboard version has either been lost or has simply worn out.</p> <p>Issuing the plastic passes centrally, instead of from post offices, would also allow for extra validity and address checks to reduce fraud.</p> <p>People would still be able to apply for their travel pass at post offices (and neighbourhood offices in Birmingham) – but the actual pass would be posted to their home address.  Centro is planning a similar system to the 'check and send' system when applying for passports.  This opens up the potential for applications to be processed at libraries, Age Concern offices and other similar locations, councillors are told.</p> <p>"At the moment almost a third of passes issued at post offices are replacement passes.  This new system will reduce wastage all round," explains Cllr Christine Mills, PTA lead member for customer relations.  "The concessionary pass gives free off-peak travel on almost every bus, train and tram in the West Midlands, so it's a valuable card and needs to be hard-wearing."</p> <p>Because plastic photo-passes are more expensive to produce, Centro is suggesting a charge could be made for re-issues.  However, the new system means people would save the cost of the two passport photographs you currently need when getting a replacement cardboard pass at a post office.</p> <p>Councillors are also discussing proposals for a compulsory ID pass for youngsters aged 14 to 16 to get half fare travel.  The region's biggest private bus company Travel West Midlands has said it believes there is significant fraudulent use of child tickets by passengers who are not entitled to them.  This fraud could also have an impact on the council tax because child half fares at peak times are paid for out of a public subsidy.</p> <p>All the issues are to be discussed by councillors on the PTA's key transport strategy committee on Monday 5 September.</p>"
"Further improvements are being planned for the passes that give West Midlands senior citizens free travel on all buses, trains and trams."
9369
0
12
0
Fare savings for commuters to spread the rush hour load
2005-08-24T00:00:00
2005-08-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rush hour rail commuters are to be encouraged to spread their journey times with the offer of cheaper travel.</p> <p >The move follows a proposal by the former Strategic Rail Authority to raise peak rush hour fares, which was fiercely resisted by Centro and local councillors on the policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority earlier in the year.</p> <p >"Rail travel makes a significant contribution to cutting congestion in the West Midlands, so the idea of putting up fares certainly did not fit in with our idea of an integrated transport policy," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "We have consistently said that the way of dealing with passenger growth is to invest in the rail network, not to try and price people off the trains and back into their cars."</p> <p >Passenger growth in the region has been higher than in London and the South East, with one in five Birmingham commuters now choosing to travel by train.</p> <p >The PTA is due to consider a regular report on setting West Midlands rail fares at a committee meeting on Monday 5 September.</p> <p >While most rail fares are set to increase by a Government guideline of inflation plus one per cent, Centro says it wants to start talks with the Department for Transport for a smaller rise in local off-peak fares.  The West Midlands public transport promoter also intends to work with train operators to make travel cheaper in the 'shoulder peak' either side of the peak rush hour.</p> <p >In its report to councillors, Centro acknowledges that the concentration of passenger numbers into a relatively short period at the height of the rush hour causes problems of overcrowding and increases rail industry costs.  "If passengers could be encouraged to spread their journeys by travelling either earlier or later where spare capacity exists on services, then this would be highly beneficial, and would encourage greater rail use," says Centro services director Robert Smith.</p> <p >Following suggestions put forward in the SRA's West Midlands Route Utilisation Strategy and local opposition to 'pricing off' demand with peak fare increases, Department for Transport policy now recommends an Early Bird season ticket to encourage passengers to travel early in the morning peak, and bringing forward the start of off-peak fares from 9.30 to 9.00am.</p> <p>PTA councillors are expected to agree their executive body Centro working up proposals with the Government and train operators with the aim that these could come into effect sometime next year.</p>"
Rush hour rail commuters are to be encouraged to spread their journey times with the offer of cheaper travel.
9369
0
12
0
Major plan to end bus stop confusion
2005-08-24T00:00:00
2005-08-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A major plan to put timetable and route information at every bus stop and interchange in the West Midlands is set to be approved by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The plan complements the popular Traveline telephone service, and the current roll out of Real Time information displays at bus shelters on key routes.  At main interchanges, the improved information would also help passengers find their way and make connections with other forms of public transport.</p> <p>Eventually councillors on the PTA want all bus, train and Metro services to become part of a comprehensive "Network West Midlands" to rival similar networks in Paris and London.</p> <p>Centro plans a £7m programme to roll out the new information during the next three years.  The finished project would also involve recognisable 'network identifiers' at bus and rail stations, Midland Metro stops and on tickets, signs and vehicles. The cost of on going maintenance of the information will be shared amongst operators.</p> <p>"This is a major piece of work to get many more people using public transport," says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "It will add to our campaign to cut congestion in the West Midlands and make it so much easier for everyone to get about.  Our goal is for passengers to be offered a truly integrated transport system, with simpler ticketing and easy to use information to make finding your way about the network as easy as possible."</p> <p>Research showed that currently people didn't perceive there to be a real network of public transport services, even though there is comprehensive coverage of the West Midlands by a range of bus and train companies.  It also showed that the lack of passenger information meant both users and non-users of public transport often lacked the confidence or knowledge to use more routes.</p> <p>"Centro has comprehensively reviewed current information provision and developed a whole new suite of passenger information and signage, including a network map of all public transport, which links the West Midlands together as a system," councillors are told in a report to the PTA Transport Strategy Committee (5 September).  "This information suite will be rolled out across bus station, at bus, rail and metro interchanges, at travel centres, in shelters, and on new bus stops being installed across the conurbation, and complements the Real Time Information programme," the report says.</p>"
A major plan to put timetable and route information at every bus stop and interchange in the West Midlands is set to be approved by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority.
9369
0
12
0
Councillors welcome new Black Country rail services
2005-08-23T00:00:00
2005-08-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Rail passengers at two local stations will have more services to more places from the end of the year, according to a new timetable seen by West Midlands councillors.</p> <p>Members of the watchdog Passenger Transport Authority are set to endorse the proposals by Network Rail which will take effect in December.</p> <p>"People in the Black Country will have more journey opportunities as a result of the new timetable.  This is a good example of how we can influence the industry to deliver improvements for passengers," says Cllr Keith Chambers, PTA lead member for rail services.</p> <p>On Mondays to Saturdays, Coseley will have its service improved to three trains per hour, including two per hour non-stop to Birmingham New Street, and through links to Shrewsbury and Liverpool.</p> <p>On Mondays to Fridays, Sandwell and Dudley will have new direct services to Crewe and Liverpool.</p> <p>Officers from public transport promoter Centro have worked with Network Rail and operating company Central Trains to draw up the new timetable and will report details of the changes to a PTA meeting on Monday 5 September.  Councillors on the Transport Strategy Committee are being recommended to endorse the proposals.</p>"
"Rail passengers at two local stations will have more services to more places from the end of the year, according to a new timetable seen by West Midlands councillors."
9369
0
12
0
NEC and airport rail services back on track
2005-08-22T00:00:00
2005-08-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A public transport watchdog that opposed cuts in rail services to the NEC and Birmingham International Airport is welcoming news that the services are to get back on track before Christmas.</p> <p>Local councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority called a rail industry summit last year when they found 'turn-up-and-go' services were to end on the region's busiest line between Birmingham New Street and Coventry.</p> <p>Now Network Rail has agreed to reinstate more regular trains as part of a timetable revision from December this year.</p> <p>"People had been so used to regular trains to the NEC and the Airport that there was never any real reason to check a timetable," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "When that came to an end we complained very forcibly on behalf of local passengers and business interests."</p> <p>Network Rail will be commissioning a new set of points at Birmingham International to allow for an improved service pattern.  The timetable to be introduced in December means the longest wait at New Street for a train to International will be reduced to 14 minutes during weekday services and the maximum wait at Coventry will be 18 minutes.</p> <p>"The new timetable will offer other improvements such as a direct link between the Walsall line and Birmingham International, faster journeys for local services on the Birmingham to Coventry line and some better journey opportunities from Coseley and Sandwell and Dudley," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>The PTA's Transport Strategy Committee is being recommended to endorse the new timetable at its meeting on Monday 5 September.</p>"
A public transport watchdog that opposed cuts in rail services to the NEC and Birmingham International Airport is welcoming news that the services are to get back on track before Christmas.
9369
0
12
0
International transport spotlight on Birmingham
2005-08-18T00:00:00
2005-08-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport experts from across Europe are meeting in Birmingham this week to discuss the impact of better bus, rail and tram networks on quality of life. (21-23 August)</p> <p>West Midlands body Centro currently holds the vice-chairmanship of a key committee of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) – and will be hosting one of the regular meetings in Birmingham.</p> <p>One of the key issues on the agenda is how to provide the maximum mobility for people living in major cities, without adding to traffic congestion and damaging the environment.  Transport bosses from Vienna, Prague, the Hague, Dresden, Madrid, Stuttgart and Lisbon, as well as London and the West Midlands, will be taking part in the discussions.</p> <p>The UITP has recently been working with the European Union to encourage member states, and local and regional governments to implement more sustainable urban transport policies.</p> <p>It published figures to show that modal shift from private to public transport will contribute to a significant reduction in the €560 billion annual cost of road accidents, congestion, energy consumption and pollution in the EU, thus releasing funds for economic development.</p> <p>Research by the University of Cologne also showed that every €1 billion invested in public transport infrastructure results in a direct employment benefit of 20,000 person-years.  Every €1 invested in public transport has an economic benefit to society of €1.50.<br /> <br /> ""The benefits of persuading more people  to use public transport can be huge,"" comments Ton Kaper, public transport boss of the Hague and chairman of the committee meeting in Birmingham.  ""Better co-ordination of land use and mobility policies can reduce social exclusion, generate more wealth and make our cities more pleasant places to live."</p> <p><em><strong>Link:</strong> </em> <a href=""http://www.uitp.com/About/comdiv/urban/index.htm"" target=""_blank""><em>UITP Transport and Urban Life Commission</em></a></p>"
"Public transport experts from across Europe are meeting in Birmingham to discuss the impact of better bus, rail and tram networks on quality of life."
9369
0
12
0
International spotlight for West Brom
2005-08-18T00:00:00
2005-08-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Bromwich Bus Station will come under the international spotlight this week with a visit by public transport experts from across Europe. (Monday 22 August)</p> <p>Members of the International Association of Public Transport are holding one of their regular meetings in the West Midlands to discuss how better access to bus, train and tram lines can improve quality of life.</p> <p>During the visit, hosted by public transport promoter Centro, the international guests will have a guided tour of West Bromwich Bus Station and ride on the Midland Metro.</p>"
West Bromwich Bus Station will come under the international spotlight with a visit by public transport experts from across Europe.
9369
0
12
0
People more important than cars in new congestion statistics
2005-08-17T00:00:00
2005-08-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Senior transport politicians in the West Midlands are welcoming a shift in the way Government is to measure congestion in major cities, which they say gives more recognition to public transport and other sustainable travel options.</p> <p >Two new indicators, to be used in the latest round of Local Transport Plans submitted to Government, will look at delays to people rather then vehicles.</p> <p >"Official congestion statistics that simply count the number of cars stuck in traffic jams don't really fit in with the development of a proper integrated transport policy," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >"The new measure takes on particular significance in major cities like Birmingham where, for example, we already have more rush hour commuters on buses, trams and trains – so a simple count of vehicle delay does look like it might be unfairly biased towards getting cars moving.  It's people that matter, not vehicles," he adds.</p> <p >Public transport bosses have raised the hope that use of the new congestion criteria could make it easier for policies to solve rush hour delays to buses and could give a boost to car-sharing schemes.</p> <p >"If Government targets continue to be based solely on the number of vehicles that means the congestion problem for a car with a single driver is given the same weight as for someone with several passengers in a car-share scheme or even a bus with fifty or more commuters on board," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >The new guidance is contained in a technical note recently published by the Department for Transport.  It says the ten largest urban areas (London, West Midlands, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, Tyne & Wear, Nottingham, Leicester and Bristol) will be required to set congestion targets based on average person delay on key corridors in the morning rush hour. </p> <p >The new guidance says future measures of 'traffic' levels on key corridors will count the number of people travelling along the route, rather than the number of vehicles.  For <em>average person delay</em>, traffic flows and journey times must be disaggregated for different categories of vehicle, for example: cars/vans, larger goods vehicles, non-stopping minibuses, non-stopping coaches, and stopping buses.</p> <p ><a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_about/documents/page/dft_about_030578-06.hcsp#P629_30376"" target=""_blank""><em>Link to DfT note</em></a></p>"
"Senior transport politicians in the West Midlands are welcoming a shift in the way Government is to measure congestion in major cities, which they say gives more recognition to public transport and other sustainable travel options."
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0
12
0
All aboard the Starlight Express with Centro
2005-08-16T00:00:00
2005-08-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Train travellers can get cheaper theatre tickets for hit West End musical Starlight Express, which has just steamed into Birmingham.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has joined with the Birmingham Hippodrome to offer a £4 discount off the top three seat prices at performances between 22 – 25 August.</p> <p>Starlight Express, by Andrew Lloyd Webber, offers roller-racing action as part of its story of futuristic competing trains and more than 20 songs. </p> <p>Rail travellers taking their family to the show can save money after 6.30pm using an Evening Return rail ticket, which is £1.50 for adults and 75p for children.  Alternatively a group of four can travel for £4. This works out cheaper than city centre car parking charges.</p> <p>More details on the offer, and timetable information to help plan how to get to the show, are available at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>. </p> <p> </p>"
"Train travellers can get cheaper theatre tickets for hit West End musical Starlight Express, which has just steamed into Birmingham."
9369
0
12
0
Sport and discovery all available by rail
2005-08-16T00:00:00
2005-08-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A festival of sport and a day of discovery will be waiting for families who travel by rail into Birmingham city centre on Sunday 21 August.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has a rail travel offer for families to SportsFest, at Millennium Point, and Discovery Day, taking place across the city centre.  A return fare to New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill stations from any station in the Centro area will cost just £1.50 for adults and 75p for children.</p> <p>SportsFest will offer opportunities for children to try out a number of different sports, including football, tennis, athletics, cricket, and hockey.  There is also a section for disabled sports and general health and fitness information.</p> <p>Meanwhile Discovery Day, now in its eighth year, lets people look behind the scenes for free at such well-known places as the Council House, Magistrate's Court, and ICC.  Centro's exhibition bus will also be in Victoria Square with public transport information and details of special promotions and offers.</p> <p>Timetable information to help plan how to get to the event is available by calling Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 or online via <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>.  More details on the offer are also available via the Centro website.</p>"
A festival of sport and a day of discovery will be waiting for families who travel by rail into Birmingham City Centre on Sunday 21 August.
9369
0
12
0
MPs' investigation is just the ticket for local rail users
2005-08-10T00:00:00
2005-08-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A West Midlands public transport watchdog has welcomed an inquiry to see if rail passengers get the best deal from fares and tickets.</p> <p >Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority are backing the House of Commons' Transport Committee investigation, which will examine research suggesting standard train tickets in the UK can cost three times more than elsewhere in Europe.</p> <p >The MPs inquiry will look at the cost of rail travel, including how it can be affected by Network Rail's control of the timetable for engineering works. It will also cover ticket structure and ways of reform and the availability of cheap advance purchase tickets.</p> <p >"We share the committee's desire to get the best deal for rail users, as part of a total funding package that can also provide investment for the network," says West Midlands PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "At the moment there is a confusing choice of tickets for rail passengers and some can often be unnecessarily expensive," he adds.</p> <p >The West Midlands area already offers low off-peak rail fares, raised annually by the PTA in line with inflation, whilst peak fares for local commuters go up in line with national Government guidelines.</p> <p>"By having a simple range of tickets that offer good value for money, you encourage more passengers onto rail and the benefits from this would only be good for the network," says Cllr Clarke.</p>"
A West Midlands public transport watchdog has welcomed an inquiry to see if rail passengers get the best deal from fares and tickets.
9369
0
12
0
New ramp improves Metro access in West Bromwich
2005-08-05T00:00:00
2005-08-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The Midland Metro will soon be even easier to use for people in West Bromwich with work underway by Centro-PTA on a new ramp at the Lodge Road stop.</p> <p>The £400,000 ramp will improve access to the trams running between Wolverhampton and Birmingham and is being installed as part of aims to widen transport access.  Due for completion in the autumn, it will link the stop with Victoria Street, closer to the centre of West Bromwich, and a new retail park. </p> <p>"People who want to get to the Metro from Victoria Street currently have a long trek, but this will save them much more time," said Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the PTA.  "As well disabled people, those with heavy shopping and parents with pushchairs will also benefit," he added.</p> <p>The stop already has a ramp and lifts leading in the opposite direction towards Lodge Road, near the Town Hall. Cllr Horton added that the ramp will be fully lit at night and he pledged there would be no passenger disruption during the works.</p> <p>Geoff Foster, Chief Executive of local disabled people and carers' charity CARES, said: "CARES welcomes these access improvements to the Lodge Road Metro stop. The new ramp will make it easier for people with disabilities and their carers to use public transport in West Bromwich.""</p> <p>Midland Metro Line One carries over five million people a year and the two stops in West Bromwich are among the best used, with over 2,500 people a week using Lodge Road.  Shops, bus services and other town centre amenities are a short walk away, with trams running every six minutes.</p>"
The Midland Metro will soon be even easier to use for people in West Bromwich with work underway by Centro-PTA on a new ramp at the Lodge Road stop.
9369
0
12
0
Hopes raised for axed Black Country rail link
2005-08-01T00:00:00
2005-08-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport bosses have raised hopes that train services between Walsall and Wolverhampton could continue – despite being 'axed' in a Government rail strategy for the West Midlands.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the watchdog Passenger Transport Authority, today said all was not lost, following a meeting with the PTA's executive arm Centro to discuss the next stage in the campaign to save the line.</p> <p >"Our officers in Centro have already had a meeting with the Department for Transport to hammer out the details of funding and there are good signs that we can find a solution to maintain a passenger service," he said.</p> <p >"We stood up for passengers and local interests throughout the consultation on this plan and we have made some headway.  But our opposition to cutting passenger services was made quite clear – and that opposition will continue even though the Government was now approved the plan," Cllr Clarke added.</p> <p >Centro-PTA had argued that more effort needed to be invested to make the poorly-used Wolverhampton to Walsall service more reliable before the true level of passenger demand could be measured.  Councillors say the replacement bus service now being suggested by the Department for Transport is not an acceptable alternative.</p> <p >"We still feel that a reliable train service that is properly promoted could be successful and actually less costly than the bus or coach alternative,"  added Cllr Keith Chambers, PTA lead member for rail services.</p> <p >He said the future of the line could ultimately depend on a 'use it, or lose it' appeal to local people.</p> <p>"An hourly service is still included in both the current rail timetable and the new timetable to be introduced by Network Rail in December for the first part of next year – so we have some time left to show there is a real demand for the rail link to continue," he said.</p>"
Public transport bosses have raised hopes that train services between Walsall and Wolverhampton could continue � despite being 'axed' in a Government rail strategy for the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Gridlock getting worse and must be tackled say West Mids drivers
2005-07-29T00:00:00
2005-07-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Drivers in the West Midlands say that transport is a more serious issue for the region than health or education and want tackling congestion to be a top priority, new research shows.</p> <p >A survey of drivers in the region shows nine in 10 think congestion has got worse in the last few years, with the growing volume of traffic on the road seen as the key cause. </p> <p >The new findings come on the same day the seven Metropolitan Authorities and public transport body Centro-PTA have joined together to submit the latest version of the West Midlands' Local Transport Plan (LTP) to government. The LTP sets out a £1.27bn package of measures to reduce traffic congestion, improve public transport and make the best use of the roads and rail network. It is the document used by government to decide future levels of transport funding.</p> <p >Cllr Roger Lawrence, the West Midlands' Transport Champion, said: 'West Midlands' drivers are telling us congestion is getting worse. Their views confirm the challenge we face.  More and more cars are using our roads and the region is predicted to have to cope with more than 165 million extra journeys by 2011. If we don't address this, gridlock looms. It's why we've started a process of debate, consultation and research to look longer term at all the potential solutions to our traffic problems.</p> <p >He added: 'Today we have also submitted a new version of the West Midlands' Local Transport Plan to government. The conurbation needs a step-change in its transport system, and the investment to deliver this. If not, growth will be choked, regeneration stalled and our quality of life threatened. The LTP is an agreed package of transport improvements for the next six years which will revitalise the region's transport infrastructure and cut congestion. We want everyone in the West Midlands behind the plan, and we want government to back it as well. A billion pounds of government investment is at stake, as well as the future prospects of the region.'</p> <p >The new research was carried out through detailed interviews with 300 drivers in May and June of this year. The key findings are:</p> <ul> <li> <div >90 per cent of West Midlands' drivers think congestion has got worse in the last few years</div> </li> <li> <div >The key cause is seen as the growing volume of traffic on the road (66 per cent)</div> </li> <li> <div >69 per cent of drivers regard transport as a serious issue for the West Midlands (second only to crime, on a par with environment and ahead of health, education and housing)</div> </li> <li> <div >79 per cent of drivers think tackling road congestion should be an important transport priority</div> </li> <li> <div >Half of drivers (50 per cent) see congestion as a big personal problem</div> </li> </ul> <p >The new Local Transport Plan, submitted to government today, includes proposals to expand the Midland Metro tram system from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley, and from Snow Hill to Five Ways in central Birmingham.</p> <p >Buses remain the dominant mode of public transport and improvements are vital if more people are to have a choice about how they travel. Better bus services are at the heart of the draft plan, including more Bus Quality Networks (in east Birmingham), introduction of Bus Rapid Transit and bringing more bus routes up to Showcase standard.</p> <p >Other measures in the LTP include:</p> <ul> <li> <div ><strong>Red Routes</strong> – A 261-mile (419km) network of major roads to help traffic flow more freely and increase road capacity by 10 per cent, by tackling inconsiderate stopping and providing strictly controlled parking and loading to protect local traders.</div> </li> <li> <div ><strong>Smarter Choices</strong> – Campaigns to inform people about travel choices and ways to minimise congestion and environmental impact.</div> </li> <li> <div ><strong>Junction Improvements</strong> – Upgrades to traffic signals at key junctions to increase overall road efficiency.</div> </li> <li> <div ><strong>Traffic Managers</strong> – New traffic managers appointed by the seven metropolitan authorities is to improve highway efficiency for all users.</div> </li> <li> <div ><strong>Park & Ride</strong> – Expansion of existing sites, improvements to meet local demand, and the development of new facilities.</div> </li> </ul> <p >Today's document builds on the strategy first set out in 2003. It highlights progress on key projects including:</p> <ul> <li> <div ><strong>Regeneration</strong> – A £14.5m (£14m LTP funding) scheme in Darlaston delivering key road improvements to greatly improve access to this regeneration area.</div> </li> <li> <div ><strong>Public transport</strong> – The £42m (£28m LTP funding) Primelines bus network in Coventry is delivering a more reliable and accessible bus service.</div> </li> <li> <div ><strong>Improving access to local centres</strong> – Local centres like Brierley Hill's £35m (£25m LTP funding) improvement scheme will be easier to get to thanks to better roads and traffic management.</div> </li> </ul> <p >Business and environment groups in the conurbation have backed the thrust of the LTP, and called for action on congestion.</p> <p >Jerry Blackett, Chair of the West Midlands' Business Transport Group said today: 'Congestion in the West Midlands is costing business around £2.8bn every year. Delivering free-flowing roads is vital, as is building a world-class public transport system. Business welcomes the road improvements identified in the LTP in particular and we are heartened by an increasing willingness of local authorities to work with us on ensuring the transport needs of business are met. We back the LTP and the important declaration of intent by the Metropolitan Authorities on congestion.'</p> <p >He added: 'We now want government to recognise how crucial transport in the West Midlands is to the national network, and we want the authorities to follow up and deal with congestion. Both are vital to maintain and expand the competitiveness of not just the West Midlands but also UK plc.'</p> <p>Gerald Kells, West Midlands' spokesperson for the Campaign to Protect Rural England, said: 'We cannot allow traffic growth to continue in a way which will stifle the conurbation. Not only does the environment and the economy suffer but the less well off in particular find they have poorer and poorer access to services. CPRE welcomes the emphasis on public transport in this LTP, but we also recognise that it will be a long slog and that it will be essential that everyone gets involved in the development of a more sustainable transport policy.'</p> <p><em>Click on the download button below for a PDF document of the plan submitted on 29 July 2005<br /> This file is 11MB, so only download if you really want it - it may slow down your browser operation.</em></p>"
"Drivers in the West Midlands say that transport is a more serious issue for the region than health or education and want tackling congestion to be a top priority, new research shows. The new findings come on the same day the seven Metropolitan Authorities and public transport body Centro-PTA have joined together to submit the latest version of the West Midlands' Local Transport Plan (LTP) to government."
9369
0
12
0
Reassurance role for new Safer Travel Police Team
2005-07-26T00:00:00
2005-07-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new police team, part-funded by public transport body Centro-PTA, has started work on the region's bus network.  The main focus of the Safer Travel Police Team will be providing reassurance to passengers.</p> <p>Working in partnership with Centro-PTA and with the support of the bus operators, the team is to provide a high visibility police presence on the network to reassure the travelling public of the safety of bus travel. The team is an important part of Centro's bus strategy, which is designed to promote bus travel.</p> <p>The dedicated unit consists of six PCs, 20 Police Community Support Officers and is headed by two sergeants.  "Their job will focus on crime, disorder and community safety on and around buses in the metropolitan area," explains Safer Travel Inspector Ian Grundy of West Midlands Police.</p> <p>"If there are any problems on the bus the team are there ready to react to the situation, but it is proven that having uniformed officers on the bus network is likely to prevent problems in the first place," he says.</p> <p>Local councillors from the Passenger Transport Authority and the Police Authority have both welcomed the move.</p> <p>"The personal security of passengers is essential to a quality public transport system even if actual crime levels are low," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "All the partners in this initiative recognise that people have concerns about anti-social behaviour on buses and we all want to remove this potential barrier to travel."</p> <p>The formation of the team follows the success of previous bus-specific police operations in the West Midlands, which have proven that a police presence on the bus network does cut robbery and anti-social behaviour problems and reassure the public.</p> <p>Objectives for the team include fear of crime, youth issues and robbery. The team will also deliver educational campaigns at identified vulnerable schools.</p> <p>"This is part of a strategy, through the increased deployment of community support officers, to work with stakeholders and local people on making people feel safer, wherever they are," comments Cllr Diana Holl-Allen, chairman of the Police Authority.</p> <p>The new Safer Travel Police Team will have its base at the offices of the public transport promoter Centro in Birmingham, but will work on routes throughout the West Midlands.  As well as reassurance and crime reduction operations on the bus network, the team will be collecting intelligence on crime matters, supported by a Centro-funded crime analyst.</p> <p> </p>"
"A new police team, part-funded by public transport body Centro-PTA, has started work on the region's bus network. The main focus of the Safer Travel Police Team will be providing reassurance to passengers."
9369
0
12
0
Free travel scheme starts in the West Midlands
2005-07-25T00:00:00
2005-07-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands are from this week entitled to free travel on bus, rail, and Metro.</p> <p>Anyone over 60 years old living in the West Midlands county, or who meets standard disability criteria, qualifies for a pass valid after 9.30am weekdays and all day weekends and bank holidays.</p> <p>The passes should now have arrived in the post. Those who may have not yet received their pass need to contact public transport promoter Centro by calling 0121 214 7878.</p> <p>From this week those entitled to passes can apply for them at main post offices, Centro Travel Centres or Birmingham neighbourhood offices. Blind and disabled applicants should call the 0121 214 7878 number.</p> <p>"I hope all those entitled to free passes have now received them, and I hope this leads to more people leaving their cars at home and taking advantage of public transport," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the policy making PTA. "It has always been PTA policy to make concessions widely available to those who need them," he added.</p> <p>Those aged over 65 are not affected by the new arrangements and should use their existing pass as before. The PTA decided to bring in the new scheme, covering all modes of travel, after Chancellor Gordon Brown announced in his last Budget that free bus travel would be offered to the over 60s from April 2006.</p> <p>People in the West Midlands already benefit from a concessions scheme run by Centro, and funded by the PTA and seven local councils.</p> <p >More information on the new concessions scheme can also be found at Centro's web site at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>. </p> <p> </p>"
"Elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands are from this week entitled to free travel on bus, rail, and Metro."
9369
0
12
0
New free elderly and disabled travel scheme starts this Sunday
2005-07-21T00:00:00
2005-07-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Anyone over 60 years old living in the West Midlands county, or who meets standard disability criteria, qualifies for a free off-peak travel pass from this Sunday, 24 July.</p> <p>People aged 60 to 64 and disabled people have been receiving their passes over the last week. Anyone who does not get his or her pass by this Saturday, 23 July needs to contact public transport promoter Centro from Monday by calling 0121 214 7878 where staff will be able to help with any problems.</p> <p>Those aged over 65 are not affected by the new arrangements and should use their existing pass as before.</p> <p>"We want to make sure all those entitled to free passes receive them and whilst this should happen, it is possible there may be a few instances where it does not, such as where people may have moved home," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the policy making PTA.</p> <p>"Centro will be all to happy to assist, so everyone concerned can make the best use of their passes as quickly as possible," he added.</p> <p>From Monday persons aged 60 or over can apply for passes at main post offices, Centro Travel Centres or Birmingham neighbourhood offices. Disabled people wishing to apply for a free pass need to contact 0121 214 7878.</p> <p>The PTA decided to bring in the new scheme, covering all modes of travel, after Chancellor Gordon Brown announced in his last Budget that free bus travel would be offered to the over 60s from April 2006.</p> <p>People in the West Midlands already benefit from a concessions scheme run by Centro, and funded by the PTA and seven local councils.</p> <p>Making the free travel passes available earlier is expected to cost the West Midlands about £3m, which the PTA hopes to recover from next year's payments.</p> <p>For <u>public information</u> about the concessions and how to apply (including a downloadable application form), please visit the main Centro website (<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>) or to go straight to the relevant page, <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/wwwroot/Mobility/usrMConcessionary.asp"" target=""_blank""><strong>click here</strong></a></p>"
"Anyone over 60 years old living in the West Midlands county, or who meets standard disability criteria, qualifies for a free off-peak travel pass from this Sunday, 24 July."
9369
0
12
0
Free travel scheme on course for launch
2005-07-19T00:00:00
2005-07-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Staff at public transport promoter Centro-PTA are working hard to ensure passes for free travel on trains, buses and trams for all elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands are ready for this Sunday.</p> <p>Nearly 24,000 passes have been mailed to senior citizens ahead of the introduction of the new concessionary scheme on July 24. Just 300 are now left to send. About 12,000 blind and disabled passes are ready to go with less than 200 to do.</p> <p>From this Sunday anyone over 60 years old living in the West Midlands county, or who meets standard disability criteria, will qualify for a free off-peak travel pass.</p> <p>People aged 60 to 64 and disabled people – who already benefit from a concessions scheme run by Centro and funded by the PTA and seven local councils – will automatically receive their passes over the next few days.</p> <p>"I am pleased to see that everyone here is keen to make sure that people get their new passes on time," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the policy setting PTA. "One of the main ways of increasing usage of public transport is through wide ranging concessions to those who need them most, which is why we are introducing this scheme," he added.</p> <p>The PTA decided to bring in a new scheme, covering all modes of travel, after Chancellor Gordon Brown announced in his last Budget that free bus travel would be offered to the over 60s from April 2006.</p> <p>Making the free travel passes available earlier is expected to cost the West Midlands about £3m, which the PTA hopes to recover from next year's payments.</p> <p>For <u>public information</u> about the concessions and how to apply (including a downloadable application form), please visit the main Centro website (<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>) or to go straight to the relevant page, <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/wwwroot/Mobility/usrMConcessionary.asp"" target=""_blank""><strong>click here</strong></a></p>"
"Staff at public transport promoter Centro-PTA are working hard to ensure passes for free travel on trains, buses and trams for all elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands are ready for this Sunday."
9369
0
12
0
"Buses more important than jams, says MORI poll"
2005-07-13T00:00:00
2005-07-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Being close to a bus stop, train station or Midland Metro services is one of the top priorities for people deciding how they feel about their neighbourhood, according to a new survey.</p> <p>The figures are particularly significant in Birmingham, where fewer than half of commuters now travel by car – as the MORI poll showed access to public transport was ranked twice as important as having low levels of traffic congestion.</p> <p>When asked what makes somewhere a good place to live, people also put the quality of public transport above road and pavement repairs, leisure facilities and low levels of pollution.</p> <p>The survey has been seized upon by public transport bosses as support for giving buses priority and backing more investment in rail and tram lines.</p> <p>"This shows the importance of a comprehensive public transport system in assessing quality of life.  People clearly value having a bus route, train station or tram line on their doorstep," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The latest study, called <i>Liveability 2005</i>, was designed to find out what really matters to ordinary people about the areas where they live.  "A complex interaction of factors is reflected in people's own assessments of what will improve their quality of life.  'Liveability' – or what is happening in the streets where they live – is fundamental," says Helen Rice of the MORI Social Research Institute.</p> <p>Low levels of crime, health services, decent housing and education provision were generally the top criteria in making somewhere a good place to live – although being close to a reliable, frequent bus route can affect people's access to many of those services, transport chiefs point out.  Public transport provision was placed above shopping facilities in the poll, for example.</p> <p><em>The poll can be found at <a href=""http://www.mori.com/"" target=""_blank"">www.mori.com</a></em></p> <p>Last year a survey of top European companies also showed improving public transport was the key to a city's business success.  When asked what could improve their location the most, ease of mobility within the city was ranked far higher than local taxes, pollution, supply of qualified workers, shopping, leisure or parking.</p>"
"Being close to a bus stop, train station or Midland Metro services is one of the top priorities for people deciding how they feel about their neighbourhood, according to a new survey."
9369
0
12
0
Congestion-busting park and ride could be brought forward
2005-07-05T00:00:00
2005-07-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans to encourage more West Midlands commuters to travel by train could be brought forward.</p> <p>Under the scheme by Centro-PTA, the amount of free parking at four West Midlands rail stations would increase by over 70 per cent.</p> <p>As most West Midlands rail commuters leave a car behind, park and ride schemes are already taking more than 2½ million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads claims the public transport promoter.</p> <p>Now councillors want to advance plans for some stations so that their existing car parks can be expanded as soon as funding is available.  The policy setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority will consider the proposals for Acocks Green, Chester Road, Wylde Green and Whitlock's End stations at a meeting next Monday (11 July).</p> <p>"More Birmingham commuters now use public transport than travel to work in their car and our park and ride schemes make an important contribution to that congestion-busting statistic," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>The four car parks being considered for expansion already have a combined total of more than 260 spaces.  As these are full on most weekdays, Centro-PTA wants to add almost 200 extra spaces.  A £1.4 million investment would also involve CCTV monitored from a regional control centre, help points, public address, fencing and lighting.</p> <p>The work is programmed to start from 2006/07, but Monday's PTA committee meeting will discuss bringing this forward to start later this year if funding becomes available.</p> <p>Centro now provides almost 6,000 park and ride spaces – an increase of 25 per cent in the last three years.  A national transport conference revealed that motorists in the West Midlands have more choice of park and ride than in any other major urban area – and that almost three-quarters of rail commuters have been persuaded to leave a car behind.</p>"
Plans to encourage more West Midlands commuters to travel by train could be brought forward.
9369
0
12
0
Plan to keep more transport projects on target
2005-07-04T00:00:00
2005-07-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors have welcomed a tightening up of procedures to ensure transport projects in the West Midlands keep within budget.</p> <p>A report to the policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority says building costs inflation, scheme revisions and the climate within the construction industry have led companies to submit higher than expected prices for several key projects.</p> <p>Although the majority of projects have been kept within estimates, roughly one in ten have seen cost increases significant enough to force the Authority's executive arm Centro to take action.</p> <p>Seven out of 75 projects have seen tender prices rise above original estimates, councillors are told.</p> <p>"These are not overspends, but we do need to get budget estimates as close as possible to the actual price so that we can plan the most effective use of public money," says Cllr Paul Allen, resources lead member on the PTA.  "Where the construction industry, for whatever reason, comes back to Centro with an inflated price, it can mean that some other worthwhile public transport project may have to be delayed – and that is not good news for passengers."</p> <p>The PTA committee (on Monday 11 July) is set to endorse a seven-point action plan to refine the process.  It follows a workshop with councillors, Centro project managers and consultants Faber Maunsell.  The plan includes a more robust method for calculating estimates, closer working with partners who also have a say in the scheme design, and new arrangements to minimise the impact of market forces on construction prices.</p>"
Councillors have welcomed a tightening up of procedures to ensure transport projects in the West Midlands keep within budget.
9369
0
12
0
Shelter views to be sought on new look local bus routes
2005-07-01T00:00:00
2005-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People living along bus routes serving several local estates in north Birmingham and Walsall are to be asked for their views by Centro-PTA on plans to improve stops.</p> <p>Local residents in areas served by the 34, 52 and 107 buses are to be consulted on proposals by public transport promoter Centro for 79 improved stops, at a total cost of £475,000. Users of the proposed shelters will benefit from lighting, seating and wheelchair access. There will also be timetable information and raised kerbs for easier boarding of the bus.</p> <p>The buses take in a number of estates including Perry Beeches, Old and New Oscott, Boars Head, and Boldmere, and link in to the 51 Bus Showcase route between Birmingham and Walsall.</p> <p>The policy setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority will discuss the proposals on Monday (11 July). At their meeting the PTA will also discuss investment of £160,000 in 20 new shelters and stops along the Walsall section of the 51, plans for which will be put to people on that route for their comments.</p> <p>"People on these important local bus routes will soon be offered some of the best waiting facilities in the West Midlands," said Cllr Len Clark, Lead Member for Buses on the PTA. "But it is important to let them have input into any plans and we will listen carefully to their views," he added.</p> <p>Birmingham City Council, and Walsall and Sandwell councils are partners in the schemes.</p>"
People living along bus routes serving several local estates in north Birmingham and Walsall are to be asked for their views by Centro-PTA on plans to improve stops.
9369
0
12
0
Shelter boost secured for bus users in Frankley
2005-07-01T00:00:00
2005-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in Frankley are set to see improvements to local bus stops with a £60,000 investment over the next year secured by Centro-PTA.</p> <p>Following talks with bus company Travel West Midlands and Birmingham City Council seven new bus shelters with lighting and easy access kerbs and paving are proposed for Frankley by the public transport promoter, which will involve consultation with local residents.</p> <p>Several buses serve the area, including the 48, the 49, which serves Longbridge rail station, plus the 61 and 63 which link to the Bristol Road and central Birmingham.</p> <p>"Improving public transport links for people in local areas is something we take seriously and this is the start of what will hopefully be first class bus and, ultimately, rail facilities for everyone in Frankley," commented Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the policy making Passenger Transport Authority which will vote on the proposals.</p> <p>The scheme is part of a package of long-term public transport improvements proposed for Frankley. These include an extension of the busy Cross City rail line from Longbridge to serve Birmingham Great Park and over 3000 homes, whilst local people are to be consulted on options for a major park and ride facility for more than 800 cars on land adjacent to the Rover factory and Longbridge rail station.</p>"
"People in Frankley are set to see improvements to local bus stops with a £60,000 investment over the next year secured by Centro-PTA."
9369
0
12
0
Stoney Stanton shelters are put in their prime
2005-07-01T00:00:00
2005-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers on a busy Coventry bus route will soon be able to wait for the bus in comfort thanks to the installation of 43 new shelters.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro is planning to install the latest shelters along the Stoney Stanton and Bell Green roads and in the city centre, serving amongst others the busy 21 bendi-bus route along with the 31, 51 and 61 services.  They will have raised kerbs to make getting on and off the bus easier.</p> <p>"Good bus shelters on high quality routes are important to existing passengers and people who may be persuaded to convert to public transport in the future," said Cllr Len Clark, lead member for buses on the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The Authority will discuss the plans on Monday (11 July) and work is expected to start later this year on the £285,000 investment.</p> <p>Centro's new shelters are in support of the PrimeLines being introduced across Coventry to bring bus users modern, low-floor buses, stop improvements, better passenger information and other features to improve the reliability and attractiveness of the services.  They are being developed in partnership with Coventry City Council and Travel Coventry.</p>"
Passengers on a busy Coventry bus route will soon be able to wait for the bus in comfort thanks to the installation of 43 new shelters.
9369
0
12
0
Outer Circle showcases the best information
2005-07-01T00:00:00
2005-07-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The days of an uncertain wait for the next bus could soon be over for passengers on Birmingham's Outer Circle.</p> <p>One of the final phases of a five-year upgrade will see satellite tracking of the buses and digital information displays at around 200 shelters on the route - claimed to be the longest in Europe.</p> <p>West Midlands public transport promoter Centro is investing £1.3 million in the system which will tell waiting passengers exactly when the next bus is due.  Bus company Travel West Midlands will install the tracking devices in each of its modern, low-floor vehicles, which could also mean an end to the notorious bunching of buses on the 43km circular route.</p> <p>"The changes to the Outer Circle have now reached an impressive standard all passengers can appreciate," said Cllr Len Clark, lead member for buses on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>"I am sure everyone is looking forward to the completion of this massive project," he added.</p> <p>Members of the PTA are to receive a progress report on the project at their meeting on Monday (11 July).</p> <p>Centro and Birmingham City Council, Sandwell Council and Travel West Midlands are partners on the £25 million project which has already seen new low floor buses, improved interchanges with other bus services plus rail and Metro, shelters with easy boarding kerbs, CCTV and passenger information, highway improvements including bus priority measures, and new pedestrian crossing facilities.</p> <p>Further work over the next few years includes investigating further bus priority measures and junction improvements as well as the ambitious satellite-tracking programme.  Centro-PTA's planned investment over the next two years adds up to more than £2 million.</p>"
The days of an uncertain wait for the next bus could soon be over for passengers on Birmingham's Outer Circle.
9369
0
12
0
Metro 'day out' saves £millions for taxpayers
2005-06-29T00:00:00
2005-06-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A specially-arranged tram ride for insurance bosses has saved West Midlands taxpayers more than a million pounds over the next five years.</p> <p>Finance staff at Centro, the region's public transport promoter, have managed to prune the bill for the Midland Metro by more than £260,000 a year after showing off the tram system to 'out of date' insurance assessors.</p> <p>Centro had become frustrated because the insurance industry continued to class the modern trams, which run on street in Wolverhampton, as a railway – and charged higher premiums as a result.</p> <p>"We felt we were being 'taken for a ride' – so we took them for a ride instead," quipped an insider.</p> <p>Centro and the tram operator Travel Midland Metro set up a special 'open day' for insurance company staff.  They were given a tour of the depot to see security systems in place and given a full explanation of the Metro's safety and risk assessment procedures.  As a result, the insurance companies offered lower premiums and West Midlands taxpayers will be able to pocket the savings.</p> <p>"This is a small, but significant step, that will help keep down running costs as we look forward to expansion of the Midland Metro network," comments Cllr Paul Allen, resources lead member on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>Earlier this year persistent accountants at Centro also won a Government cash repayment of more than £3 million after arguing against an eleven-year old tax bill.</p> <p>"These are both examples of the diligent management of our finances that always aims to get the best deal for passengers," adds Cllr Allen.</p>"
A specially-arranged tram ride for insurance bosses has saved West Midlands taxpayers more than a million pounds over the next five years.
9369
0
12
0
Cinderella claim for Midlands rail services
2005-06-24T00:00:00
2005-06-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A survey of national rail trends published today claims nine out of ten trains on Britain's' busiest rail routes are now running on time – but the results mask a dismal performance in the  Midlands according to a regional public transport watchdog.</p> <p>"Once again Central Trains' performance is bottom of the league and passengers in the West Midlands deserve much better," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the region's Passenger Transport Authority.  He has called for a 'summit' meeting with the train operator to discuss the issue.</p> <p>"We have more people than ever using public transport and this is the greatest hope we have in the battle against congestion," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>More than a quarter of services operated by Central Trains arrived late during the period January to March 2005 – an increase of 16 per cent compared to the same period in the previous year.</p> <p>The average for all other regional operators shows only one in eight trains not keeping to the timetable.  In London and the South East around 90 per cent of services are on time.</p> <p>The survey by the Government's Strategic Rail Authority highlights the importance of investment in the West Midlands rail network, says Cllr Clarke.   The continued poor performance of Central Trains is partly due to the severe capacity problems at the heart of the national network, where inter-city, regional and local services are all competing for the same track.</p> <p>Statistics from West Midlands public transport promoter Centro show that one in five commuters now travel by train in the Birmingham rush-hour – and around half of those passengers have left a car behind in the drive or at a park and ride site.  Centro's free park and rides now take more than 2½ million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p><strong><em>Background: SRA news release</em></strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.sra.gov.uk/news/2005/6/Nat_Year_2004_2005"" target=""_blank"">9 out of 10 trains on time on Britain's busiest rail routes</a></p>"
A survey of national rail trends published today claims nine out of ten trains on Britain's' busiest rail routes are now running on time � but the results mask a dismal performance in the Midlands according to a regional public transport watchdog.
9369
0
12
0
Free travel scheme to start next month
2005-06-23T00:00:00
2005-06-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>All elderly and disabled people will be able to get free travel on buses, trains and trams in the West Midlands from next month.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro-PTA has announced that an improved concessions scheme will start on 24 July.  After that date anyone over 60 years old living in the West Midlands county, or who meets standard disability criteria, will qualify for a free off-peak travel pass.</p> <p>"It has been PTA policy in the past to make concessions widely available and we want to get more people, of all ages, using public transport.  That is the greatest hope we have in the region's campaign to cut congestion," said Authority chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>Chancellor Gordon Brown announced in his Budget that free off-peak local bus travel would be offered across England from next April.   At the time of the Budget, Cllr Clarke and PTA vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen had already pledged that any free travel scheme in the West Midlands should apply to all modes of transport.</p> <p>"The Chancellor may have used the phrase 'bus pass' – but we believe strongly in an integrated public transport system, so it is vital that passes are equally valid on rail and Metro services," Cllr Clarke said.</p> <p>In the West Midlands, where a generous concessions scheme paid for by city and borough councils already existed, the move effectively lowers the age limit for free travel from 65 to 60 years old.  People aged 60 to 64 and disabled people, who currently have a Centro pass for subsidised half-fare travel, will be sent a new one automatically.</p> <p>Making the free travel passes available earlier is expected to cost the West Midlands around £3m, which the PTA hopes to recover from next year's payments.</p> <p>Public transport bosses believe the offer of free travel – and its earlier introduction locally – may tempt more people to travel by bus, train and tram.  Across the UK, take-up of concessionary passes has declined in recent years to the extent that in 2003 less than half of all pensioners bothered to apply for a 'bus pass'.  Higher levels of car ownership and the fact that people have remained healthier in their old age are considered the main factors behind the decline.</p> <p>For <u>public information</u> about the concessions and how to apply (including a downloadable application form), please visit the main Centro website (<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>) or to go straight to the relevant page, <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/wwwroot/Mobility/usrMConcessionary.asp"" target=""_blank""><strong>click here</strong></a></p>"
"All elderly and disabled people will be able to get free travel on buses, trains and trams in the West Midlands from next month."
9369
0
12
0
Castle Hill developer gets on board Dudley tram plans
2005-06-15T00:00:00
2005-06-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans to bring a modern tram system to Dudley have moved another step forward with the latest confirmation of private sector support.</p> <p>Public transport body Centro has come to an agreement with the company behind the £100m regeneration project for Castle Hill.  The project aims to revitalise the Dudley Zoo and Castle with a range of new attractions and experiences, including a dinosaur themed attraction called Origins, a themed rail link to the Dudley Canal Trust Heritage centre, a garden centre and 65 homes.</p> <p>"We consider this redevelopment vital to improving Castle Hill, bringing in more visitors, and the Metro will be one of the ways those visitors arrive," says Dudley Zoo chief executive Peter Suddock.</p> <p>The Government-approved Midland Metro extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley, passes right by the Zoo and Castle.  It means future visitors will be able to get to the leisure attraction more easily and the Castle Hill developer St Modwen has agreed to pay for a tram stop as part of the agreement.</p> <p>"Centro and St Modwen have worked closely together to come to this mutually beneficial agreement.  Castle Hill will have a top quality tram link to help people get easily to its new attractions which is great news," comments St Modwen director Derek West.</p> <p>It is the latest deal to be struck by Centro-PTA, which hopes to have trams running by 2011.</p> <p>The public transport body is working together with developers along the route to help open up development opportunities and to enable the new tram line to be built more quickly once work gets underway.  In March it also secured a £35 million contribution from the owners of the Merry Hill Centre.</p> <p>"The Metro extension is a huge step forward in improving the quality of life for local people, and this agreement underlines the determination of everyone to work in partnership to quickly deliver first class public transport to the Black Country," says Cllr Roger Horton, PTA lead member for Metro.</p> <p>As well as the stop at Dudley Zoo, the 11km Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro route will have 13 other easy-access stops serving shopping and business areas in Dudley town centre, as well as Great Bridge, Dudley Port (connecting with local train services), the Waterfront and Merry Hill before terminating near High Street, Brierley Hill.  The wider Midland Metro network would also provide connections with Wolverhampton, West Bromwich and Birmingham city centre, including New Street Station.</p>"
Plans to bring a modern tram system to Dudley have moved another step forward with the latest confirmation of private sector support.
9369
0
12
0
Inquiry reveals benefits of city centre tram proposals
2005-06-10T00:00:00
2005-06-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Birmingham's proposed city centre tramway would boost regeneration and improve access to jobs, according to the senior Government adviser behind the approval for the latest Midland Metro extension.</p> <p>His views were backed by Transport Secretary Alistair Darling who said road congestion was a very real problem in Birmingham and that high quality public transport services were needed to encourage motorists out of their cars. </p> <p>The Secretary of State, who visited the city earlier this week, gave the go-ahead for plans by the West Midlands public transport body Centro to extend the tram network from Snow Hill to Five Ways, via New Street Station.</p> <p>The extent of his support became clear as details of the approval were released.  Alistair Darling's views were contained in a 7,000-word decision letter to Centro, following a public inquiry into the £72m scheme.</p> <p>He agreed the Midland Metro extension would provide a significant improvement in the quality of the city's public transport services, offering faster journey times and new journey opportunities. </p> <p>Tony Jeapes, who heard the public inquiry on behalf of the Secretary of State, said the plans would advance the regeneration of the city and would produce socio-economic benefits by improving public transport and access to jobs and services, particularly for deprived communities in the inner city and for persons whose mobility was impaired.</p> <p>After hearing evidence over four weeks during December 2003 and January 2004, the Inspector came to the conclusion that modern trams on Birmingham streets could improve the environment, boost the vitality of city centre business and would not have an adverse impact on historic buildings.</p> <p>The proposed 3.2km route runs along several prime retail streets in the city centre and past a number of important business premises – but the Inspector was satisfied that Centro's proposed construction method would reduce disruption to a minimum and that the city centre would remain open for business throughout.</p> <p>"The completed scheme, together with the planned traffic reduction measures, would improve the vitality of local businesses by reducing congestion in the city centre and improving the general environment," he advised.</p> <p>Alistair Darling agreed that, in the longer term, the impacts of the scheme would be beneficial for city centre traders.  The Government decision also commented on the improved air quality that would result from the introduction of the electrically-driven trams.  The Inspector concluded, and the Secretary of State agreed, that the pedestrian environment throughout the scheme would be improved.</p> <p>Some time at the public inquiry was spent considering the impact on Birmingham Town Hall and the Secretary of State has called for particular care to be taken in agreeing the details of the tram stop close to the historic building.  Overall, the inquiry found that the Metro extension would be designed to a high quality and that by reducing street clutter and the number of vehicles, the settings of listed buildings would not be adversely affected and may even be improved.</p> <p>The public inquiry process considered a total of 143 objections, mostly of a technical nature.  Sixty percent of these were subsequently withdrawn, as Centro and the city council were able to satisfy many of the concerns. </p> <p>On the complicated issue of re-routing city bus services, Alistair Darling ruled that revised arrangements for the Bus Mall would allow for trams to run along Corporation Street and Upper Bull Street.  The city's major commercial bus operator Travel West Midlands had raised concerns following the closure of part of the bus mall for safety reasons in 2003. However negotiations between Centro, Birmingham City Council and the bus company were successful, clearing the way for yesterday's Government decision in favour of trams.</p> <p>Centro and the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority are now hoping the city council will reaffirm its support for the extension to Metro line one, allowing the project to proceed to the next stage of submitting a final business case.  Provisional Government funding for the scheme was given in 2000 when the Department for Transport agreed an interim business case.</p>"
"Birmingham's proposed city centre tramway would boost regeneration and improve access to jobs, according to the senior Government adviser behind the approval for the latest Midland Metro extension."
9369
0
12
0
Stourbridge Junction car park doubles up
2005-06-10T00:00:00
2005-06-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >One of the largest rail Park and Ride facilities in the West Midlands has been opened at Stourbridge Junction.</p> <p >The new £2.7million investment by Centro-PTA doubles the size of the existing facility by adding 400 new spaces off Rufford Road.  These are linked to the station by a new footbridge.</p> <p >Centro encourages public transport use by providing free, secure parking for rail commuters, who then benefit from a frequent train service to Birmingham.  The previous car park was regularly over-subscribed, leading to frustration for users and parking problems on nearby streets.</p> <p >"The growing number of park and ride spaces are proving very popular with local people and can make a significant contribution towards tackling the congestion that could make our lives a misery in the West Midlands," said Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p >There are now almost 6,000 park and ride spaces provided by the public transport promoter across the West Midlands, which take more than two and a half million car journeys a year from the region's congested roads.</p>"
One of the largest rail Park and Ride facilities in the West Midlands has been opened at Stourbridge Junction.
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West Midlands to raise congestion debate
2005-06-10T00:00:00
2005-06-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors across the West Midlands are encouraging a debate on finding a long-term solution to traffic congestion, with the full participation of the Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>It comes hot on the heels of Secretary of State Alistair Darling revealing plans for a nationwide road pricing system and ahead of the submission of the draft West Midlands Local Transport Plan next month.</p> <p>""It is very important that the West Midlands is part of the national debate on traffic congestion," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "This joint initiative can only be helpful to the improvement of public transport in the region.""</p> <p>He said congestion is a growing challenge for the West Midlands, so city and borough councils had joined with the public transport body to kick-start the debate on how it should be tackled in the long term.</p> <p>Traffic congestion is currently estimated to be costing the West Midlands' economy £2.5 billion every year and the conurbation is predicted to have to cope with more than 165 million extra journeys by the next decade (2011).</p> <p>"The West Midlands deserves a world class transport system that meets the needs of local people and that reflects the significance of our position at the heart of the country," says Wolverhampton Leader Roger Lawrence, speaking as transport lead on behalf of all the metropolitan authorities.</p> <p>"Ignoring congestion is not an option if the West Midlands is to stay competitive and see jobs and housing grow.  Business in the West Midlands and environment groups are clear on this.  It is time to start a process of debate, consultation and research to look longer term at all the potential solutions to our traffic problems.  These are problems which will dramatically worsen over the next few decades if we do nothing."</p> <p>Over the coming months the authorities will continue a process of engagement with a range of stakeholder groups across the region to discuss transport issues, including congestion.  At the heart of those discussions will be the new provisional Local Transport Plan, which includes plans to make the best use of the West Midlands' road and rail network and improve public transport.</p> <p>This new LTP also expresses the conurbation's desire to work with Department of Transport on innovative approaches to congestion and matching investment in roads and public transport.</p> <p>"We are not suggesting options at this early stage and do not want to prejudge the debate," explains Solihull Leader Cllr Ted Richards, chair of the West Midlands metropolitan authorities.</p> <p>"This is about responsible government and looking at how this problem will have grown in a decade or two's time and how that might be managed for the benefit of everyone in the region.</p> <p>"We're ruling out London-style congestion charging but it is time to raise the issue of traffic congestion and debate it," he says.</p> <p>The West Midlands authorities, working together across party political lines, will be submitting their provisional five-year Local Transport Plan to government in July, and a final version next March.</p>"
"Councillors across the West Midlands are encouraging a debate on finding a long-term solution to traffic congestion, with the full participation of the Passenger Transport Authority."
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Government green light for Birmingham city centre trams
2005-06-09T00:00:00
2005-06-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed the Government's approval for trams to run through Birmingham streets, saying it represented the best way forward for the city centre.</p> <p >An Order is to be made under the Transport and Works Act (TWA) giving powers to extend the Midland Metro light rapid transit system through Birmingham city centre, Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman announced today.  He said the decision to make the Order, which was applied for by Centro, accords with the recommendation of the Inspector who held a public inquiry into the proposals last year.</p> <p >The Inspector, Mr A S Jeaps, was persuaded that the scheme would bring transport, regeneration and socio-economic benefits; that it was supported by transport and planning policies at all levels; and that its impacts on local people and the environment would be acceptable.</p> <p >"This positive decision is a welcome reward for many years hard work by our staff, Birmingham City Council colleagues and specialist consultants," says Rob Donald, director general of Centro, the West Midlands public transport body that is developing Midland Metro.</p> <p >"The street running Metro is a key part of a future city-wide tram network to meet the growing needs of Birmingham city centre.  Centro now hopes the city council will reaffirm its support for this Metro extension, enabling us to introduce it along with the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill line approved last year."</p> <p >His comments were echoed by Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA) which sets policy for Centro.  The PTA boss was due to meet with Birmingham council leader Mike Whitby to discuss the way forward.</p> <p >"The city centre Metro is a long-awaited scheme that can now become reality," says Cllr Clarke. </p> <p >"Passengers, businesses, the economy and the image of the city can all benefit from a vast improvement to mobility in Birmingham city centre; the Metro extension has passed the highest level of scrutiny; its economic and environmental benefits are clear; and the Government is all but poised to sign the cheque.  The opportunity is there to be seized," he adds.</p> <p >In today's announcement, the Transport Minister said Centro would be granted the powers to build and operate a tram line from the existing Midland Metro line one at Snow Hill via New Street Station to the ICC, BrindleyPlace and Five Ways.</p> <p >Last year's public inquiry was told the scheme had a price tag of £72m and Centro had already secured provisional Government approval for this.  The public transport promoter will now need to submit a final business case to confirm the funding.</p> <p >The 3.2km tramway through the centre of Birmingham would enable people to journey from Snow Hill to Hagley Road in just 13 minutes.  There would be ten, easy-access stops at street level and the route would serve the main shopping and business areas, as well as provide easy interchange with other forms of public transport.</p> <p >The first Midland Metro line opened six years ago.  It now carries a growing number of passengers and has the enviable record of being the region's most reliable public transport system – but it was always envisaged as part of a much wider and integrated network.  Another route from Wednesbury, through Dudley, to the Merry Hill Centre was approved six months ago following a similar public inquiry process to that for Birmingham city centre.</p> <p ><em><a href=""http://www.gnn.gov.uk/Content/Detail.asp ReleaseID=159014&NewsAreaID=2"" target=""_blank"">View Government news release</a></em></p>"
"Public transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed the Government's approval for trams to run through Birmingham streets, saying it represented the best way forward for the city centre. An Order is to be made under the Transport and Works Act (TWA) giving powers to extend the Midland Metro light rapid transit system through Birmingham city centre, Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman announced today."
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Business delight at city tram go-ahead
2005-06-09T00:00:00
2005-06-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Leading members of Birmingham's business community have welcomed the prospect of a modern tram network to serve the city centre – and called for a speedy decision on delivery of the Midland Metro extension.</p> <p>"The provision of a modern and efficient mode of public transport is long overdue," says Ian Clark, asset manager for the prestigious Brindleyplace development.</p> <p>"More than 8,500 people work at Brindleyplace and the development of the Metro extension will enable many of these people to more easily access their place of work, not to mention making it even easier to access and enjoy Brindleyplace's many bars, restaurants and leisure facilities.  We are hopeful that today's announcement will signal the start of the development process which will see the much anticipated delivery of the extension," he says.</p> <p>His comments follow the Government green light given earlier today for a plan by the West Midlands public transport body Centro to extend the Midland Metro from Snow Hill, via New Street Station and Victoria Square to Five Ways.</p> <p>"We now hope the city council will reaffirm its support for this Metro extension, enabling us to introduce it along with the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill line approved last year," declared Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>The new 3.2km tramway through the centre of Birmingham would enable people to journey from Snow Hill to Hagley Road in just 13 minutes.  There would be ten, easy-access stops at street level and the route would serve the main shopping and business areas, as well as provide easy interchange with other forms of public transport.</p> <p>"We are delighted that the government's go-ahead means that Birmingham has made a sound business case for the extension of the city's Metro system," says Jerry Blackett, policy director of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry and chairman of the West Midlands Business Transport Group.</p> <p>He said the issue of underground running for all or some of the Birmingham Metro needed to be resolved quickly – with the results of a feasibility study due to be published next month.</p> <p>"It is now very clear that we need to decide quickly whether parts of this new Metro line will be affected by the findings… so that there are no further long delays to easing congestion in the city centre," he said.</p>"
Leading members of Birmingham's business community have welcomed the prospect of a modern tram network to serve the city centre � and called for a speedy decision on delivery of the Midland Metro extension.
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0
12
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Councillors promised smoother ride on West Brom trams
2005-06-06T00:00:00
2005-06-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Specialist track maintenance is set to make the Midland Metro tram ride through West Bromwich smoother and quieter. </p> <p>The tram operator has given the assurance of a better ride following recent complaints by members of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA).</p> <p>"We are told the noise problem is due to wear and tear on the track and wheels, which is to be expected from such a heavily-used system," says Cllr Roger Horton, Metro lead member on the PTA.  "Travel Midland Metro runs more than 98 per cent of journeys on time and the number of passengers is growing so that's all good news.  We just want a smoother ride as well."</p> <p>Wheels on the critical centre section of Midland Metro trams are 're-profiled' every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) as part of routine maintenance.  To smooth some of the rails on the six year-old network, tram operator Travel Midland Metro is now also calling in specialist equipment which is based in mainland Europe and needs to be booked well in advance.  Costs for the rail grinding equipment to visit the UK are being shared with London Trams, as similar work is required on the capital's tram network.</p> <p>As well as PTA members commenting on the gradual increase in noise as the trams pass through West Bromwich, the issue was also raised at one of the Authority's regular user group meetings in Sandwell.</p> <p>"This shows how these regular meetings to give passengers a voice can lead to effective action.  I am very pleased that the operators do take notice of our concerns and we really do get things done," comments Cllr Horton.</p> <p>Centro, the executive arm of the PTA, also undertakes monthly checks and the results will be included in the tram company's rail grinding programme.</p>"
Specialist track maintenance is set to make the Midland Metro tram ride through West Bromwich smoother and quieter. The tram operator has given the assurance of a better ride following recent complaints by members of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA).
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0
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Competitions for all as TravelWise visits environment show
2005-06-06T00:00:00
2005-06-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Prizes for thinking green when it comes to transport are on offer from Centro's TravelWise team at the Solihull Environment Show on Saturday, 11 June.</p> <p>They are running two competitions on their stand at the event, at Shirley Park off Stratford Road. Children will be able to do an environment-themed word search that could win them one of ten days out to the National Sea Life Centre, Warwick Castle, Cadbury World and Think Tank.</p> <p>Adults will not be left out – there are five Centrocards, valid for one year's free travel on public transport, up for grabs for answering a question, the answer to which can be found in the TravelWise competition leaflet. Both competitions have a closing date of 31 October.</p> <p>At the event TravelWise will show how to avoid unnecessary car journeys and use public transport, walking, cycling or car sharing wherever possible. Public transport promoter Centro's TravelWise team work to ensure businesses and schools encourage staff and students to use buses, trains and Metro when they can through a range of sustainable travel initiatives.</p> <p>Solihull Environment Show provides people with an insight into local environmental activities. There will be opportunities to learn about Solihull's habitats and to get involved with the 25 local environment groups attending.</p>"
"Prizes for thinking green when it comes to transport are on offer from Centro's TravelWise team at the Solihull Environment Show on Saturday, 11 June."
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Residents hail better bus service for Dudley estate
2005-05-26T00:00:00
2005-05-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Residents on a Dudley estate are welcoming improvements to their local bus service thanks to a major initiative from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>It is one of the first local estate bus services in the region to receive a major upgrade and will be officially launched this week (Friday 27 May) with the signing of an agreement between Centro-PTA and its project partners.</p> <p>The ceremony will be at a home for elderly people in Russells Hall, where residents are delighted to be getting a better bus service.  "It will make a great difference to the lives of everyone here, and visiting friends and going shopping will be so much easier," says Rotary House warden, Susan Smith.</p> <p>More than £150,000 is being spent on improvements to the route 222.  The new look service has more buses in the mornings, new waiting shelters, better timetable information, and easy access kerbs to help with wheelchairs, buggies and heavy shopping.  Nine stops will use solar power to illuminate timetables and shelters.</p> <p>The bus runs every 15 minutes Monday to Saturday and half hourly on Sundays.  A Centro-subsidised service covering part of the route will also run more often on Sundays.</p> <p>"Public transport plays an important role in bringing people and communities together, and it needs to be of the highest quality, especially in those estates away from major bus routes," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  "Modern, accessible, safe and frequent bus services such as the 222 put people in easy reach of family, friends, shops, leisure facilities and healthcare services."</p> <p>The 222 improvements have come about through a number of bodies who will be signing the agreement this week.  Centro-PTA have provided stops and shelters, Dudley Council have carried out highways works including a new crossing on Middle Park Road, whilst Travel West Midlands are supplying the buses.  Safety and security will be monitored by West Midlands Police, with Bus Users UK, an independent group, doing ongoing surveys of passengers.</p>"
Residents on a Dudley estate are welcoming improvements to their local bus service thanks to a major initiative from public transport promoter Centro.
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Councillors fight rail study proposals
2005-05-25T00:00:00
2005-05-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The West Midlands' senior transport councillors are stepping up their campaign against rail service cuts and more overcrowded trains.  They also say the idea of fare increases targeted at the growing number of rail commuters would be totally unacceptable.</p> <p>Forcing more passengers to stand and putting up rush-hour prices are suggestions of the outgoing Strategic Rail Authority in an effort to stifle growing demand for rail travel in the West Midlands.  The SRA, which is to be wound up by the Government this summer, has been seeking views on its Route Utilisation Strategy to squeeze more capacity out of the rail network.</p> <p>Opposing the plans, Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the watchdog West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, says local passengers would be getting a raw deal.  The PTA and its executive arm Centro have fired off a strongly-worded response ahead of this Friday's consultation deadline.</p> <p>"What we want for the West Midlands is a high-quality local passenger service that can tempt more people out of their cars and on to public transport.  It should be an obvious strategy for any Government that is serious about cutting congestion," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"The Department of Transport should make it the job of the rail industry to run services that are reliable, frequent, accessible, affordable and comfortable – and we shall be keeping a very close eye on how local needs are assessed next to services that may generate greater income for the rail industry, but do less to address the congestion issues in the West Midlands urban area," he adds.</p> <p>Councillors have particularly attacked proposals to end passenger services on the poorly-used Wolverhampton to Walsall line, which they say passengers have avoided because of the poor quality service.  Centro-PTA argues instead that more effort needs to be invested to make the service more reliable before the true level of demand can be measured.  They say the alternative bus service suggested by the SRA takes 42 minutes and a faster, reliable rail service that is well-marketed should be successful.</p> <p>In their response to the closure proposals, local councillors repeatedly stress the importance of local services where passenger growth is faster than London and the South-East.  Rail fares in the Midlands are already on a par with the capital, so any idea that fares should be raised further to restrict growth will face strong objections.</p> <p>The Government's rail body wants to see West Midlands peak journeys spread over a longer three-hour period, but this could be counter-productive in the short-term claims Centro-PTA.</p> <p>It says Ministers "need to be aware of the more limited extent of flexible hours working in the West Midlands than have historically existed in London.  While more flexibility in working hours is likely to develop over time, at present many commuters have little opportunity to vary their work patterns, and so any measures to spread peak demand may be less successful than elsewhere and may force passengers off the rail network."</p> <p>It also claims in its hard-hitting response that even the higher growth scenario contained in the rail industry proposals would lead to widespread overcrowding by 2011 – and that the problem is compounded because national overcrowding targets are more lenient than those currently applied by the regional public transport body.</p> <p>"WMPTA and Centro firmly believe that the SRA's national overcrowding standards are not appropriate for the West Midlands," it says.  "Despite peak road congestion, driving to Birmingham is still an option for many commuters, and door-to-door journey times can be similar to using rail.  Rail must offer a comfortable and stress-free alternative to driving if it is to be successful.  Centro's loading standards are designed to ensure that passengers can generally travel in conditions that are not overly cramped, …. if passengers have to regularly endure the high level of overcrowding deemed acceptable by the SRA then this is likely to discourage them from using the train and will put additional car journeys on the road."</p> <p><strong><em>Link:<br /> </em></strong>For a copy of the SRA consultation document click here ->   <a href=""http://www.sra.gov.uk/pubs2/consult_new/West_Mids_RUS/West_Mids_RUS_Homepage.doc"" target=""_blank"">West Midlands Route Utilisation Strategy (Consultation)</a></p>"
The West Midlands' senior transport councillors are stepping up their campaign against rail service cuts and more overcrowded trains. They also say the idea of fare increases targeted at the growing number of rail commuters would be totally unacceptable.
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A year of delivery to West Midlands transport users
2005-05-23T00:00:00
2005-05-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are highlighting a very positive year of change that has benefited both passengers and the region's economy.</p> <p >The policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, led by Conservative chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and Labour vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen, has had a busy time tackling the major issues needed to get the West Midlands moving since being voted in after the June 2004 local elections.</p> <p >Cllr Clarke, who took office at last July's AGM, delivered an 'annual report' to today's meeting praising the improved partnership and morale that now exists.</p> <p >""Our intention a year ago was to stop treating public transport as a political football and we have seen that approach work wonders,"" he says. ""There has been strong working relationships between the parties on the PTA, district councils and other partners, which has delivered real results for passengers. We are now looking forward to keeping and increasing that momentum in the next twelve months.""</p> <p >""The past year has been all about improving public transport to provide a quality service for users,"" comments vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen. ""People want first class bus, train or tram services and facilities, and an easy and reliable way of getting around. We are delivering that.""</p> "
Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are highlighting a very positive year of change that has benefited both passengers and the region's economy.
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Breaking down language barriers to travel
2005-05-18T00:00:00
2005-05-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus, train and tram passengers who do not speak English as their first language can now use a telephone help service from West Midlands public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>Centro, the UK's busiest transport authority outside London, is providing Language Line. This allows clear telephone interpreting for those needing to overcome any language barriers to public transport information.</p> <p>Language Line works by staff telephoning an interpreter who will then be able to help customers with any questions, whatever language they speak.</p> <p>The Language Line service will initially cover help with special travel pass schemes, such as those for the elderly or disabled.</p> <p>People using the Centro travel centre at New Street rail station will also be able to use Language Line for assistance with timetables, public transport routes and ticket sales.</p>"
"Bus, train and tram passengers who do not speak English as their first language can now use a telephone help service from West Midlands public transport promoter Centro."
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Transport politicians to re-shape regional body
2005-05-18T00:00:00
2005-05-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands transport bosses have announced a shake up of the way elected councillors influence the region's bus, rail and tram networks.</p> <p>The Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy and budgets for Centro and monitors the organisation's performance, is to move towards the modern style of working adopted by most city and borough councils.  Current Authority chairman, Cllr Gary Clarke, says replacing the outdated committee structure will make the West Midlands key political body more effective at a time when public transport needs to be top of the national and regional agenda.</p> <p>Under the proposed new arrangement, the PTA would have a single key committee with lead members getting more involved in policy development.  Full meetings of the Authority would appoint the new lead members, then debate the main issues several times a year.</p> <p>A scrutiny committee would keep a check on the effectiveness of policy and a new network of district-based Transport User Forums are proposed to involve members of the public across the West Midlands.</p> <p>"In the last year, with a Conservative-Labour coalition at the helm, we have put passengers first, concentrated on getting things done and delivered 100 per cent of the capital programme," says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "This re-structure is the next logical step to becoming even more effective."</p> <p>"The job of keeping the West Midlands moving is both important and urgent.  We need the right structure to get the best deal for passengers and the regional economy – and to support our campaign to tackle congestion," he adds.</p> <p>Cllr Clarke says his aim is for the PTA to become a more effective lobbying body among the new intake of Westminster MPs and to address the South-East bias of national transport investment.  The PTA is an equal partner with local councils in drawing up the Local Transport Plan, a key funding bid to be submitted to Government later this year.</p> <p>The proposed changes, to be discussed by PTA councillors next week (Monday 23 May), reflect the trend among the seven West Midlands district councils which nominate the elected members of the transport authority.  Although these councils have all adopted a Cabinet-style system of working, the PTA plans to retain decision-making by committee – but in a more streamlined form.</p> <p>In the past, Centro officers have taken the lead in drafting policy reports and then presented them to one of three or more PTA committees for approval.  Under the new arrangements there will be a single key committee and a proposed regular policy forum beforehand will give elected members a more hands-on approach at the drafting stage.</p> <p>"This will cement the already strong working relationship between lead members and Centro officers," comments PTA vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen.</p>"
"West Midlands transport bosses have announced a shake up of the way elected councillors influence the region's bus, rail and tram networks."
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Visitors jet in to public transport information
2005-05-17T00:00:00
2005-05-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p>With thousands of visitors due at Birmingham International Airport this week, instant help on getting around the West Midlands is now available from a new information kiosk part provided by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>More than 30,000 visitors – just some of the 4.4 million who come annually come through airport arrivals – are expected to events this week.  Birmingham is hosting some of the biggest trade events of their kind in Europe, including the International Fire Expo, the Glass Processing and Technology Show, and the Health and Safety Expo.  They will boost the local economy by millions by using the region's extensive hotel, leisure and commerce facilities.</p> <p>The new kiosk, supplied in partnership with Birmingham International Airport and International Currency Express, will enable people to get detailed journey planning advice, buy public transport tickets and receive help arranging hotel and leisure attraction bookings.</p> <p>"Air travel is just one part of the overall journey experience, and the excellent public transport links to be found at Birmingham International Airport make for complete, integrated travel without needing the car," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.  "By providing information and advice on train, bus and Metro services we can help visitors to get about as smoothly as possible," he added.</p> <p><em><strong>Website link:</strong> <a href=""http://www.bhx.co.uk/"" target=""_blank"">Birmingham International Airport</a></em></p>"
"With thousands of visitors due at Birmingham International Airport this week, instant help on getting around the West Midlands is now available from a new information kiosk part provided by public transport promoter Centro."
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Stourbridge line passengers feel the benefit
2005-05-11T00:00:00
2005-05-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Passengers are starting to feel the benefit of more regular and reliable trains between Kidderminster, Stourbridge and Birmingham according to public transport bosses.  A range of improvements have come about because local councillors can still exert influence over the rail industry, it is claimed.</p> <p >Centro and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which lobby on behalf of local passengers and businesses, have helped put in place new trains and a more frequent timetable.  There are now trains every ten minutes within the Centro-PTA area and a connecting service to London with two trains every hour.</p> <p >Centro rail boss Peter Sargant was speaking at the annual meeting of the Stourbridge Line Users Group at Hagley on Wednesday evening (11 May).  He said the West Midlands body had invested heavily in the Stourbridge line over the past year and would continue to do so in the future. </p> <p >"Passengers have had to put up with more timetable changes than we would have liked in the past year and reliability has not been as good as it should have been – but now the benefits of recent changes are starting to show through," he said.</p> <p >Centro has provided a new car park at Smethwick Galton Bridge and a major expansion at Stourbridge Junction is due to open next month.  It has also invested £2m in underwriting new carriages for operator Central Trains to help ease overcrowding across the network.</p> <p >The routing of all services into Birmingham Snow Hill and Moor Street stations has now improved reliability, says Centro.  It means there can now be a ten-minute 'turn-up-and-go' frequency for Stourbridge passengers and it has cleared the way for Chiltern to run twice as many trains per hour to London Marylebone.  There are also more trains serving Kidderminster and greater certainty for passengers as all trains now leave from the same Birmingham stations.</p>"
"Passengers are starting to feel the benefit of more regular and reliable trains between Kidderminster, Stourbridge and Birmingham according to public transport bosses. A range of improvements have come about because local councillors can still exert influence over the rail industry, it is claimed."
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Bus service saved to keep Black Country links
2005-05-10T00:00:00
2005-05-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport promoter Centro has stepped in to replace a bus route linking Wednesbury, Great Bridge and Dudley which has been axed by a local bus company.</p> <p>The new Centro-funded 610 service begins this Monday, 16 May after the 310, which was previously commercially run along the route, was withdrawn by Diamond Bus.</p> <p>The replacement service will run half-hourly between 7.30am and 6pm Monday to Saturday using vehicles operated by Central Buses.  The only change to the route is that from Alexandra Road the 610 will now go down Lower Church Lane to serve a number of new housing developments, before continuing via Dudley Port and Burnt Tree to Dudley.  Upper Church Lane will continue to be served by the 300 and 311 buses.</p> <p>More than 200 bus services across the West Midlands are subsidised by Centro-PTA.  The public transport body uses money from the council tax to help meet passenger need where commercial bus operators do not provide services.  This is usually because they are in areas or at off-peak times that the private bus companies do not consider profitable.</p> <p>For more information on all bus services in the West Midlands, call the Traveline on 0870 608 2 608.</p>"
"Public transport promoter Centro has stepped in to replace a bus route linking Wednesbury, Great Bridge and Dudley which has been axed by a local bus company."
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0
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Local bus services get all-inclusive
2005-05-05T00:00:00
2005-05-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More people will get better public transport links in their communities with improvements to two local bus services from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>Two routes – one that runs through estates between Wolverhampton and Walsall, and another that covers local areas from West Bromwich to Bearwood – are to get a total investment of nearly £200,000.</p> <p>Improvements to be installed over the coming year include better bus stops and shelters, passenger information, and raised kerbs to make getting on and off the bus easier.  There will also be a range of highway works in partnership with Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall councils.</p> <p>Centro-PTA is to spend £50,000 on the Walsall section of the route 333 and £138,000 on the longer 444 route between Bearwood and West Bromwich.  The spending was approved by a meeting of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority on Monday (9 May).</p> <p>The new-look routes follow the success of a similar scheme to serve Merry Hill and Dudley.  There, the 222 bus route was the first phase of a programme to help people on local estates have socially inclusive, improved and modern access by bus to places of work, education, shopping areas and health facilities.  As well as new stops and highways improvements, a partnership with bus companies also means better, more modern vehicles are allocated to the route.</p>"
More people will get better public transport links in their communities with improvements to two local bus services from public transport promoter Centro.
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0
Better shelter platforms for West Mids rail passengers
2005-05-03T00:00:00
2005-05-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers at nine local rail stations are to benefit from a £250,000 investment to make waiting for the train more comfortable.</p> <p>Plans to replace platform shelters will now be upgraded so that the train company and public transport promoter Centro can provide cleaner, more vandal-proof stations.  The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, is to approve the extra funding at a committee meeting next week. (*)</p> <p>The plans are part of a £2m-worth of passenger benefits negotiated from Central Trains at the time of the company's franchise extension.  Over half of the money is to be spent on providing passengers with better information.  Centro has now added its own funding so the planned new waiting shelters can also be an even higher quality.</p> <p>"This is a good example where we have negotiated a better deal for passengers and then added our own Centro-PTA funding so that the overall benefits are even greater," says PTA committee chairman Cllr John Woodall.</p> <p>"More and more people are using local rail services.  Making public transport more attractive and easier to use is important in our campaign to tackle congestion," he adds.</p> <p>Stations set to benefit from the new shelters are: Hampton-in-Arden, Cradley Heath, Lye, Barnt Green, Widney Manor, Four Oaks, Perry Barr, Stechford and Hamstead. </p> <p><em><strong>* Update:</strong> the funding was approved by the PTA committee on 9 May</em></p>"
"Passengers at nine local rail stations are to benefit from a £250,000 investment to make waiting for the train more comfortable."
9369
0
12
0
£1.2m information upgrade to help rail passengers
2005-04-27T00:00:00
2005-04-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers will get more information about their train in future thanks to a £1.2 million investment from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The funding agreed by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority this week will pay for a high tech system to be installed at more rail stations in the West Midlands.  New information displays on platforms will show the destination of the next train and in how many minutes it is due to arrive.</p> <p>As many as 18 stations in the Centro area will initially have the electronic 'Real Time' displays.  Monitor screens in waiting rooms and ticket offices and public address announcements will also support the service.</p> <p>"With more people travelling by rail in the West Midlands, making sure passengers get the information they need to help their journey is a high priority for us," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"Providing the system for train companies to keep passengers up to date will be an important step in making rail travel more attractive and in tackling the congestion which costs the region so much money and causes frustration for so many people," he adds.</p> <p>Train signalling information, co-ordinated by Network Rail, is passed on to train operators who then send up to date details to the Real Time displays about the next trains and if they are running to time.</p> <p>Among the first rail stations to benefit from real time information will be Jewellery Quarter, Dorridge, Solihull, Aston, Duddeston, Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walsall, Tyseley, Shirley, Tame Bridge, Marston Green, Smethwick Galton Bridge, Longbridge, Tile Hill, Cradley Heath, and Sandwell and Dudley.</p>"
Passengers will get more information about their train in future thanks to a £1.2 million investment from public transport promoter Centro.
9369
0
12
0
Transport investment to ease Longbridge plight
2005-04-26T00:00:00
2005-04-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are adding their support to the campaign to improve the job prospects of former Rover workers.</p> <p>Work is progressing on a £16m scheme which will help improve rail services and another project currently on ice is being revisited to see if it can be brought forward.</p> <p>In addition, public transport promoter Centro is investigating whether the WorkWise scheme that has helped nearly 1000 people find jobs in Chelmsley Wood and Sparkhill could be extended to the area around the troubled car factory.</p> <p>Plans to extend the busy Cross City Line from Longbridge have been drawn up to serve the Birmingham Great Park development and more than 3,000 homes in Frankley.  Working with Birmingham City Council, Centro has identified public support for the scheme and a positive business case – but the project has been effectively on hold as the intended national funding for major new rail schemes was no longer available.</p> <p>Now councillors on Centro's policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority are seeking ways to inject new life into the proposals, perhaps with the involvement of the recently-established Rover Task Force.</p> <p>In the meantime, £60,000-worth of bus network improvements are to be implemented over the coming year.</p> <p><a id=""OLE_LINK1"" name=""OLE_LINK1"">"Many studies have shown there is a strong link between the quality of an area's transport network and its economic prosperity – and this is where we can help," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "Investment in public transport can help make this part of the West Midlands more attractive to new employers and increase the mobility of the workers now seeking new jobs."</a></p> <p>The PTA is also expected to approve the next phase of detailed public consultation on a £16m plan for Longbridge Station.  It will help to identify a preferred option for a major park and ride facility, with space for more than 800 cars alongside former Rover land being redeveloped for new business and retail use.</p> <p>"We are keen to move forward on this significant project which can help change the face of the area.  It could make Longbridge one of the most important stations on the local rail network and will help secure the future of a turn-up-and-go, reliable train service," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>The park and ride project would be funded through the Local Transport Plan and Centro/PTA is awaiting a decision on a funding bid submitted to Government last year.  Public consultation on details of the scheme is planned for June 2005.</p> <p><em><strong>Links:<br /> </strong><a href=""http://www.mg-rover.com/static/index.html"" target=""_blank"">MG Rover Group</a><br /> </em><a href=""http://www.advantagewm.co.uk/rover-response.html"" target=""_blank""><em>MG Rover Task Force information</em></a></p>"
Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are adding their support to the campaign to improve the job prospects of former Rover workers.
9369
0
12
0
Bike and ride is the healthy way to travel in Solihull
2005-04-26T00:00:00
2005-04-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in Solihull are being encouraged to get on their bike and catch the train with a new cycle route between the town centre and railway station to make journeys easier.</p> <p>The improvements are a joint project between public transport promoter Centro, and Solihull Council.  The route includes changing pedestrian crossing to assist cyclists and on street signs for pedestrians walking to the station.</p> <p>Solihull's public transport users will be given the chance to quiz operators on what they want from local services at a public meeting called by the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority next week.</p> <p>WMPTA, the region's public transport watchdog, will take questions from passengers and other interested parties on services at its Transport Users Advisory Committee meeting at Solihull Civic Centre on Tuesday, 3 May at 6.00pm. All members of the public are invited to attend.</p>"
People in Solihull are being encouraged to get on their bike and catch the train with a new cycle route between the town centre and railway station to make journeys easier.
9369
0
12
0
Go ahead for early start to free travel scheme
2005-04-25T00:00:00
2005-04-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands are to get free travel on public transport from this summer.</p> <p>Councillors on the region's Passenger Transport Authority today set a target date of 24 July for the introduction of the improved concession scheme.  It will be more generous and nine months earlier than the 'free bus pass' announced by Chancellor Gordon Brown in his recent Budget.</p> <p>"It has been PTA policy in the past to make concessions widely available and we want to get more people, of all ages, using public transport.  That is the greatest hope we have in the region's campaign to cut congestion," said Authority chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>At the time of the Budget, Cllr Clarke and PTA vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen had already pledged that any free travel scheme in the West Midlands should apply to all modes of transport.</p> <p>"The Chancellor may have used the phrase 'bus pass' – but we believe strongly in an integrated public transport system, so it is vital that passes are equally valid on rail and Metro services," he said.</p> <p>Centro, the public transport promoter which implements PTA policy, will now start consultation with travel operators and the other formal procedures to put the improved concessions scheme in place as soon as possible.</p> <p>It already offers one of the most generous schemes in the country, with free off-peak travel passes for over 65s and half-fare passes for those aged 60 to 64.  Qualifying disabled and blind people also get half fare travel.</p> <p>This will now be extended so that everyone over the age of 60 and disabled people can get free travel on buses, trains and trams in the West Midlands.</p> <p>At the moment the scheme is paid for by city and borough councils, but the Budget allocated Government money to provide free off-peak local bus travel nationwide from next April.  Making the free travel passes available earlier is expected to cost the West Midlands around £3m, which the PTA hopes to recover from next year's payments.</p> <p>Councillors also voted to start negotiations with neighbouring authorities, so the benefit could allow people to travel to towns just outside the metropolitan area.</p>"
Elderly and disabled people in the West Midlands are to get free travel from this summer.
9369
0
12
0
Congestion-busting plan sets new record
2005-04-20T00:00:00
2005-04-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More than two and a half million car journeys a year will be taken off the region's congested roads when a new park and ride facility opens at a city station next week.</p> <p>Centro is expanding the free car park which serves the busy commuter line at Hall Green.  The public transport promoter hopes to tempt motorists to leave the car at that point and switch to the ten-minute, frequent service to Birmingham city centre.</p> <p>"More Birmingham commuters now use public transport than travel to work in their car and our free car parks at stations make an important contribution to that congestion-busting statistic," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>Cllr Clarke and his vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen will help complete the finishing touches to the expanded Hall Green park and ride site, before it opens to the public next week.</p> <p>The project has cost £360,000 to double the number of car parking spaces available to 110.  Facilities include CCTV linked to a regional control centre, security lighting, fencing, public address and a 'help point'.</p> <p>A national transport conference revealed motorists in the West Midlands have more choice of park and ride than in any other major urban area – and that almost three-quarters of rail commuters have been persuaded to leave a car behind.</p> <p>"Providing better quality public transport and persuading more people to use it is the best hope we have of tackling congestion in the West Midlands," adds Cllr Clarke.  "Whether you are a road-user or one of the region's businesses paying the economic cost of gridlock, this has got to be the way forward."</p> <p>Centro, whose policy is set by Cllr Clarke and his PTA colleagues, now provides almost 6,000 park and ride spaces – an increase of 25 per cent in the last three years.  This latest expansion at Hall Green takes the number of car journeys saved over 2.5 million a year for the first time.  Another 400 spaces are due to open at Stourbridge Junction next month.</p>"
More than two and a half million car journeys a year will be taken off the region's congested roads when a new park and ride facility opens at a city station next week.
9369
sign.jpg
0
12
0
£1.6m plan to ease the squeeze for rail commuters
2005-04-20T00:00:00
2005-04-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands commuters on overcrowded trains are being promised a more comfortable journey to work in future.</p> <p>Councillors on the region's Passenger Transport Authority are set to allocate £1.6m to kick start a major plan to increase capacity.  They want to spend the money on extending platforms, so that operators can add extra carriages to rush hour trains.</p> <p>"More and more people are travelling by train in the West Midlands and this makes a big contribution to tackling congestion.  But for this success story to continue, passengers want more comfortable, reliable and less-crowded trains," comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"As a body that stands up for passengers and West Midlands business, we will continue to use the powers we have and the funding available to us to get a better deal from the rail industry," he adds.</p> <p>A study of capacity problems on the region's rail network recently concluded that adding more carriages, rather than adding to the timetable, would be the best way to handle growth in the short- to medium-term.  But the Strategic Rail Authority said that solution would depend on local stations being able to handle longer trains.</p> <p>Now a report by the West Midlands public transport promoter Centro to the policy-setting PTA recommends allocating a large slice of its development fund to investigating which stations can take longer platforms and then to delivering the programme.  The issue will be discussed by the PTA Urgency Sub-Committee at its meeting on Monday 25 April. </p> <p>The local councillors have previously used money from the rail development fund to increase the frequency of trains on Birmingham's Cross City Line, to provide congestion-busting park and ride schemes and to provide other improvements at stations.</p>"
West Midlands commuters on overcrowded trains are being promised a more comfortable journey to work in future.
9369
0
12
0
Councillors claim child bus fare credit
2005-04-19T00:00:00
2005-04-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A public subsidy that saves some West Midlands families more than £200 a year is going un-noticed, according to a report.</p> <p>Now councillors on the region's Passenger Transport Authority are to step up a campaign to get credit where it's due.  They say most people think bus companies alone offer half-fare to children, unaware that most reduced fares are actually paid for out of the council tax by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The public subsidy is used to guarantee half-fare travel on buses and trams at peak times.  Without it youngsters could pay twice as much to get to and from school on public transport.</p> <p>"There are many good reasons for encouraging young people to use public transport to get to and from school and college.  It is safe, helps cut rush-hour congestion and reduces school-gate pollution," says PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"If ticket prices were set purely by commercial operators, without our support, families could easily face an extra bill of around £200 per year, per child – so the subsidy helps remove a significant barrier to using public transport," he adds.</p> <p>An action plan agreed by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, calls for more publicity to be given for the subsidy.  In future, leaflets and travel cards will include a reminder that the peak-time child concession is subsidised by Centro.</p> <p>In the West Midlands bus companies generally only offer half-fare for children on a commercial basis for off-peak travel, which on weekdays is between 9.30am and 3.30pm.</p> <p > </p> <p >Explanatory note: Peak fares are charged Monday to Friday before 9.30am and from 3.30pm to 6pm - so the normal hours of arriving at and leaving school fall within peak hours.  The Centro concession is available for young people under 16, or students aged 16-18 holding a Centro concessionary ID card.</p> <p> </p>"
"A public subsidy that saves some West Midlands families more than £200 a year is going un-noticed, according to a report."
9369
0
12
0
West Mids transport boss to head national body
2005-04-15T00:00:00
2005-04-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Centro director general Rob Donald is to head a national campaign to promote public transport in the UK's biggest cities.</p> <p>The West Midlands transport boss has been made the new chair of <a href=""http://www.pteg.net/"" target=""_blank"">PTEG</a>, which represents passenger transport bodies in the UK's major conurbations.</p> <p>Speaking following his appointment, he called for the issue of congestion in major urban areas to be given a higher profile.  "PTEG is keenly aware that traffic congestion continues to grow across the city regions which underlines the need to invest in integrated bus and rail networks providing easy to use, high quality public transport," he said.</p> <p>He said the seven-member Passenger Transport Executive Group had made rapid progress in recent years.</p> <p>"We are getting far better at sharing expertise and good practice - both between the PTEs and with the wider transport world.  At a national level we are steadily raising the profile of the key transport challenges that face the city  regions, and the role that bodies like Centro can play in delivering the solutions."</p> <p>He outlined six particular areas for action:</p> <ul> <li> <div align=""left"">to provide public transport networks which meet everyone's needs, including those without access to a car</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">to continue to work with bus companies and local authorities to improve reliability and increase bus patronage</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">to increase the reliability and capacity of local commuter rail services </div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">to provide tram capacity in areas where this is justified</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">better provision of information</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">simpler provision of prepaid tickets</div> </li> </ul> <p>Rob Donald takes over from West Yorkshire transport boss Kieran Preston, who has stepped down after four years in the post.</p>"
Centro director general Rob Donald is to head a national campaign to promote public transport in the UK's biggest cities.
9369
0
12
0
Public transport not an election issue
2005-04-15T00:00:00
2005-04-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >In the week that all the major parties publish their manifestos and outline their policies for transport a MORI poll claims other topics are rated far more important by voters.</p> <p >The opinion poll company's latest '<a href=""http://www.mori.com/polls/2005/mpm050322.shtml"" target=""_blank"">political monitor</a>' ranks public transport joint 15<sup>th</sup> in the list of important issues facing Britain today. Only one in a hundred voters said transport was the main issue.</p> <table cellspacing=""0"" cellpadding=""0"" width=""395"" border=""0""> <tbody> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p ></p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">%</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >National Health Service/Hospitals</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">44</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Race relations/immigration/immigrants</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">33</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Education/schools</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">30</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Crime/law & order/violence/vandalism</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">29</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Defence/foreign affairs/international terrorism</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">24</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Pensions/social security</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">13</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Economy/economic situation</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">12</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Housing</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">9</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Poverty/inequality</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">8</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Unemployment/factory closure/lack of industry</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">8</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Drug abuse</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">6</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Morality/individual behaviour</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">6</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Taxation</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">6</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Common Market/EU/Europe/EURO/Constitution</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">5</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Pollution/environment</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">4</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p ><strong>Transport/public transport</strong></p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center""><strong>4</strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Local government/council tax</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">3</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Public services in general</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">3</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Inflation/prices</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">2</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Low pay/minimum wage/fair wages</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">2</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Countryside/rural life</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">2</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Petrol prices/fuel</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">2</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Animal welfare</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">1</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Foot and mouth outbreak/farming crisis</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">1</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Nuclear weapons/nuclear war/disarmament</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">1</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >GM/GM (Genetically Modified) foods</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">1</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""395"" colspan=""2""> <p ></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Other</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">14</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""331""> <p >Don't know</p> </td> <td valign=""bottom"" width=""64""> <p align=""center"">4</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>"
In the week that all the major parties publish their manifestos � and outline their policies for transport � a MORI poll claims other topics are rated far more important by voters.
9369
0
12
0
New bus ticket takes off
2005-04-12T00:00:00
2005-04-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new ticket that allows passengers to hop on and off buses run by different operators in the West Midlands has proved a huge success.</p> <p >Sales of the <strong>One Day Busmaster</strong>, promoted by Centro, have increased by almost 400 per cent since it was introduced last September. </p> <p >Figures revealed to councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, also show ordinary bus-users are set to save around £100,000 a year on fares as a result.</p> <p >Passengers can buy the new ticket on board most buses in the West Midlands and travel throughout the county for just £3.10 per day.  The price means anyone making a return journey that involves a change of bus can save money.</p> <p >Outside London, any bus company can operate services and compete for passengers – so organising tickets that can be used on the many different operators' buses can involve lengthy negotiations.</p> <p >The West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has worked with 25 different commercial operators in an effort to make using the bus much easier and more attractive.  Following the success of the One Day Busmaster, it now plans to expand the scheme to offering a greater range of multi-operator tickets, councillors are told.</p> <p >"Making sure that passengers are offered attractive and affordable ticketing is key to growing the market for bus travel," comments Centro services director Robert Smith.  "Four out of ten bus journeys involve two or more separate trips, so making it easier to hop off one bus and on to another service is crucial to making public transport more attractive and cutting congestion for all road-users."</p> <p >A report on the success of Centro's integrated ticketing policy is to be considered by PTA councillors at a meeting on Monday 18 April.</p>"
A new ticket that allows passengers to hop on and off buses run by different operators in the West Midlands has proved a huge success.
9369
0
12
0
Public transport investment on target � �again�
2005-04-06T00:00:00
2005-04-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Crucial spending on public transport improvements in the West Midlands has finished the financial year on target, according to an end of term report.</p> <p>Centro, the region's public transport promoter, fully spent its 2004/05 capital budget of £16m.</p> <p>Today's figures lay to rest any previous criticism that the publicly-funded body had been struggling to deliver on ambitious development plans.  Last year it achieved 98.5 per cent overall.</p> <p>"Far from being short-changed, passengers are getting an excellent deal," comments Cllr Paul Allen, vice-chair of the Passenger Transport Authority which sets policy for Centro and scrutinises the organisation's performance.</p> <p>"I am delighted this report shows we are delivering on our promises and making the most effective use of public money," he says.</p> <p>Completed schemes include a new bus station at Wednesbury, and rail park and ride interchanges at Smethwick and Blake Street, Sutton Coldfield.  Building work has been accelerated at a number of rail station car parks in the West Midlands, construction is steaming ahead at Stourbridge Junction and the refurbishment of Wolverhampton Bus Station is nearing completion.</p> <p>The headline figure excludes Midland Metro spending, although the end-of-year totals show investment in expanding the tram system is also forging ahead.  Some plans have been delayed pending the outcome of a study into tunnelling the route under Birmingham city centre – but Centro still completed 90 per cent of the programmed Metro investment for 2004/05.</p> <p ><strong>Notes:</strong></p> <p >The capital budget figures (as at 31 March 2005) were…</p> <p >Centro major schemes and minor works: £16.07m (fully spent)<br /> <a id=""OLE_LINK1"" name=""OLE_LINK1"">Midland Metro: £6.66m spent compared to budget of £7.38m (90.2 per cent)</a><br /> Total Centro capital spending, latest out-turn figure, £22.73m against a budget of £23.24m (97.82 per cent overall)</p> <p >Final figures will be published in the offical Report and Accounts later in the year.</p> <p> </p>"
"Crucial spending on public transport improvements in the West Midlands has finished the financial year on target, according to an end of term report."
9369
0
12
0
Bigger fines for rail fare cheats
2005-04-05T00:00:00
2005-04-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>An increase in the fine for railway fare dodgers has been welcomed by the political boss of West Midlands public transport – but Cllr Gary Clarke cautioned that a higher deterrent may still be needed.</p> <p>Following a long period of consultation, Transport Minister Tony McNulty today announced an increase in the nationally-set penalty fare from £10 to £20.</p> <p>"The current limit was set around fifteen years ago, so we have been calling for a review for some time. A number of dishonest individuals are cheating the West Midlands transport network out of £½ million every year – and that is money that should be invested in providing a better service for the vast number of honest travellers," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is the policy-setting body for Centro which promotes public transport and represents passenger interests. Its area covers commuter and local rail services running more than 850 trains a day, as well as the Midland Metro.</p> <p>"The issue of penalty fares is an important one for the West Midlands," adds Cllr Clarke. "A huge number of people, including more than one in five Birmingham commuters travel by train – and we want to see them get a fare deal."</p> <p><strong><em>Link:</em></strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/pns/DisplayPN.cgi pn_id=2005_0044"" target=""_blank"">Department for Transport news release</a></p>"
An increase in the fine for railway fare dodgers has been welcomed by the political boss of West Midlands public transport � but Cllr Gary Clarke cautioned that a higher deterrent may still be needed.
9369
0
12
0
Metro ceremony remembers Joseph Chamberlain's achievements
2005-04-05T00:00:00
2005-04-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>One of Birmingham's most famous politicians is to have a Midland Metro tram named after him at a ceremony this Wednesday, 6 April.</p> <p>Joseph Chamberlain was, for 25 years, a dominant figure in British politics. Domestic gas, electricity, the demolition of slums and the creation of Corporation Street were all his ideas.</p> <p>Born in London, he came to Birmingham at age 18 and in 1867 entered what was then Birmingham Town Council. In 1873 he was elected Mayor. He entered Parliament in 1874 and became Secretary of State for the Colonies. Joseph Chamberlain died in 1914, and is buried in Key Hill Cemetery adjacent to St Paul's Metro stop.</p> <p>Joseph Chamberlain's great-granddaughter, Mary Taylor, will attend the tram naming ceremony with her son Charlie, aged six, who will unveil the plaque with Cllr Mike Nangle, Lord Mayor of Birmingham. The ceremony will be at Birmingham Snow Hill Metro stop at 11.00am.</p> <p>This is the latest of a series of tram names chosen by the WMPTA and local authorities, which represent key figures nominated by the districts or those instrumental in bringing Midland Metro to the West Midlands.</p> <p>Since opening nearly six years ago Line One, which runs between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton St Georges, has achieved 98 per cent reliability and is used by more than five million passengers a year – nearly a third of them former car users. </p> <p> </p>"
One of Birmingham's most famous politicians is to have a Midland Metro tram named after him at a ceremony tomorrow.
9369
0
12
0
Move to extend free travel scheme as soon as possible
2005-04-04T00:00:00
2005-04-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Sixty year olds in the West Midlands could be enjoying free bus, train and Metro travel this summer if a proposal by local politicians is agreed.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro already offers one of the most generous schemes in the country, with free travel passes for over 65s and half-fare passes for those aged 60 to 64.  Now it could get even better.</p> <p>At the moment the scheme is paid for by West Midlands city and borough councils, but Chancellor Gordon Brown announced in his budget that Government money would be made available to lower the age limit and to provide free off-peak local bus travel nationwide from next April.</p> <p>However Cllr Gary Clarke, Conservative chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, and his Labour vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen want local pensioners to benefit even sooner.  They are to press for an agreement at the PTA's next policy meeting later this month, with a view to making free travel for the over-sixties available from the summer.</p> <p>"With the leaders of West Midlands district councils on board we can get these improvements in place as soon as possible," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"It has been PTA policy in the past to make concessions widely available and we want to get more people, of all ages, using public transport.  That is the greatest hope we have in the region's campaign to cut congestion," he adds.</p> <p>At the time of Gordon Brown's budget Cllrs Clarke and Allen had already pledged that any free travel scheme in the West Midlands should apply to all modes of transport.</p> <p>"The Chancellor may have used the phrase 'bus pass' – but we believe strongly in an integrated public transport system, so it is vital that passes are equally valid on rail and Metro services in the West Midlands," he said.</p>"
"Sixty year olds in the West Midlands could be enjoying free bus, train and Metro travel this summer if a proposal by local politicians is agreed."
9369
0
12
0
Give trams a future say MPs
2005-04-03T00:00:00
2005-04-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Modern trams could become a more familiar sight on city streets if Government listens to an influential group of MPs.</p> <p>That's the view of West Midlands transport bosses planning a major expansion of the Midland Metro system.  Work is already underway on a new line from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill and other routes are being mapped out for Birmingham, Wolverhampton and the Black Country.</p> <p>Councillors have backed a report from the powerful <a href=""http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/transport_committee.cfm"" target=""_blank"">House of Commons Transport Committee</a> which calls on Whitehall to improve the planning and approval process for light rail schemes.  The MPs inquiry found that tram schemes in the UK can take up to 15 years to deliver compared to four or five years elsewhere in Europe.</p> <p>The report published today (Sunday 3 April) calls on the Department for Transport to give a strategic lead and includes several recommendations to make tram systems a more viable option for urban areas in the UK.</p> <p>"There is a good deal of common sense in today's Select Committee report.  If the Government takes these findings on board we can clear up some of the uncertainty hanging over light rail development," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "It could even lead to Britain adopting some of the cheaper and faster construction methods used on mainland Europe.  That would certainly be good news for passengers."</p> <p>Midland Metro line one, which runs from Wolverhampton to Birmingham via West Bromwich, took around 13 years to develop from the planning stage to the first trams running in May 1998.  It is now the most reliable form of public transport in the region and extremely popular with regular users.  More rush hour trams have recently been added to cope with growing demand.</p> <p>Looking at similar schemes around the country, the Commons Transport Committee praised them for offering clean, high-quality, accessible urban transport on busy routes.  Despite their high initial capital cost, trams could even be cheaper than buses, it said.</p> <p>"Tram schemes cannot simply be written off as too expensive," says Committee chairman  Gwyneth Dunwoody MP.  "It is more complex than that: the problems come because the Government takes a long time to make decisions, the private sector is supposed to bear the risks, and then everyone seems surprised that those risks now have a price attached.  To cap it all, the deregulated bus system outside London prevents local authorities from ensuring trams lie at the heart of an integrated transport system."</p> <p>"Trams aren't a magic answer to every transport problem.  But they certainly aren't anywhere near as crackpot as some people would have us believe," she says.</p> <p>In the West Midlands, public transport promoter Centro is planning five new tram lines that would put more than half a million people within walking distance of a new Midland Metro stop.</p> <p>"To achieve this we need a DfT framework that considers the options, gives value for money and leads to a good deal for passengers – but then at the end of the day allows us to build tram lines cheaper and quicker," commented Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>"This inquiry, like the National Audit Office report last year, has highlighted some very important truths that need to be aired if we are to get on and deliver an integrated transport system with the same speed and efficiency of other European countries."</p> <p>His comments have been echoed by Kieran Preston, chair of the Passenger Transport Executives Group representing public transport bodies like Centro in the UK's major conurbations. </p> <p>""As the report shows Britain's new generation of tram and light rail schemes have proved to be a hit with the travelling public, crucially that includes motorists who are switching to light rail in massive numbers,"" he said.</p> <p>""What sometimes hasn't worked out so well is the way Whitehall has overseen the planning and procurement of new schemes - resulting in too many delays and too many cost hikes.  The report shows we need to learn from other countries and get back to basics on light rail - with much more straightforward ways of financing schemes, full integration between bus and tram networks, and a streamlined process for approving new schemes.""</p>"
Response to House of Commons Transport Committee report published Sunday 3 April: Modern trams could become a more familiar sight on city streets if Government listens to an influential group of MPs.
9369
0
12
0
Private sector funding boost for Metro expansion plan
2005-03-31T00:00:00
2005-03-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A 25 per cent contribution from an international property company looks to have secured the financial future of plans to extend the Midland Metro tram system through the Black Country.</p> <p >The extension from the existing Metro line at Wednesbury, through Dudley Town Centre then to Merry Hill and Brierley Hill was given Government go-ahead just before Christmas following a public inquiry last year.  With the substantial local contribution now in the bag, public transport promoter Centro expects to get a final and positive business case to the Government later this year.</p> <p >Centro has just completed high level talks with the new owners of the Merry Hill development which is set to benefit from substantially improved public transport links.  As a result, the Australian-owned property giant Westfield will contribute around £35m towards the £139m project.</p> <p >Westfield wants the Metro extension to be built at the earliest opportunity.  "We are very supportive and really want to make this happen," commented development director Peter Miller.</p> <p >Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, welcomed the agreement as an important step towards providing the area with a modern, integrated transport system.</p> <p >"To receive such a significant contribution from the private sector shows how business recognises the benefits of high-quality public transport and its ability to boost the local economy," said PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >"The real winners will be the people of the Black Country who will be able to travel on the trams in a few years time," he added.</p> <p >The 11km Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro route will have 13 easy-access stops with four Park and Ride sites serving shopping and business areas in Great Bridge, Dudley Port (connecting with local train services), Dudley town centre, the Waterfront and Merry Hill before terminating near High Street, Brierley Hill.  Modern trams would cover the distance in just 23 minutes. It is hoped to have trams running by 2011.</p>"
A 25 per cent contribution from an international property company looks to have secured the financial future of plans to extend the Midland Metro tram system through the Black Country.
9369
0
12
0
Centro and Sandwell sign on the Metro line
2005-03-30T00:00:00
2005-03-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>An agreement that brings the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Midland Metro extension closer to reality is to be signed by public transport promoter Centro and Sandwell MBC.</p> <p>The partners in the scheme have agreed their roles on delivering funding, construction, operation and maintenance of the route following confirmation by the Government last December that the extension had been approved.</p> <p>The agreement will be signed this Thursday 31 March.</p> <p>The 11km Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro route will have 13 easy-access stops with four Park and Ride sites serving shopping and business areas in Great Bridge, Dudley Port (connecting with local train services), Dudley town centre, the Waterfront and Merry Hill before terminating near High Street, Brierley Hill.  Modern trams would cover the distance in just 23 minutes. It is hoped to have trams running by 2011.</p> <p>"I am delighted Centro is signing this major agreement with Sandwell that cements the determination of both parties to deliver this important transport and regeneration project to people in the Black Country as soon as possible," said Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro and Sandwell on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority. "We are all now able to move forward with the next important phases of the Metro route's development."</p> <p>Cllr Bob Badham, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Environment & Transport, said: "This is another exciting scheme that's going to make sure Sandwell remains at the heart of the Metro network in the West Midlands. We've already got the majority of stations in our area on the line from Birmingham to Wolverhampton. This extra new line will add another travel dimension for the people of Sandwell and the West Midlands."</p>"
An agreement that brings the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Midland Metro extension closer to reality is to be signed by public transport promoter Centro and Sandwell MBC.
9369
0
12
0
Art and information scores at the Hawthorns
2005-03-24T00:00:00
2005-03-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A striking new art feature is set to grace the Metro Park and Ride at the Hawthorns– and it has scored with fans of nearby West Bromwich Albion FC.</p> <p>Local artist Anu Patel has created a statue that represents both football and the world community to mark where users of the busy Park and Ride, sited on Midland Metro Line One between Birmingham and Wolverhampton, can find out details of tram, train and bus connections, whilst securely leaving their car in the 184 space car park.</p> <p>Anu's design shows three figures either within or holding a ball to highlight not just the area's football connections with Premiership side West Bromwich Albion, but also the globe as representing all communities from around the world supporting one another. Anu said: "As the figures rise they are aspiring to the ultimate goal, whether that is sporting or material success, happiness, freedom or spirituality."</p> <p>Cllr Roger Horton, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority's Lead Member for Metro and Sandwell, and a West Bromwich Albion fan, added: "This striking feature reflects Sandwell's fame for football and being a multi-cultural community, and improves an already outstanding integrated transport facility. The information point will make it easier for people to catch the mode of transport they need when they need it." </p>"
A striking new art feature is set to grace the Metro Park and Ride at the Hawthorns� and it has scored with fans of nearby West Bromwich Albion FC.
9369
0
12
0
Go on the Metro for Easter days out
2005-03-23T00:00:00
2005-03-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Centro, the region's public transport promoter, has negotiated special rates for Midland Metro passengers going for days out to some of the West Midlands' leading attractions this Easter.</p> <p>Family Daytripper or Day Return tickets will be available to Metro users who can benefit from special entry rates and discounted special offers including half price adult or child admission to Thinktank, two for one entry to the Black Country Museum or free child admission when accompanied by full paying adults to the Sea Life Centre over the holiday period. </p> <p>"Travelling by Metro is easily the best way to save money, and avoid sitting in traffic or looking for parking when going out and about this Easter," said Centro Marketing Manager, Julia Lameris. "There is plenty going on at many locations across the region and all are easily accessible by public transport" she added.</p> <p>Family Daytripper tickets are valid for travel after 9.30am on bus, rail and Metro services and they can be purchased at rail stations, travel shops and on the Metro. Day return tickets provide unlimited travel on Metro and daytime bus services. The Centro Hotline has travel information on 0121 200 2700.</p>"
"Centro, the region's public transport promoter, has negotiated special rates for Midland Metro passengers going for days out to some of the West Midlands' leading attractions this Easter."
9369
0
12
0
Fun days out � all in one ticket
2005-03-22T00:00:00
2005-03-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Centro, the region's public transport promoter, has negotiated special rates for passengers going for days out by rail to some of the West Midlands' leading attractions this Easter.</p> <p>Combined rail travel and admission tickets will be available to such popular venues as Warwick Castle, The National Sea Life Centre, Thinktank, Imax, Cadbury World, The Black Country Living Museum and Severn Valley Railway, over the holiday period. </p> <p>All in one tickets have the benefit of providing rail travellers with savings on the normal price of admission.  For example a family of four travelling to Thinktank by rail can save themselves £6. </p> <p>Many attractions will be staging special events during Easter, such as the Sea Life Centre's tropical displays, Warwick Castle's bowmen and birds of prey, and Thinktank's creepy crawlies exhibition. </p> <p>"Travelling by rail is easily the best way to save money, and avoid sitting in traffic or looking for parking when going out and about this Easter," said Centro Marketing Manager, Julia Lameris. "There is plenty going on at many locations across the region and all are easily accessible by public transport" she added.</p> <p>All in one tickets can be purchased from any staffed rail station in the Centro area. The Centro Hotline has travel information on 0121 200 2700 (02476 559559 in Coventry).</p> <p> </p>"
"Centro, the region's public transport promoter, has negotiated special rates for passengers going for days out by rail to some of the West Midlands' leading attractions this Easter."
9369
0
12
0
Rail access plan welcomed
2005-03-22T00:00:00
2005-03-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A massive exercise to make rail stations more accessible and the announcement of a new £370m fund from the Government has been welcomed by a public transport watchdog in the West Midlands.</p> <p>"More than 80 per cent of the stations in our area are accessible for people with disabilities – but that still leaves considerable room for improvement," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the region's Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>"We have been calling on the rail industry for some time to improve things and today's announcement is a step in the right direction.  I look forward to the day when nobody is denied access to public transport because of mobility problems."</p> <p>He said his own organisation Centro had put in improvements where it was able, but that in most cases it was the rail industry that needed to carry out the work at stations.</p> <p>The Strategic Rail Authority today launched its draft 'Railways for All' strategy at a conference in London.  At the same event, the Department for Transport, which will take over from the SRA later this year, announced funding for the policy.</p> <p><strong><em>Link:</em></strong> <a href=""http://www.sra.gov.uk/news/2005/3/accessibility_conference"" target=""_blank"">SRA news release</a></p>"
A massive exercise to make rail stations more accessible and the announcement of a new £370m fund from the Government has been welcomed by a public transport watchdog in the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
"West Mids pensioners, who already get free bus travel, �will get even more benefits�"
2005-03-17T00:00:00
2005-03-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses in the West Midlands are promising pensioners an even better deal than that offered by Chancellor Gordon Brown in this week's Budget.</p> <p>Over 65s in the area already get free travel passes in what has long been the most generous concession scheme in the country. </p> <p>"This is a welcome opportunity to extend our scheme even further and it is good news that other cities around the country have been promised the funding so they can follow our lead," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which is run by a Conservative-Labour coalition.</p> <p>Currently West Midlands residents over 65 get free travel and those aged 60 to 64 qualify for half-fare travel.  The Budget statement implies they will all get free off-peak travel from April next year.</p> <p>Centro, the public body that operates the concessions in the busiest public transport area outside London, says it will need to check the small-print of the Budget to see how the new funding is allocated.  Centro's scheme applies to local trams and all train services, as well as buses.</p> <p>"I would hope we can promise pensioners in the West Midlands that the new concession scheme will include all modes of public transport, not just local buses," adds Cllr Clarke.  "We believe in integrated transport as the best way forward, so we will be looking for clarification as to why Gordon Brown only talks of bus travel.  He should be promising investment in regional rail services and light rail too."</p> <p>Even though most pensioners in the West Midlands are already offered free travel, the actual take-up of passes and the number of trips made has continued to fall.  Analysis seems to point to demographic factors being the most significant – with the preponderance of fitter, more-active pensioners who have become more used to higher car ownership and use in their earlier lives.  The days of pensioners selling their car and applying for a 'bus pass' as soon as they reach their 60<sup>th</sup> birthday are long gone, according to national statistics.</p> <p>"We cannot assume that anyone, of any age, will give up their car unless there are some radical improvements to the public transport offer," comments Cllr Clarke.  "Bus companies need to raise their game and we all need to work together to tackle congestion and provide greater mobility for people in our major cities."</p> <p> </p>"
Transport bosses in the West Midlands are promising pensioners an even better deal than that offered by Chancellor Gordon Brown in this week's Budget.
9369
0
12
0
Nothing but the best for Bilston bus station
2005-03-15T00:00:00
2005-03-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bilston Bus Station is to get a spring makeover of nearly half a million pounds from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The bus station, which opened in October 1991 and is adjacent to Bilston Central Midland Metro stop, will have a range of improvements carried out to make it even easier for bus passengers to use. Nearly 700 bus services operate out of Bilston each day.</p> <p>The £489,000 changes will include new easy access kerbing, improved signage, speed calming measures and upgraded CCTV facilities. A disabled toilet, enhanced internal facilities and extensive refurbishment will also improve the overall appearance and customer environment for passengers using the bus station.</p> <p>"Bilston has a first class bus station and it helps provide vital, integrated transport for the whole community," said Cllr Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority and Wolverhampton member. "By making these improvements, we are underlining the importance of Bilston as an important part of the public transport network for Wolverhampton and the Black Country" he added.</p> <p> </p>"
Bilston Bus Station is to get a spring makeover of nearly half a million pounds from public transport promoter Centro.
9369
0
12
0
New signs to make bus travel easier
2005-03-14T00:00:00
2005-03-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has announced the country's largest scheme to help make travel easier for blind and partially-sighted passengers.</p> <p>New easy-to-read signs are being installed at all eleven bus stations it operates by the end of the year.</p> <p>Interchanges in Dudley, Wednesbury and Walsall are the first to benefit from the approach, where information at every bus stop gives the route numbers and destination in Braille and in a large, raised font.</p> <p>"These are basic steps, but they make a very real and welcome difference to blind and partially-sighted passengers," says Centro projects director Tom Magrath.  "What we are doing is making sure the roll-out of new signs at our bus stations takes proper account of the needs of all our customers."</p> <p>Centro says the use of clear, colour-contrasting fonts and large text and direction signs at eye-level should enable all passengers to navigate around the bus stations more easily.</p> <p>Other measures being carried out include improvements to dropped kerbs, tactile paving, clearer contrasting handrails, and more seating with armrests.</p>"
West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has announced the country's largest scheme to help make travel easier for blind and partially-sighted passengers.
9369
0
12
0
MPs call for New Street funding
2005-03-11T00:00:00
2005-03-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p>MPs have called upon Secretary of State Alistair Darling to unlock the funding needed to provide Birmingham with a much-needed redevelopment of New Street Station.</p> <p>Richard Burden MP (Birmingham Northfield) stressed the importance of a new gateway station for the regeneration of Birmingham and the West Midlands.  His motion was tabled as the project partners, including public transport promoter Centro, announced the appointment of a lead consultant to take forward a £350m development.</p> <p>He said the Government should welcome the £200m financial commitment by Birmingham City Council and Advantage West Midlands as well as the investment to date from Centro, Network Rail and Government agencies.  The motion, signed by MPs from all three major parties and from across the West Midlands, calls upon the Secretary of State to encourage the Regulator to allow Network Rail to fund the balance.</p> <p><a href=""http://edm.ais.co.uk/weblink/html/motion.html/ref=864"" target=""_blank"">Full text and details of motion</a></p>"
Motion by Birmingham MP Richard Burden
9369
0
12
0
Enjoy the St Patrick's craic on public transport
2005-03-10T00:00:00
2005-03-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport will be the way to get to Birmingham's biggest ever St Patrick's Day festival, taking place in and around Digbeth from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 March.  </p> <p>Centro, the region's public transport promoter, is encouraging  festival visitors to use the bus, Metro or train to attend the celebrations.   Several major bus routes run close to the Digbeth area and Millennium Point, around which most of the events will be centred, whilst New Street, Snow Hill and Moor Street rail stations are a short walking distance away.  People can choose a range of travel products to get there, including Daytripper tickets for travel on bus, rail and Metro.  Tickets can be purchased on buses, or at staffed rail stations. </p> <p>Thousands of people are expected to see Irish bands, dancers and artists, culminating in the St Patrick's Day parade on Sunday.</p> <p>"Birmingham city centre is easily accessible by bus, Metro and rail so it makes sense to avoid any congestion by travelling to the St Patrick's Day festival on public transport" said Centro Marketing Manager, Julia Lameris.</p> <p>Though there will be changes to local roads and some bus services on the day of the parade full details are available from the Centro Hotline on 0121 200 2700.</p> <p> </p>"
"Public transport will be the way to get to Birmingham's biggest ever St Patrick's Day festival, taking place in and around Digbeth from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 March."
9369
0
12
0
Key appointment to bring New Street redevelopment closer
2005-03-10T00:00:00
2005-03-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A company that helped link Sweden to Denmark by bridge and undersea tunnel is to head the next phase of Birmingham's project to redevelop New Street Station.</p> <p>WSP Group has been appointed by a joint project group, including public transport promoter Centro, to take forward a 3.9m design and development study.</p> <p>The consultancy will look at the design work in detail and commercially evaluate a 350m development scheme to be delivered by Network Rail and funded by a multi-agency group of Advantage West Midlands, Birmingham City Council, Centro, Government Office of the West Midlands, Network Rail and the Strategic Rail Authority.</p> <p>""More people than ever are travelling into central Birmingham by train and we must not under-estimate the importance of this project to the West Midlands,"" comments Centro director general Rob Donald. ""It will provide a vast improvement to the daily journey of the growing number of rail commuters and a landmark gateway to the city at the heart of the national rail network. With today's appointment of WSP and their partners, we should look forward to a robust and commercially viable scheme to take the project forward to the next stage as quickly as possible.""</p> <p>WSP Group plc, one of the UK's major multi-disciplinary consultancies with clients in both the public and private sectors will now undertake and lead the study, having teamed up with architects John McAslan & Partners and Chapman Taylor on the project.</p> <p><strong><i>Links:</i></strong></p> <p><a href=""http://www.wspgroup.com/uk/default.asp"" target=""_blank"">WSP UK</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.chapmantaylor.com/t5.asp prjid=115&selimg=562&ptid=562"" target=""_blank"">Chapman Taylor architects</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.mcaslan.co.uk/prj_cat.php objects=comm%2Cedu%2Cart%2Ctrans%"" target=""_blank"">John McAslan & Partners</a>: (<a href=""http://www.mcaslan.co.uk/frame.php seite=intro&proj_id=undefined&flashversion=5"" target=""_blank"">home page</a>)</p>"
A company that helped link Sweden to Denmark by bridge and undersea tunnel is to head the next phase of Birmingham's project to redevelop New Street Station.
9369
0
12
0
Better buses on the agenda
2005-03-08T00:00:00
2005-03-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans to increase bus use and cut congestion in the West Midlands have been discussed at a conference in Birmingham.</p> <p>Centro head of communications Conrad Jones told delegates at the city's Burlington Hotel the bus is a key part of the high-quality integrated transport network needed in the region.  He said action by a range of parties, including bus companies and local councils, was needed to ensure passenger growth and this could only be achieved if the bus option was made more attractive to motorists.</p> <p>"Bus patronage growth supports economic growth, social and environmental health," he told representatives of the bus industry, local government and the media.  "A decline in bus use means we all lose out – particularly the motorist who would face more congestion on the roads."</p>"
Plans to increase bus use and cut congestion in the West Midlands have been discussed at a conference in Birmingham.
9369
0
12
0
£millions on track for passenger benefits
2005-03-07T00:00:00
2005-03-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus, train and tram passengers across the West Midlands are reaping the rewards of major investment in the region's transport infrastructure.</p> <p>Figures are contained in a new report being presented to members of the Passenger Transport Authority (on Monday 14 March).  It says Centro is on target to spend more than £25m on new developments and improving facilities by the end of the financial year.</p> <p>Schemes already completed include a new bus station at Wednesbury, and rail park and ride interchanges at Smethwick and Blake Street, Sutton Coldfield.  Building work has been accelerated at a number of rail station car parks in the West Midlands, construction is steaming ahead at Stourbridge Junction and the refurbishment of Wolverhampton Bus Station is nearing completion.</p> <p>Some £8m is expected to be spent on work to expand the Midland Metro network during the year.  Since the Government gave the go-ahead for the next phase just before Christmas, survey work has started on site for the extension from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill.</p> <p>"We have placed great emphasis on getting things done," says Cllr John Woodall, Chairman of the PTA project development and monitoring committee.  "Existing passengers want to see improvements and we need to make public transport even more attractive to get more people out of their cars and cut congestion."</p> <p>"These figures show that Centro is working hard at building an integrated public transport system for the West Midlands," he adds.</p> <p>While progress on joint initiatives with West Midlands local councils has proved more complicated, councillors are told these projects are still on target to spend the £17m allocated budget this year.  Initiatives underway include bus showcase schemes and 'Red Routes', where public transport promoter Centro administers the spending on behalf of the three city and four borough councils of the West Midlands metropolitan county.  This is on top of the £25m for Centro's own projects.</p>"
"Bus, train and tram passengers across the West Midlands are reaping the rewards of major investment in the region's transport infrastructure."
9369
0
12
0
Cash-free travel planned for West Midlands
2005-03-07T00:00:00
2005-03-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Fumbling for change could eventually become a thing of the past when buying a public transport ticket in the West Midlands.</p> <p>Councillors on the policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority today voted for the introduction of a 'smart card' system for bus, train and tram travel – although they admitted the idea was some way off becoming reality.</p> <p>The debate at the Authority's policy and strategy committee followed the completion of a Smart Card trial on buses in Coventry.  Around 35,000 of the new cards were issued to senior citizens as a replacement for their bus pass and card readers fitted to the vehicles of the city's largest bus company.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro found that the system worked well and was preferred by passengers.  However, current ticket machinery does not appear to be suitable and this is complicated by the number of private bus and train operators involved.</p>"
Fumbling for change could eventually become a thing of the past when buying a public transport ticket in the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
A better view promised for bus passengers
2005-03-04T00:00:00
2005-03-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Waiting for the bus is about to get better at almost 500 locations across the West Midlands.</p> <p >Centro, the region's public transport promoter is seeking approval to replace hundreds of bus shelters – giving passengers better protection from the elements and a clearer view of the road.  The £1.75m plan is to be funded by advertising on the shelters.</p> <p >At the moment some shelters have an advertising panel which can partly block the view of the arriving bus.  Now that Centro is to take over ownership of the shelter from the advertising company, it is guaranteeing passengers a better view.  Advertising panels will only be permitted at the back end of the shelter and the kerb side from now on.</p> <p >"Our priority has to be providing the best waiting environment for passengers.  Every day over a million people wait for the bus in the West Midlands and it rains on average 175 days a year, so that shows how important shelters are to making bus travel a more attractive option," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p >He says a new deal signed with Adshel gives passengers the best of both worlds.</p> <p >"We could get as much as £70m to invest in the bus network over the next ten years and we get more control over bus shelters.  There is enough money in the deal to pay for regular cleaning and maintenance while still leaving a generous surplus to pay for more and better bus services," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >The first improvements to more than a dozen routes were introduced last month and £300,000 has also been set aside to help fund a new Police unit for the West Midlands bus network.</p> <p>There are some 5,000 bus shelters in the West Midlands of which 700 were previously controlled by Adshel.  Councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority are being asked to approve the replacement of the first 458 of these at its policy meeting on Monday 7 March.   <strong><em>(Update 7 March: this was agreed)</em></strong></p>"
"Waiting for the bus is about to get better at almost 500 locations across the West Midlands. Centro, the region's public transport promoter is seeking approval to replace hundreds of bus shelters � giving passengers better protection from the elements and a clearer view of the road."
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Merry Hill tram route on display
2005-03-02T00:00:00
2005-03-02T00:00:00
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"<p >Merry Hill shoppers will be able to see plans to link the centre to the Midland Metro tram network at a Centro exhibition this month.</p> <p >The public transport promoter won Government approval for the £139m scheme at the end of last year.  When completed, it will see the congestion-busting trams running from the existing line one at Wednesbury, through Dudley town centre, Merry Hill and on to Brierley Hill High Street.</p> <p >People will be able to travel easily around this part of the Blank Country and see better public transport links to Wolverhampton and Birmingham as a result.</p> <p ><a href=""http://www.merryhill.co.uk/"" target=""_blank""></a>An exhibition stand at Merry Hill's information centre will be present from Saturday 5 to Saturday 19 March showing detailed plans and maps for the 11km route.  Staff will be on hand to provide details of and answer questions on the proposed route on Saturday 5<sup>th</sup> (9am to 1pm), Thursday 10<sup>th</sup> (10am to 3pm), Tuesday 15<sup>th</sup> (3pm to 7pm) and Saturday 19<sup>th</sup> (12pm to 4pm).</p> <p>Following the Government's granting of powers to build the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill route, Centro is now lining up funding for the scheme.  Advance works are currently underway on site to provide important ground and structural engineering information ahead of the tendering of contracts. </p> <p><em>Link to <a href=""http://www.merryhill.co.uk/new_develop/index.html"" target=""_blank"">Merry Hill website</a></em></p>"
Merry Hill shoppers will be able to see plans to link the centre to the Midland Metro tram network at a Centro exhibition this month.
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Waterfrontmetro.jpg
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"Central Trains: ""agreement reached with ASLEF"""
2005-03-01T00:00:00
2005-03-01T00:00:00
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"<p ><strong>Please note: this release has been posted to this website for information only. All media enquiries should be directed to <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_news/news.asp"" target=""_blank"">Central Trains press office</a>. Centro does not operate the trains.</strong></p> <p >Central Trains today announced that it has reached an agreement with ASLEF in the dispute over two train drivers.</p> <p >The union balloted its members at the beginning of the year for strike action in support of the two drivers who were reduced in grade following concerns about safety. Strikes were planned for three Saturdays this month, but these were called off following preliminary discussions with the company early in February. Now following further talks, agreement has been reached and the industrial action has been withdrawn.</p> <p >Commenting on the outcome of negotiations with ASLEF, Central Trains Managing Director, Steve Banaghan said the outcome is good news for passengers,</p> <p >""I am very pleased that we have been able to reach agreement with ASLEF. This means that we can now go forward with our plans for improving the services, working with our colleagues in the unions and continuing to offer our passengers a reliable and consistent level of service once again.""</p> <p >Central Trains said it was now looking at restoring some of the services withdrawn at the beginning of the year, following the failure to reach an agreement with ASLEF on voluntary overtime by drivers. This led to the introduction of a Special Timetable from 1<sup>st</sup> January with around 10% of normal services being cancelled.</p>"
News release from Central Trains
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"Rail squeeze to provide some passenger gain � but not without pain, says Centro"
2005-02-28T00:00:00
2005-02-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A plan to squeeze extra capacity out of the heavily-congested West Midlands rail network has been broadly welcomed by Centro, the region's public transport promoter.</p> <p>The West Midlands Route Utilisation Strategy is published for consultation today (Monday 28 Feb) by the Strategic Rail Authority in an attempt to make better use of existing trains and tracks.  The Government agency claims its proposals will be able to reduce overcrowding and improve services for passengers.</p> <p>Centro, which represents passenger and local interests in the West Midlands, says more trains and a better co-ordinated timetable would be good news – but it criticises the lack of investment identified in the plan.</p> <p>"This is an important document for the future of rail services in the West Midlands," comments Centro director general Rob Donald.  "There are some critical issues to be tackled to make sure we get the best deal for passengers and the region – so we will be canvassing opinion before we make a full response to the Strategic Rail Authority."</p> <p>"Allocating capacity between local rail services and long distance and freight services is also a key issue.  Centro will be keen to ensure that local passengers do not suffer unduly because of the competing needs of other rail network users."</p> <p>"We have made great strides in increasing rail patronage, to the extent that one in five commuters to central Birmingham now travels by train and this makes a significant contribution to reducing congestion in the West Midlands," adds the Centro boss.  "The SRA document actually makes a very good case for continued investment in the rail network, but the funding for new track and rolling stock has yet to be identified."</p> <p>Before making its recommendations, the SRA strategy refers to the fact that passenger growth in the West Midlands has been greater than in other areas of the country.  Department for Transport figures even show passenger numbers to be climbing faster than London and the South East.</p> <p>In the last ten years rail travel in the West Midlands has grown by 44 per cent, compared to a national average of 34 per cent – and this could increase by as much again by 2011.</p> <p>To accommodate the predicted growth, the SRA proposes taking passenger services away from some poorly used lines and reallocating trains.  It also suggests fare increases could be used to discourage passengers from travelling during the height of the morning rush hour.</p> <p>"We reluctantly accept the wisdom of taking passenger services away from very poorly used lines – but only if it can be shown that any savings are then positively reinvested to the benefit of passengers in the region," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority which sets policy for Centro.  "We will oppose any local reduction in service, even on the less well-used lines, if it appears the savings are to be handed to the Treasury and, on balance, the region will then be worse off."</p> <p>Cllr Clarke says the PTA will also oppose any attempt to reduce overcrowding by putting up fares.</p> <p>"Reducing rail congestion by pricing passengers off the train and back into their cars would be a very retrograde step," he says.  "The strategy document acknowledges this would increase road traffic congestion – so it is unacceptable to us and also difficult to see how it squares with Government policy for integrated transport."</p> <p>"Government agencies and departments need to look at complete solutions for the congestion that is costing this region more than £2.3bn each year.  Simply taking traffic away from one mode of transport and transferring it to another will not provide the answer the West Midlands needs," he adds.  "We need investment to increase total capacity and provide an integrated transport network."</p> <p>The West Midlands Route Utilisation Strategy published today is now subject to 12 weeks consultation before it can become Government policy.  Centro will consider the detailed implications, which will then be discussed by councillors on the watchdog Passenger Transport Authority before submitting a formal response to the SRA.</p>"
"A plan to squeeze extra capacity out of the heavily-congested West Midlands rail network has been broadly welcomed by Centro, the region's public transport promoter."
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Experts find motorists prefer trams
2005-02-23T00:00:00
2005-02-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Modern tram networks, like the expanding Midland Metro, are six times better at cutting congestion than improvements to bus services a new study has found.</p> <p>The findings are published today (Wednesday 23 Feb) in a report by transport consultants Steer Davies Gleave.  It says Metro-style systems are far more likely to tempt motorists out of their cars and reduce congestion in major cities.</p> <p>In the morning rush hour, around one in five tram passengers had made the switch from their car – compared to between 4% and 6.5% persuaded on to public transport by bus improvement schemes.  In Birmingham there are now more commuters using public transport than travel by car and extra rush hour trams have been added to cope with demand.</p> <p>The study reviewed the performance of the seven operational light rail systems in the UK, including trams in Manchester, Sheffield, London and Nottingham as well as the Midland Metro.  It found they were all popular with passengers and ran at or near capacity during peak periods.  Together they take more than 22 million car journeys off the road every year, have played an important part in regeneration and have boosted property values along the corridors they serve.</p> <p>"Although better bus services are key to any credible strategy for tackling urban congestion, this report shows that for many busy corridors the tram beats the bus every time," says Kieran Preston, chair of the Passenger Transport Executives Group (<strong><i>pteg</i></strong>), which commissioned the study called '<a href=""http://www.pteg.net/lightrailandcities.htm"" target=""_blank"">What light rail can do for cities'</a>.</p> <p>The findings will be used by <strong><i>pteg</i></strong> in its evidence to the Commons Transport Select Committee inquiry into the future of modern trams in the UK. <a href=""http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/transport_committee/trans04_05press_notice10.cfm"" target=""_blank"">(link)</a></p>"
"Modern tram networks, like the expanding Midland Metro, are six times better at cutting congestion than improvements to bus services a new study has found."
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0
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Bus police security scheme drives forward
2005-02-18T00:00:00
2005-02-18T00:00:00
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"<p>West Midlands transport policy makers are to hear the latest progress on a scheme that gives police a visible presence on the region's buses.</p> <p>West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority members are being updated by West Midlands Police on the Safer Travel Police Team, recently set up in partnership with public transport promoter Centro, at a meeting next Monday, 21 February.</p> <p>The team's Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have legal authority to reinforce safety and security for bus users as well develop other crime reduction measures for the network that help passengers feel safer.</p> <p>These other activities include gathering intelligence to tackle problem areas, engaging in educational campaigns at local schools and advice on locations of bus shelters.</p> <p>"The personal security of passengers is essential to a quality public transport system even if actual crime levels are low," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the WMPTA.  "The PTA, Centro, police, local authorities and bus operators all recognise that people have concern about anti-social behaviour on buses and we all want to remove this potential barrier to travel," he added.</p> <p>Centro policy is committed to working in partnership to ensure a person's entire journey is free of crime or the fear of it, reaching the Local Transport Plan's aim of reducing the chance of a person being involved in a criminal incident by 20% by 2011.  Centro has worked closely with police and bus companies on several initiatives aimed at cutting crime.</p> <p>Cllr Clarke said: "We are seeing great investment by Centro towards enhancing the Safer Travel Police Team, and are looking ahead to providing further support for a scheme we are confident will deliver real results in the months ahead."</p>"
West Midlands transport policy makers are to hear the latest progress on a scheme that gives police a visible presence on the region's buses.
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0
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See and discuss plans for the Metro in Dudley
2005-02-15T00:00:00
2005-02-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans for the Midland Metro extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill will be on show in Dudley next Saturday, 19 February on public transport promoter Centro's Exhibition Bus.</p> <p>The £139 million scheme, which won Government approval last December, will run through the town centre allowing congestion relieving access to Dudley's many shops and attractions from Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Merry Hill and other areas served by the Metro.</p> <p>The bus will be present in the Market Place from 9.30am to 3.30pm showing detailed plans and maps for the 11km route, which leaves the existing Line One at Wednesbury and goes through Dudley town centre as well as Merry Hill before terminating at Brierley Hill. Centro staff will be on hand to provide details and answer questions.</p> <p>Following the Government's granting of powers to build the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill route, Centro is confident of now submitting a positive business case to secure the necessary Government finance and attracting local funding. </p> <p> </p>"
"Plans for the Midland Metro extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill will be on show in Dudley next Saturday, 19 February on public transport promoter Centro's Exhibition Bus."
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0
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Centro's Tom Magrath to head West Midlands LTP group
2005-02-15T00:00:00
2005-02-15T00:00:00
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"<p>Tom Magrath, projects director for Centro, has been appointed chairman of the West Midlands Chief Engineers and Planning Officers Group (CEPOG).</p> <p>The group is charged with delivering the Local Transport Plan on behalf of the PTE and seven district councils of the West Midlands.  A key task is to unlock £1bn of funding for major schemes promised by Secretary of State Alistair Darling.</p> <p>In announcing the appointment this week, West Midlands PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke paid tribute to the outgoing CEPOG head David Bull of Birmingham City Council.</p> <p>"David has done a first class job.  He has been committed and dedicated to the Local Transport Plan", he said.</p> <p>CEPOG is made up of senior officers from Centro, Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton city councils and the metropolitan boroughs of Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull and Walsall.</p>"
"Tom Magrath, projects director for Centro, has been appointed chairman of the West Midlands Chief Engineers and Planning Officers Group (CEPOG)."
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Talk about Walsall's bus shelters with Centro
2005-02-14T00:00:00
2005-02-14T00:00:00
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"<p>There's a chance for people in Walsall to have their say on bus shelters at a public talk tomorrow night – Tuesday, 15 February - and find out more about them.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro will be explaining the importance of bus shelters and plans to make them even better for users at the Walsall Transport Users Advisory Committee, which meets at the Council House from 6pm. People will also have a chance at the meeting to quiz experts on all aspects of shelter-related issues, such as where they are located and how they can get involved in the process of how they are sited.</p> <p>Shelters are one of the most important parts of the public transport network and Centro is investing heavily in their development, as seen for example in the fully enclosed, high quality Bus Showcase and interchange shelters. Centro recently sold advertising rights to 5,000 shelters to Adshel, which now covers the upkeep of the shelters, and pays a set amount each year to fund improvements to the bus network – the first improvements have recently been introduced on a number of routes - and hand over a share of future profits. </p> <p>As well as bus shelters, people will be able to raise any public transport issues with experts and operators at tomorrow's meeting.</p> <p> </p>"
"There's a chance for people in Walsall to have their say on bus shelters at a public talk tomorrow night � Tuesday, 15 February - and find out more about them."
9369
0
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Bike and ride to promote healthy travel in Coventry
2005-02-11T00:00:00
2005-02-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People in Coventry are being encouraged to cycle to the city's railway station.</p> <p>A new cycle route across the ring road and bike lockers at the station are set to make the journey easier.</p> <p>The improvements are a joint project between regional public transport promoter Centro, Coventry City Council and Virgin Trains, which runs the station.  Councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, are expected to approve funding for the £150,000 scheme at a meeting on Tuesday (15 Feb).</p> <p>"Bike and ride is a very healthy and environmentally way to travel and something that should be encouraged," comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "Only a small proportion of passengers cycle to and from the station at the moment, but by improving facilities we can make it a more attractive option for the future."</p>"
People in Coventry are being encouraged to cycle to the city's railway station. A new cycle route across the ring road and bike lockers at the station are set to make the journey easier.
9369
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New plan shows Black Country Metro expansion
2005-02-10T00:00:00
2005-02-10T00:00:00
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"<p>This is the shape of the future Midland Metro network in Wolverhampton and the Black Country.  <em>(see plan for download and media use below)</em></p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has released a new map of the route from the city centre to Wednesbury via Wednesfield, Willenhall and Walsall.  The £300 million scheme backed by local councils aims to see trams running by 2013.</p> <p>There are 27 new tram stops proposed along the route, including an interchange with the new £3.2m bus station in Wednesbury town centre.</p> <p>Centro's Exhibition Bus will be on Camphill Lane, near the bus station, between 10am and 3pm next Thursday, 17<sup>th</sup> February for future passengers to view the plans.  People will also be able to discuss the new route with members of the Metro project team.</p> <p>The exhibition will also be at other venues along the proposed route in the coming month for people to have their say.</p> <p>A separate Midland Metro extension from the existing Line One at Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley town centre was approved by the Government just before Christmas.</p> <p><em>Click <strong>download</strong> button below for a plan (PDF version) of the route which is being handed out at the exhibition - or see further below for link to image library (JPEG) file.</em></p>"
"Public transport promoter Centro has released a new map of the route from the city centre to Wednesbury via Wednesfield, Willenhall and Walsall. The £300 million scheme backed by local councils aims to see trams running by 2013."
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WorkWise scheme sets a national example
2005-02-07T00:00:00
2005-02-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A Centro-backed scheme to help people return to work has been highlighted as an example of best practice in public transport.</p> <p >The scheme, called WorkWise, has helped nearly 1000 people to access new employment and nearly 1500 get to interviews since it was launched in Chelmsley Wood and Sparkhill in July 2003.</p> <p >WorkWise has been praised by the national Passenger Transport Executives Group (pteg) in its newly published good practice guide to transport and social inclusion.  Pteg represents public transport bodies in the major conurbations.</p> <p >The scheme which is funded by the region's public transport promoter Centro, Birmingham City Council and Solihull MBC, involves officers based in the two local Jobcentres working directly with clients to get them to interview, employment and training opportunities using public transport.  People are offered journey-planning advice, free day passes to attend interviews, and travel passes for up to two months once in employment.  WorkWise has shown success with more than 77% of users still in their jobs after three months and 94% continuing to buy public transport passes after their free period ended.</p> <p >One example of success is Murtaza Ghandi, who recently moved to Sparkhill with his family and, when looking for work, was advised to try the travel scheme.  It allowed him to get to an interview at a department store in Solihull with whom he eventually got a job, and the scheme has since enabled Murtaza to travel by bus to his current job, as an outreach worker for an ethnic minority support group.</p> <p >Murtaza said: "The WorkWise officer was so helpful. He'd know which bus to take, how to change, and where to get off.  The first time I used the bus I felt nervous but now I use them a lot."</p> <p>"The WorkWise project has been a proven success in breaking down the access to transport barrier that many unemployed people face in their quest to return to work," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "The project has been very popular and has made a significant difference to a large number of people's lives in these two areas.  I am delighted to see it recognised nationally and we are working hard to lobby Central Government to pursue options to allow for the scheme to be extended to other areas," he added.</p> <p> </p>"
A Centro-backed scheme to help people return to work has been highlighted as an example of best practice in public transport.
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Recognition for Buster's boost to workplace travel
2005-02-07T00:00:00
2005-02-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A bus service that helps people to and from work in some of Solihull and East Birmingham's key employment areas is being held up as a shining example of good travel nationally.</p> <p >Buster Werkenbak is a free service supported by public transport promoter Centro, which allows people to reach areas not normally well served by public transport.  Without the service, more people would be denied employment opportunities.</p> <p >It is shown as an example in the Passenger Transport Executives Group's (pteg) newly published Good Practice Guide for transport and social inclusion, which highlights the best examples of projects to help those without a car use public transport for a number of social opportunities.</p> <p >All users of Buster Werkenbak are members of a special travel club that helps them use the service for free.  This not only helps employers retain staff, especially for shift work, but also is popular with users, with between 600 and 700 people a month using Buster Werkenbak, 25% of whom were previously unemployed.</p> <p >"It is important that as many people as possible are able to access their workplace by public transport, especially if they work unsociable hours," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "I am delighted such a good scheme is being recognised nationally and I look forward to Buster Werkenbak expanding and thriving."</p> <p >The service is funded by the Government's Urban Bus Challenge following a successful application by Centro, and run by Merlin Venture.  Other funders are Advantage West Midlands, Solihull MBC and Birmingham International Airport.</p> <p> </p>"
A bus service that helps people to and from work in some of Solihull and East Birmingham's key employment areas is being held up as a shining example of good travel nationally.
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New look for Walsall bus-rail link
2005-02-07T00:00:00
2005-02-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An important link between Walsall Bus Station and the town centre's rail station and shops is to get a revamp with help from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p >Centro will contribute £58,000 to pay for Walsall Council to upgrade Butlers Passage with new paving, lighting, shelter from the elements and CCTV.  It says the works will improve the environment around the bus station and modernise an important route through Walsall between its two key public transport hubs.</p> <p >Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro, approved the move at their meeting today (Monday 7 February).</p> <p >"I am delighted we have managed to get an agreement on redeveloping Butlers Passage, a move that will benefit all Walsall's transport users," said PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. "Walsall has some first class bus and rail facilities and this contribution will help making use both, and the town centre itself, even better."</p> <p> </p>"
An important link between Walsall Bus Station and the town centre's rail station and shops is to get a revamp with help from public transport promoter Centro.
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Improvements agreed for busy Birmingham rail interchange
2005-02-07T00:00:00
2005-02-07T00:00:00
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"<p>Prosposals for a £10m upgrade at Birmingham's second busiest rail station have been given the go-ahead by members of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>Councillors voted for a new entrance to be built at the northern end of Snow Hill Station (at today's meeting).  They consider it will provide better access for that area of the city centre, boost regeneration and link with a future Midland Metro stop.</p> <p>"There are some very clear benefits to passengers in proceeding with this scheme.  It can make a difference to something like half a million journeys a year and will give a boost to integrated public transport," says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "Our colleagues on Birmingham's Cabinet have also emphasised the substantial regeneration benefits for this area of the city and I am keen to give them our backing."</p> <p>The Snow Hill Second Access was originally intended to provide a multi-modal interchange with a new coach station proposed for a neighbouring site on Great Charles Street.  It makes use of an existing railway arch to provide new access to the northern end of Snow Hill Station platforms – without this passengers from the Ludgate Hill area need to cross the A38 by a subway, climb the hill to Colmore Row then re-trace their steps via a bridge link back into the station.</p> <p>Although the coach station proposal has since been dropped by Birmingham City Council, Centro's report showed there is still a strong business case for the new rail station entrance.</p>"
Prosposals for a £10m upgrade at Birmingham's second busiest rail station have been given the go-ahead by members of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.
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Northern voice adds to call for New Street Station redevelopment
2005-02-06T00:00:00
2005-02-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Two North-West MPs are adding their support for a massive redevelopment of Birmingham's New Street Station.</p> <p>Carlisle Labour MP Eric Martlew and Conservative Sir Nicholas Winterton, who represents Macclesfield in Cheshire, say improving the West Midlands bottleneck should be a priority for the next phase of improvements to the West Coast Main Line.</p> <p>Their call comes as an all-party group of MPs prepares to launch a campaign strategy for the rail route at the House of Commons later today (<u>Tuesday 8 February</u>).</p> <p>MPs and members of the lobby group West Coast Rail 250 claim that now new tilting trains are running on the upgraded line, there is a desperate need to upgrade stations and end the weekend travel chaos which, they say, treats passengers with disdain.</p> <p>"The West Coast Main Line is the UK's most important rail line.  Regular investment is now required in the stations and it is essential that we never again allow this national asset to deteriorate as was the case in the 80s and 90s," comments Eric Martlew MP.</p> <p>Their strategy document also wants to see capacity improvements and longer platforms at local stations between Coventry and Birmingham.</p> <p>"Strategies for continued investment and high levels of maintenance of the route are essential for the long-term good of the national economy, not just for the regions," says Cumbria county councillor Bill Cameron, Chairman of West Coast Rail 250 introducing the strategy.</p> <p>The campaign to protect and boost investment in the West Coast line has been welcomed by Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority which represents passenger and business interests in the region.</p> <p>"We are already seeing dramatic conflicts between inter-city, local and freight services which have actually led to cuts rather than improvements," says Cllr Clarke.  "The West Midlands has the highest level of passenger growth in the country with expanding regional and commuter services competing for track space at the hub of the national network.  This new independent strategy to balance the competing demands and continue the investment deserves the highest support."</p> <p>Current improvements to the West Coast Main Line along with the regeneration effect of projects such as Birmingham's Bull Ring mean passenger figures in the rail corridor are expected to more than double by 2016.</p> <p>In the longer term, the MPs group and Wet Coast Rail 250 say the Government should support a new High Speed Rail Link between London, Birmingham and the North West with a connection to Birmingham International Airport.  The new line would be developed like the £5bn Channel Tunnel Link, with the possibility of tunnelling on some city centre approaches, and a decision on the proposal would be needed by 2006.</p>"
Two North-West MPs are adding their support for a massive redevelopment of Birmingham's New Street Station.
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Chance to see Metro plans for Wolverhampton
2005-02-03T00:00:00
2005-02-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The plans for the next phase of the Midland Metro's expansion in Wolverhampton are going on show this Saturday, 5<sup>th</sup> February.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro's Exhibition Bus will be in Queens Square between 9.30am and 3.30pm showing detailed plans of the proposed '5Ws' route which will link Wolverhampton, Wednesfield and Willenhall with Walsall and Wednesbury in a £300 million scheme that aims to see trams running by 2013.</p> <p>As well as maps and plans people will also have the opportunity to discuss the Metro extensions with Centro experts.</p> <p>The plans for Wolverhampton include a street running loop that will enable quick and easy movement around the city centre and ease congestion. This was approved by Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet in November 2004.</p> <p>Centro's Exhibition Bus will also be at other venues along the proposed route in the coming month for people to have their say.</p> <p><em>Click <strong>download</strong> button below for a plan of the route which is being handed out at the exhibition.</em></p>"
"The plans for the next phase of the Midland Metro's expansion in Wolverhampton are going on show this Saturday, 5th February."
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Accountants' determination pays off for council tax payers
2005-02-03T00:00:00
2005-02-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Council tax bills dropping onto West Midlands doormats will be a little smaller this year thanks to some persistent work by accountants at Centro, the region's public transport promoter.</p> <p>They have won a Government cash repayment of more than £3m, which will now be split between future development of the Midland Metro and keeping down council tax bills.</p> <p>The bonus payment dates from the privatisation of British Rail in 1994, when land and property then owned by Centro was transferred to the private sector company Railtrack.  Although Centro received financial compensation it was classed as taxable income – and the Government deducted tax from the payment.</p> <p>Centro challenged the ruling and now, 11 years later, its persistence has paid off.</p> <p>The finance team has been congratulated by Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.</p> <p>"This is a first class example of the diligent management of our finances that always aims to get the best deal for passengers," he says.  "Everyone in the West Midlands can now feel the benefit of this tax refund."</p> <p>The PTA is expected to agree a budget for the next financial year of £175m to be spent on the region's bus, rail and tram networks at its meeting on Monday (7 Feb).  A three-year spending plan has already been agreed with West Midlands council leaders to peg the public transport levy at the level of inflation.</p>"
"Council tax bills dropping onto West Midlands doormats will be a little smaller this year thanks to some persistent work by accountants at Centro, the region's public transport promoter."
9369
0
12
0
Councillors to agree £175m passenger benefits
2005-02-01T00:00:00
2005-02-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus, train and tram passengers in the West Midlands are set to benefit from an investment of £175 million in the region's transport networks this year.</p> <p>The annual budget for the Passenger Transport Authority is expected to be agreed at a meeting on Monday (7 February).  The spending has already been approved by bosses at the West Midlands' three city and four borough councils.</p> <p>Council leaders agreed a three-year plan with the PTA, which sets the policy for public transport promoter Centro.  It means the amount paid by the city and borough councils to fund the promotion and development of bus, rail and tram networks will increase by around the level of expected inflation at 2.5 per cent a year.</p> <p>Funding was previously agreed on a year-by-year basis and the new approach has been welcomed by PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"This three year approach to our budgeting will allow investment in the expansion of Midland Metro and other improvements to public transport across the West Midlands," he says.</p> <p>The total levy paid by the districts for 2005/6 will be £125 million.  The funding pays for concessionary travel schemes for the elderly, blind and disabled, and children, provides for special needs transport, subsidised bus services, and also pays to run bus stations and park and ride sites.   It also covers other transport investment in bus, rail and the Midland Metro.</p> <p>Council leaders and the PTA also agreed that half of any savings made this year will be set aside for funding future Metro development.  The rest of the savings, predominantly made because elderly people are making fewer trips with their concessionary travel passes, will be allocated to the seven districts to help keep down council tax in their areas.</p> <p><em><strong>Update on Monday 7 Feb</strong>: The PTA meeting agreed the budget and levy as set out above.</em></p>"
"Bus, train and tram passengers in the West Midlands are set to benefit from an investment of £175 million in the region's transport networks this year."
9369
0
12
0
Industrial action affecting Central Trains called off
2005-01-28T00:00:00
2005-01-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p>For all enquiries regarding this statement, media should contact the operator Central Trains....</p> <p><strong>Central Trains announce the ASLEF strikes are called off</strong></p> <p><a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_popups/news/news_detail.asp id=20050201115031-118"" target=""_blank"">(more information)</a></p> <p >Central Trains this afternoon announced successful talks on the dispute with train drivers union ASLEF. As a result ASLEF has called off the three 24 hours strikes planned for Saturdays 12<sup>th</sup>, 19<sup>th</sup> and 26<sup>th</sup> February.</p> <p >Deputy Managing Director Steve Banaghan said this would mean thousands of passengers will avoid the major disruption the strikes would have brought right across Central's services,</p> <p >""We are very pleased to be able to say that we have reached an understanding with ASLEF and that as a result they will suspend their plans to hold the three 24 hour strikes.</p> <p >""This means that thousands of passengers will have their weekend travel running as normal next month and won't be facing the prospect of huge disruption to their Saturdays.</p> <p >""Our only concern has always been the safety of the railways and of our passengers. We will be working with ASLEF to look at the cases of the two drivers.""</p> <p >Central Trains confirmed that the Special Timetables in operation on Monday-Fridays and Saturdays since 1<sup>st</sup> January will still continue until further notice. Further discussions are still to be held on the agreements for voluntary overtime by drivers which led to the introduction of the timetable at the start of the year.</p> <p >Information about Central Trains services, including the Special Timetables can be found by visiting <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/"">www.centraltrains.co.uk</a> or information can be obtained from National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50</p> <p><strong>Media enquiries - Central Trains: 0121 654 1278.</strong> <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_popups/news/news_detail.asp id=20050120094254-118"" target=""_blank""></a></p> <p><strong>Passengers</strong> should contact National Rail Enquiries, or <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/"">click here</a> for the Central Trains website.</p>"
Statement by Central Trains
9369
0
12
0
"MPs probe could mean more tram lines, sooner"
2005-01-27T00:00:00
2005-01-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans to expand the Midland Metro tram system across Birmingham and the Black Country could be given a timely boost by a powerful group of MPs.</p> <p>The <a href=""http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/transport_committee.cfm"" target=""_blank""><strong>Transport Select Committee</strong></a>, chaired by veteran MP Gwyneth Dunwoody, announced it would conduct an inquiry into the future of light rail and modern trams.  It said that despite the apparent success of recent systems, support for light rail expansion in Britain seems to be decreasing.</p> <p>The Department for Transport recently approved new tram lines for the West Midlands and Merseyside, but refused to fund fully extensions to the Manchester Metrolink it said.</p> <p>Last night Centro, the promoter of light rail development in the West Midlands, welcomed the Select Committee's intervention.</p> <p>"This inquiry, like the National Audit Office report last year, will highlight some very important truths that need to be aired if we are to get on and deliver an integrated transport system with the same speed and efficiency of other European countries," commented Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>"We need a framework that considers the options, gives value for money and leads to a good deal for passengers – but then at the end of the day allows us to build tram lines cheaper and quicker," he added.</p> <p>Centro was given the green light last month to press on with a £139m extension to the Midland Metro.  It has been working with the Department of Transport on a new funding mechanism aimed at avoiding the cost over-runs seen in Manchester and elsewhere – and claims to have reacted ahead of the National Audit Office report by aiming to reduce risk to contractors.  Centro has also looked at utility costs and planned routes to link up high volume passenger generators.</p> <p>"We certainly have nothing to fear from such a high level investigation into the future of modern trams," says West Midlands councillor Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority which sets policy for Centro.  "We will be presenting evidence to the inquiry and look forward to an outcome which will clear up some of the uncertainty hanging over light rail development.  It could even lead to Britain adopting some of the cheaper and faster construction methods used on mainland Europe.  That would be good news for passengers."</p>"
Plans to expand the Midland Metro tram system across Birmingham and the Black Country could be given a timely boost by a powerful group of MPs.
9369
0
12
0
Passengers win better bus services from shelter deal
2005-01-27T00:00:00
2005-01-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus services across the West Midlands are to benefit from a groundbreaking deal public transport promoter Centro has struck with a major advertising company.</p> <p>More than a dozen popular routes are to get enhanced services, mostly in the evenings and on Sundays, as a result of the deal that will pump more than £70m into local bus services over ten years.</p> <p>Centro sold the advertising rights to its 5,000 bus shelters across the West Midlands to Adshel, which will now cover the upkeep of the shelters, pay a set amount each year to fund improvements to the bus network and hand over a share of future profits.  The advertising giant will also donate any unsold poster space to Centro, offering opportunities for the marketing of public transport.</p> <p>As a result of the extra funding negotiated by Centro, a number of bus services will be improved from Sunday, 30 January.  These include rotues serving Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton and the Black Country, as well as the Taxibus service in rural pats of Solihull.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "People using both main and local bus routes across the West Midlands benefit hugely from this announcement.  The money for these better services comes from Centro making good use of its resources to get the best deal for passengers.  It is just the tip of the iceberg with more funding set aside for public transport improvements around the city in years to come."</p>"
Bus services across the West Midlands are to benefit from a groundbreaking deal public transport promoter Centro has struck with a major advertising company.
9369
0
12
0
Extension for Meriden's transport 'lifeline'
2005-01-25T00:00:00
2005-01-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A flexible public transport system for people living in the Meriden Gap is to be extended to seven day a week operation.</p> <p>The door-to-door <strong>Heart of England Taxibus</strong> has proved so popular that transport bosses have agreed to expand the operation to meet demand.  It will now run on Sundays from next month.</p> <p>New and larger vehicles were introduced last year when the re-vamped Taxibus was launched by local MP Caroline Spelman.  She described it as a lifeline for people who would otherwise be stranded in areas poorly served by public transport.</p> <p>The Taxibus service is funded by public transport promoter Centro, with Government support.  It is available to people in an area including Balsall Common, Hampton in Arden, Meriden, Knowle and Berkswell and will also take passengers from there to Solihull town centre, Coventry and Birmingham International.  Local residents use it for shopping and leisure trips, visiting friends and relatives, and to make connections with other bus and rail services for travel further afield. </p> <p>The blue and yellow minibus fleet has been running successfully in the Meriden Gap area for five years and now attracts more than 16,000 passengers a year.</p> <p>"Taxibus provides a much needed transport link for the West Midlands' more rural communities," says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of Centro's policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority.  "The latest expansion of the service is a mark of its success and the extent to which it is valued by local people."</p> <p>Fares to use Taxibus are similar to those on conventional bus routes but calculated on a mileage basis.  To use the service, people phone <strong>0121 783 6869</strong> to book a time and pick up point.  It will now operate seven days a week (8am to 7.30pm on Monday to Saturday and 9am to 4pm on Sunday) and accepts bus passes, Centrocard and Busmaster tickets. </p> <p>Taxibus is funded by Centro and the Department for Transport, and operated by West Midlands Special Needs Transport Ltd.</p>"
A flexible public transport system for people living in the Meriden Gap is to be extended to seven day a week operation.
9369
0
12
0
Midland Metro extension work brings tram travel closer
2005-01-24T00:00:00
2005-01-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The next phase of the Midland Metro's expansion through the Black Country is heading closer to reality with further design work taking place on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill route.</p> <p>Contractors working for public transport promoter Centro will be on site along the proposed route for the next eight weeks to investigate land on which the tram tracks will run and to provide ground and structural engineering information.</p> <p >This up front work will help the procurement process by negating high risk construction areas of the project and will help bidders to provide better informed prices during the future tendering process.  The local authorities and Network Rail have given their consent for the work, which will cause very little or no disruption to the area.</p> <p >Centro is confident of submitting a positive business case this summer to secure the necessary finance from Government and of attracting local funding.  The Metro extension could create around 750 jobs.</p> <p >Tom Magrath, Centro Projects Director, said: "These important works will help strengthen the case for the Midland Metro between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill and ensure that design, construction and operation is as well prepared for as possible.  We know the Metro will bring many benefits to the area and we want to get all aspects of it right."</p> <p >The 11km Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension will have 13 easy-access stops with four Park and Ride sites serving shopping and business areas in Great Bridge, Dudley Port (connecting with local train services), Dudley town centre, the Waterfront and Merry Hill before terminating near High Street, Brierley Hill.  Modern trams would cover the distance in 23 minutes, travelling on street through parts of Dudley and following the route of a mothballed railway line for much of the remaining journey.</p> <p >The Government approved the route just before Christmas, following a public inquiry earlier in 2004.</p>"
The next phase of the Midland Metro's expansion through the Black Country is heading closer to reality with further design work taking place on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill route.
9369
0
12
0
Mega-quiz for Birmingham travellers
2005-01-20T00:00:00
2005-01-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Thousands of Birmingham bus and train passengers are to be quizzed about their journeys in one of the biggest surveys for more than ten years.</p> <p>Surveyors appointed by public transport promoter Centro will aim to speak to more than 30 thousand passengers at key railway stations and 250 city centre bus stops during February and March.  At set times there will also be complete counts of everyone getting on and off buses and trains.</p> <p>The data will then be fed into a new computer model to help plan the city's public transport networks of the future.</p> <p>"We need to be able to forecast the patterns of demand for public transport as accurately as possible so that future plans can give top priority to the real needs of passengers," comments Centro projects director Tom Magrath.</p> <p>Last year, a count of passenger numbers and road traffic showed there were more Birmingham commuters on trains, buses and trams than travelling in their cars for the first time.</p> <p>The £140,000 survey has been carefully planned to make sure there is no disruption to services.  Passengers will be asked a few quick questions about their journey while waiting at the bus stop.  In busy periods and at railway stations, Centro will also be trying mail-back questionnaires for people to fill in later and send to a freepost address.  The forms are expected to boost the sample size and help collect data from particular groups during the rush hour.</p>"
Thousands of Birmingham bus and train passengers are to be quizzed about their journeys in one of the biggest surveys for more than ten years.
9369
0
12
0
New Street Station design phase gets go ahead
2005-01-20T00:00:00
2005-01-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Plans to improve Birmingham New Street station are a step closer today following the signing of a formal funding agreement to progress a £3.9m feasibility study into redeveloping the station.  </p> <p>The agreement, signed by Birmingham City Council and the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA), will enable Network Rail to undertake a detailed study into design work and the commercial evaluation that is needed to progress a £350m scheme to completely transform Birmingham New Street station by 2011.</p> <p>Councillor Michael Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council and Chairman of the New Street Steering Group, said:</p> <p>"New Street Station is totally inadequate for both Birmingham and the West Midlands.  I am optimistic that with our agreement now in place we can move forward with the design and implementation work to achieve a truly memorable gateway station for the city.</p> <p>"This collaborative approach reflects the importance that all stakeholders place on the transformation of New Street Station – it is the number one priority for the City Council"</p> <p>The funding package for the feasibility study, to be completed by Autumn 2005, has been assembled from a variety of sources including the European Union, the SRA and £100,000 from Centro, the West Midlands public transport promoter.</p> <p>Robbie Burns, Route Director for Network Rail, said:</p> <p>"We are delighted to have been given the go-ahead for the feasibility study.  A unified approach from all members of the Steering Group has been fundamental in enabling us to progress to this stage.  We have a long way to go but I am confident that with the continued level of support and determination, Birmingham will finally get the station it truly deserves."</p> <p>Following the completion of the design study it is anticipated that the development scheme will start in 2006.  A parallel bid for implementation funding of £100m has been made to the Government by Centro and West Midlands districts as part of their Local Transport Plan and Advantage West Midlands has agreed in principle to match this contribution.  Further work is progressing to ensure appropriate commercial and rail industry contributions are also made.</p> <p><strong>Rob Donald, Director General of Centro</strong> said:</p> <p>"Rail patronage in the West Midlands is growing faster than anywhere in the UK, so it is essential we have the capacity to keep up with passenger demand.  The majority of Birmingham commuters now travel by public transport – one fifth of them by train – so they, and the many thousands of national and international visitors, really do deserve a decent gateway to the city."</p> <p>David O'Reilly, Director of Projects & Transactions for the Strategic Rail Authority, concluded:</p> <p>""The agreement reached with the City Council is an important opportunity to maintain the momentum of economic regeneration in Birmingham and attract additional investment in the railway network, through a transformation of Birmingham New Street Station.  It also reflects the tremendous commitment made by a number of parties, working together to deliver for the tens of thousands of passengers who rely on the station every day.</p> <p>"We look forward to seeing Network Rail playing an increasingly strong focal role in: working with local, regional and central government bodies; coordinating private sector involvement; and ensuring that the outputs from the design study provide the basis of a powerful case for obtaining the necessary government funding support to redevelop successfully.""</p>"
Network Rail news release: Plans to improve Birmingham New Street station are a step closer today following the signing of a formal funding agreement to progress a £3.9m feasibility study into redeveloping the station.
9369
0
12
0
Passenger Transport Authority to decide on new station access for Birmingham Snow Hill
2005-01-17T00:00:00
2005-01-17T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A decision on the future of a proposed second access to be built at Birmingham's Snow Hill station will now be taken by the February meeting of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The plan to build a new entrance from the northern 'Jewellery Quarter' end of the station received the full backing of Birmingham City Council's Cabinet at its meeting earlier today.  The city council agreed to provide additional funds, which will allow the PTA to approve the scheme if it wishes next month.</p> <p>"There are some very clear benefits to passengers if we go ahead with this scheme.  It can make a difference to something like half a million journeys a year and give a boost to integrated public transport," says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "Our colleagues on Birmingham's Cabinet have also emphasised the substantial regeneration benefits for this area of the city and I am keen to give them our backing."</p> <p>D-day for the project was to have been 18 January, when a meeting of the PTA Urgency Sub-Committee was to have considered approval for the £9.5m scheme.  A quick decision was needed in order to meet Network Rail's timetable for a temporary closure of the rail line during August Bank Holiday.  However, delays in agreeing the detail of the engineering works mean that window has now been missed and the contract approval can no longer be classed as 'urgent business'.</p> <p>"Because there is a large amount of money involved, it is only right that we give the matter full consideration through the democratic process before we go ahead," comments Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>He said Centro officers have prepared a very thorough analysis of the pros and cons of the scheme, which he hoped would inform a full debate at the next PTA meeting.</p> <p>The Snow Hill Second Access was originally intended to provide a multi-modal interchange with a new coach station proposed for a neighbouring site on Great Charles Street.  It makes use of an existing railway arch to provide new access to the northern end of Snow Hill Station platforms – without this passengers from the Ludgate Hill area need to cross the A38 by a subway, climb the hill to Colmore Row then re-trace their steps via a bridge link back into the station.</p> <p>Although the coach station proposal has since been dropped by Birmingham City Council, Centro's report showed there is still a strong business case for the new rail station entrance.  It pointed out, however, that costs have risen by £2m and this throws into doubt whether the scheme still represents value for money in transportation terms.</p> <p>However Centro's report also said that regeneration benefits, yet to be quantified, and a positive impact on Midland Metro expansion proposals give good reasons for proceeding.</p>"
A decision on the future of a proposed second access to be built at Birmingham's Snow Hill station will now be taken by the February meeting of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.
9369
0
12
0
Bus solution clears way for Birmingham trams
2005-01-11T00:00:00
2005-01-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A Birmingham City Council decision on the future of the problematic Moor Street bus mall has now cleared the way for an expansion of the Midland Metro to be given the green light.</p> <p>Although a public inquiry into the Snow Hill to Five Ways line closed in January 2004, an outstanding objection from bus company Travel West Midlands regarding the re-routing of buses to make way for trams was holding up a decision.</p> <p>"We can formally inform the Passenger Transport Authority and the Department for Transport that we have a solution to the bus mall," strategic director of development David Pywell told the city's Cabinet meeting.  He explained that the Government would now be in a position to rule on the outcome of last year's public inquiry into the extension of the Midland Metro tram network through the streets of Birmingham city centre.</p> <p>Bus services displaced by the Metro line had been intended to be reallocated to the new bus-only road, but this was partially-closed in late 2003 because of its poor safety record.  Birmingham City Council has now agreed an alternative road layout with the bus company and Centro, which replaces confusing pedestrian crossings and can restore two-way working to the bus mall.</p> <p>"We can now look forward to the day when there is an approved scheme for street running Metro in Birmingham city centre that integrates well with bus and rail services," says Passenger Transport Authority chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "The city desperately needs a modern public transport system and we should grasp the nettle and get on with it."</p> <p>Although the outcome of a feasibility study into an underground alternative to the Midland Metro is still a few months away, Cllr Clarke thanked his Birmingham colleagues for finally resolving the bus mall issue.</p> <p>"It means that when the feasibility study makes its report there should be no remaining question marks over what we believe will be the more viable option," he adds.</p> <p>Centro, the public body spearheading the Midland Metro proposals says it has resolved all the other outstanding issues raised during the public inquiry process and is awaiting the Secretary of State's approval for the scheme.</p> <p>A parallel expansion of the Midland Metro, which also went to public inquiry during 2004, received Government approval just before Christmas.  That will provide an 11km extension from line one at Wednesbury to Dudley town centre, Merry Hill and Brierley Hill.</p>"
A Birmingham City Council decision on the future of the problematic Moor Street bus mall has now cleared the way for an expansion of the Midland Metro to be given the green light.
9369
0
12
0
Park and Ride gets government safety praise � and Hall Green gets bigger
2005-01-10T00:00:00
2005-01-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Four Centro Park and Ride sites have become among the first in the country to receive an important seal of approval from the Government – as work begins on a bigger and even better rail Park and Ride for Hall Green.</p> <p >The public transport promoter's car parks at Smethwick Galton Bridge, Langley Green, Dudley Port and Old Hill are the first in the West Midlands to be awarded the 'Park Mark' by the Home Office in recognition of their modern facilities and high standards of safety and security.</p> <p >Figures show that in the 12 months to the end of 2003 crime at Dudley Port fell by 81%, Langley Green by 50% and Old Hill by 12%. More of Centro's Park and Ride sites have been put forward for 'Park Mark' status and the outcome is expected to be known in the near future.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "I am very proud that these are the first car parks to receive this honour from the Government. Our many Park and Ride sites are among the safest anywhere and we are committed to making them even better. Also the extra spaces at Hall Green will go some way towards meeting demand at this popular station, which exceeds availability."</p> <p >Safety and security is part of the success story of Centro's rail Park and Ride schemes. Over 5,000 free car park spaces already provided at rail stations throughout the region by Centro, which contribute to over two million car journeys a year being taken off West Midlands roads.</p> <p >Next week sees work begin at Hall Green station on adding a further 54 spaces to the current 56 to make for a 110-space car park, on the Birmingham Snow Hill to Shirley and Stratford line. There will also be disabled spaces, CCTV, public address, fencing and a new footway from the car park to the station. The total cost will be £360,000. Completion is expected in the Spring.</p> <p> </p>"
Four Centro Park and Ride sites have become among the first in the country to receive an important seal of approval from the Government � as work begins on a bigger and even better rail Park and Ride for Hall Green.
9369
0
12
0
Transport Authority welcomes brighter future for Pool Meadow
2005-01-08T00:00:00
2005-01-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Moves to secure the future of Coventry's Pool Meadow bus station have been welcomed by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The PTA, which sets policy for the bus station's operator Centro, is now expected to confirm its support to keeping Pool Meadow open when it meets on Monday 17 January.</p> <p>In a report to the policy committee, Centro services director Robert Smith says changes to the road system now being proposed by the city council could improve access and allow more buses to use the facility.  Keeping Pool Meadow open can then become a viable option, the report says.</p> <p>The public transport promoter Centro has been in talks with Coventry bus companies to identify how many services can be re-routed to make Pool Meadow the main interchange for the city centre.  The idea is that most services would either use it as a terminus or as a calling point for cross-city routes.</p> <p>Welcoming the progress that has now been made, PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke says his authority and Centro always place the needs of passengers top of the agenda.</p> <p>"What is most important for us is that people are provided with the public transport services they need to get to and from their destination as quickly and reliably as possible and that their journey and the waiting environments are as comfortable as they can be," he says.</p> <p>Bus companies pay a flat fee for each departure from the bus station which was built in 1994 at a cost of £5m.  Because so few buses have been using it in recent years Pool Meadow has required an additional subsidy from public money of around £75,000 per year.  Now Centro believes much less subsidy will be required if the revised road layout and an agreement with operators mean it can attract around 100 buses an hour.</p> <p>That would open the way for the Passenger Transport Authority to confirm detailed plans later in the year.</p> <p>Centro, Coventry City Council and bus companies are also to carry out a review of bus passenger interchanges across the city centre.  They are expected to come up with suggestions for replacing the shelters that were previously being designated as 'bus hubs'.</p>"
Moves to secure the future of Coventry's Pool Meadow bus station have been welcomed by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority.
9369
0
12
0
Councillors welcome extra police resources for bus network
2005-01-04T00:00:00
2005-01-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses have welcomed the deployment of extra police resources to give a greater uniformed presence on the region's bus network.</p> <p >West Midlands Police today announced that a further twelve Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) would double the strength of a new unit being set up in partnership with Centro.  The public transport promoter had already identified £300,000 for the '<strong>Safer Travel Police Support Unit'</strong> raised from selling advertising on bus shelters.</p> <p >"It is clear that even if actual crime levels are low, public concerns about anti-social behaviour does put some people off using the buses and we need to get this sorted if we are to make public transport a more attractive option and help cut congestion in the West Midlands," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >"Community Support Officers have been able to improve the perception of safety in many other areas and are clearly valued by local people.  Today's announcement of further deployment on the bus network is a welcome move," he adds.</p> <p >The PCSOs announced today, together with those funded by the PTA/Centro, will work with Police Officers to take the total strength of the new unit to around 30.</p> <p >As well as establishing a uniformed presence on the buses, officers in the new unit will work with Centro and bus companies to develop crime-reduction measures.  These could include the location and design of shelters and methods to secure and preserve evidence.</p> <p >"The visibility of the new squad will help reassure the travelling public and the small minority of trouble-makers on the buses will get the message that we mean business," adds PTA Vice-Chair Cllr Paul Allen.</p> <p> </p>"
Transport bosses have welcomed the deployment of extra police resources to give a greater uniformed presence on the region's bus network.
9369
0
12
0
Review of the Year 2004
2004-12-31T00:00:00
2004-12-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p>�</p> <p>It has been quite a year for public transport, with the West Midlands at the heart of the national debate on several occasions and some positive achievements for passengers and regional businesses.� Mid year, we saw a change in the political landscape with new people in charge at the PTA and local councils after the elections.</p> <p><strong>January</strong></p> <p>The year started as it has ended with the Midland Metro making headlines.</p> <p>Public consultation on a major expansion of the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17534.aspx"">network</a>�across Birmingham and the Black Country was winding to a close as we packed away the Christmas decorations.� The £875m plan being discussed was for five new lines and (more of this later) would include a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17632.aspx"">feasibility study</a> into a tunnels option for Birmingham city centre.�</p> <p>The public inquiry into a street running extension to Metro Line One through Birmingham city centre � part of an earlier expansion package � <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17537.aspx"">came to a close</a> at Birmingham Hippodrome (Oh yes it did!)��The one outstanding objection from bus company Travel West Midlands hinged on Birmingham City Council <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17536.aspx"">agreeing a revision</a> to the bus mall which would allow buses to be relocated from Corporation Street.� The bus mall at Moor Street, which opened before Christmas, had been partially closed because of its safety record.�</p> <p>The reliability of the national rail network was scarcely out of the news during 2004.� In January the Government announced a complete <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17538.aspx"">review</a> of the industry to make it more efficient.�</p> <p><strong>February</strong></p> <p>Another <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17542.aspx"">debate</a> over the future of public transport picked up with Centro and its partners in PTEG (representing public transport in the major conurbations) lobbying for a greater role in coordinating bus services through quality contracts.� PTEG said it valued competition between bus companies to provide an incentive for better services � but that passengers would be better-served by competition in the boardroom rather than buses of many colours vying for passengers on the street.�</p> <p>The <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17540.aspx"">TravelWise</a> campaign, supported by Centro, won a top prize at a motor industry award ceremony.�</p> <p><strong>March</strong></p> <p>As the PTA budget was settled for another year, a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17545.aspx"">£35m package</a> of public transport improvements was announced by Centro.�</p> <p>The Midland Metro was back in the news with the opening of the year's second public inquiry and <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17553.aspx"">approval</a> for the phase two expansion.�The inquiry, at the Merry Hill Copthorne, heard evidence for and against an extension from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley.� The <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17547.aspx"">expansion</a> of the network beyond that was approved by the Passenger Transport Authority, Birmingham City Council and other district councils.�One line (serving Harborne and the University of Birmingham, then on to Bartley Green) was dropped and the rest divided into phases 2a and 2b.� The ambitious plans were to make use of £1bn of extra funding offered by Transport Secretary Alistair Darling.</p> <p><strong>April</strong></p> <p>Bus services were much in the news during April.� Centro's refurbished Bearwood bus station was opened to passengers and the public transport promoter also <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17572.aspx"">sealed a deal</a> with advertising giant Adshel to pump millions into improvements for passengers across the network.�The shelter contract was hailed as the biggest of its kind and could be worth up to £70m over ten years.</p> <p>Meanwhile a Centro survey confirmed what passengers often thought about bus services: you wait for ages then three come at once � except in this case up to six came at once.� Frustrated by the lack of information published by bus operators, Centro carried out its own <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17557.aspx"">survey</a> into commercial bus reliability and it wasn't always happy reading.�</p> <p><strong>May</strong></p> <p>Good news for the regions rail passengers came in May.� To ease the problem of overcrowded trains at peak times, Centro announced a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17562.aspx"">£2m investment</a> to provide the train operator with ten new carriages � an equivalent of more than 1000 seats to make the train option more attractive to commuters.�</p> <p><strong>June</strong></p> <p>A new park and ride facility was opened at <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17585.aspx"">Smethwick Galton Bridge</a>, just as a national conference revealed the West Midlands to be the top region for park and ride.� Centro's <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17566.aspx"">free parking</a> provision was now taking more than two million journeys a year off the region's congested roads.�</p> <p>With the prospect of major roadworks looming on the M6 and Aston Expressway, Centro launched a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17565.aspx"">'beginners guide to public transport'</a> for motorists who might find it difficult to make the switch.� The web-based guide offered advice on everything from how to find your bus stop or train station, pay for a ticket and came complete with an interactive journey planner.�</p> <p>Local elections in June heralded some major changes in the region's political landscape.� Conservatives took control in Coventry.� Labour lost the Leadership of Birmingham City Council as Conservatives and Liberal Democrats joined forces.� And the balance of power changed on the Passenger Transport Authority too.�</p> <p><strong>July</strong></p> <p>Following the PTA annual meeting a new <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17579.aspx"">coalition</a> took the helm of public transport in the West Midlands.� Conservative chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and Labour vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen vowed that public transport would not be a political football and would put passenger interests top of the agenda.�</p> <p>They were immediately greeted with some welcome news as <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17576.aspx"">surveys</a> revealed for the first time that the number of people using the bus, train and tram in the Birmingham rush hour had overtaken the number of commuters in their cars for the first time.�</p> <p>Car commuters on the north side of Birmingham faced a particular challenge as major roadworks got underway on the Aston Expressway and M6.� A <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17568.aspx"">park and ride</a> scheme�to provide some relief proved to be a slow starter as motorists found new routes around the jams.� Within a week the Highway Authority suspended bus lanes in the area.</p> <p>The Tyburn Road bus lane was to remain suspended even after the roadworks while the new leaders of Birmingham City Council looked at alternatives.� A partnership to upgrade bus services in this corridor stalled as a result.� Centro and bus company Travel West Midlands had both signed the Statutory Bus Quality Partnership � a legal agreement to provide passengers with better buses and service quality, with roadside infrastructure and bus priority measures.</p> <p>Transport issues made much of the national news during July as the Government published its <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17574.aspx"">Rail Review</a>�and the Transport <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17577.aspx"">White Paper</a>.� Both were broadly welcomed by Centro � but with a warning that the devil is often in the detail (more of that later!)</p> <p><strong>August</strong></p> <p>The new PTA leadership got stuck in straight away when it became clear that heralded new rail timetables following the £7bn West Coast Main Line Upgrade were more likely to lead to a worse service for local passengers.� Hardest hit would be the line between Birmingham New Street and Coventry serving the Airport and NEC.� Cllrs Clarke and Allen called the rail industry in for a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17584.aspx"">summit</a> meeting to try and find a solution.</p> <p><strong>September</strong></p> <p>The new rail timetable came into force and fears of overcrowded trains and platforms proved to be <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17617.aspx"">well-founded</a>.�</p> <p>A new bus interchange was opened at <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17594.aspx"">Brandhall</a> in the Black Country, while various initiatives for <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17604.aspx"">TravelWise Week</a> promoted the advantages of public transport.�</p> <p>Centro's integrated ticketing strategy took a great step forward with the launch, after finally reaching agreement with bus operators, of a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17608.aspx"">One Day Busmaster ticket</a>.� This can be bought from the bus driver and gives all day travel on almost any colour bus right across the West Midlands for just £3.�</p> <p><strong>October</strong></p> <p>Centro News Online launched to provide a virtual press office and keep the media up to date with Centro and the PTA.� Early stories covered a <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17619.aspx"">new police unit</a> for safer travel on public transport�and keeping track on the debate about the future of the Midland Metro in Birmingham � it said <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17621.aspx"">street trams</a> were still on the agenda.�</p> <p>The expanded <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17620.aspx"">Taxibus</a> service for the Meridan Gap was launched�and work started on doubling the size of park and ride at <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17622.aspx"">Stourbridge Junction</a>.�</p> <p>A second <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17630.aspx"">survey</a> of the reliability of commercial bus services in the West Midlands showed nothing much had changed.�Some blamed the lack of bus priority measures, while a doubt still hung over the future of the Tyburn Road bus lane in Birmingham.</p> <p>One of Centro's congestion-busting schemes claimed to have passed a significant milestone.� There were now enough people signed up to the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17628.aspx"">Corporate Travel Scheme</a> to relieve the West Midlands of two million car journeys a year.</p> <p><strong>November</strong></p> <p>Cllrs Clarke and Allen celebrated <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17634.aspx"">100 days of the 'new' Passenger Transport Authority</a> with a list of achievements and good news for passengers.�Councillors were also able to scrutinise plans for redeveloping <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17635.aspx"">New Street Station</a>.� Centro is part of the steering group with Birmingham City Council and the railway industry.�</p> <p>Despite Government pronouncements about giving the regions a bigger say in public transport, concerns were growing that the actual content of the Railways Bill (announced in the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17645.aspx"">Queen's Speech</a>) would take away powers from bodies like Centro.� PTEG lobbying stepped up a gear to try and get the powers restored at committee stage.</p> <p><strong>December</strong></p> <p>Good news for bus passengers in <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17655.aspx"">Wednesbury</a> � with the opening of the new bus station�� and good news all round with the Government announcing funding for Local Transport Plan schemes.� The West Midlands got the biggest slice of the cake for major schemes with <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17650.aspx"">£28m</a> for Red Routes and Coventry's PrimeLines bus network part of the package.� While other schemes were left waiting the small print indicated a possible decision in early 2005.�</p> <p>And finally, back to the <a href=""../PressReleases/PressRelease17659.aspx"">Midland Metro</a>: ""a wonderful Christmas present for the people of the Black Country"" � the Government gave Transport and Works Act approval for the extension form Wednesbury, via Dudley to Merry Hill and Brierley Hill.�</p>"
"It has been quite a year for public transport, with the West Midlands at the heart of the national debate on several occasions and some positive achievements for passengers and regional businesses. Mid year, we saw a change in the political landscape with new people in charge at the PTA and local councils after the elections."
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Central Trains services to be affected by New Year industrial action
2004-12-30T00:00:00
2004-12-30T00:00:00
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"<p>Central Trains today announced the introduction of a special timetable for its services in the Midlands from 1st January 2005, as a result of industrial action being taken by members of ASLEF.</p> <p>While we are always happy to give comment on any public transport issue, media enquiries regarding the specifics of service alterations and the reasons for them should be addressed to the operator, Central Trains.</p> <p><strong><em>More info:</em></strong></p> <p><a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_popups/news/news_detail.asp id=20041224115511-118"" target=""_blank""><strong>Central Trains news release and press office contacts</strong></a></p> <p>More details of the service alterations can be found on the customer information pages of the <a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/direct_servicealterations.asp"" target=""_self"">Central Trains website</a></p> <p> </p>"
"Central Trains has announced the introduction of a special timetable for its services in the Midlands from 1st January 2005, as a result of industrial action being taken by members of ASLEF."
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Extra time for Hawthorns trams on Boxing Day
2004-12-21T00:00:00
2004-12-21T00:00:00
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"<p>West Bromwich Albion fans will be able to get home by tram after the Boxing Day clash with Liverpool, public transport promoter Centro has announced.</p> <p>The Midland Metro, which links the Hawthorns with Wolverhampton and Birmingham, would normally finish running on Boxing Day at 6pm – but this has been extended to 9pm because of the evening kick off.</p> <p>"This is great news for fans and I would like to thank the Metro operators for agreeing to our request," says Cllr Roger Horton, a member of the Passenger Transport Authority and himself a Baggies fan.</p> <p>The club will also be laying on special buses to get people home after the match.</p> <p>"This just shows what can happen when organisations like Centro, WBA, Travel Midland Metro and Sandwell Council work together for the benefit of the travelling public," adds Cllr Horton.</p> <p>Elsewhere in the West Midlands, public transport promoter Centro will be subsidising Boxing Day bus services so that there is a substantial network operating across the Black Country until 6pm.  Bus services will be running every day throughout the holidays apart from Christmas Day.  Trains take a two-day break for Christmas Day and Boxing Day.</p> <p>Passenger information is available from the Centro Hotline 0121 200 2700.</p> <p><strong><em>Link:</em></strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Home/0,,10366,00.html"" target=""_blank"">West Bromwich Albion FC</a></p>"
"West Bromwich Albion fans will be able to get home by tram after the Boxing Day clash with Liverpool, public transport promoter Centro has announced."
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Metro expansion go-ahead �a wonderful Christmas present for the Black Country�
2004-12-20T00:00:00
2004-12-20T00:00:00
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"<p >Christmas has come early for the people of the Black Country according to transport bosses.</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro and councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority have responded with joy at today's Government approval for a major extension of the Midland Metro tram system.</p> <p >Transport Minister David Jamieson made the announcement earlier this morning. He said the Government would grant Centro the powers to extend the light rapid transit system from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Dudley.</p> <p >The decision follows a public inquiry into the 139m scheme earlier this year.</p> <p >""The inquiry Inspector concluded that this extension of the Midland Metro would bring transport, regeneration and socio-economic benefits to the area. We agree with him,"" commented the Transport Minister today. ""The scheme would improve accessibility to and within the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill transport corridor. It would run through some deprived areas and serve some new development sites. It would also provide an attractive alternative to the use of the car,"" he said.</p> <p >Centro is confident of now submitting a positive business case to secure the necessary Government finance and attracting local funding. It claims the Metro extension could createmore than750 jobs and lead to an increase in local property values.</p> <p >""Extending the Midland Metro between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill is a crucial step in providing the high quality public transport worthy of a major region,"" comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. ""This is a wonderful Christmas present for the people of the Black Country.""</p> <p >He said the successful outcome to the public inquiry was a great tribute to the partnership working between Centro and Dudley and Sandwell councils.</p> <p >The 11km Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro route will have 13 easy-access stops with four Park and Ride sites serving shopping and business areas in Great Bridge, Dudley Port (connecting with local train services), Dudley town centre, the Waterfront and Merry Hill before terminating near High Street, Brierley Hill. Modern trams would cover the distance in 23 minutes, travelling on-street through parts of Dudley and following the route of a mothballed railway line for much of the remaining journey.</p> <p>""Modern trams have proved immensely popular elsewhere because they get people close to their destination in comfort,"" says Centro director general Rob Donald. ""The vehicles are reliable, emission-free and fully accessible. Once this system is running in a few years time, moving around the Black Country will be so much easier for everyone,"" he adds.</p> <p><strong><em>Supporting media information</em></strong></p> <p>Click <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/pns/DisplayPN.cgi pn_id=2004_0162"" target=""_blank"">here</a> to see DfT news release.<br /> More links, images and map below.</p>"
Public transport promoter Centro and councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority have responded with joy at today's Government approval for a major extension of the Midland Metro tram system. Transport Minister David Jamieson made the announcement earlier this morning.
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Upfront investment to secure Midland Metro future
2004-12-20T00:00:00
2004-12-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Proposals to extend the Midland Metro tram system are looking more secure, despite the Government turning down light rail schemes elsewhere in the country.</p> <p >A new approach to the way plans are drawn up is being put forward and is set to get the go-ahead from councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority this week.</p> <p >Centro, the public body which promotes and develops the Metro, aims to remove some of the risk elements which previously have led to spiralling costs in Manchester and Leeds.</p> <p >In the West Midlands, councillors are being asked to approve the bringing forward of more design work for Metro extensions between Wednesbury, Dudley and Brierley Hill and into Birmingham city centre.  Under the revised process this work will be carried out by Centro, rather than by the eventual builder of the system.  The budget for design and preparation work will increase from £3.5m to £6m to accommodate the changes.</p> <p >"This change represents an important investment in the future of public transport in the West Midlands," comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "By re-scheduling the way funding is allocated we can improve the prospects of keeping the overall scheme on target."</p> <p >It is thought much of the extra expenditure on design work could possibly be recovered by removing the need for the private sector to finance risk elements later on.</p> <p >Discussions with both the Department for Transport and potential sources of private finance have confirmed that the new Centro approach is on the right track, councillors are told.</p> <p >When he turned down funding for Manchester, Leeds and South Hampshire, Secretary of State Alistair Darling said no Government could approve schemes with such significant cost escalations.  "We need instead to look urgently at how light rail can be made more affordable, including the best approach for procurement," he said.</p> <p >Alistair Darling referred in his speech to a report by the National Audit Office.  This report had been welcomed by Centro, as it confirmed the approach already being taken to expand light rail in the West Midlands.</p> <p>Three separate bids will be sought for building and maintaining the expanded Midland Metro; supply and maintenance of the trams; and operating the system.</p>"
"Proposals to extend the Midland Metro tram system are looking more secure, despite the Government turning down light rail schemes elsewhere in the country."
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Pieces almost in place at new look Wolverhampton Bus Station
2004-12-16T00:00:00
2004-12-16T00:00:00
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"<p>Wolverhampton Bus Station users are to get even better facilities thanks to a £1.5 million investment by public transport promoter Centro, marking the final phase of its recent refurbishment.</p> <p>Work has already started on improvements to the bus station's historic grade two listed Queens Building and surrounding area, which will include a new enclosed and expanded area for coach passengers, with improved waiting and seating, plus a new travel shop, toilets and retail outlet. Wolverhampton councilor Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the WMPTA, will take up his tools to mark this event.</p> <p>The new facilities will include expanded CCTV linked to a control centre, and a new bus station manager's office with security monitoring facilities.</p> <p>The bus station, on Piper's Row, opened in 1986. With 183 bus departures an hour it is one of Centro's busiest facilities. Centro has been refurbishing the bus station over the last four years with improved stands, carriageways, crossings, passenger information, lighting, seating and safety and security all installed.</p> <p>Eventually the bus station is to be part of a new public transport interchange facility proposed for Wolverhampton, also taking in the nearby main line rail station and Midland Metro terminus.</p> <p>Cllr Allen said: "I am delighted to help get work underway on what is the final piece of the jigsaw as far as the modernisation of Wolverhampton Bus Station is concerned. Passengers can look forward to a better and safer waiting environment, with first class information provided as well. I look forward to its completion."</p> <p>The work is scheduled to be completed by July 2005. Chase Norton are the contractors and Halcrow are the design consultants.</p> <p> </p>"
"Wolverhampton Bus Station users are to get even better facilities thanks to a £1.5 million investment by public transport promoter Centro, marking the final phase of its recent refurbishment."
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Cinderella fear for Midlands rail services
2004-12-16T00:00:00
2004-12-16T00:00:00
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"<p >Many of the rail service in the Midlands are still lagging behind the rest of the country, according to performance figures released today.</p> <p >While the national picture, published by the<a href=""http://www.sra.gov.uk/news/2004/12/nrt"" target=""_blank"">Strategic Rail Authority</a>, claims to show the ""best performance for four years"" this improvement is concentrated on long-distance services and, to a lesser extent, London and the South East.</p> <p >More than a quarter of Central Trains services still do not run on time.</p> <p >Centro, the body that promotes public transport and represents local interests in the West Midlands, has raised fears of a continuing bias against local services.</p> <p >It points out that there are 27 million journeys a year on rail services within the Centro area and that one in five Birmingham rush-hour commuters use the train. Across the country, twice as many people use regional rail services as travel inter-city.</p> <p >""Today's figures do little to address our concern that long distance and south-east services continue to get priority, while regional services such as those in our area may be being treated as the Cinderella of the national rail network,"" comments Centro rail boss Peter Sargant.</p> <p >He says that while there are obvious concerns that Central Trains is still by far the worst performer, the public transport body does appreciate the difficulties the company faces with the severe capacity problems in the West Midlands.</p> <p >""Centro is equally concerned that more recent performance trends in the West Midlands will not show any further improvement on the local routes using New Street following the disappointing new timetable that was introduced in September,"" adds Peter Sargant. ""In particular, delivery of reliable services on the Coventry line has proven impossible following the failure of Network Rail toinstall the crossover at Birmingham International.""</p> <p>""This has resulted in a timetable being introduced which has significantly worsened the service for passengers on the route. Centro is concerned that local West Midlands passengers are likely to continue to suffer unacceptably low performance levels for a considerable time due to the way in which the industry has implemented the West Coast Upgrade.""</p> <p><strong><em>Explanatory note...</em></strong></p> <p>Please avoid confusion between Cen<strong>tral</strong> Trains and Cen<strong>tro</strong>.</p> <p><strong>Central</strong> Trains is a train operating company, part of the<a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_ct/our_parent_group.asp"" target=""_blank"">National Express Group</a>. The company has declared its intention to bid for whatever replaces the current franchise.</p> <p><strong>Centro</strong> is a publicly funded body to promote and develop public transport in the West Midlands. Its policy is set by the elected councillors of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority."
"Many of the rail service in the Midlands are still lagging behind the rest of the country, according to performance figures released today."
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Festive transport services welcomed
2004-12-12T00:00:00
2004-12-12T00:00:00
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"<p >People in the West Midlands will be able to use public transport every day except Christmas Day throughout the festive period, Centro has announced.</p> <p >Bus, train and tram companies in the metropolitan area will be operating with amended timetables and there will be extra subsidised services to keep the buses running on both Boxing Day and New Years Day.</p> <p >The news has been welcomed by Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the watchdog Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >"I am very pleased that operators are able to keep services running.  Our survey of passengers in previous years has shown that public transport has an important role in helping to bring families and friends together during the Christmas holidays – as well as get to the shops," he says.</p> <p >Until recent years there had been no buses in the West Midlands on Boxing Day, but intervention by Centro has led to dramatic improvements for passengers.  The public transport promoter funded the setting up of a service pattern and much of this has now been taken over by a bus company which runs the services commercially.  Centro still subsidises some essential routes to provide the West Midlands with a more complete network on Boxing Day and pays for all the buses in Coventry on New Years Day.</p> <p >Although there will be no trains, more than 120 bus routes plus the Midland Metro will be running on Boxing Day.  Buses, trains and trams will run a normal or amended timetable on every other day and Cllr Clarke paid tribute to the many transport workers who will be on duty over the holiday period.</p> <p >"I hope passengers will be appreciative of the service and that we can see some seasonal goodwill all round," he says.</p> <p>In the run up to Christmas, Centro staff will themselves be spreading a little festive cheer around the network.  Dressed as Santa and his helpers, they will be giving out mince pies and sweets on local trains and trams to thank people for using public transport over the past year.</p> <ul> <li><strong>A table showing Christmas and New Year services for publication can be downloaded below as a PDF file.  It is also available in JPEG format - follow the image links lower down this page.</strong></li> </ul>"
"People in the West Midlands will be able to use public transport every day except Christmas Day throughout the festive period, Centro has announced."
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Wednesbury's new bus station unveiled
2004-12-10T00:00:00
2004-12-10T00:00:00
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"<p>Wednesbury's new £2.2 million bus station was officially opened today gets by local MP Adrian Bailey.  The MP and PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke unveiled a plaque to commemorate the event.</p> <p>The bus station, a partnership between public transport promoter Centro and Sandwell MBC, has a number of modern features – including full access for disabled users - designed to make waiting for and travelling on the bus more comfortable and easier, as well as providing a direct link to Wednesbury's shopping centre.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "Wednesbury Bus Station is a prime example of the strides forward being made in the West Midlands in terms of public transport facilities. It has all that is needed to enable all people to get around the region with ease. I'm honoured to be involved in this official opening as I have spent much of my professional life working in Wednesbury and Darlaston and know how important this is for local people."</p> <p>Eleven enclosed stands feature lighting, seating, CCTV, electronic passenger information signs and information, toilets and art features. There are staff and driver facilities on site.</p> <p>Almost a thousand buses a day use Wednesbury Bus Station.  It is a hub for 27 routes connecting passengers to all local shopping, leisure and work facilities as well as linking with other bus services and Midland Metro.</p> <p>Adrian Bailey said: "I am delighted to be opening this first rate new bus station for Wednesbury.  It is a public transport facility passengers deserve and is already looking to be extremely popular."</p> <p>The MP joined other guests including The Mayor of Sandwell and her Consort, Councillors Linda and George Turton, Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, and Rob Donald, Director General, Centro to inaugurate the facility, which started operating last month.</p> <p> </p>"
Wednesbury's new £2.2 million bus station is officially opened by local MP Adrian Bailey.
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Birmingham commuters to get more rush hour trams
2004-12-07T00:00:00
2004-12-07T00:00:00
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"<p>The growing number of commuters using the Midland Metro during the rush hour are to get more tram services from the New Year.</p> <p>An increase to one tram every six minutes is planned to cope with the volume of passengers arriving at Birmingham Snow Hill every morning.  There will be a similar increase in frequency during the evening peak.</p> <p>Local councillors have welcomed the move, which is revealed in a report to the watchdog Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>"As the Midland Metro gets more popular we have been having a problem with over-crowded trams during the rush hour," comments PTA lead member for Midland Metro Cllr Roger Horton.</p> <p>"We have been talking with the operator about getting improvements for passengers, so it is good news that they will soon be providing a more frequent service at such a crucial time."</p> <p>He said he had received many comments from users of the Metro welcoming the move.</p> <p>The increased frequency will apply from Monday 3 January, but only at the very height of the rush hour.  Councillors now hope to persuade the operator Travel Midland Metro to extend the period and are in talks to negotiate an enhanced service at other times.</p> <p>More Birmingham commuters now use public transport than travel in their car each morning.  One in five travel by train and a growing number use the Midland Metro.  More than 1200 commuters arrive by tram at Snow Hill each morning.</p> <p>The report to councillors on the PTA Integrated Passenger Services Committee sums up the performance of the Midland Metro service.  It says reliability has consistently exceeded 98 per cent.</p>"
The growing number of commuters using the Midland Metro during the rush hour are to get more tram services from the New Year.
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Three year funding package agreed for West Midlands public transport
2004-12-06T00:00:00
2004-12-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Council leaders in the West Midlands have agreed a three-year budget with the region's Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >It means the amount paid by the city and borough councils to fund the promotion and development of bus, rail and tram networks will increase by around the level of expected inflation at 2.5 per cent a year.</p> <p >Funding was previously agreed on a year-by-year basis and the new approach has been welcomed by PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >"This three year approach to our budgeting will allow investment in the expansion of Midland Metro and other improvements to public transport across the West Midlands," he says.</p> <p >The total levy paid by the districts for 2005/6 will be £125 million.  The funding   pays for concessionary travel schemes for the elderly, blind and disabled, and children, provides for special needs transport, subsidised bus services, and also pays to run bus stations and park and ride sites.   It also covers other transport investment in bus, rail and the Midland Metro.</p> <p >Council leaders and the PTA also agreed that half of any savings made this year will be set aside for funding future Metro development.  The rest of the savings, predominantly made because elderly people are making fewer trips with their concessionary travel passes, will be allocated to the seven districts to help keep down council tax in their areas.</p>"
Council leaders in the West Midlands have agreed a three-year budget with the region's Passenger Transport Authority.
9369
0
12
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Vandal hot spots to get plastic-glazed bus shelters
2004-12-05T00:00:00
2004-12-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>'Plastic' bus shelters are to be introduced at some of the West Midlands vandalism hot spots in a bid to save taxpayers more than £70,000 per year.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has been forced into the move by persistent attacks at a small number of sites.  Research found that vandalism at less than ten per cent of the top of the range Showcase shelters accounted for almost half of the annual repair bill.</p> <p>"It is a sad reflection on levels of vandalism that we now have to provide passengers with lower quality shelters in these locations because of the selfish behaviour of a small minority," comments Cllr Christine Mills, from Centro's policy-setting body the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>The results of a wide-ranging survey into bus shelter vandalism, together with trials of polycarbonate glazing, will be reported to councillors next week (Monday 13 December).</p> <p>Centro's study found that the existing glass is the most cost-effective material for the vast majority of the 1100 Showcase shelters around the West Midlands.  It is cheaper, hardwearing and more graffiti-resistant than the plastic alternative.  More importantly, it enhances the appearance of the shelter and allows passengers a clear view of the approaching bus.</p> <p>Polycarbonate glazing, which has now been tested at a number of sites, goes 'cloudy' and is more than twice the price of glass.  But it does have the single advantage that it is more resistant to breakage, councillors on the integrated passenger services committee are told.</p> <p>In the worst case of vandalism, Centro had to spend almost £5,000 of public money replacing 134 panes of glass on a shelter in Birmingham.  It was attacked almost every week.</p> <p>"We work hard at combating anti-social behaviour through joint efforts with the police, local councils and the community.  It is very sad when we get to the situation where we cannot afford to keep repairing the damage," says Cllr Mills, vice-chair of the committee.</p> <p>But she says Centro's survey does show some very positive results.</p> <p>"In the vast majority of cases, where shelters are well-maintained and cleaned regularly, our Bus Showcase network is kept in pristine condition – and that all helps make public transport more attractive.  In the West Midlands it rains on average more than 175 days a year, so we mustn't underestimate the importance of shelters in keeping existing passengers dry and enticing more people out of their cars," she adds.</p>"
"'Plastic' bus shelters are to be introduced at some of the West Midlands vandalism hot spots in a bid to save taxpayers more than £70,000 per year."
9369
0
12
0
Transport bodies threaten LGA walk-out (updated)
2004-12-03T00:00:00
2004-12-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses in the West Midlands have signalled a major walk-out from the Local Government Association – by declaring their intention to resign from the national body.</p> <p>Councillors on the region's Passenger Transport Authority voted against continued membership, unless a way forward can be found by all English PTAs meeting in Birmingham later this month.</p> <p>"The LGA simply does not give enough priority to transport-related issues, so when membership costs £38,000 a year we have to be concerned with value for money," says West Midlands chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "I have yet to see one report with the word 'transport' in it – I am sure the PTAs could do a much better job on their own."</p> <p>In a recent re-structure of the LGA, 19 policy executives (including one for transport) were replaced with four new boards.  Transport now falls within the remit of the Living Communities Board, which also covers environment, economic regeneration, planning, housing, tourism and culture and leisure issues.</p> <p>At the previous meeting of the West Midlands PTA, Local Government Association programme manager Lee Searles failed to convince councillors of the reasons for the latest re-structure and that his organisation could continue to fulfil its role as an advocate for the public transport issues that PTAs were pursuing.</p> <p>A meeting of the Transport Special Interest Group on 8 December is now likely to decide whether all PTAs tender their resignation together.</p> <p><strong>Update (Wednesday 8 December):</strong> The meeting today voted unanimously to withdraw from the LGA and to review the situation in six months.</p>"
Transport bosses in the West Midlands have signalled a major walk-out from the Local Government Association � by declaring their intention to resign from the national body.
9369
0
12
0
Past steams into the future with tram named after historic locomotive
2004-12-02T00:00:00
2004-12-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A locomotive from the golden age of steam has inspired a 21st century form of transport, with a Midland Metro tram to named in honour of a famous Black Country train.</p> <p>The tram will be named 'Agenoria' in honour of the locomotive, which ran on the Shutt End railway near Kingswinsford between 1829 and 1864, taking coal to the Ashwood canal basin. The original Agenoria can still be seen, at the National Railway Museum in York.</p> <p>The Leader of Dudley Council, Cllr David Caunt, will unveil the plaque, with the Mayor of Dudley, Cllr Malcolm Knowles, the Mayor of Sandwell, Cllr Linda Turton, and Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority also in attendance.</p> <p>Cllr Caunt said: "This tram naming brings past, present and future together and just as the original Agenoria was crucial to the life and economy of the region in the 19<sup>th</sup> century, so the new one will be today and for many years to come. I am delighted to see this famous name is again on Black Country rails."</p> <p>'Agenoria' will be the ninth Midland Metro Line One tram to be named. The line runs between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton St Georges and has a reliability of over 98 per cent. Plans are well advanced to extend the line from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill, via Merry Hill.</p>"
"A locomotive from the golden age of steam has inspired a 21st century form of transport, with a Midland Metro tram to named in honour of a famous Black Country train."
9369
0
12
0
Funding boost recognises important role of public transport
2004-12-02T00:00:00
2004-12-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus, train and tram passengers will all benefit from a major funding boost for the West Midlands announced today.</p> <p>Public transport bosses welcomed the announcement by Secretary of State Alistair Darling to pump £1.6bn into schemes across the country – with more than £117m for the Centro area in the next financial year.</p> <p>"It is good to see the largest slice of funding coming to our region," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>He says the way the money has been allocated shows the vital contribution public transport has to make in tackling congestion.</p> <p>Today's funding package is in response to the Local Transport Plan submitted jointly by public transport body Centro and the seven city and borough councils of the West Midlands.</p> <p>"Getting the best transport network for people who live and work in the West Midlands is a long-term goal and we need to continue working with Government and our partners to secure much-needed funding for many more projects," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>Two important schemes have now been given final approval today.  The PrimeLines Coventry Bus Network, which will make a real difference for existing passengers and help increase bus usage in the city receives £28m.  In Wolverhampton, the Government has approved £13m for the city centre interchange which improves linkages between the bus and rail stations and a future Midland metro link.</p> <p>The network of Red Routes to improve the flow of traffic on major roads will also improve the flow of buses.  This has been awarded £28m of funding over three years.</p> <p>There are also some positive comments in the detail of today's announcement, according to the PTA boss.</p> <p>"The Government says it is prepared to help progress a funding application for the redevelopment of Birmingham's New Street Station, which is the key to unlocking much needed rail capacity and providing the city with a major public transport gateway," he says.</p> <p>The Department for Transport says it is also progressing bids for even better access to Birmingham International Airport and a strategic park and ride scheme at Longbridge.  Centro hopes for a decision on these within the next few months.</p> <p>But the Government sounded a warning note about the need for all parties to deliver on programmes previously agreed.</p> <p>"The Secretary of State promised an extra £1bn for local transport in the West Midlands and we need to make sure we don't lose any of this valuable funding," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p><a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/pns/displaypn.cgi pn_id=2004_0155"" target=""_blank"">View Department for Transport release.</a></p> <p><strong>More details of funding contained in analysis page.</strong></p>"
"Bus, train and tram passengers will all benefit from a major funding boost for the West Midlands announced today. Public transport bosses welcomed the announcement by Secretary of State Alistair Darling to pump £1.6bn into schemes across the country � with more than £117m for the Centro area in the next financial year."
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0
12
0
Campaign wins some relief for passengers on overcrowded trains
2004-11-30T00:00:00
2004-11-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A public transport watchdog is claiming to have secured a better deal for passengers after putting pressure on the rail industry to improve services on the region's busiest line.</p> <p>Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority had expressed concerns about serious overcrowding on trains to and from the National Exhibition Centre.</p> <p>On Saturdays there will now be one extra Virgin train each hour calling at New Street and Birmingham International – and Central Trains will be adding four extra carriages to double the length of around fifty per cent of its trains.  Much of the extra capacity should be in place in time for this weekend's Clotheshow Live.</p> <p>"This is certainly not a long-term solution, it is not a complete solution and there is still a downside.  But after some difficult discussions with the rail industry, we have achieved some success and this is a welcome move to ease the pressure when there are big events taking place and thousands of passengers heading for Christmas shopping," comments PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>The PTA, which sets policy for Centro, called the rail industry to an urgent summit meeting when it realised the scale of the cuts to local services and especially the inadequate capacity to cope with large events at the NEC on Saturdays.</p> <p>Centro had been assured that heralded new services as a result of the £7bn West Coast Main Line Upgrade would bring improvements – but instead of this, the postponement of some of the works and late changes to the timetable created big gaps in the service to Birmingham International.</p> <p>The public transport promoter warned passengers would face seriously overcrowded trains and platforms on what is the region's busiest rail route.  Surveys since the new timetable was introduced in September have shown those fears to be well-founded.</p> <p>""People used to a high-frequency service to the Airport are now advised to start checking timetables to make sure they can catch their flight.  The service is struggling to cope with demand, especially when there are large events on at the NEC.  That is why we stepped in to try and broker a deal,"" says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>Passenger data requested by Centro has shown trains overloaded by as much as 75 per cent.  In the worst case, during the weekend of the Ski Show, Asian Mega Mela and Horse of the Year Show, more than 200 people were forced to stand on a train packed with families and children.</p> <p>"It is certainly not a happy situation and we need to keep up the pressure for a long-term solution that restores a high-frequency, turn-up-and-go service to this vital line," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>In a meeting with the rail industry, called by the PTA, councillors pressed for urgent measures that could be put in place before Christmas. </p> <p>Train companies, Network Rail and the Strategic Rail Authority identified some diverted Virgin services which could make additional stops at Birmingham New Street and Birmingham International.  Another outcome has been the doubling in length of trains between Northampton and Birmingham, which can provide an extra 300 seats per hour.  Even with these measures, ad-hoc relief trains may still have to run at times of peak demand.</p> <p>Although the longer trains will provide much-needed extra capacity for passengers travelling between Birmingham, Coventry, the NEC and Airport, they will not be able to call at some intermediate stations with short platforms.  Until a longer-term solution is found, some Saturday services to Tile Hill, Berkswell, Stechford and Adderley Park will be replaced with buses, although there will still be an hourly train service as well.</p>"
A public transport watchdog is claiming to have secured a better deal for passengers after putting pressure on the rail industry to improve services on the region's busiest line.
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0
12
0
Wolverhampton councillors clear the way for city centre Metro
2004-11-29T00:00:00
2004-11-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An expansion of Midland Metro line one through the city centre streets of Wolverhampton has been agreed by councillors.</p> <p >They say it will improve accessibility to the city centre shopping facilities and, by providing an attractive alternative to car travellers, it will also help improve the environment in the city centre.</p> <p >The City Council's cabinet recommended that detailed design is started on a  route linking Wolverhampton city centre to New Cross Hospital, Wednesfield, Willenhall Walsall and Wednesbury.</p> <p >The £390 million proposals also include a new single track loop around Market Street, Lichfield Street and Pipers Row around Wolverhampton city centre to go forward for detailed design and further consultation.</p> <p >An evaluation of environmental implications for people living along the route will be reported in an Environmental Impact statement along with proposed measures to tackle any problems identified.</p> <p >Centro and City Council officers have already held talks with the Grand Theatre to discuss concerns over potential disruption and are committed to working closely with the venue to address any problems.</p> <p ><strong><em>News release from Wolverhampton City Council:</em></strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/government_democracy/council/documents/news/press_releases/2004/november/251104b.htm"" target=""_blank"">Metro Expansion on Track</a></p>"
An expansion of Midland Metro line one through the city centre streets of Wolverhampton has been agreed by councillors.
9369
0
12
0
Official figures: West Mids has most bus passengers
2004-11-25T00:00:00
2004-11-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p >More people are travelling by bus in the West Midlands than in any other metropolitan area, according to Government statistics released today. Although a downward trend is still giving public transport bosses cause for concern.</p> <p >The data shows passengers made more than 330 million journeys last year. Only London has a larger and busier bus network. But whereas passenger figures in the capital have continued to grow, bus use in the rest of the country has fallen by 12.6 per cent over the last decade.</p> <p >Centro, the West Midlands public transport promoter, and similar organisations in the other big city areas claim much of the difference is due to the different way bus services are regulated in London compared to the rest of the country.</p> <a id=""return""></a> <p >In the Centro area, bus company figures showed a drop of just over five per cent last year although the longer-term trend shows the West Midlands to be the best-performing area for stemming the decline in passenger numbers. <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17646.aspx#footnote"" target=""_self"">(footnote 1)</a></p> <a id=""quote""></a><p >""Some of the work we and our partners are doing to stem the decline in bus patronage seems to be paying off, but we clearly need to keep on doing a lot more,"" comments Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p >""We know that passengers want more and better information and we are working on the roll-out of a new timetable system that will provide a major improvement. There will be more digital displays at bus stops too and we have recently reached an agreement with bus companies on multi-operator tickets,"" he adds.</p> <p >But the Centro boss also called on highway authorities and bus companies to play their part in making public transport more attractive.</p> <p >""We need more bus lanes in the more congested parts of the West Midlands and for the bus companies to provide cleaner vehicles and higher levels of customer care,"" he said.</p> <p >A recent survey by Centro showed four out of ten bus services failed to keep to timetable and, as a result, councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority have called for bus operators to sit round the table and identify what they can do to give passengers a better deal.</p> <div><br clear=""all"" /> <hr align=""left"" width=""33%"" /> <div id=""ftn1""> <p ><a id=""footnote"">(1)</a> Government statistics, based on returns from bus operators, show a fall from 350 to 332 million (5.1%) Today's publication acknowledges that PTE figures are calculated in a different way and will often be different. In the West Midlands, Centro's own statistics show a fall from 332 to 325 million (2.1%). However, the longer term trends, eg over five years, are broadly similar and there is no dispute that this is a downward trend which needs to be addressed.<br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17646.aspx#return"" target=""_self"">Back to main text</a></p> <hr align=""left"" width=""33%"" /> <p >Click on download for a PDF showing <strong>bus patronage figures 1994-2004</strong></p> </div> </div>"
"More people are travelling by bus in the West Midlands than in any other metropolitan area, according to Government statistics released today. Although a downward trend is still giving public transport bosses cause for concern."
9369
0
12
0
Response to the Queen's Speech: Railways Bill
2004-11-23T00:00:00
2004-11-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Centro, the busiest public transport body outside London, today responded to the proposed content of a Railways Bill contained in the Queen's Speech.</p> <p >Whilst the Bill continues the line promised by Secretary of State Alistair Darling to devolve more powers over local transport to regional bodies, some of the detail can be read to tell a different story. </p> <p >Centro, which promotes and develops rail, bus and tram services for a population of 2.6 million people, is one of the PTEs (Passenger Transport Executives) referred to in the Bill.  Together they believe the proposed legislation will weaken their influence over the delivery of rail services.</p> <p >"Until we see a fuller text of the Railways Bill, we remain to be convinced that the line of devolving more powers to the regions is not a Government smokescreen," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >Under current arrangements, local councillors via bodies like Centro can have a very real say in specifying service levels for regional rail networks – as a co-signatory to the franchise agreements.  That power is now to be taken away as what are described as 'complex contractual arrangements' are to be replaced by 'a streamlined, more flexible approach'.</p> <p >The critical issue, according to Centro director general Rob Donald, will be the level of service specified by the Department for Transport when it takes over from the SRA.</p> <p >"It is essential for passengers that current operational standards are improved, but we don't have any guarantees as yet," he says.  "If we are no longer to be a signatory to the franchise, this is one crucial area where power is being taken away from regional bodies."</p> <p >The Government said today that the Railways Bill would allow PTEs and Transport for London to make sensible decisions between rail, light rail and bus in furtherance of integrated transport policies.</p> <p >However, Centro and the West Midlands PTA has expressed concern at the growing convergence between the Government position on Transport for London and PTEs in other major conurbations.  "There is a suggestion that giving more powers to TfL is accompanied by  fewer powers for other metropolitan areas – and we don't see the need for this pay off.  The importance of keeping franchise powers for PTEs should not be affected by what the Government wants to do in London," adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >Fast facts:</p> <ul> <li>In the Birmingham rush hour more commuters use public transport than use their car.  One in five travel by rail.</li> <li>Centro's role in shaping the local rail network has seen passenger figures increase by 25 per cent in five years.</li> <li>There are 27 million trips a year on regional rail services in the West Midlands.  Across the country, twice as many people use regional rail services as travel inter-city.</li> </ul>"
"Centro, the busiest public transport body outside London, today responded to the proposed content of a Railways Bill contained in the Queen's Speech."
9369
0
12
0
Birmingham commuter route spared from Government pruning of rural branch lines
2004-11-22T00:00:00
2004-11-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Government plans to downgrade a busy commuter route to the status of a 'rural railway' have been dropped after pressure from West Midlands councillors.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro and councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority objected to plans when they were released earlier this year.</p> <p>The proposal was clearly at odds with local initiatives to promote rail services which have led to a 25 per cent increase in passenger figures and one in five Birmingham commuters travelling by train.</p> <p>If Government plans to reclassify sixty lines had gone ahead it could have led to lower maintenance, speed restrictions and a lack of investment in train services through parts of south Birmingham and Solihull and from Walsall to Cannock.  One of the concerned lines, through Hall Green and Shirley, is used by around 1½ million passengers a year.</p> <p>"While we're supportive of the thrust of Government proposals to get rail industry costs under control, often the devil is in the detail," comments PTA chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.  "In this case we had Birmingham commuters in a densely built-up area being told they were using a rural community line to get to work.  Thankfully, the Strategic Rail Authority has now seen sense."</p> <p>It emerged today that the number of lines across the country to be earmarked for community status has now been cut from 60 to 56, following consultation.  <a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/pns/displaypn.cgi pn_id=2004_0141"" target=""_blank""><em>(DfT news release)</em></a></p> <p>During the consultation process Centro, backed by local councillors, told the SRA that lines identified for downgrading were an integral part of the West Midlands network and cater for travel patterns and a level of demand far greater than those of a community railway.</p> <p>Centro recently confirmed plans to double the size of the commuter park and ride facility at Hall Green, one of the busiest stations on the line.</p>"
Government plans to downgrade a busy commuter route to the status of a 'rural railway' have been dropped after pressure from West Midlands councillors.
9369
0
12
0
Welcome to Wednesbury's all new bus station
2004-11-22T00:00:00
2004-11-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Wednesbury's new £2.2 million bus station is ready to open for business to the town's travelling public next Sunday, 28 November.</p> <p>The bus station, a partnership between public transport promoter Centro and Sandwell MBC, replaces the outdated facility with a number of modern features designed to make waiting for and travelling on the bus more comfortable and easier, as well as providing a direct link to Wednesbury's shopping centre.</p> <p>Eleven enclosed stands will feature lighting, seating, CCTV, electronic passenger information signs and information, toilets and art features. In addition there will be staff and driver facilities on site.</p> <p>Almost a thousand buses a day will use Wednesbury Bus Station.  It will be a new hub for 27 different routes connecting passengers to all local shopping, leisure and work facilities as well as linking with other bus services and Midland Metro.</p> <p>Staff will be on hand throughout the opening day to help people find which of their services goes from which stand.</p> <p>Cllr Roger Horton, Sandwell's Lead Member on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "This 21<sup>st</sup> century bus station is fantastic news for people in Wednesbury and I am sure it will be extremely popular. Following on from the successful West Bromwich Bus Station, with which it shares the same award winning design, it brings huge benefits to the travelling public as well as benefits to the ongoing regeneration of Wednesbury town centre."</p> <p >As well as Wednesbury Bus Station, Centro and its partners are upgrading Bus Showcase routes, interchanges and passenger information as ways to encourage more car owners on to public transport. </p> <p> </p>"
"Wednesbury's new £2.2 million bus station is ready to open for business to the town's travelling public next Sunday, 28 November."
9369
0
12
0
A guide to making local buses better
2004-11-19T00:00:00
2004-11-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More local estate bus services in the West Midlands are being improved – and a new guidebook produced by public transport promoter Centro looks to set the standards required for all partners involved.</p> <p>With two routes – the 222 and 333 - already benefiting from a £140,000 development, and approval given for a third, the 444, to have a £35,000 upgrade, Centro's guidelines aim to ensure consistent planning of routes for both Centro and partners, who include highways authorities, local councils, and bus operators.</p> <p>The guide establishes a framework that encourages greater social inclusion, improved service frequencies and reliability, more direct links to key services and transport interchanges at the best times of day, and better vehicles, passenger information and shelters.</p> <p>Robert Smith, Centro Services Director, said: "Many improvements have been made to main bus corridors in the West Midlands because of Bus Showcase, but a lot of journeys start in local estates and smaller communities, and we need to ensure that the needs of users and potential users in these areas are taken into consideration to roll out more of these routes across the network."</p>"
More local estate bus services in the West Midlands are being improved � and a new guidebook produced by public transport promoter Centro looks to set the standards required for all partners involved.
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0
12
0
Consultation begins on upgraded bus routes
2004-11-18T00:00:00
2004-11-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Walsall Council is joining forces with public transport promoter Centro to consult with residents living along a key Walsall bus route as they plan a project to improve facilities for travellers.</p> <p>The council and Centro plan to upgrade bus stops along the Arriva 33 route between Brownhills, Cannock and Hednesford within the borough – improving access for passengers with better shelters and special kerbs.</p> <p>Consultation with residents and owners of property next to the route starts this week. It will ensure they are fully aware of the proposals and allow the council and Centro to respond to the views of residents. </p> <p>This runs until mid-December and it is then planned to start work on the scheme in Spring 2005 – along a 3.3km section with 16 stops along Brownhills High St, Chester Rd North and the Wilkin Estate, in Brownhills West. </p> <p>Councillor Marco Longhi, Walsall Cabinet member for environment and transport said: "I am delighted that we are talking to people in the area about providing greatly enhanced facilities to encourage people to use public transport –helping to cut congestion on Walsall's roads.</p> <p>"As part of our vision for a better borough, the council is committed to making it easier for people to travel within Walsall and across the West Midlands with a range of imaginative means to eliminate unnecessary car journeys and ensure Walsall is a welcoming place for disabled people."</p> <p>Special raised kerbs will make things easier for people with buggies, pushchairs and shopping trolleys as well as wheelchair users.  Bus operator Arriva Midlands is also providing low-floor vehicles to run along the routes.</p> <p>West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (WMPTA) chairman Gary Clarke welcomed the consultation.</p> <p>Councillor Clarke said: "This scheme will give a big boost to bus passengers in Brownhills and should encourage many more people to travel by public transport.</p> <p>"Bus Showcase routes are a key part of our commitment to high-quality public transport in the West Midlands. This latest project marks a valuable partnership between Walsall Council, Centro and Arriva Midlands."</p> <p><a href=""http://www.walsall.gov.uk/newsdocs/NewsArticle.asp NewsId=2259"" target=""_blank"">(Link to this story on Walsall MBC website)</a></p>"
Walsall Council is joining forces with public transport promoter Centro to consult with residents living along a key Walsall bus route as they plan a project to improve facilities for travellers.
9369
0
12
0
New look local bus route will bring more transport benefits for 444 users
2004-11-15T00:00:00
2004-11-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>People using a community bus route in Sandwell are set to benefit from proposed improvements to the service by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The 444, which runs daytimes Monday to Saturday, links Bearwood, Londonderry and West Bromwich. £20,000 will be invested to bring improved passenger information, greater frequencies, and new stops and shelters.</p> <p>There will also be £15,000 in highways improvements from partners Sandwell MBC – a total investment of £35,000. Two other local services – the 222 between Dudley and Merry Hill and the 333, which runs from Walsall to Wolverhampton, were recently upgraded at a total cost of £140,000.</p> <p>The plans are part of a long-term improvement scheme for local bus services in the West Midlands, bringing higher standards of travel to people using estate-based services.</p> <p>Cllr John Woodall, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority's Project Development and Monitoring Committee, said: "We have already seen other local estates benefit and I am sure this latest scheme will be welcomed by those who regularly use the 444. It is also hoped that this will be the latest in many more enhancements not just to estate bus services, but local bus interchanges as well."</p> <p> </p>"
People using a community bus route in Sandwell are set to benefit from proposed improvements to the service by public transport promoter Centro.
9369
0
12
0
Passengers face threat to regional rail voice
2004-11-11T00:00:00
2004-11-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Transport bosses in the West Midlands are joining a national campaign to retain control of regional rail networks.</p> <p >The power currently held by Centro to be a co-signatory to the rail franchise is expected to be taken away by the Government's Railways Bill to be published later this month even though Secretary of State Alistair Darling promised to devolve more powers to the regions.</p> <p >Passenger transport bodies in the country's largest metropolitan areas are launching a lobbying campaign to make the case for rail in the city regions and to maintain a powerful voice for passengers. They point out that more people travel on regional rail services than inter-city routes and that these are crucial for economic growth.</p> <p >The 156 MPs in metropolitan transport areas, Government ministers and officials and other key influencersare being sent copies of independent research showing how major cities could grind to a halt without adequate rail networks.</p> <p >Bodies such as Centro in the West Midlands are currently co-signatories of local rail franchises, used by 137 million passengers a year. This enables them to work in partnership with private operators to manage and develop local rail networks, as part of wider integrated public transport networks for the city regions. In England, the Government is proposing to replace these powers with non-statutory, 'memoranda of understanding'.</p> <p >This promise of influence, but no real teeth, could potentially mean a raw deal for passengers in cities like Birmingham where one fifth of rush hour commuters travel by train, they argue.</p> <p >Centro's influence over rail investment has led to a 25 per cent increase in passenger figures on local services since 1997. The body, which is publicly-funded and has its policy set by local councillors, is also able to work on behalf of passengers to enforce punctuality and cleanliness. It markets local services, provides congestion-busting park and ride schemes and has been able to shape the network to provide turn-up-and-go frequencies on many lines.</p> <p >""Now that the Government is to abolish the Central Trains franchise we face a period of uncertainty regarding the future of the regional network,"" says Centro director general Rob Donald. (<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17636.aspx"" target=""_self"">view earlier story on this</a>)</p> <p >""We have set out the principles for our talks with the Department for Transport and have already received some welcome responses from potential operators of the new West Midlands franchises. But the key issue will be the level of service specified by the DfT.""</p> <p >""It is essential for passengers that current operational standards are improved, but we don't have any guarantees as yet,"" he says. ""If we are no longer to be a signatiory to the franchise, this is one crucial area where power is being taken away from regional bodies.""</p> <p >The campaign to keep regional signatures on rail franchises is being led by PTEG, the Passenger Transport Executives Group, which covers more than thirteen million people in some of the country's largest city regions.</p> <p>""For the last thirty years the PTEs have used their powers over local rail services to turn failing, deadbeat networks into success stories,"" says PTEG chair Kieran Preston. ""Taking powers from locally accountable transport authorities in the regions, and giving them to remote civil servants in Whitehall, will be bad for passengers, and bad for city regions that desperately need modern and efficient commuter rail networks.""</p>"
Transport bosses in the West Midlands are joining a national campaign to retain control of regional rail networks.
9369
0
12
0
Former transport chief reaches personal travel milestone
2004-11-09T00:00:00
2004-11-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A former transport boss who worked to maintain and improve concessionary travel for over 60s in the West Midlands has reached a landmark of his own this week.</p> <p >Richard Worrall, a former Walsall councillor who led the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority between 1992 and 2004, arrived at his sixtieth birthday and received his very own half fare travel pass from his successor as PTA Chairman, Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p >Since April 2003 people aged 60 to 64 have been entitled to half fare travel on bus, rail and Metro with those aged 65 and over receiving a free pass. This major policy change came as a result of Government legislation to equalise the qualifying age for over-60s travel concessions.  Prior to that, men had to wait an extra five years before qualifying for concessions.</p> <p>More details on the schemes are available from Centro's Travel Schemes Section on 0121 214 7207 / 7068.</p>"
A former transport boss who worked to maintain and improve concessionary travel for over 60s in the West Midlands has reached a landmark of his own this week.
9369
0
12
0
Centro rail fares pegged again
2004-11-09T00:00:00
2004-11-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Rail passengers in the West Midlands face fare increases of between three and four per cent after councillors decided to peg the increases for the second year running.</p> <p>The scale of the increase has been set nationally at inflation plus one per cent for rush hour commuters and in line with inflation for off-peak fares.  The Government adjusts the amount of grant it pays for running rail services in the region to reflect this change.</p> <p>Any lower increase in fares for West Midland travellers would have to be paid for out of the council tax.</p> <p>The Passenger Transport Authority, made up of elected councillors, has the power to vary fares in its area.  It can raise them by more than the national level and use the extra income to improve services – or it can use money from the council tax to subsidies fares and keep increases below the Government-set level.</p> <p>In previous years the increase in Government grant has left a margin for bodies like Centro to put fares up in line with inflation and still generate extra income for improvements.  In the West Midlands this money has been used for extra trains, greater staffing of stations and improving train interiors.</p> <p>At a meeting of their policy and strategy committee, PTA councillors rejected a fare increase of five per cent or more which would have been needed to fund improvements this year.  The new fares will come into effect from January 2005.</p>"
Rail passengers in the West Midlands face fare increases of between three and four per cent after councillors decided to peg the increases for the second year running.
9369
0
12
0
Centro stakes out regional interests in rail shake-up
2004-11-08T00:00:00
2004-11-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Most of the local rail services in the West Midlands, including Birmingham's busy Cross City Line, could be merged into a new operation also covering Silverlink services to London, it has been claimed.</p> <p>But regional body Centro – which promotes the development of public transport and represents passenger interests – is to insist the rail company sets up a head office in Birmingham.</p> <p>The changes follow a Government decision to reduce the number of rail franchises.  In his announcement Transport Secretary Alistair Darling said that services currently operated by the Central Trains franchise would be split five ways from 2006.</p> <p>Centro's prediction of how this latest shake-up of the rail industry could affect the region is contained in a report to councillors on the policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>It says the Secretary of State's announcement could mean all Snow Hill and Moor Street services being provided in future by Chiltern Railways, which was awarded a 20 year franchise in 2002.  Other local rail services, such as the Cross City Line, Coventry to Wolverhampton and Walsall services, are expected to be merged with Silverlink rail services that operate between Northampton, the Home Counties and London to form a new franchise.</p> <p>Public transport bosses expect many Home Counties routes to be taken over by Transport for London, so that West Midlands services would make up the bulk of the revised Silverlink franchise.</p> <p>Central Trains' long distance services from Birmingham to Liverpool, Nottingham, Cardiff and Stansted are likely to transfer into a new Cross Country franchise, which Centro says it will seek to ensure still cater for passenger flows in the Birmingham area.</p> <p>Centro's preference would have been to replace the sprawling Central Trains operation with a new franchise based on the Birmingham journey-to-work area, but it accepted that such a relatively small franchise would go against Government policy of reducing the overall number of franchises.</p> <p>"We all agree that the rail industry is too complicated at the moment and there is some operational sense in splitting services through Snow Hill and services running out of New Street," comments Cllr Roger Horton, the PTA's lead member for rail matters.</p> <p>Speaking after today's policy committee meeting he said: "What we must do is make sure that the new structure can deliver the best deal for passengers in the West Midlands, so we are planning some frank discussions with the Department for Transport in the near future."</p> <p>"Reducing the number of franchises makes sense, but Government must not cut out the mechanisms for meaningful consultation with local interests and keeping a voice for Centro and the PTA in the process," he adds.</p> <p>In discussions with Government, the West Midlands transport body says it will press for the ability to specifiy service levels to meet the needs of regional passengers.  It wants to continue to be involved in monitoring the performance of rail services and for local councillors to retain the power to set fares.  Centro says Chiltern should set up a business unit to cover its local operations and the new franchise should also have its head office in Birmingham – so that both companies have a clear focus on delivering the best for passengers in the West Midlands.</p>"
"Most of the local rail services in the West Midlands, including Birmingham's busy Cross City Line, could be merged into a new operation also covering Silverlink services to London, it has been claimed. But regional body Centro � which promotes the development of public transport and represents passenger interests � is to insist the rail company sets up a head office in Birmingham."
9369
0
12
0
Transport committee views New Street redevelopment plans
2004-11-05T00:00:00
2004-11-05T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority will discuss the latest plans to redevelop Birmingham's New Street Station at a meeting of their policy committee on Monday 8 November.</p> <p>A £350m plan to provide a showpiece gateway to the region is being promoted by a city council-led group including public transport body Centro.</p> <p>"New Street urgently needs a major redevelopment.  We need to turn it into a 21<sup>st</sup> century station and a landmark building which will be a decent gateway for Birmingham and the region," comments Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>"This scheme is critical to the future of public transport in the West Midlands and it is good news to see partners working together to achieve this," he adds.</p> <p>More and more people are using the train in the West Midlands including one in five commuters in the Birmingham rush hour. </p>"
Councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority will discuss the latest plans to redevelop Birmingham's New Street Station at a meeting of their policy committee on Monday 8 November.
9369
0
12
0
Transport bosses mark 100 days of passenger power
2004-11-04T00:00:00
2004-11-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are marking 100 days in power with claims of significant change to benefit passengers and to help boost the regional economy.</p> <p>The new leadership of the Passenger Transport Authority, with Conservative chairman Cllr Gary Clarke and Labour vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen, was voted into power following the local elections in June.</p> <p>Since then they have lost no time in addressing major issues needed to get West Midlands moving, the pair claims.</p> <p>""We stressed from the outset that public transport should not be a political football and the coalition is already paying dividends,"" says Cllr Gary Clarke. ""We have built new and stronger working relationships with district councils and intend to place much greater emphasis on getting things done. That's what passengers want to hear.""</p> <p>More than 5.7 million has been spent on capital projects in the past 100 days. Centro schemes have included the completion of Bearwood Bus Station and Galton Bridge Park and Ride, work progressing on Wednesbury Bus Station and construction getting underway at Stourbridge Junction, as well as the relaunch of a TaxiBus service in the Meriden Gap.</p> <p>Cllr Clarke has also been able to launch a new West Midlands-wide bus ticket that gives a day's travel on any bus for just 3. It has been described as a major step forward in an integrated ticketing policy that had been held up by negotiations with bus companies.</p> <p>""The structure of the public transport industry is incredibly complicated so what we want to do is cut through all that red tape and give more emphasis to providing a quality service for passengers,"" comments vice-chair Cllr Paul Allen. ""People waiting for their bus, train or tram are more concerned about the service being clean and reliable than worrying about who runs what.""</p> <p>In one of their first campaigns for passenger power, Cllrs Clarke and Allen called the rail industry to a summit meeting when it became clear a new timetable would lead to cuts on the Birmingham to Coventry line and a threat to the 'turn-up-and-go' service for the NEC and Airport. The issue has not yet been resolved, but the industry has certainly felt the strength of PTA opinion and the Secretary of State for Transport has become involved.</p> <p><u>Key achievements in 100 days</u></p> <ul> <li> <div align=""left"">Opening Galton Bridge Park and Ride<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17585.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Opening of Bearwood Bus Station<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17600.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Construction starts on 2.7m Stourbridge Junction Park and Ride<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17622.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Launch of One Day Busmaster ticket to kick start the next phase of integrated ticketing<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17608.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Relaunch of the Heart of England TaxiBus service with new and bigger vehicles<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17620.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Company TravelWise scheme expansion now takes two million car trips off congested roads<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17628.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Lin Homer, Birmingham Chief Executive, appointed to Centro board<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17615.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Joint representation at party conferences, lobbying for the West Midlands<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17610.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">New travel statistics more than half Birmingham rush-hour commuters now use public transport<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17576.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Funding agreed for Police Community Support Officers to patrol the bus network<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17619.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Go-ahead for Hall Green Park and Ride<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17599.aspx"" target=""_self"">(details)</a></div> </li> </ul>"
Public transport bosses in the West Midlands are marking 100 days in power with claims of significant change to benefit passengers and to help boost the regional economy.
9369
0
12
0
Streetly bus services go streets ahead
2004-11-02T00:00:00
2004-11-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus users in Streetly are to benefit from improvements to two local services, funded by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The 113X, which runs from Birmingham to the Hardwick Arms has been extended. It now terminates at the Foley Arms, running from the Hardwick Arms along Little Hardwick Road and Erdington Road. Also the 118 service from Erdington to the Hardwick Arms will have its off peak journeys extended to the Foley Arms via the same route.</p> <p>The timetable for both services will be adjusted so that between them they will provide a regular half hourly service along the common section of route.</p> <p>The services, which carry 3,200 passengers a week, are operated by North Birmingham Busways.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, who represents Streetly on Walsall Council, said: "This is great news for local people, who will benefit greatly from these extended bus services. This highlights the determination of Centro and the PTA to make sure those who ask for and need better bus services get them."</p> <p>Full details on the new bus services are available from the Centro Hotline on 0121 200 2700 or at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a></p>"
"Bus users in Streetly are to benefit from improvements to two local services, funded by public transport promoter Centro."
9369
0
12
0
More journeys on Solihull bus services
2004-11-01T00:00:00
2004-11-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus users in Solihull are to benefit from new improvements to two local services funded by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The 150, which runs from Hockley Heath to Solihull has had additional morning journeys added on Mondays to Fridays at peak times.</p> <p>Also the 624 service from Shirley Station to Dickens Heath and Solihull has had extra Mondays to Fridays journeys introduced and the Saturday timetable is being reinstated as part of Centro's wish to see improved public transport links for this new community.</p> <p>The services, which carry around 1,500 passengers a week, are operated by Pete's Travel. Support has also come from the Government's Rural Bus Challenge.</p> <p>Full details on the new bus services are available from the Centro Hotline on 0121 200 2700 or at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a></p> <p> </p>"
Bus users in Solihull are to benefit from new improvements to two local services funded by public transport promoter Centro.
9369
0
12
0
Consultants appointed for Metro study
2004-11-01T00:00:00
2004-11-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Birmingham City Council and Centro have issued a joint statement to announce the appointment of consultants for a study into underground options for an expanded Midland Metro network in Birmingham city centre.</p> <p >International experts<a href=""http://www.jacobsconsultancy.com/practiceareas.asp practice=Transport"" target=""_blank""> Jacobs Consultancy </a>will carry out the work to be completed by May 2005.</p> <p >The Passenger Transport Authority which sets policy for Centro has a clear policy supporting the early development of Metro Line One extensions. Implementation of this and development of the future Phase Two network cannot be progressed until the outcome of the tunnels study commissioned by the city council.</p> <p ><em><strong>Related release:</strong></em> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17621.aspx""><em>Trams on streets are still on the agenda for Birmingham</em></a></p> <p>Jacobs have worked on numerous related studies - including the<a href=""http://www.tfl.gov.uk/trams/initiatives/ini_index_cr.shtml"" target=""_blank""> Cross River Tram </a>for London, Edinburgh light rail proposals and even a Bewdley People Mover.</p>"
Birmingham City Council and Centro have issued a joint statement to announce the appointment of consultants for a study into underground options for an expanded Midland Metro network in Birmingham city centre.
9369
0
12
0
Call for action on unreliable bus services
2004-10-30T00:00:00
2004-10-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Councillors are calling for action from bus companies after a survey showed passengers in the West Midlands are having to wait longer than they should because of unreliable services.</p> <p>A survey carried out by the region's public transport champion Centro found that four out of ten buses did not run on time.</p> <p>None of the agreed targets for reliability and punctuality are being met according to the report that will be considered by the Passenger Transport Authority, the policy-setting body for Centro, on Monday 8 November.</p> <p>""This shows how some commercial bus operators are letting their passengers down badly and there is a real need for more bus priority lanes,"" comments PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>Following the results of the annual survey, the PTA is to call for a meeting with bus operators to agree action on how to improve performance.</p> <p>""It is in all our interests to improve the quality of public transport in the West Midlands. I am disappointed that since Centro raised the issue twelve months ago with some dramatic findings in the first survey little real progress has been made,"" adds Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>That survey showed the urban myth of waiting for a bus for ages then three turning up at once to be far too close to reality. On one of the busiest routes, buses turned up in sixes and one in ten failed to show at all.</p> <p>""The bunching of buses and punctuality later in the day is still a big problem,"" comments Cllr Clarke. ""It's not enough for buses to leave the garage on time in the morning, operators need to be pro-active in getting vehicles back into schedule during the working day.""</p> <p>Centro had been pressing operators for some years to openly monitor the reliability of their services. In desperation the bus, train and tram promoter used public money to carry out its own survey. Next week's report to councillors once again urges bus companies to collect and publish reliability data or to contribute to Centro's costs.</p> <p>This year's survey was again carried out throughout the West Midlands and surveyed 11 corridors and 11 different bus operators. A check of more than 40,000 scheduled departures found some minor improvements on last year. The number of buses leaving more than one minute early or five minutes late fell from 40 per cent to 38 per cent, but this is still well short of the current industry target of just five per cent.</p> <p>The region's largest commercial bus operator Travel West Midlands has acted on some aspects of last year's survey, councillors are told. The company has made more than 70 changes to bus routes to improve reliability and used Centro's data to amend timetables. It is promising that satellite tracking of buses could improve puntuality and reliability in the future.</p> <p><strong><em>Related releases:<br /> </em></strong><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17557.aspx"" target=""_self"">Survey shows region is mything the bus</a>(last year's survey)<br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17627.aspx"" target=""_self"">Donald: ""We don't want our toys back""</a></p>"
Councillors are calling for action from bus companies after a survey showed passengers in the West Midlands are having to wait longer than they should because of unreliable services.
9369
0
12
0
Travel scheme clears two million journeys from congested roads
2004-10-29T00:00:00
2004-10-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More people – and employers - are turning to public transport to get to work, with a major green travel scheme from Centro reaching record numbers of users.</p> <p>The public transport promoter's Corporate Travel Scheme has just helped clear two million car journeys from the region's congested roads, after reaching the landmark of 4,000 members buying annual season tickets, and with more than 100 companies in the Birmingham area offering their staff money saving incentives to leave the car at home and take the train, bus or Metro to work instead.</p> <p>The scheme has been widely praised by businesses and councillors. More than half of Birmingham commuter journeys are now by public transport, including one in five by rail.</p> <p>Under the scheme, employers pay up front for their staff's annual travel season ticket at a reduced cost from Centro, recharging it to employees via monthly salary deductions. Staff can also use their ticket outside working hours as well, for evening and weekend leisure or shopping trips.</p> <p>Birmingham companies who have already signed up to the scheme include Wragge & Co, KPMG, WS Atkins, and Marks and Spencer. It is now hoped to increase take up of the scheme throughout the West Midlands.</p> <p>Feedback to Centro from participating employers says that the Corporate Travel Scheme often influences where people want to work, and keeps them ahead of competitors. Centro's Business Development Team is working to implement a campaign to increase awareness of the scheme amongst the West Midlands business community.</p> <p>"Centro and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority wants to promote public transport and increase usage, and with commuters among the most common users the Corporate Travel Scheme goes a long way to achieving those aims," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the WMPTA.</p> <p>"I am delighted we have reached the landmark of two million trips. The scheme is very highly regarded at the moment and the more popular it becomes, the more businesses we hope will contact Centro to hear about the many benefits available," he added.</p>"
"More people � and employers - are turning to public transport to get to work, with a major green travel scheme from Centro reaching record numbers of users."
9369
0
12
0
Workwise continues to break down the transport barrier to employment
2004-10-29T00:00:00
2004-10-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A scheme that has helped thousands of people into work using public transport is looking to expand across the West Midlands.</p> <p>Workwise, supported by public transport promoter Centro, has enabled nearly 800 people to get into work and over 1,000 job seekers to interviews using bus, train and tram. The scheme is now seeking additional funding sources to provide more people in a wider West Midlands area with access to employment opportunities.</p> <p>Workwise Officers are able to provide personalised door-to-door travel information, free one-day travel tickets for interviews and two one-month travel passes for new jobs.  Providing free travel helps the client overcome the initial barrier of transport affordability, allowing them to develop more sustainable travel habits whilst developing the local economy.</p> <p>Since its inception in May 2003 the Workwise Birmingham/Solihull project has proved to be hugely successful, providing more than 1,300 free day tickets for customers to access interviews using public transport.  Moreover, more than 780 people have been issued with free monthly passes as they start employment.  Retention rates among those gaining employment is high, with over 75% of Workwise users still in employment after 3 months, 94% of which are continuing to use public transport. </p> <p>As well as Centro, Birmingham City Council and Solihull Council support the project.</p> <p>User of the Chelmsley Wood scheme Pamela McColl said: "I think it is a great idea, it helps people to sort themselves out while waiting to be paid starting a new job." Georgette Jones, also at Chelmsley Wood, added: "I still use my bus pass all the time. I do hope a lot more have the help that was given to me."</p> <p>"Workwise has not only been fantastic news for the unemployed in terms of helping them find work, it has also highlighted the fact that public transport is by far the most sensible way for them to get to work," said Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority. "The schemes here in the West Midlands have attracted a great deal of interest from across the country and by expanding Workwise in this region, the more schemes will eventually begin nationally," he added.</p>"
A scheme that has helped thousands of people into work using public transport is looking to expand across the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Donald: �We don't want our toys back�
2004-10-26T00:00:00
2004-10-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Metropolitan transport authorities have no desire to run bus services, according to Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>Writing in an industry magazine, the boss of the West Midlands public transport promoter says there is no wish to change the private sector ownership of bus companies. His letter, to be published in <strong><em>Transit</em></strong> next week, is in response to claims by some in the bus industry that local politicians ""want their toys back"".</p> <p>Most of the big city bus companies, such as that in Centro's area, passed out of public ownership nearly two decades ago. Travel West Midlands is still the region's largest operator by far, but is now part of the giant National Express Group.</p> <p>In a drive to make public transport more attractive to motorists, Centro wants to see controlled competition with private sector operators competing in the boardroom for the right to run bus services in a designated area. It would be an end to vehicles competing for passengers at the bus stop, but still allow competition within the industry argues Rob Donald.</p> <p>""We simply want to improve standards of bus service delivery, and ensure better integration with other modes. We do believe that competition to win bus quality contracts may now be the best way of achieving a step-change improvement,"" he writes.</p> <p>The approach is backed by public transport authorities in all the metropolitan areas and is winning favour with Government as a way of delivering more integrated public transport.</p> <p>""Government, bus companies and PTAs/PTEs all agree that buses outside London need to be more attractive to motorists, and that this is the way to get sustainable growth in bus patronage,"" comments the Centro director general.</p> <p>""We may disagree (with National Express) about the value of bus quality contracts but we also manage to work together. For example, Centro is involved in a wide range of joint partnership projects with Travel West Midlands, including: the bus showcase programme, a trial of smartcards, expansion of real time information and improvements to prepaid ticketing products. We are also in discussion on who pays for what, in an exciting roll-out of bus passenger information.""</p> <p>""However, only about 60% of buses in the West Midlands turn up within the six minute window set down by the Traffic Commissioner. Centro wants bus companies to be more active in managing bus service delivery during the day to improve performance levels and to be more open about their levels of performance on a route by route basis.""</p> <p>""We also want to see improvements such as genuine customer care, cleaner vehicles, elimination of poor quality buses, improved personal security, fewer dates a year for bus service changes, better marketing and promotion, and improved integration with other modes.""</p> <p><em><strong>Related release:</strong><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17630.aspx"" target=""_self"">Call for action on unreliable bus services</a></em></p>"
"Metropolitan transport authorities have no desire to run bus services, according to Centro director general Rob Donald. Writing in an industry magazine, the boss of the West Midlands public transport promoter says there is no wish to change the private sector ownership of bus companies."
9369
0
12
0
Minibus 'lifeline' for families cut off by sewer works
2004-10-20T00:00:00
2004-10-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Hundreds of homes cut off from local bus services by major sewer works are getting an emergency minibus service from this week.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro has organised the shuttle bus for residents in the Spies Lane and Howley Grange area of Quinton.  It will run every ten minutes, six days a week and has been funded by Severn Trent.</p> <p>The water company is rebuilding a major sewer which means the closure of part of Spies Lane for several months.  Eight bus routes have had to be diverted as a result and this would have left some local people facing a long walk to the nearest bus stop.</p> <p>As a temporary measure, the minibus service will run round the estate and provide a link to the diverted bus routes on Hagley Road West and Carters Lane.  Centro says it hopes this will provide a lifeline for families who would otherwise have been cut off from public transport.</p> <p><strong>Service details</strong></p> <ul> <li> <div align=""left"">The shuttle minibus will run every ten minutes from 7.00am to 7.00pm, Monday to Saturday (last bus completes its journey to Hagley Road West at 7.15pm)</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Route from Hagley Road West (by motorway bridge), via Ridgeway Ave, Spies Lane, Astley Avenue then back to Spies Lane and around a loop of Carters Lane, Howley Grange Road and Royal Oak Road, return via Spies Lane/Astley Avenue to Hagley Road West at College Road.</div> </li> <li> <div align=""left"">Bus routes diverted from Spies Lane and Howley Grange Road during the sewer works are numbers 9, 19, 109, 441, 002, 003, 202, 204</div> </li> </ul>"
Hundreds of homes cut off from local bus services by major sewer works are getting an emergency minibus service from this week.
9369
0
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Half term fun by train is free for kids
2004-10-20T00:00:00
2004-10-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Parents can make the most of the upcoming half term holidays by taking advantage of the kids go free rail offer, which covers the West Midlands.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro is offering free train travel for up to two children aged under sixteen when accompanied by an adult season ticket holder or alternatively an adult purchasing a Cheap Day Return rail ticket, during the autumn half term holiday. Centro is also working with a number of top named attractions across the West Midlands which includes Odeon cinema Birmingham, Imax Theatre, The National Sea Life Centre, The Black Country Living Museum, Thinktank, Dudley Zoological Gardens and Laser Quest Stourbridge who are offering free child admission to Centro rail travellers.   The combination of free rail travel and admission ensures even larger savings to a wide range of family attractions. </p> <p>Travellers can also purchase All-In-One rail travel and venue admission tickets to Cadbury World, Warwick Castle and Severn Valley railway from all Centro rail stations.</p> <p>"Not only does this offer make for savings for families it also removes the stress of driving." said Centro Marketing Manager Julia Lameris. "This offer will make for an ideal way to make the most of the half term holiday."</p> <p>Travel is available after 9.30am weekdays and any time at weekends. Vouchers to take advantage of this offer can be obtained from your local Centro rail station or via <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a>.  Timetable information can be obtained from the Centro Hotline on 0121 200 2700 (02476 559559 in Coventry). </p> <p> </p>"
"Parents can make the most of the upcoming half term holidays by taking advantage of the kids go free rail offer, which covers the West Midlands."
9369
0
12
0
Darling spells the end of Central Trains
2004-10-19T00:00:00
2004-10-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Secretary of State for Transport Alistair Darling has announced that the Central Trains franchise, which provides the bulk of local services in the West Midlands, will be split up.</p> <p>In a statement this morning (Tuesday 19 October) he said services operated by the current franchise will be distributed into the Silverlink, Chiltern, Virgin Cross Country, Midland Mainline and Northern franchises from 2006.</p> <p>Centro, the West Midlands public transport promoter, is now seeking clarification from the Department of Transport in order to protect the interests of the growing number of rail travellers in the region. It will continue to stress that one in five Birmingham commuters now travel by train and that more than half make this choice even though they have a car available. Providing quality, high-frequency rail services within the West Midlands makes a significant contribution to cutting the congestion which costs the region more than 2bn a year.</p> <p>Centro director general Rob Donald said today that the PTE needs to have discussions with the Department for Transport to understand the detail behind Alistair Darling's statement. He said the DfT view on what levels of service they intend to specify for local rail services in the West Midlands would be a key aspect of the discussions.</p> <p>""As far as the new franchise map is concerned, we have supported moves to streamline the structure of the rail industry so far. But whoever ends up running the trains in our area, we will be pressing for a management focus on local services and would hope to see a business unit set up for the West Midlands or the Birmingham journey-to-work area,"" he says.</p> <p>Centro, as the West Midlands Passenger Transport Executive, is a co-signatory to the current Central Trains franchise which expires in 2006. The regional public transport body has been able to use this power to determine the levels of service provided by Central Trains - including 10 minute 'turn-up-and-go' frequency services. More than 27 million local rail journeys are made every year in the Centro region.</p> <p><strong><em>Explanatory note...</em></strong></p> <p>Please avoid confusion between Cen<strong>tral</strong> Trains and Cen<strong>tro</strong>.</p> <p><strong>Central</strong> Trains is a train operating company, part of the<a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_ct/our_parent_group.asp"" target=""_blank"">National Express Group</a>. The company has declared its intention to bid for whatever replaces the current franchise.</p> <p>The current franchise area extends far beyond the West Midlands, (see below)</p> <p><strong>Centro</strong> is a publicly funded body to promote and develop public transport in the West Midlands. Its policy is set by the elected councillors of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p><a href=""http://www.centraltrains.co.uk/_your_journey/stations.asp"" target=""_blank""></a></p>"
Reaction to the Secretary of States announcement and what it means for passengers in the West Midlands.
9369
CT_Map.GIF
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Double joy for Stourbridge Junction parking
2004-10-14T00:00:00
2004-10-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Work starts this week on a 2.7m project to double the size of the popular park and ride facility at Stourbridge Junction.</p> <p>West Midlands public transport promoter Centro provides free parking for rail commuters, who then benefit from a frequent train service to Birmingham. The current 395-space facility is regularly over-subscribed, leading to frustration for users and parking problems on nearby streets.</p> <p>The new car park, off Rufford Road, is due to open next Spring and will provide 400 extra spaces. There will also be a covered walkway to the station and high-tech safety and security features.</p> <p>""The growing number of park and ride spaces are proving very popular with local people and can make a significant contribution to tackling the congestion that could make our lives a misery in the West Midlands,"" says Cllr Paul Allen, vice-chair of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>Centro now provides almost 6,000 spaces which together are estimated to take more than two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p>Figures revealed at a national conference earlier this year showed West Midlands travellers have more choice of park and ride than any other major city. One in five rush hour commuters heading for Birmingham now use the train, with the majority (72%) tempted away from using their car.</p> <p>""We have used our powers over the Central Trains franchise to work towards a 'turn-up-and-go' ten minute frequency on the busy Stourbridge line and the extra free parking should make the service even more attractive for local people,"" adds Cllr Roger Horton, the PTA member with special responsibility for rail matters. ""This scheme provides a double benefit. There will be more parking spaces for passengers and fewer on-street parking problems for nearby residents,"" he adds.</p> <p>As well as providing bigger car parks at train stations, Centro is upgrading security, lighting and safety features to meet Home Office 'Secure Car Park' status. This is already paying dividends with criminal damage incidents relating to vehicles down by 42% in the past year.</p> <p>The new Stourbridge car park will have all the latest facilities, including security lighting, CCTV and Help Points all linked to Centro's network safety and security control centre.</p> <p><strong><em>Related releases:<br /> </em></strong><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17566.aspx"" target=""_self"">Region comes top for park and ride</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17539.aspx"" target=""_self"">Car crime halved at congestion-busting park and ride</a></p>"
Work starts this week on a 2.7m project to double the size of the popular park and ride facility at Stourbridge Junction.
9369
0
12
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Taxibus provides the perfect route to bridge the Gap
2004-10-13T00:00:00
2004-10-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>An easy to use minibus service connecting communities in the 'Meriden Gap' between Solihull and Coventry gets a new look from next week.</p> <p>The <strong>Heart of England Taxibus</strong>, which is a door-to-door public transport link, has proved so popular with local people that it now needs new and larger vehicles.</p> <p>Caroline Spelman, MP for Meriden, and Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, will officially launch the revamped service at Meriden the centre of England itself with one of the eye-catching new buses present.</p> <p>The Taxibus service is funded by public transport promoter Centro, with Government support. It is available to people in an area including Balsall Common, Hampton in Arden, Meriden, Knowle and Berkswell and will also take passengers from there to Solihull town centre, Coventry and Birmingham International. Local residents use it for shopping and leisure trips, visiting friends and relatives, and to make connections with other bus and rail services for travel further afield.</p> <p>""The Taxibus provides an essential service to people living in rural areas, who would otherwise be stranded in areas poorly served by public transport,"" says Caroline Spelman MP. ""I am delighted to be at the launch of this revamped service and I am certain it will continue to provide a working and social lifeline to people in remote areas.""</p> <p>Taxibus has been running successfully in the Meriden Gap area for five years and now attracts 16,000 passengers a year leading to the need for new and larger vehicles.</p> <p>""Taxibus provides a much needed transport link for the West Midlands' more rural communities,"" says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. ""I look forward to more people using the service following the re-launch and making it an even greater success.""</p> <p>Fares to use Taxibus are similar to those on conventional bus routes but calculated on a mileage basis. To use the service, people phone <strong>0121 783 6869</strong> to book a time and pick up point. It operates six days a week (8 am to 7.30pm) and accepts bus passes, Centrocard and Busmaster tickets.</p> <p>Taxibus is funded by Centro and the Department for Transport, and operated by West Midlands Special Needs Transport Ltd.</p>"
An easy to use minibus service connecting communities in the 'Meriden Gap' between Solihull and Coventry gets a new look from next week.
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Taxibusonroad.jpg
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Trams on streets are still on the agenda for Birmingham
2004-10-13T00:00:00
2004-10-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands public transport bosses have reaffirmed their commitment to running trams on the streets of Birmingham ahead of a city council feasibility study into an underground system.</p> <p>""We believe the city centre extension of the Midland Metro from Snow Hill to Five Ways needs to go ahead. The scheme has been worked up in detail and Government has approved a funding package in principle we should grasp the nettle and get on with it,"" says Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>He said the Line One extensions through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill were long-term commitments of the PTA and all seven West Midlands district councils.</p> <p>A development plan for the Midland Metro has been agreed by councillors to allocate 400m out of the extra 1bn Transport Secretary Alistair Darling announced for the region for an initial three-line extension to the tram network over the next decade.</p> <p>The first phase would provide new lines from Wolverhampton to Walsall; from Quinton along the Hagley Road through Birmingham city centre to Eastside; and north from Birmingham along the A34 to Great Barr. It would cost 570m and envisages trams running from 2011.</p> <p>This would then be followed by a link from Walsall to Wednesbury and a Metro line to serve Birmingham International Airport and the NEC.</p> <p>Within these proposals Centro, the public transport body which carries out the policy of the PTA, has previously stated its belief that there is capacity for one or two tram lines running through Birmingham city centre streets. There would be an issue for some of the Phase Two routes gaining access to the city centre and an agreement to look at underground options was included in public consultation during 2003.</p> <p>Centro director general Rob Donald denied however that any fundingcontribution towards Birmingham City Council's underground feasibility study might indicate a change of heart.</p> <p>""Centro has been consistent in terms of its approach to Metro development in Birmingham. We have not changed our mind,"" he says.</p> <p>""We continue to believe that the street-running section of Midland Metro between Birmingham Snow Hill and Five Ways should go ahead. This is the fastest way to provide a public transport system worthy of a major European city. It would give excellent access for the city centre and be highly visible,"" he adds.</p> <p>In drawing up proposals for such a major improvement to public transport, Centro has previously highlighted the benefits of street-running trams that are now becoming commonplace in cities across Europe. Tram systems provide superior levels of access because they use low-floor vehicles and can have frequent stops which integrate easily with bus services, pedestrian areas and other public transport. Underground systems, which are also more expensive to build and run, require escalators for people to reach the tunnels and have proved less popular with passengers.</p>"
West Midlands public transport bosses have reaffirmed their commitment to running trams on the streets of Birmingham � ahead of a city council feasibility study into an underground system.
9369
0
12
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Councillors welcome more bobbies on the bus beat
2004-10-12T00:00:00
2004-10-12T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new roving police unit is being planned to help combat crime and the fear of crime on the West Midlands bus network.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro is to use money raised from selling advertising at bus shelters to fund the initiative which it says will increase the perception of safety.  West Midlands Police is also applying for a Home Office grant so that a squad of up to 30 officers would travel extensively on the region's bus network from next year.</p> <p>The joint move was welcomed by councillors at a meeting of the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>"It is clear that even if actual crime levels are low, public concerns about anti-social behaviour does put some people off using the buses and we need to get this sorted if we are to make public transport a more attractive option and help cut congestion in the West Midlands," comments PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>Centro and the PTA have identified £300,000 to launch the scheme, with the hope of extra funding from the Government and the private sector.</p> <p>As well as establishing a uniformed presence on the buses, police officers in the new unit will work with Centro and bus companies to develop crime-reduction measures.  These could include the location and design of shelters and methods to secure and preserve evidence.</p> <p>"The visibility of the new squad will help reassure the travelling public and the small minority of trouble-makers on the buses will get the message that we mean business," adds PTA Vice-Chair Cllr Paul Allen.</p> <p>The outcome of the West Midlands Police bid for Home Office funding is expected to be known next month.  Even if this is unsuccesful the project can still go ahead, on a smaller scale, funded by Centro and the Passenger Transport Authority.  Councillors hope they can also win extra financial support from the region's bus companies.</p>"
A new roving police unit is being planned to help combat crime and the fear of crime on the West Midlands bus network.
9369
0
12
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Not quite the wrong kind of timetable
2004-10-11T00:00:00
2004-10-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport promoter Centro has welcomed the improved deal for passengers represented by this year's railway plans for dealing with "leaf fall season".</p> <p >Compared to the effective halving of the service on busy commuter routes that took place last year, West Midlands operator Central Trains plans to maintain rush-hour frequencies of trains every ten minutes and only to reduce frequency from six to four trains an hour during the off-peak.</p> <p >The leaf fall timetable on Birmingham's Cross City Line is due to be introduced from Sunday 17 October and will run for five weeks.  This time last year, Centro raised serious concerns regarding the scale of proposed cuts.  This Autumn, the publicly-funded body which represents passenger interests in the West Midlands, has secured a better deal.</p> <p >Rail commuting is growing in significance in the region and particularly in Birmingham – where more than half of rush hour commuters now use public transport and one in five travel by train.</p>"
Public transport promoter Centro has welcomed the improved deal for passengers represented by this year's railway plans for dealing with "leaf fall season".
9369
0
12
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Critical weekend rail services under the spotlight
2004-10-07T00:00:00
2004-10-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Rail services come under the spotlight this weekend as a West Midlands public transport watchdog assesses the impact of the new timetable.</p> <p>The timetable was introduced as a result of the 7bn West Coast Main Line upgrade. It means more and faster trains to the Capital, but has heralded cuts in local services.</p> <p>Critical Saturday services to Birmingham International Station will come under particular scrutiny as a series of major events at the NEC get underway. Last Saturday, the first weekend of the new timetable's operation, there were reports of severe overcrowding. At least one train on the rejigged service was already full by the time it reached Coventry, leaving passengers stranded on the platforms of several stations between there and Birmingham New Street.</p> <p>West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which had called the rail industry to an urgent summit when it realised the scale of the cutbacks, says its fears seem to have been justified.</p> <p>Following the reports of last weekend's problems, the PTA and public transport promoter Centro have called on the rail industy to provide formal counts of passenger numbers.</p> <p>The Birmingham to Coventry line is the busiest in the West Midlands linking three of the region's five busiest stations. As well as serving the NEC and Airport, it is used by 35,000 passengers per week at intermediate local stations.</p>"
"Rail services come under the spotlight this weekend as a West Midlands public transport watchdog assesses the impact of the new timetable. The timetable was introduced as a result of the 7bn West Coast Main Line upgrade. It means more and faster trains to the Capital, but has heralded cuts in local services."
9369
0
12
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West Midlands public transport promoter to strengthen board with new appointment
2004-10-02T00:00:00
2004-10-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Centro, the body that oversees public transport in West Midlands, is to have a new appointment made to its board.</p> <p>Lin Homer, chief executive of Birmingham City Council is expected to join as a non-executive director later this month.  The appointment first has to be approved by councillors on the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  <em>(<strong>Update</strong>: It was approved today, Monday 11 Oct)</em></p> <p>"This appointment will strengthen the position of Centro as a co-ordinating body for the West Midlands.  What we want to see is a body that has the influence and the resources to get on and deliver improvements for passengers," says PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke.</p> <p>"As a representative of the West Midlands' Chief Executives Transport Steering Group, Lin will add to the Centro executive's regional credentials and be able to strengthen the partnership working that is a PTA priority," he adds.  "We all need to pull together to improve public transport, cut congestion, support the economy and work towards social inclusion."</p> <p>Centro has a £150 million annual budget, raised mostly from the council tax, to promote and develop public transport in the West Midlands metropolitan county.</p> <p>Its director general Rob Donald has welcomed the new appointment to the board. "Lin's wealth of local government experience and her position in Birmingham will help us work together with the cities and boroughs of the West Midlands.  The region needs to speak with a unified voice in lobbying for transport improvements and this case is strengthened by having an agreed set of priorities, to which everyone is signed up," he says.</p>"
"Centro, the body that oversees public transport in West Midlands, is to have a new appointment made to its board. Lin Homer, chief executive of Birmingham City Council is expected to join as a non-executive director later this month."
9369
0
12
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Public transport the key to business growth
2004-09-30T00:00:00
2004-09-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Improving public transport is the key to a city's business success according to a survey of Europe's top companies released today.</p> <p>The annual European Cities Monitor sets out to examine the issues companies regard as important in deciding where to locate. Global property company Cushman & Wakefield Healey & Baker sampled Europe's 15,000 largest companies and used the results to rank the attractiveness of 30 top cities as business locations.</p> <p>Transport issues dominated companies' thinking when they were asked how their current city locations could be improved, the survey reports. Ease of mobility within the city was ranked far higher than local taxes, pollution, supply of qualified workers, shopping, leisure or parking.</p> <p>Senior managers and board directors were asked ""what are the key things you would like to see the city doing which would improve it as a business location for your company "" In reply, the largest number said: ""improve public transport.""</p> <p>The survey has been welcomed by Cllr Gary Clarke, Conservative chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>""This backs up our view that major European cities need to invest in public transport if they are to remain competitive,"" he says. ""Birmingham has just passed the significant milestone where more people in the morning rush hour use the bus, train and Metro than travel in their cars but we have to build on that progress to support economic growth in the region.""</p> <p>Birmingham did not feature in the survey which ranked London and Paris as the EU's top business locations.</p> <p>Thirty cities were scored, based on a list of top business destinations selected in 1990 and surveyed annually since. However, when major European companies were asked which other cities were well-known as business destinations and should perhaps be added to future surveys Birmingham came top of the list, four points ahead of Luxembourg and five points clear of Rotterdam, St. Petersburg and Valencia.</p> <table cellspacing=""0"" cellpadding=""0"" border=""0""> <tbody> <tr> <td valign=""top"" width=""223"" rowspan=""11""> <p ><em>500 major European companies were asked:</em></p> <p ></p> <p ><em>Thinking of the city where you are located, what are the key things you would like to see the city doing which would improve it as a business location for your company </em></p> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Improve public transport</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">36</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Improve traffic circulation</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">32</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Improve transport links with other cities</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">32</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Lower community taxes</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">13</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Improve shopping/leisure for workers</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">8</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Reduce bureaucracy</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">6</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Less pollution</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">6</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Improve telecommunications</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">5</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Better supply of qualified workers</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">4</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Improve parking</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">4</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width=""60""> <p ></p> </td> <td width=""240""> <p >Cleaner streets</p> </td> <td width=""36""> <p align=""right"">2</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>"
Improving public transport is the key to a city's business success according to a survey of Europe's top companies released today.
9369
EuroCitiesMonitor.jpg
0
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Centro prizewinners ready to go off-roading
2004-09-30T00:00:00
2004-09-30T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Two lucky winners will experience a day of 4x4 thrills after coming out on top in a recent competition from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>Peter Naylor and Alison Leach won their prizes after entering the competition in May, as part of Centro's cheap day return shopping by rail promotion which encouraged consumers to 'off road it' by taking the train.  The promotion  also offered discounts at stores in major centres across the region. Cheap day return ticket sales increased by 5.9% on the previous month as a result of the promotion. </p> <p>Both Peter and Alison will now spend this Saturday driving the newest off road vehicles at the Heart of England conference and events centre in Coventry.</p> <p>Cheap Day return tickets are available across the Centro rail network, offering savings and convenience, and cutting road congestion. They can be bought from any staffed station for travel to such centres as Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Walsall and Solihull.</p> <p>Peter, aged 57, lives with his family in Stourbridge, from where he commutes by rail to his job in Solihull as a Chartered Accountant with the Inland Revenue each day. "It's better than getting stuck on the M42 in my car," he said. Peter added: "Driving a four wheel drive vehicle off road is not the kind of thing you would normally get the chance to experience in real life, and I am looking forward to a bit of rain on the day to see what it can do!"</p> <p>Alison, 28, who lives in Coseley, is a Care Manager for deaf people and a self-confessed fan of adrenalin adventures. She said: "I have participated in such activities as skydiving, white water rafting, bungee jumping and scuba diving, and thrive on challenge. I was keen to enter this off road experience to keep the adrenalin pumping, and I had not done this particular sport before."</p> <p> </p>"
"Saturday 2 October, Heart of England Conference and Events Centre, Walls Hill Road, Fillongley, Coventry, 12.00pm Two lucky winners will experience a day of 4x4 thrills after coming out on top in a recent competition from public transport promoter Centro."
9369
0
12
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Darling backs more power for Centro and PTA
2004-09-29T00:00:00
2004-09-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport Secretary Alistair Darling has been speaking about the role of Centro and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority at the Labour Party's annual conference.</p> <p>Speaking at fringe meetings in Brighton this week, the Secretary of State reaffirmed the Government's commitment to devolving more power to the regions.</p> <p>The plans were outlined in the summer's Transport White Paper. Mr Darling said the decision had been informed by the need for locally designed solutions for local problems, integrating transport decisions with those on housing and regeneration, amongst other areas. Passenger Transport Executives need greater control on funding, offering sensible choices that meet local needs, he said. This kind of approach empowers the regions to put in place the type of strategies that actually work.</p> <p>Professor David Begg, Chair of the Integrated Transport Commission, expressed the view at a number of fringe meetings that the Government needs to invest more in public transport. Offering a comparison with transport funding in other major European countries he pointed out that the French spend 1.1% of their total GDP on transport, Germany 1.5%, whilst the UK only manages 0.6%. In addition, he revealed that between 1970 and 2000, UK transport spending has on average been 60bn less than the other top four performing economies in Europe.</p> <p>At a fringe meeting to debate controlled competition of bus services Transport Minister Tony McNulty spoke about the Government's position on bus regulation. He explained that the July white paper advocated the need to look into London-style regulation in other areas. He explained how there had already been a bus priority network in London and that the success of the bus system there was due to this and the introduction of congestion charging. He argued however that in principle what was needed was an integrated approach to local transport, with more control at PTE level.</p> <p>In another meeting Chris Moyes, Chief Executive of bus operator Go-Ahead, backed the decision to devolve more powers on public transport to PTEs, pointing towards the successes of the London congestion charge, which had reinforced arguments about conurbation-wide approaches to transport. He recommended that the PTEs be given powers over traffic management, allowing the opportunity to limit unnecessary congestion caused by short-term road works and 'white van man' parking.</p> <p><strong><em>Related news releases:</em></strong></p> <p><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17610.aspx"" target=""_self"">Transport bosses press the regional case in Brighton</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17559.aspx"" target=""_self"">Backing for big city bus reforms</a></p>"
"Transport Secretary Alistair Darling has been speaking about the role of Centro and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority at the Labour Party's annual conference. Speaking at fringe meetings in Brighton this week, the Secretary of State reaffirmed the Government's commitment to devolving more power to the regions."
9369
0
12
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Region braced for impact of rail cuts
2004-09-27T00:00:00
2004-09-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The boss of a regional transport watchdog has pledged to keep a close eye on the impact of local rail service cuts due to be introduced today as a knock-on effect of the new West Coast Mainline timetable.</p> <p>While heralding changes such as faster tilting trains between London, Birmingham and the North, it is feared the new timetable will mean fewer and more overcrowded local services.  Links to the NEC and Birmingham International Airport are particularly badly hit.</p> <p>"There are some benefits to local services, such as the more regular frequency on the Walsall line – but passengers still face a few years more pain before they start to see any real gains," comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>"Poor planning by the railway industry has led us to this situation and it seems we now have to wait for the completion of delayed works at Birmingham International before we get the promised better railway," he adds.</p> <p>The PTA and Centro called a summit meeting of railway bosses when details of the cuts on the Birmingham-Coventry line emerged earlier this year.</p>"
The boss of a regional transport watchdog has pledged to keep a close eye on the impact of local rail service cuts due to be introduced today as a knock-on effect of the new West Coast Mainline timetable.
9369
0
12
0
Transport bosses press the regional case in Brighton
2004-09-26T00:00:00
2004-09-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The Conservative chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is venturing into the lion's den – by lobbying for the region at the Labour Party Conference.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke will be accompanied in Brighton by his Labour deputy, Cllr Paul Allen, to present a cross-party message to senior politicians and ministers.</p> <p>"The fact that we have a Conservative-Labour pact in charge of public transport in the West Midlands shows we do not want this to be a political football.  There is cross-party support for the campaign to get a better deal for the region's passengers and to cut congestion," says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p>"It is important that our message is heard loud and clear at the Brighton conference," he adds.</p> <p>Centro, the public transport promoter whose policy is set by Cllrs Clarke, Allen and their colleagues, is hosting an event on Monday.  Senior party figures are expected to meet with West Midlands councillors and senior Centro officials, including director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>Top of the agenda will be improvements to New Street Station, avoiding cuts in local services and winning support for the expansion of Midland Metro.  With £1bn of Government funding on offer, Centro will point to its solid track record in delivering public transport projects.</p> <p>The West Midlands lobby is also supporting a fringe meeting with other metropolitan authorities to discuss giving greater power to English regions to make their own decisions on public transport.  The move has been backed by Transport Secretary Alistair Darling, who is expected to attend.</p>"
"The Conservative chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is venturing into the lion's den � by lobbying for the region at the Labour Party Conference. Cllr Gary Clarke will be accompanied in Brighton by his Labour deputy, Cllr Paul Allen, to present a cross-party message to senior politicians and ministers."
9369
0
12
0
Commuters' 200 park and ride bonus set to increase
2004-09-24T00:00:00
2004-09-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Revised charges for Birmingham commuters are to be introduced next week, so that the city's first bus-based park and ride scheme offers even greater value for money.</p> <p>A survey of commuters using the StarCity scheme has shown they are already making big savings in time and money. Results show that after ten weeks, motorists switching to the shuttle bus service could have saved more than 200 each in parking fees a figure which is now set to increase.</p> <p>The new scale of fees, which includes a reduced price per car, are set to reflect changing demand for the service now that major roadworks in the area are coming to an end. A new campaign will focus on the advantages of parking at StarCity, on the outskirts, compared with the cost and frustration of finding somewhere to park in the city centre.</p> <p>""This park and ride scheme can relieve the city centre of some of its daily congestion and will add to the attractiveness of Birmingham for Christmas shoppers,"" says Stephen Rhodes of public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>Some passengers using the shuttle bus service are already travelling from places such as Leicester and Milton Keynes to visit the Bull Ring and other Birmingham attractions and the innovation has won the backing of major city centre retailers. The new price of 1 per car, including up to five passengers, will make the scheme even more competitive with city centre parking.</p> <p>The park and ride site close to Spaghetti Junction was launched in July, with Birmingham City Council and the Highways Agency hoping it would offer some relief to motorists faced with a summer of roadworks. But the major jams did not materialise and take up for the park and ride was much lower than expected.</p> <p>Nevertheless, a survey of passengers has since shown they value the service particularly because of the easy, free and secure parking it offers when compared to the hassle of parking in Birmingham city centre.</p> <p>Regular commuters previously paid up to 9 a day to park near their office. They can now get free parking at StarCity and a 1 return journey on the dedicated fleet of buses taking them non-stop to the city centre.</p> <p>Two-thirds of those who have made the switch to park and ride said they previously had difficulty parking in Birmingham. They also wasted on average almost 15 minutes finding a space every morning.</p> <p>""Park and ride offers benefits to both the user and the environment,"" says Stephen Rhodes. ""Schemes like this already take around two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.""</p> <p>The car park at StarCity has won a police Secure Car Park Award for four years in a row. It provides thousands of free spaces to serve the entertainment complex each evening, but has enough spare capacity during the day for a few hundred users of the park and ride.</p> <p>""We are delighted to get involved in this scheme because it is in the interests of all Birmingham businesses to cut congestion,"" explains StarCity manager Mark Wilson.</p> <p>The park and ride buses are able to take advantage of bus priority measures introduced along the Lichfield Road by Birmingham City Council and which cut the journey time to under 20 minutes.</p> <p>""Park and ride is a key part of the city council's transport strategy and we hope commuters, visitors and shoppers will continue to take advantage. By making bus travel more attractive we can provide a better deal for passengers and cut congestion for the benefit of all road users,"" adds David Bull for the city council.</p> <p>This latest scheme is a joint partnership venture between Centro, Birmingham City Council, family entertainment complex StarCity and the Highways Agency and operates six days a week from 7am to 7pm on weekdays and 10am to 6pm on Saturdays.</p> <p>From Monday 27 September the new charges will be 1 per car for the driver and up to five passengers. Regular commuters can also buy a weekly ticket for 5, which gives the equivalent of free use of the park and ride on Saturdays.</p> <p><strong><em>Previousnews releases:</em></strong> <br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17568.aspx"" target=""_self"">Timely launch of new park and ride offers jam relief for M-way road works</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17583.aspx"" target=""_self"">Park up and smell the coffee</a></p>"
"Revised charges for Birmingham commuters are to be introduced next week, so that the city's first bus-based park and ride scheme offers even greater value for money. The new scale of fees, which includes a reduced price per car, are set to reflect changing demand for the service now that major roadworks in the area are coming to an end."
9369
0
12
0
Citywide bus project launches to support young people in Wolverhampton
2004-09-23T00:00:00
2004-09-23T00:00:00
9369
"<h2 align=""left"">A new community bus project to help get young people out, about and active in Wolverhampton is to be officially launched this Friday, 24 September.</h2> <p>Citywide, supported by public transport promoter Centro,is a free to use minibus service that allows children and young people between six months and 23 years greater and safer access to play schemes, weekend activity events and pre and after school clubs across Wolverhampton. The service will have accessible vehicles available to be booked on a planned and demand basis seven days a week.</p> <p>The launch will take place on the pitch at Molineux Football Ground at 11.00am, with children who will use the buses pulling a ribbon apart to set the service in motion. Representatives from Community Transport, Wolverhampton City Council, the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority and Centro will also be present.</p> <p>Robert Smith, Centro Services Director, said: "Centro is delighted to have helped bring what we hope will be a popular bus service for Wolverhampton to fruition. It will help include children in activities through safe and easily available transport, allow parents not to worry about having to provide childcare provision, and give a new range of opportunities for older children."</p> <p>Colin Knott Project Manager for Wolverhampton Community Transport stated: "We are extremely grateful for all the support that this new project has enjoyed. What I have found to so exciting about this Project is how it has bought together so many different sections of the community whose aims, like ours, are to provide opportunities for our young people across Wolverhampton."</p> <p>Centro successfully applied for funding for the Citywide service under the Government's Urban Bus Challenge scheme, following a well received trial service in 2002. Community Transport operates Citywide with support from Centro, and youth organisations including Black Country Connexions and the Spurgeons childcare.</p> <p> </p>"
"A new community bus project to help get young people out, about and active in Wolverhampton is to be officially launched."
9369
0
12
0
�Landmark ticket agreement is great news for passengers�
2004-09-23T00:00:00
2004-09-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The political boss of public transport in the West Midlands has hailed an agreement reached with more than 25 bus companies to provide a new value for money ticket that allows passengers to travel on any bus anywhere in the West Midlands.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, described the agreement as ""great news for passengers"".</p> <p >After extensive negotiations, the One Day Busmaster ticket will finally go on sale from this weekend. It offers passengers travel on virtually any bus in the Centro area for 3 a day or 2 for children.</p> <p >""This sort of multi-operator ticket is a great leap forward in making bus travel easier for everyone,"" comments Cllr Clarke. ""It takes away the worry about complicated fare structures and confusion about what colour bus you need to catch. Integrated ticketing like this which is on offer in major cities across Europe is so much simpler and far more convenient. It will help us to get more people using public transport and to cut congestion.""</p> <p >The 3 day ticket is the cheapest on offer in any of the major conurbations, with the exception of London where bus services are regulated.</p> <p >The Busmaster ticket has been available for some time as a one week, four week and annual season ticket. Public transport promoter Centro says having a one day version available, that can be bought on the bus, is a great leap forward for its Integrated Ticketing Strategy.</p> <p >One Day unlimited use tickets are now a well-established and popular way of buying bus travel, and many operators offer this type of ticket themselves, but restricted to their own services. Centro has been in discussions with bus operators for some time to encourage the introduction of an all-operator day ticket that would make it easier for users to change between the services of different operators. Forty per cent of bus journeys made by passengers in the West Midlands involve changing buses.</p> <p >Bus Operators Panel joint<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17596.aspx"" target=""_self""> news release</a></p>"
The political boss of public transport in the West Midlands has hailed an agreement reached with more than 25 bus companies to provide a new value for money ticket that allows passengers to travel on any bus anywhere in the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Walsall students support Centro green travel project
2004-09-21T00:00:00
2004-09-21T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Walsall Council has teamed up with Centro to give students and staff the chance to get to grips with eco-friendly travel - as part of innovative project set in motion by Walsall Council and Walsall College of Arts and Technology (WALCAT).</p> <p>Students at the college are being asked to take part in a special travel survey about how they get to college, which coincides with TravelWise week that runs from Monday 20 September.</p> <p>Students can win free one-day travel passes in return for taking part in the survey that is part of an innovative £90,000 project to give people the chance to put together a personalised travel plan using 'green' transport such as buses, trains, cycling walking and car-sharing.</p> <p>Councillor Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (WMPTA) said: "This is a great chance to make it easier for people to use sustainable transport and do their bit to help make Walsall a cleaner and greener borough. It also helps people stay fit and healthy whilst reducing the amount of congestion on our roads."</p> <p>"We are delighted to have forged such a successful partnership with WALCAT on this project and look forward to working closely together on what will be an exciting contribution towards creating a better borough."</p> <p>One of the largest projects of its type in the West Midlands, the personalised journey planning initiative is the first in Britain for a further education institute.</p> <p>Walsall Council green travel experts have been instrumental in helping WALCAT win funding for the 12-month pilot project, which is being financed by the West Midlands Local Transport Plan.</p> <p>The project will focus on removing transport barriers for people trying to access further education. </p> <p>David Wheeler, WALCAT Deputy Principal, said: "This project is extremely important as it will enable us to identify and address individuals' transport problems.</p> "Not only will it make it easier for prospective students to get to WALCAT but it will reduce travel difficulties for existing students leaving them free to focus on their studies."  <p>Personalised journey planning encourages people to travel by sustainable transport through providing detailed journey information specific to an individual's needs. </p> <p>The project will also involve improving cycle parking at the college and setting up a car-sharing database - which could be extended to offer the service for a number of sites in Walsall town centre.</p> <p>This project dovetails with the council's vision of creating a better borough and one of the vision's key priorities is to make it easier for people to get around the borough and across the West Midlands.</p> <p>Getting around Walsall will be straight forward, with well maintained, free flowing transport and a range of imaginative means to eliminate unnecessary car journeys.</p> <p> </p>"
Walsall Council has teamed up with Centro to give students and staff the chance to get to grips with eco-friendly travel - as part of innovative project set in motion by Walsall Council and Walsall College of Arts and Technology (WALCAT).
9369
0
12
0
Rush hour congestion is plane crazy says airport
2004-09-20T00:00:00
2004-09-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses in the West Midlands are praising Birmingham International Airport for launching a new congestion-busting scheme – which could take more than 10,000 journeys off the roads each year.</p> <p>The airport company is offering to pay 25 per cent towards bus, tram and train season tickets to encourage its staff to use public transport.</p> <p>Stephen Holt, Birmingham Airport's Ground Transportation Planning Manager said, "This initiative is an important part of our Surface Access Strategy and is another step towards our aim to increase the number of employees and passengers travelling to the Airport by public transport. Combined with the Airport's brand new bus and coach terminus adjacent to the terminals, this initiative will make travelling to and from the Airport by public transport even more attractive." </p> <p>Almost 300 West Midlands businesses have now joined Company TravelWise to help them reduce their impact on the environment by promoting more sustainable travel choices – such as walking, cycling, car-sharing and public transport.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro offers discounts on its travel pass scheme, which companies can then pass on to their employees.  Some companies, such as Birmingham International Airport, make the scheme even more attractive by adding their own subsidy as well.</p> <p>"Working with Centro, the Airport now has the most generous staff travel plan in the region.  This shows a commitment to sustainable travel that I hope other major companies can follow," says Centro business development manager Simon Trickett.</p> <p>A national survey undertaken for TravelWise Week showed West Midland companies lagging behind in providing subsidised public transport passes for their staff.</p> <p>Nearly half of workers questioned felt that bosses should help the environment by helping to pay for bus, train or tram tickets – but only one in twenty companies in the region actually do offer a travel subsidy to staff.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>"
"Transport bosses in the West Midlands are praising Birmingham International Airport for launching a new congestion-busting scheme � which could take more than 10,000 journeys off the roads each year."
9369
0
12
0
Bosses missing big savings by not promoting greener travel
2004-09-16T00:00:00
2004-09-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Birmingham companies could save more than 1000 per member of staff by persuading employees who drive to work to switch to public transport instead, it has been claimed.</p> <p>The figures have been released just ahead of TravelWise Week to show the benefits of sustainable travel.</p> <p>In an opinion poll conducted for the campaign, more than 70 per cent of people in the West Midlands said their employer provided car parking spaces for staff. At the same time, the price of a leasing a car parking space in central Birmingham has rocketed to more than 1700 per car. <sup>(1)</sup></p> <p>Using the same money to offer staff a discount on travel passes through a scheme operated by public transport promoter Centro could cost closer to 120 per person instead.</p> <p>""This shows that by thinking more about company travel plans, businesses can save serious money as well as boost their environmental credentials,"" comments Centro's TravelWise coordinator Anne Shenton. ""Travel plans can also be used as a positive tool when looking to recruit and retain staff, in those areas where car parking is not readily available,"" she adds.</p> <p>The TravelWise survey showed people in the West Midlands firmly believe employers should be taking a lead in changing travel habits of their workforce and helping to cut the congestion that costs the region more than 2bn a year. Almost half said their employer should offer discounts on travel passes, 39 per cent said there should be incentives for people not using their car and nearly a third wanted better facilities for cycling. Interestingly, less than 3 per cent of people questioned in the West Midlands said companies should reduce the number of car parking spaces.</p> <p>Environmental campaigners are offered hope by the statistic that three-quarters of those asked are prepared to change their travel habits once a fortnight. This is on top of the good news that in Birmingham's morning rush hour more people now travel on public transport than take the car. The figures for bus, train and tram passengers exceeded the number of motorists for the first time this year.</p> <p>(1) Parking space calculation: Two Birmingham companies surveyed paid 90k/pa for 70 spaces on the edge of the city and 31k for 18 spaces in the city centre equivalent to 1,285 and 1,722 per car.</p> <p><em><strong>Related stories:</strong><br /> </em><em><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17566.aspx"" target=""_self"">Region comes top for park and ride</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17599.aspx"" target=""_self"">Park and ride expansion at Hall Green</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17585.aspx"" target=""_self"">Smethwick Galton Bridge's new park and ride and interchange opens</a></em></p>"
"Birmingham companies could save more than 1000 per member of staff by persuading employees who drive to work to switch to public transport instead, it has been claimed."
9369
0
12
0
"�Give us carrots�, say rush-hour motorists"
2004-09-16T00:00:00
2004-09-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A national opinion poll conducted ahead of International Car Free Day suggests a wide-spread congestion charge will do little to alter motorists travel habits on its own.</p> <p>When asked what would change the way people travel to work, only six per cent said congestion charging like that introduced in Central London would have any influence. The figure fell to as low as four per cent in the West Midlands, where congestion is estimated to cost business more than 9million a day.</p> <p>Improving public transport was highlighted as a far more important factor right across the country.</p> <p>""If we're talking about a carrot and stick approach, then we need to be offering motorists some big juicy carrots,"" comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority in the West Midlands.</p> <p>In Birmingham's morning rush-hour, more people now travel on buses, trains and trams than drive in their cars although Cllr Clarke says a great deal more investment is still needed.</p> <p>""There are some positive signs around but our buses are still not reliable enough, we need to press on with extending the Midland Metro network and on the railways we need to reverse the funding bias towards the South East,"" he says.</p> <p>The national survey conducted for the TravelWise campaign highlighted more reliable public transport (58%), subsidised passes for rail/bus/metro (41%), free park and ride (39%) and better public transport information (32%) as things that persuade people to change their travel habits.</p> <p>Centro, the public transport promoter in the West Midlands, is working on all these fronts. For example, it offers subsidised travel passes through the Company TravelWise scheme and now provides more than 5,000 free park and ride spaces which take more than two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p dir=""ltr"" align=""left""><em></em></p> <p dir=""ltr"" align=""left""></p> <p dir=""ltr"" align=""left""><em><strong>Related stories:<br /> </strong><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17576.aspx"" target=""_self"">More than half Birmingham commuters now use public transport</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17565.aspx"" target=""_self"">Centro launches a beginner's guide to beating the jams</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17566.aspx"" target=""_self"">Region comes top for park and ride</a></em></p>"
A national opinion poll conducted ahead of International Car Free Day suggests a wide-spread congestion charge will do little to alter motorists travel habits on its own. Improving public transport was highlighted as a far more important factor.
9369
congestionchargesign.jpg
0
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Former Birmingham Lord Mayor receives Midland Metro honour
2004-09-15T00:00:00
2004-09-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Distinguished Birmingham councillor, Alderman and former Lord Mayor Jim Eames will be honoured by the naming of Midland Metro tram at a ceremony on Thursday, 16 September, at Birmingham Snow Hill Midland Metro stop at 11.00am.</p> <p >Jim Eames was a Birmingham councillor for over 40 years, and held an active interest in transport. Present at the tram naming ceremony will be Jim, his sister and Lady Mayoress Georgina Wheeler, and Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority. The present Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Mike Nangle, will unveil the plaque.</p> <p >Jim, born in Shropshire in 1917, was a train driver prior to his election as councillor for Small Heath in 1949, which he represented until 1992. During this time Jim became Birmingham's first Lord Mayor following local government reorganisation in 1974, and represented transport at city and county council level. He was chair of West Midlands County Council's Passenger Transport Sub-committee in 1974-75 and played a major role in bringing in concessionary travel for senior citizens.</p> <p >Since opening five years ago Line One has achieved 99 per cent reliability and is used by more than five million passengers a year – nearly a third of them former car users. </p> <p >The tram names have been chosen by the WMPTA and local authorities, and represent key figures nominated by the districts or those instrumental in bringing Midland Metro to the West Midlands. </p> <p> </p>"
"Distinguished Birmingham councillor, Alderman and former Lord Mayor Jim Eames will be honoured by the naming of Midland Metro tram at a ceremony on Thursday, 16 September, at Birmingham Snow Hill Midland Metro stop at 11.00am."
9369
0
12
0
More spaces at Hall Green will make for fewer car journeys
2004-09-13T00:00:00
2004-09-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p >There will be more space for more cars to be taken off congested roads around Hall Green with plans announced for an expanded rail Park and Ride site.</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro plans to add a further 54 spaces to the current 56 to make for a 110-space car park for the popular station, which is on the Birmingham Snow Hill to Shirley and Stratford line. There will also be disabled spaces, CCTV, public address, fencing and a new footway from the car park to the station. The total cost will be £360,000, with final agreement to commence the project subject to approval by the PTA's Project Development and Monitoring Committee.</p> <p >The new car park will be on land adjacent to the current car park. Following completion, which is expected to be in early 2005, the site will add to over 5,000 free car park spaces already provided at rail stations throughout the region by Centro, which contribute to over two million car journeys a year being taken off West Midlands roads.</p> <p >"Hall Green is one of our busiest commuter rail stations and it is clear that demand for Park and Ride exceeds availability," said Cllr John Woodall, Chairman of the Project Development and Monitoring Committee. "These extra spaces will go some way towards meeting that need, even though it has taken a long time for us to acquire this site, and has been a complicated process to get the land. We are keen to expand the car park even though the process can occasionally be difficult."</p> <p> </p>"
There will be more space for more cars to be taken off congested roads around Hall Green with plans announced for an expanded rail Park and Ride site.
9369
0
12
0
Bearwood's new bus station gets the official seal of approval
2004-09-13T00:00:00
2004-09-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bearwood's new look bus station gets the official treatment this Tuesday, following a recent £350,000 redevelopment by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p >The bus station, which will be opened by Cllr Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, has three modern shelters, improved carriageway and paving, new CCTV cameras, and Help Points. An electronic passenger information board showing the next service and when it is due has also been installed.</p> <p >Cllr Allen said: ""Passengers at Bearwood can now wait for their bus in modern, comfortable, safe and secure surroundings. This improved bus station underlines our commitment to high-quality public transport facilities, and is just one example of many such improvements to bus facilities taking place across the West Midlands.""</p> <p >Faber Maunsell were consultants, Fitzgeralds were site contractors and Redvers Hocken Associates provided CCTV and Help Points.</p>"
"Bearwood's new look bus station gets the official treatment this Tuesday, following a recent £350,000 redevelopment by public transport promoter Centro."
9369
0
12
0
Showcase for bus users on Halesowen to Stourbridge route rides closer
2004-09-13T00:00:00
2004-09-13T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus users between Halesowen and Stourbridge are to benefit from the arrival of sleek new shelters and hi tech passenger information from public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>As part of the Bus Showcase routes along the Halesowen – Stourbridge corridor, new Timeline shelters will be installed along with Real Time Information. Spurs on the route – including a link to the 139 Bus Showcase route serving Merry Hill – will also be upgraded to make for a first class waiting environment for local people.</p> <p>In total there will 30 enclosed glass shelters, with easy access kerbing, and some will feature electronic 'real time' displays showing when the next bus is due to arrive. The £240,000 project is a partnership with Dudley MBC and there will be consultation with local people on the plans.</p> <p>Cllr John Woodall, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority's Project Development and Monitoring Committee, which will consider the proposals, said: "Bus travel is taking major steps forward in the West Midlands with all the improvements Bus Showcase is bringing. I am delighted that those using the Halesowen to Stourbridge route can now share in the modern facilities being implemented."</p> <p>The award-winning 'Bus Showcase' routes are a key part of Centro/WMPTA's commitment to high quality public transport in the West Midlands, along with bus operators and local authorities. Bus Showcase utilises the latest advances in travel technology to give passengers a range of facilities to make bus travel more comfortable and easier for everyone.</p> <p> </p>"
Bus users between Halesowen and Stourbridge are to benefit from the arrival of sleek new shelters and hi tech passenger information from public transport promoter Centro.
9369
0
12
0
"New ticket gives all day travel on virtually any bus, anywhere"
2004-09-10T00:00:00
2004-09-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Bus travel in the West Midlands is about to become a whole lot easier with the introduction of a new one day ticket that gives travel on almost every bus right across the metropolitan area for just 3.</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro has worked with major bus companies in a move to make using public transport easier and more attractive.</p> <p >The new <strong>One Day Busmaster</strong> ticket can be bought from the driver of most buses and is valid with 25 different operators across the West Midlands.</p> <p >""This new ticket is a further excellent example of how bus operators and Centro can work in partnership to present passengers with a more integrated network. It will complement the range of individual bus tickets that are already available from bus companies. New tickets such this enhance the potential options available to passengers and we all benefit as a result,"" comments Richard Rampton, co-ordinator of the Bus Operators Panel.</p> <p >Integrated ticketing is a key plank of Centro's policy to keep the West Midlands moving by persuading more people on to public transport and cutting congestion.</p> <p >""Making sure that passengers are offered attractive and affordable ticketing is key to growing the market for bus travel,"" comments Centro services director Robert Smith. ""Four out of ten bus journeys involve two or more separate trips, so making it easier to hop off one bus and on to another service is crucial. I am sure passengers will quickly see the benefit of this new multi-operator ticket.""</p> <p >The One Day Busmaster goes on sale <strong>from</strong> <strong>Sunday 12 September</strong> and costs 3 per adult or 2 for children.</p> <p ><em><strong>Related news release:</strong><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17608.aspx"" target=""_self"">Landmark ticket deal welcomed</a></em></p>"
Bus travel in the West Midlands is about to become a whole lot easier with the introduction of a new one day ticket that gives travel on almost every bus right across the metropolitan area for just 3.
9369
0
12
0
Bus Gate opens the way to better bus services for Star City and Nechells
2004-09-10T00:00:00
2004-09-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bus users in Nechells will soon see the way opened to better bus services with a new 'Bus Gate' proposed for the area by public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p>The £177,000 Bus Gate is a one-way route from Birmingham city centre to Nechells and Star City and will enable the 66 and 66A services to take a more direct route to their destination, enabling more people to use public transport and easing congestion in the area. The 66 runs from Ladywood to Erdington and the 66A from Ladywood to Sutton Coldfield, with buses every 12 minutes at peak times and half hourly off peak.</p> <p>Under the Bus Gate proposals, there would be a saving of half a mile per journey and controlled traffic signals to help make the service quicker and more direct.</p> <p>The Star City Park and Ride will be unaffected by the Bus Gate, as the service uses a different route to the 66/66A. Star City and Birmingham City Council are partners on the scheme, which is expected to be completed during 2005.</p> <p>Cllr John Woodall, Chairman of the Project Development and Monitoring Committee on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, said: "Getting to and from Star City as directly and efficiently as possible by bus is very important and these innovative Bus Gate proposals will go some way to doing this. People who live in the Nechells area will also be strongly attracted by the benefits of the planned changes."</p> <p> </p>"
Bus users in Nechells will soon see the way opened to better bus services with a new 'Bus Gate' proposed for the area by public transport promoter Centro.
9369
0
12
0
Halesowen Bus Station plans get local support
2004-09-10T00:00:00
2004-09-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The redevelopment of Halesowen Bus Station has moved a step closer with local people coming out in favour of a £2 million revamp.</p> <p>An opportunity has arisen for public transport promoter Centro and Dudley MBC to upgrade the bus station, which would complement plans to improve the adjacent Cornbow Shopping Centre. Plans for the new look bus station were on display in Halesowen Library during the summer, and over 400 visitors have seen the displays and plans and given their feedback, which has been taken on board.</p> <p>Many of those who commented praised the proposals for toilets, a travel information centre, seating and passenger information, and also the pedestrian safety aspects. The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority's Project Development and Monitoring Committee will consider further the proposals at its meeting on Monday, 20 September.</p> <p>Work on the scheme is planned to take place between late 2005 and late 2006. A pensioners' drop in centre will be moved to allow Queensway to be realigned and free up space for the new bus station. Detailed plans will be unveiled next year.</p> <p>Cllr John Woodall, Chairman of the PTA's Project Development and Monitoring Committee, said: "This is great news for the people of Halesowen and I am delighted that local people have shown such strong support for the proposals. I look forward seeing the benefits of this impressive regeneration scheme and a bus station that passengers will be proud of."</p> <p> </p>"
The redevelopment of Halesowen Bus Station has moved a step closer with local people coming out in favour of a £2 million revamp.
9369
0
12
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Bus users benefit from brand new Brandhall interchange
2004-09-07T00:00:00
2004-09-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>The scheme includes a £47,000 contribution from Centro, towards the shelters and highways works for the new road.</p> <p>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."</p> <p>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."</p>"
"Councillors Gary Clarke and 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."
9369
0
12
0
Be a culture vulture and swoop for Centro's ArtsFest rail offer
2004-09-07T00:00:00
2004-09-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p align=""left"">ArtsFest, the UK's biggest free arts festival is back in Birmingham during September - and a special rail travel offer from public transport promoter Centro is set to help people make the most of the cultural experience.</p> <p align=""left"">On both days of ArtsFest - September 11 and 12 - return rail fares from any station in the Centro area to stations in the centre of Birmingham will cost £1.50 for adults and 75p for children. The fares offer is available on services from any of the region's rail operators.</p> <p align=""left"">The latest in theatre, comedy, music, dance and drama will be on show at 18 venues across the city during ArtsFest, now in its seventh year. ArtsFest offers the chance to see and do things you may have never thought to try such as ballet at BullRing or choirs in the pub and children can enjoy a range of hands on workshops.  Everything is free to attend, and the wide variety of activities makes this event ideal for all ages.   </p> <p align=""left"">Julia Lameris, Centro Marketing Manager, said: ""ArtsFest is a great weekend with plenty on for all ages, and Centro's rail offer allows for it to be enjoyed without the expensive hassle of parking.""</p> <p align=""left"">More information and a free copy of the ArtsFest brochure listing all the events is available by calling 0121 248 1300 or by visiting <a href=""http://www.artsfest.org.uk/"" target=""_blank"">www.artsfest.org.uk</a>. Train times are available from the Centro Hotline on 0121 200 2700 or from <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/Rail%20Network/trains/times2.asp"" target=""_blank"">www.centro.org.uk</a>.</p> <p> </p>"
"ArtsFest, the UK's biggest free arts festival is back in Birmingham during September - and a special rail travel offer from public transport promoter Centro is set to help people make the most of the cultural experience."
9369
0
12
0
Rail industry fails to address concerns over cuts in NEC and Airport services
2004-09-02T00:00:00
2004-09-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A regional public transport watchdog says it has had a disappointing response from the rail industry in an attempt to reverse cuts in services on the West Midlands busiest route.</p> <p >It now seems certain that passengers will be left with fewer and more overcrowded trains on the line between Birmingham New Street, Birmingham International and Coventry from the end of this month.</p> <p >Following a summit meeting called by the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, the rail industry had been given a week to suggest ways of plugging gaps in the critical service to the Airport and NEC. In a joint response Network Rail, the Strategic Rail Authority and train operating companies have proposed one extra relief train to be on stand-by for off-peak services on Monday to Friday, although this would not be shown in the regular timetable. They are also hoping to reschedule a few other services to create a gap for two extra passenger services on Saturday afternoon.</p> <p >""These are small gains, but they do nothing to address the major problem of big gaps in the service,"" comments PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke. ""We are still left with the situation where the turn-up-and-go service linking Birmingham with the Airport, NEC and Coventry will effectively disappear.""</p> <p >""At the meeting we called, the rail industry was left in no doubt about the strength of opinion and we presented some forceful arguments on behalf of the travelling public. We will now need to keep up that pressure to work for a longer term solution if the West Coast Main Line works are to live up to the claim of delivering a better railway.""</p> <p >Cllr Clarke blamed poor planning by the rail industry which has led to the current crisis. It is understood there had been an assurance from Network Rail that postponing the construction of a new crossover at Birmingham International would not hold up the introduction of the heralded new weekday timetable. The works had been rescheduled during an exercise to control costs on the 7.6billion project.</p> <p >Network Rail then decided it would be too risky to introduce the new timetable after all, forcing train operators into a hasty re-write. Centro, the regional body which coordinates public transport and represents local interests then raised serious concerns about reductions in service and alerted councillors on its policy-setting body, the PTA.</p> <p >Centro points to gaps in the now-proposed timetable with the axing of one airport train per hour on Monday to Friday and the loss of thousands of seats on Saturdays.</p> <p >The changes mean that on weekdays there will be three departures from New Street in six minutes, followed by a 24 minute gap. On Saturdays there are two big gaps every hour, along with a 40 per cent reduction in the number of seats. In reality the capacity reduction will be even more severe for much of the day, as one of the two Virgin services per hour starts back in Manchester so it will already be carrying London-bound passengers and could be crowded by the time it reaches Birmingham, where more people would want to get on.</p> <p >Centro fears the overcrowding could lead to platform closures at New Street and staff trying to persuade angry passengers to get off overloaded trains before services can run causing even more delays.</p> <p >Installing new points at Birmingham International is not now expected to start until next summer, meaning the promised improved service on weekdays will not be able to operate before the December 2005 timetable change. Following the PTA/Centro 'summit' the industry has taken another look at the plans but Network Rail says an earlier start date is ""not achievable given the current state of progress"".</p> <p >On Saturdays, the line between Birmingham and Coventry is busy with diverted long-distance services which have been diverted because of long-term engineering works elsewhere on the network. This has taken away ""paths"" that could have been allocated to trains serving the Airport/NEC and could remain a problem until 2008 when the Rugby to Stafford main line upgrade work is completed.</p> <p >""In the meantime, we fear the timetable is just not going to work,"" says Cllr Clarke. ""The West Coast upgrade was supposed to be leading to more trains between Birmingham and the NEC/Airport, not fewer. After building up a high-frequency service which is a valuable asset to the regional economy, all that progress could be lost and the railway will lose passengers with it.""</p> <p >""It seems that our pressure has at least created a more active dialogue between the various rail industry bodies we just have to persuade them to turn talks into action,"" he adds.</p> <p >He said Centro and the PTA would be keeping a very close eye on the situation, with constant monitoring of performance once the new timetable takes effect. There is constant dialogue with the rail industry, but he would call another special meeting if that became necessary.</p> <p>""We do appreciate the hard work that has been put in by Central Trains to help try and solve these problems on our behalf and are disappointed that their proposed solutions have, to date, not been accepted by Network Rail,"" he adds.</p> <p><strong>Previous related release:</strong> Summit hopes to get NEC and Airport rail services back on track<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17586.aspx"" target=""_self""><em>view this</em></a></p>"
A regional public transport watchdog says it has had a disappointing response from the rail industry in an attempt to reverse cuts in services on the West Midlands busiest route.
9369
0
12
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Bus fare increase �won't cost the taxpayer�
2004-08-31T00:00:00
2004-08-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An increase in fares will not lead to an increase in the subsidy paid to the region's biggest bus company – because it is claimed fewer people are catching the bus.</p> <p >Councillors raised concerns after the price rises announced by Travel West Midlands that they would have to pay out more taxpayers money to subsidise concessionary fares.</p> <p >The Passenger Transport Authority, which runs the region's generous bus pass scheme for senior citizens, pays bus operators for the cost of concessionary travel.  There had been fears that the increase from 40p to 70p for the shortest trips would lead to a bigger bill at the end of the year.</p> <p >But a report to councillors says the fare increase "appears to have been a factor in reducing the total number of journeys being undertaken by 60-64 and disabled half fare permit holders and children".</p> <p >At peak times, bus companies receive a subsidy from Centro for allowing children to travel at half fare.  Information reported to councillors suggests that fewer short journeys are now being made and it is suggested that this is partly due to the fares increase.</p> <p>More than 83 per cent of bus services in the Centro area are operated by Travel West Midlands, which is part of the National Express group.</p>"
An increase in fares will not lead to an increase in the subsidy paid to the region's biggest bus company � because it is claimed fewer people are catching the bus.
9369
0
12
0
Trains boss to be questioned on performance
2004-08-27T00:00:00
2004-08-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p >One of the region's top train company bosses will face questions from councillors at a committee meeting of the Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >Nigel Pennington, a director of Central Trains, has been invited to discuss the performance of local commuter services his company runs for the public transport body Centro.</p> <p >A report by Centro to councillors says there has been mixed punctuality and reliability results with particular problems on the Snow Hill lines.   It does, however, welcome an improvement in train and station cleanliness and a clampdown on the number of people travelling without tickets.</p> <p >""We receive regular reports to make sure passengers are getting the best deal and so we appreciate Central Trains appearing before us to answer questions,"" explains committee chair Cllr Gurcharan Sidhu.</p> <p >He said one issue causing particular concern was the increase in overcrowding.</p> <p >""There seem to have been problems affecting the rolling stock, so we look forward to hearing more from Mr Pennington about the background to this - and potential solutions,"" adds Cllr Sidhu.   ""As the demand for rail travel in the West Midlands continues to increase, we have to make sure we have the capacity to carry a growing number of passengers.""</p> <p >Centro's report says the number of trains with insufficient seats had been falling steadily, but has risen sharply again and is now considerably higher than the same period last year.  Centro agrees a minimum standard with the train operator and whenever the company fails to perform it receives a fine.  In the past three months Central Trains, part of the National Express Group, has been fined almost £100,000 for running overcrowded trains.</p> <p >The PTA's Integrated Passenger Services Committee meets on Monday 6 September.</p>"
One of the region's top train company bosses will face questions from councillors at a committee meeting of the Passenger Transport Authority.
9369
0
12
0
Another year of growth for the Midland Metro
2004-08-26T00:00:00
2004-08-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>More people are using the Midland Metro according to Government statistics released today.</p> <p >It is the third year in a row that passenger figures have increased and the Department for Transport also reports that growth in the West Midlands is above the national average for light rail systems.</p> <p >The Government's statistical report follows news that more Birmingham commuters now use public transport than travel by car. Bus, train and tram passengers have exceeded the number of motorists in the morning rush hour for the first time.<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17576.aspx"" target=""_self""><em>(view news release)</em></a></p> <p >The number of Midland Metro passengers arriving at Snow Hill from Wolverhampton and West Bromwich each rush hour showed the most significant increase. It rose by nearly 30 per cent to more than 1200 passengersevery morning.</p> <p >In total, the Department for Transport recorded more than 200,000 extra journeys on the Midland Metro taking the annual total to 5.1 million. The five 'new generation' tram systems in the UK now carry more than 56 million passengers a year between them.</p> <p >""People are clearly attracted to the Midland Metro as a modern and reliable public transport system,"" says Cllr Roger Horton, Metro spokesperson on the region's Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p >He said the tram service regularly operated at more than 98 per cent reliability.</p> <p >""The Metro now makes an important contribution to cutting congestion in the West Midlands,"" adds Cllr Horton. ""Many of the passengers are former car users and the main park and ride sites are full to bursting on most days.""</p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro calculates that its free park and ride facilities on the Midland Metro now take more than 180,000 car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p>"
More people are using the Midland Metro according to Government statistics released today.
9369
0
12
0
Holiday savings if you leave the car behind
2004-08-24T00:00:00
2004-08-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Public transport bosses have hit back at claims by the RAC that travelling by train is too expensive for a family day out.</p> <p >Centro, the body that promotes public transport in the West Midlands, says the motoring organisation's claims don't apply in its area.</p> <p >"Using the same figures as the RAC, we can actually show a saving of around £15 per family if you travel by train," comments Centro spokesperson Mik Barton.</p> <p >The RAC survey is typically set in the South East and based on Tube and train travel for a family of four.  It claims a 30-mile trip to Thorpe Park would cost £11.52 by car and £22.70 by train.</p> <p >In the West Midlands however, Centro works with train operators and family attractions to offer what is effectively free rail travel to a number of leisure destinations – such as Cadbury World, the National SeaLife Centre, Warwick Castle, Black Country Living Museum and Severn Valley Railway.</p> <p >"If we move the RAC test family, Mr and Mrs Maydup and their two kids, to Acocks Green in Birmingham you can see why they'd be tempted to leave the car at home for a day out at the Black Country Living Museum.  Our Centro All-in-One ticket can save them £3.40 on the admission price and £11.13 on motoring costs," explains Mik Barton.</p> <p >The same family heading for the Severn Valley Railway for a day out could save more than £18 on motoring costs, he added.</p> <p >Passengers should ask for an <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/wwwroot/Marketing/Summer%20AllinOne.html"" target=""_blank"">All-in-One ticket</a> at any staffed station in the Centro area.  The discounted price includes return rail travel plus admission to the chosen attraction.</p> <p> </p>"
Public transport bosses have hit back at claims by the RAC that travelling by train is too expensive for a family day out.
9369
blackclm.jpg
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Upgrading Walsall bus routes
2004-08-23T00:00:00
2004-08-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A £300,000 project to improve key bus routes in Walsall gets underway this month.</p> <p>It will mean better stops, shelters and buses on routes from the town to Wolverhampton and Stourbridge – and is part of the West Midlands bus showcase programme.</p> <p>PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke welcomed the start of the works being carried out jointly by public transport promoter Centro and Walsall Council.</p> <p>Councillor Clarke said: "These improvements will give a big boost to bus passengers in Walsall and should encourage many more people to travel by public transport.<br /> <br /> "Bus Showcase routes are a key part of Centro and WMPTA's commitment to high-quality public transport in the West Midlands. This latest project marks a valuable partnership between Walsall Council, Centro and Travel West Midlands."<br /> <br /> Work starts on Monday 23 August 2004 to upgrade bus stops on the 529 Walsall – Wolverhampton and 311 Walsall – Stourbridge routes.  The council is installing new kerbs, Centro is putting in new shelters and bus operator Travel West Midlands is also providing low-floor vehicles to run along the routes.<br /> <br /> Councillor Marco Longhi, Walsall cabinet member for environment and transport said: "I am delighted work is getting underway to provide greatly enhanced facilities that will encourage people to use public transport – thus helping to cut congestion on Walsall's roads."<br /> <br /> He said the 15-week project, which should be completed with minimal disruption to road users.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <!-- #EndEditable -->"
"Work begins on a £300,000 project to improve facilities for travellers on two key Walsall bus routes - joint project between Walsall Council, Centro and bus company Travel West Midlands."
9369
0
12
0
Summit hopes to get NEC and Airport rail services back on track
2004-08-20T00:00:00
2004-08-20T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail industry bosses felt the strength of local opinion against threatened cuts at a summit meeting called by a West Midlands public transport watchdog.</p> <p >Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which called today's meeting said the industry had been given a week to come back with proposals to avoid some of the cuts in rail services on the Birmingham to Coventry line. <em><strong>(see update below)</strong></em></p> <p >""They were left in no doubt about the strength of opinion and we presented some forceful arguments on behalf of the West Midlands travelling public,"" he announced as he left the meeting at Centro House.</p> <p >He said it was a very constructive meeting and hoped that the Strategic Rail Authority, Network Rail and the two train operating companies could still find a way forward between them.</p> <p >""We have asked them to come back with proposals for both Monday to Friday where passengers faced a cut of one train an hour and the Saturday service where the planned timetable meant 7000 fewer seats,"" he added.</p> <p >The West Midlands PTA is the policy-setting body for Centro which had raised major concerns over the revised timetable to take effect at the end of next month between New Street, Birmingham International and Coventry.</p> <p >Centro had been assured that heralded new services as a result of the West Coast Main Line improvement works could start to be implemented but postponement of some of the works and late changes to the timetable threaten to create big gaps in the service to the NEC and Birmingham International Airport.</p> <p >The public transport promoter warned of seriously overcrowded trains and platforms on what is the region's busiest rail route.</p> <p >""We were facing a situation where the turn-up-and-go service to Birmingham International would effectively disappear,"" commented Cllr Gary Clarke. ""Unless the rail industry can find a way forward, people used to a high-frequency service to the Airport will have to start checking timetables to make sure they can catch their flight. The service will struggle to cope with demand, especially when there are large events on at the NEC. That is why we stepped in today to try and broker a deal,"" he added.</p> <p ><strong>Update: Friday evening 27 August</strong></p> <p ><em>A joint response from the rail industry was received at Centro this evening, which includes some proposals for improving train services between Birmingham New Street, International and Coventry. This will now be considered immediately after the Bank Holiday, with the likelihood that councillors will meet on Thursday to decide on a PTA response.</em></p> <p ><em><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17584.aspx"" target=""_self"">Previous release: summit called</a></em></p>"
"Rail industry bosses felt the strength of local opinion against threatened cuts at a summit meeting called by a West Midlands public transport watchdog. Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the Passenger Transport Authority, which called today's meeting said the industry had been given a week to come back with proposals to avoid some of the cuts in rail services on the Birmingham to Coventry line."
9369
0
12
0
Smethwick Galton Bridge's new park and ride and interchange opens
2004-08-19T00:00:00
2004-08-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p >There's more reason to get the train from Smethwick Galton Bridge station as the new Park and Ride facility andbus/ railinterchange improvements from public transport promoter Centro officially opens on Thursday, 26 August.</p> <p >The opening of the 550,000 scheme will be performed by Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, and Cllr Roger Horton, the PTA's lead member for Sandwell and Rail matters.</p> <p >The new Galton Bridge Park and Ride facility has 77 spaces, five of which are for disabled users, with CCTV, public address, and help points all linked to Birmingham's Network Safety and Security Control Centre. The car park also features high security lighting andinformation boards indicating the pedestrian route to the station.</p> <p >In addition, adjacent to the station building, there are two new bus shelters with easy access kerbing, and shortly, an information point together with art feature and artistically designed benches will be installed.</p> <p >Cllr Horton said: ""Galton Bridge has always been a well used interchange station, serving rail lines into Birmingham, and in the other direction to Stourbridge and Wolverhampton. Now you can park and ride from Galton Bridge as well, and along with the improved bus and rail interchange this is all fantastic news for people in Smethwick, Sandwell and the larger area.""</p> <p >Smethwick Galton Bridge serves both the Jewellery Line connecting the Stourbridge, Solihull and Shirley lines through Birmingham Snow Hill, and the Coventry to Wolverhampton line via New Street.</p> <p><em><strong>Related news release:</strong><a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17583.aspx"" target=""_self"">Park up and smell the coffee</a><br /> Promotion at the Star City bus-based park and ride</em></p>"
There's more reason to get the train from Smethwick Galton Bridge station as the new Park and Ride facility and bus / rail interchange improvements from public transport promoter Centro officially opens
9369
0
12
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Public transport boss calls for urgent summit as NEC and Airport rail service faces cuts
2004-08-18T00:00:00
2004-08-18T00:00:00
9369
"<p ></p> <p >Centro, the body that promotes public transport use in the West Midlands, has raised major concerns over the revised timetable to take effect next month between New Street, Birmingham International and Coventry.</p> <p >""Under the proposed new timetable, the turn-up-and-go service to Birmingham International will effectively disappear and this could lead to serious overcrowding on platforms and trains,"" comments Cllr Gary Clarke, new chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA).</p> <p >Now the PTA - the policy-setting body for Centro - has called railway chiefs to an urgent summit. Cllr Clarke says he hopes Friday's meeting will enable the rail industry to work together on a solution.</p> <p >""As things stand, the service will struggle to cope with demand, especially when there are large events on at the NEC. People used to a high-frequency service to the Airport will have to start checking timetables to make sure they can catch their flight. This can only be described as a backward step,"" he says.</p> <p >Centro had been assured that heralded new services as a result of the West Coast Main Line improvement works could start to be implemented but late changes to the timetable has left gaps in the Monday to Saturday service.</p> <p >""The rail industry must do all it can to resolve this very serious problem before the timetable is finally introduced at the end of next month. That is why I have called for a meeting of all the agencies involved to see what can be done,"" says Cllr Clarke.</p> <p >Representatives from Network Rail, the Strategic Rail Authority, Virgin Trains West Coast and Central Trains have been called to Friday's meeting at Centro House.</p> <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17586.aspx"" target=""_self""><em>Click here for subsequent release on outcome of meeting</em></a>"
"Centro, the body that promotes public transport use in the West Midlands, has raised major concerns over the revised timetable to take effect next month between New Street, Birmingham International and Coventry. ""Under the proposed new timetable, the turn-up-and-go service to Birmingham International will effectively disappear and this could lead to serious overcrowding on platforms and trains,"" comments Cllr Gary Clarke, new chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA)."
9369
0
12
0
Park up and smell the coffee
2004-08-16T00:00:00
2004-08-16T00:00:00
9369
"Commuters using Birmingham's first bus-based park and ride service are to get an extra bonus courtesy of two of the city centre's top department stores. <p>As well as a smooth journey into work and free, secure car parking, passengers on the buses from Star City can now claim a free cup of coffee at Beatties and House of Fraser's World of Food.</p> <p>The number of people using the new park and ride facility has risen steadily since it was introduced last month. More than 1500 car journeys have been taken off the city's congested roads and motorists could already have saved some 75 each in parking charges.</p> <p>Star City park and ride, which is intended to become a permanent feature, was launched at the time of the M6 and Aston Expressway roadworks, with advance funding from Birmingham City Council and the Government's Highways Agency. As well as attracting weekday commuters, it is expected to become popular with shoppers in the Saturdays before Christmas.</p> <p>""This new park and ride has the potential to boost the accessibility of Birmingham city centre, so it is something major stores are happy to support,"" comments Kevin Breese, general manager of Beatties.</p> <p>Across the region, public transport promoter Centro now provides more than 5000 park and ride spaces which are estimated to relieve congestion by around 2 million car journeys a year.</p> <p>""Persuading more people on to public transport is the right move for a city that wants to become a more pleasant place to visit,"" adds Caroline Appleby at House of Fraser.</p> <p>The latest scheme is a joint partnership venture between Centro, Birmingham City Council, family entertainment complex Star City and the Highways Agency and operates six days a week from 7am to 7pm on weekdays and 10am to 6pm on Saturdays. There is ample free parking at Star City, close to Spaghetti Junction and just off the A47 Heartlands Parkway. From there a fleet of dedicated buses ferries commuters and shoppers to Birmingham city centre for a return fare of 2 per person which is less than the cost of most city centre car parking.</p> <p><i>Related news release: <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17568.aspx"" target=""_self"">Timely launch of new park and ride offers jam relief for M-way road works</a></i></p> "
Commuters using Birmingham's first bus-based park and ride service are to get an extra bonus courtesy of two of the city centre's top department stores.
9369
CoffeeParkRide2.JPG
0
12
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New councillors' Golden Hello for rail passengers
2004-08-12T00:00:00
2004-08-12T00:00:00
9369
"In their first move since taking office, the new political bosses of West Midlands public transport are set to agree a £2m bonus for rail passengers at stations across the region. <p> Measures to be agreed by councillors on the Passenger Transport Authority (PTA) include over a million pounds to be spent on better passenger information, plus new ticket machines at 64 stations and waiting shelters at nine. <p> Approving the bumper package for passengers will be the first formal decision of the new PTA under the leadership of Conservative chairman Gary Clarke and Labour vice-chair Paul Allen. <p> Funding for the schemes will come from the extension to the Central Trains franchise approved by the PTA and Strategic Rail Authority last year. As part of the deal, the operator agreed to invest £2m to benefit passengers in the Centro area. <p> Centro � the body that promotes public transport and represents passenger interests � wants to end delays in spending the money. <p> "By agreeing a series of proposals now, we can make sure investment can go ahead as soon as Central Trains' parent company and the Strategic Rail Authority have ticked the boxes," comments Cllr Gary Clarke. <p> First on the list are new state-of-the-art ticket vending machines to cut queues at 11 stations. The machines take cash or credit card and can sell tickets to anywhere in the country. Public address systems at the remaining 26 Centro stations without such facilities would then follow � while Snow Hill and Stourbridge Junction would get new computer-driven timetable screens. <p> "More people than ever are using trains in the West Midlands and we want to get on and help deliver improvements to the service," adds Cllr Paul Allen. <p> Stations to benefit are: <p> <U>Ticket vending machines</U>: Bournville, Longbridge, Four Oaks, Five Ways, Kings Norton, Northfield, Selly Oak, Stourbridge Junction, Sutton Coldfield, University and Walsall. <p> <u>Updated ticketing computers</u>: all 64 staffed stations in the Centro area. <p> <u>Public address systems</u>: extended to a further 26 stations to provide automated real time and local announcements. <p> <u>Waiting shelters</u>: Hampton-in-Arden, Cradley Heath, Lye, Barnt Green, Widney Manor, Four Oaks, Perry Barr, Stechford and Hamstead. <p> <u>Customer Information Systems</u>: Stourbridge Junction and Birmingham Snow Hill."
"In their first move since taking office, the new political bosses of West Midlands public transport are set to agree a £2m bonus for rail passengers at stations across the region."
9369
0
12
0
Trains and stations in the West Midlands getting cleaner
2004-08-10T00:00:00
2004-08-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Central Trains has earned a £6000 reward for the cleanliness of local trains and railway stations in the West Midlands.</p> <p >The reward comes from public transport watchdog Centro under its Station Quality Incentive Scheme (SQUIRE).� It is the first time that Central Trains has received a bonus payment since the scheme started in 1997.� Previously the company, part of the National Express Group has paid fines of more than £1 million.</p> <p >Centro, which promotes public transport and represents passenger interests sends teams of SQUIRE inspectors out throughout the West Midlands. They regularly travel on Central Trains to scrutinise railway stations checking the cleanliness of waiting rooms, booking halls and platforms as well as checking that clocks and customer information screens are working and posters are in date. Similar checks are carried out on trains including the condition of seats windows and toilets.</p> <p >Central Trains Director of West Midlands services Nigel Pennington said:� "I am delighted that we have turned over a seven year run of fines and gained a reward for improved standards on stations and trains.� This is due to the hard work of our staff in maintenance depots, on trains and at stations across the West Midlands.� We are not complacent however - we will continue to work hard to improve our performance and keep our stations and trains clean."</p>"
Central Trains has earned a £6000 reward for the cleanliness of local trains and railway stations in the West Midlands. It is the first time that the operating company has received a bonus payment since the scheme started in 1997.
9369
0
12
0
Bigger fines for fare cheats still needed
2004-08-03T00:00:00
2004-08-03T00:00:00
9369
"A Government move to increase fines for rail fare dodgers is too little, too late according to the new boss of the West Midlands passenger transport authority. <p> PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke said the proposed increase from £10 to £20 would be a move in the right direction, but he feels the penalty should be £25 or even higher to provide a real deterrent to persistent offenders. <p> "The current limit was set around fifteen years ago, so we have been calling for a review for some time. A number of dishonest individuals are cheating the West Midlands transport network out of £� million every year � and that is money that should be invested in providing a better service for the vast number of honest travellers," says Cllr Clarke. <p> The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is the policy-setting body for Centro which promotes public transport and represents passenger interests. Its area covers commuter and local rail services running more than 850 trains a day, as well as the Midland Metro. <p> "The issue of penalty fares is an important one for the West Midlands," adds Cllr Clarke. "A huge number of people, including more than one in five Birmingham commuters travel by train � and we want to see them get a fare deal." <p> <p> <p>Related item:<a href=""http://www.dft.gov.uk/pns/DisplayPN.cgi pn_id=2004_0108"" target=""_new"">Department for Transport news release</a></p> <p>Previous story:<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17532.aspx"" target=""_self"">Lobbying Alistair Darling for increased fines</a></p>"
"A Government move to increase fines for rail fare dodgers is too little, too late according to the new boss of the West Midlands passenger transport authority. PTA Chairman Cllr Gary Clarke said the proposed increase from 10 to 20 would be a move in the right direction, but he feels the penalty should be 25 or even higher to provide a real deterrent to persistent offenders."
9369
0
12
0
United front to work for better public transport
2004-07-26T00:00:00
2004-07-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Conservative and Labour councillors have reached an agreement on joint control of public transport policy in the West Midlands.</p> <p>The two major parties on the region's Passenger Transport Authority will share the positions of chair and vice-chair on the authority and its key committees.</p> <p>Cllr Gary Clarke (Conservative, Walsall-Streetly) was today elected chairman of the PTA and Cllr Paul Allen (Labour, Wolverhampton-Bushbury North) chosen as vice-chair. They described the arrangement as 'continuing to do business as usual' as they said members from different parties had built up good working relationships over a number of years.</p> <p>The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is made up of 27 councillors nominated by the seven city and metropolitan borough councils. Following the local elections in June, the balance of power has been 13 Conservative councillors, 12 Labour and two Liberal Democrats.</p> <p>"Transport should not be a political football," comments Cllr Clarke. "What we have to do is work together with Leaders of the West Midlands councils, Centro and fellow PTA members to deliver quality and reliable public transport. That is what passengers expect of us."</p> <p>Cllr Clarke said his priority as chair would be to ensure that an ambitious capital programme is delivered across the seven districts.</p> <p>The new vice-chair Cllr Allen said the cross-party working on the Passenger Transport Authority would aim to set an example of how people across the region need to pull together to get a better transport deal for the West Midlands.</p> <p>"With a number of recent announcements the Government has put transport high on the political agenda. They have opened up a number of opportunities, while laying some significant challenges in our path. That is why a united front is needed to get the West Midlands moving," adds Cllr Allen.</p>"
Conservative and Labour councillors have reached an agreement on joint control of public transport policy in the West Midlands. The two major parties on the region's Passenger Transport Authority will share the positions of chair and vice-chair on the authority and its key committees.
9369
0
12
0
Centro's all-in-one ticket offers great summer days out
2004-07-22T00:00:00
2004-07-22T00:00:00
9369
"<p >With the school holidays now in full swing, it's a perfect time to take advantage of public transport promoter Centro's all-in-one rail and admission offers to local attractions.</p> <p >Centro has teamed up with the top visitor attractions in the West Midlands - including Cadbury World, the National Sea Life Centre, the Black Country Living Museum, Severn Valley Railway, Warwick Castle, and Thinktank and IMAX at Millennium Point, - to provide savings for families  and those looking for a fun day out, by promoting travel by train as  the sensible alternative to taking the car. For example, where admission excluding travel to the National Sea Life Centre would be £8.95 for adults  or £6.95 for children, admission and rail travel combined in the Centro offer is £8.50 adults and £5.50 children (£4.00 OAPs). For all attractions the combined rail and admission price is less than admission alone providing great value for money.</p> <p >To  provide a wider choice of summer destinations  Centro has produced a 'Summer Days Out' guide.  The guide features details  of attractions, shows, events, concerts, films and sports and provides information of how to get to them using public transport. It is available from Centro travel shops, plus bus and rail stations.</p> <p >""Centro's all-in-one tickets allow big savings and remove the hassle of traffic and parking from family days out,"" said Julia Lameris, Centro's Marketing Manager. ""And all the attractions are within easy walking distance of rail stations.""</p> <p >All in one tickets are available from local staffed Centro rail stations. Details of train times can be found by calling the Centro Hotline on 0121 200 2700 (02476 559559 in Coventry) or by visiting the web site at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/"">www.centro.org.uk</a></p> <p> </p>"
"With the school holidays now in full swing, it's a perfect time to take advantage of public transport promoter Centro's all-in-one rail and admission offers to local attractions."
9369
0
12
0
A time of opportunity for public transport
2004-07-20T00:00:00
2004-07-20T00:00:00
9369
"The Government's White Paper goes a long way in recognising the role of public transport in getting people and goods on the move in our major cities and making them more pleasant places to live � according to transport bosses in the West Midlands. <p> Alistair Darling's statement in the Commons comes hot on the heels of survey results showing that bus, train and Metro passengers now outnumber car commuters in Birmingham's morning rush hour. <p> "Today's announcement looks to be opening up a number of opportunities that will help us deliver real benefits to passengers and provide the West Midlands with an efficient and more integrated transport system," comments Centro director general Rob Donald. <p> He particularly welcomed Alistair Darling's comments that local decisions are best taken locally � while remaining cautious that resources would be needed to allow those decisions to be implemented. <p> "We will have to wait and see how the Government allocates funding to the West Midlands," adds Rob Donald. "If this follows then the prospects are good for us to encourage more people on to public transport, cut congestion and improve the economic, environmental and social well-being of the region." <p> Centro, which promotes and develops public transport in the West Midlands metropolitan area, will now be analysing the White Paper in detail and discussing proposals with local councils and the Department for Transport. A report will then follow to the policy setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority. Initial responses are as follows� <p> <strong>Bus</strong> <p> o Centro welcomes the reduction in the timescale for introducing bus quality contracts and the encouragement of quality contracts in particular circumstances This could provide a better, seamless public transport network that passengers want. <p> o The Secretary of State stresses the importance of bus priority measures and encourages local highway authorities to help increase bus use. Alistair Darling's comment that local highway authorities should work with their Passenger Transport Authority to deliver the bus strategy is a welcome one. <p> <strong>Midland Metro</strong> <p> o Centro is in agreement with the Secretary of State's view on the need for better procurement regimes to make light rail more affordable and that is precisely what is already happening in the West Midlands, where a major expansion of the Midland Metro tram network has been approved. <p> o The link made in the Commons statement between promoting light rail and bus franchising is very welcome as it would allow for a truly integrated transport system. That is what the passenger wants and what the National Audit Office recommends. Alistair Darling also pointed out how an ability to give local authorities the ability to take decisions about public transport in the round will reduce some of the revenue risk on light rail schemes. <p> <strong>Road pricing</strong> <p> o The Secretary of State makes a clear link between funding innovative public transport solutions and the introduction of congestion charging in cities. It has always been the view in the West Midlands that significant charging for motorists could only win public support if it followed massive investment in public transport alternatives. <p> <p><i>PTEG also issued a news release in response. Read it   <a href=""http://www.pteg.net/assets/transport-plan.pdf"" target=""_new"">here</a></i></p>"
The Government's White Paper goes a long way in recognising the role of public transport in getting people and goods on the move in our major cities and making them more pleasant places to live � according to transport bosses in the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
More than half Birmingham commuters now use public transport
2004-07-19T00:00:00
2004-07-19T00:00:00
9369
" <strong>New transport statistics released for Birmingham's morning rush hour show commuters in their cars are now outnumbered by bus, train and Metro passengers.</strong> <p>The figures showing public transport more attractive than the private car mean targets set for 2006 have been achieved three years ahead of schedule.</p> <p>Centro and Birmingham City Council run the survey every two years to monitor performance against the Local Transport Plan submitted to Government as a basis for funding. Passenger counts are carried out for bus, train and Metro services, while automatic traffic counters are placed across roads around the city.</p> <p>An average of 44,119 vehicles were measured heading for the city centre during the morning peak. But this was surpassed by 50,529 bus, train and tram passengers making public transport the dominant mode for the first time.</p> <p>The number of Midland Metro passengers arriving at Snow Hill from Wolverhampton and West Bromwich showed a relatively small, but the most significant increase. It rose by nearly 30 per cent to more than 1200 passengers a day.</p> <p>West Midlands transport bosses are particularly buoyed by the increase in rail patronage to the level where more than one in five Birmingham commuters now uses the train. The results take on particular significance coming ahead of any changes to emerge from the Government's Rail Review.</p> <p>The cordon counts take place around nine major centres in the region every two years to determine the importance of public transport for commuter, shopping and leisure trips. Counts are taking place this year in Merry Hill, Walsall, West Bromwich and Dudley. Results have just been released for last year's surveys in Birmingham, Walsall, Solihull, Brierley Hill and Coventry.</p> <p>In Birmingham, the proportion of public transport users rose by four per cent from 2001 (49% to 53%) above the target of 48% for 2006. Walsall had a three per cent rise (30% to 33%, against a 31 % target) whilst Solihull has seen an increase of two per cent (17% to 19%) though short of its 21% target this figure is expected to be reached in the next two years.</p> <p>Brierley Hill and Coventry experienced small falls (one per cent and two per cent respectively).</p> <p>The total number of rush hour trips in Birmingham has seen a decline since 1999 of 11,000 commuters. But while the number of car trips fell by 20 per cent, public transport passengers fared much better. A 2.6 per cent reduction in bus passengers was compensated for by increases in the number of rail and Metro passengers.</p> <p>""This is good news and shows that public transport can be an attractive and effective alternative to private cars once tried,"" said Robert Smith, Centro Services Director. ""I look forward to seeing more targets reached and exceeded in the next few years.""</p> <p>The change in modal spilt is likely to have been encouraged by the increaing number of successful park and ride schemes in the region. Centro now provides over 5,000 free car parking spaces alongside rail and Metro stations - which are estimated to take more than two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p>"
"New transport statistics released for Birmingham's morning rush hour show commuters in their cars are now outnumbered by bus, train and Metro passengers."
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0
12
0
Metro link in new hospital plan
2004-07-16T00:00:00
2004-07-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new Midland Metro link vastly improving access to Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital is being planned to complement £300m development plans revealed earlier this week.</p> <p>Patients, visitors and staff will benefit from trams every few minutes running to Wolverhampton city centre, Wednesfield, Willenhall and Walsall – where the new line would also serve Manor Hospital.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro is working with the hospital authorities and city council on the details before a revised planning application is submitted.</p> <p>"We intend to come up with a scheme that delivers the greatest benefits for the hospital and for the Metro network," says Centro spokesperson Mik Barton.  "We need to plan carefully around the location of the new buildings and sensitive equipment – taking the new Metro line right into the hospital grounds.  The end result would then be a modern transport link between the city centre, suburbs and two important medical facilities."</p> <p>If the ambitious proposals get the go-ahead, babies born at the new maternity wing could be making their first ever journey on a Midland Metro tram.</p> <p>The hospital project was outlined to the city council's health scrutiny panel by New Cross's deputy projects director Gary Penn.  He said that the scheme would be closely linked to providing a greater volume of health care closer to patients' homes in the form of three new ""walk-in hospitals"" based away from the city centre.</p> <p>Making sure medical facilities have good public transport links is an important part of the plan, according to Centro.</p> <p>The Midland Metro route serving New Cross and Manor Hospitals is one of a number of lines being considered for future expansion of the network that were approved by the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority and local councils earlier this year.  Further work on the alignment is now underway ahead of a submission to Government, local consultation and a public inquiry.</p>"
A new Midland Metro link vastly improving access to Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital is being planned to complement £300m development plans revealed earlier this week.
9369
0
12
0
Tram historian remembered in Metro naming ceremony
2004-07-15T00:00:00
2004-07-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p >One of the region's most renowned authorities on trams is to be honoured at a Midland Metro tram naming ceremony (on Saturday 17 July).</p> <p >Walsall-born John Stanley Webb wrote many national and internationally published books on tramways around the world, including 'A History of the Black Country Tramways'. Born in 1920, his interest in trams started at an early age as he rode them to and from school. He worked for family firm James Webb and Sons in Bloxwich from 1935 to his retirement in 1986, by which time he had risen to Managing Director. He died in 2002.</p> <p >The tram naming ceremony, at Birmingham Snow Hill Metro platform, will be at 11.00am. Present will be Tony Depledge, President of the Light Rail Transit Association, Cllr Judith Rowley of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, Stanley's cousin, Raymond Petty and niece, Susan Hird.</p> <p >This is the seventh Midland Metro tram to be named, the most recent being named in honour of the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust. The others are named after Walsall healthcare pioneer Sister Dora; the late Wolverhampton councillor and PTA Vice Chair, Alan Garner; former Lord Mayor of Birmingham Theresa Stewart; and the late West Bromwich Albion and England football hero Jeff Astle.</p> <p >Since opening five years ago Line One has achieved 99 per cent reliability and is used by more than five million passengers a year – nearly a third of them former car users. </p> <p >The tram names have been chosen by the WMPTA and local authorities, and represent key figures nominated by the districts or those instrumental in bringing Midland Metro to the West Midlands. </p>"
One of the region's most renowned authorities on trams is to be honoured at a Midland Metro tram naming ceremony
9369
0
12
0
"West Midlands passengers should welcome the rail review � while we check the small print, says Centro"
2004-07-15T00:00:00
2004-07-15T00:00:00
9369
"<html xmlns:o=""urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office"" xmlns:w=""urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word"" xmlns=""http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40""> <head> <meta http-equiv=Content-Type content=""text/html; charset=windows-1252""> <meta name=ProgId content=Word.Document> <meta name=Generator content=""Microsoft Word 9""> <meta name=Originator content=""Microsoft Word 9""> <link rel=File-List href=""./092-07%20response%20to%20rail%20review_files/filelist.xml""> <link rel=Preview href=""./092-07%20response%20to%20rail%20review_files/preview.wmf""> <title>News Release</title> <!--[if gte mso 9]> MikBarton News Release layout MikBarton 2 375 2004-07-15T15:31:00Z 2004-08-10T11:52:00Z 2004-08-10T11:52:00Z 1 491 2802 Centro 23 5 3441 9.6926 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> 75 <![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""""; margin:0cm; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:""Times New Roman""; 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font-size:12.0pt; font-family:""Times New Roman""; mso-fareast-font-family:""Times New Roman"";} p.MsoBodyText, li.MsoBodyText, div.MsoBodyText {margin:0cm; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:""Times New Roman"";} p.MsoBodyText2, li.MsoBodyText2, div.MsoBodyText2 {margin-top:0cm; margin-right:0cm; margin-bottom:9.0pt; margin-left:0cm; line-height:14.0pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; tab-stops:right 450.0pt; font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:""Times New Roman"";} @page Section1 {size:595.3pt 841.9pt; margin:102.05pt 65.2pt 3.0cm 70.9pt; mso-header-margin:35.45pt; mso-footer-margin:35.45pt; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> </head> <body > <div > <p >Transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed the devolution of some rail powers,� announced by the Government today, as potential good news for passengers although some critical funding issues still needed to be clarified.</p> <p >The key objectives of controlling costs, living within the funding available and improving the railway's operation performance would all be better served by the new structure, they said.</p> <p ><i>Secretary of State Alistair Darling identified Passenger Transport Executives as the bodies to be given a bigger say in running the railways in major conurbations.� The largest of the existing six PTEs is Centro in the West Midlands.</i></p> <p >Despite major capacity problems at the heart of the national network, rail patronage in the West Midlands is growing fastest than anywhere else � even London.� Around one in five Birmingham commuters now use the train for their daily journey to and from work.</p> <p >"What is particularly significant is that half of these commuters have the choice of a car, but they leave it behind," comments Centro director general Rob Donald.� "Rail is already making a massive contribution to reducing traffic congestion as well as other regional economic and environmental priorities."</p> <p >Centro, the body charged with promoting public transport in the West Midlands metropolitan area, provides a growing network of rail park and ride sites that now claim to take more than two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.� It has been instrumental in developing 'turn up and go' frequencies on a growing number of local services and key routes in and out of Birmingham now have trains every ten minutes.</p> <p >"We wholeheartedly agree with the Secretary of State's comments that local transport decisions are best taken by people who know what's needed locally," says Rob Donald.� "But we will want to see that the interests of rail users in the West Midlands are protected and need to see what level of service DfT specifies before we know for certain whether passengers should be celebrating."</p> <p >The Transport Secretary today announced that in England, Passenger Transport Authorities will have a right to vary services and fares, and will be given more flexibility to switch funding between rail and other transport modes.� He would delegate fuller financial responsibility at a later date.</p> <p >Rob Donald said Centro would be working with the Department for Transport in the coming months on implementing the new regime and there was a lot of discussion still to be had.� The full implications of PTEs no longer being party to rail franchises had to be absorbed and Centro would continue to press for direct management of train services in the Birmingham journey-to-work area.</p> <p >He said PTEs would be seeking greater clarity to ensure improvements for rail passengers could be adequately funded and would not depend on increasing fares.</p> <p >"It is good news that rail funding and development can be part of the Local Transport Plan.� That is a step forward we have been asking for.� But we need assurance there will be ways to invest in the already efficient rail network that exists in the West Midlands."</p> <p >"The cost of running regional rail networks has soared since privatisation.� We need to be assured we will be given sufficient resources to provide our passengers with an improving service, not a deteriorating one," adds the West Midlands transport boss. </p> </div> </body> </html>"
"Transport bosses in the West Midlands have welcomed the devolution of some rail powers, announced by the Government today, as potential good news for passengers although some critical funding issues still needed to be clarified."
9369
0
12
0
Passengers benefit as Birmingham bus route named among most lucrative in Europe
2004-07-14T00:00:00
2004-07-14T00:00:00
9369
" It is already the longest, but could the 27-mile Birmingham Outer Circle become the most valuable bus route in Europe too <p> Through a new award of advertising rights to bus shelters, the route is set to generate millions of pounds for public transport promoter Centro to spend on passengers. <p> Centro boss Rob Donald and Stevie Spring, chief executive of outdoor media company Adshel, today signed the deal � described as one of the advertising industry's biggest contracts of its kind. <p> The tender covering the whole of the West Midlands will provide a guaranteed income to Centro over the next ten years. Together with a profit-sharing element, it could raise more than £60m to be be ploughed into the upkeep of shelters and other improvements for the bus network. <p> Adshel was awarded the contract following a highly competitive pitch, as part of a complete review of Centro's shelter operation. The market leader in bus shelter advertising claims it has now secured the UK's largest street furniture contract of the last 20 years. Three other companies have been awarded separate contracts for shelter maintenance, cleaning and development work for Centro from this month. <p> The Birmingham Outer Circle is one of the flagship routes targeted for investment � with new shelters and bus platforms, 27 interchanges, CCTV, 15 kilometres of bus lanes and satellite-driven digital displays to tell passengers when the next bus is due. <p> Together with the latest easy-access vehicles provided by private bus operators, the Showcase routes are starting the change the face of bus travel in the West Midlands � already the busiest network outside London. <p> "Every day in the West Midlands over a million people wait perhaps ten minutes for the bus and it rains on average more than 175 days a year � that shows just how important shelters are to making bus travel a more attractive option," says Centro director general Rob Donald. <p> "We want to move from the days of the 'humble bus shelter' so that at key interchanges there are platforms for level boarding, full timetable and route information for passengers, digital displays and shelters that have seating and are well-lit. This new contract package gives us a sound financial base to deliver improvements for passengers across the West Midlands," he adds. <p> <A href=""javascript:%20var%20clientWindow%20=window.open('http://www.clearchannel.co.uk/adshel/news/Centro/','makeNewWindow','status=no,location=no,menubar=yes,toolbar=yes,scrollbars=yes,directories=no,resizable=yes');%20clientWindow.focus();"">Adshel</A> will pay a fixed fee each year for the exclusive sales rights to advertising panels on more than 90 per cent of shelters throughout the West Midlands including the cities of Birmingham, Wolverhampton and Coventry. <p> "The West Midlands is the second most important advertising region in the UK after London," comments Adshel chief executive Stevie Spring. "This new contract will strengthen our coverage of the UK offering a host of new and genuinely exciting opportunities for our advertisers," she adds. <p> Centro is the publicly-funded body charged with developing and promoting public transport. Although the buses themselves are run by the private sector, Centro provides support infrastructure including bus stations, shelters and passenger information. The Passenger Transport Authority also makes a considerable contribution by paying for elderly and young people's concessions and subsidising more than 200 socially-necessary services which the bus companies consider unprofitable. <p>"
"It is already the longest, but could the 27-mile Birmingham Outer Circle become the most valuable bus route in Europe too "
9369
0
12
0
Only the best for Bilston Bus Station
2004-07-06T00:00:00
2004-07-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Bilston Bus Station is the latest of public transport promoter Centro's facilities to get a makeover, with a £461,000 refurbishment set to benefit passengers.</p> <p>The scheme will include new CCTV, easy access kerbs at bus stands, improvements to lighting and information, provision of more staff facilities, an expanded café, and public art provision. It is hoped to complete the works by 2006.</p> <p>The changes are being implemented for passengers after they were recently surveyed for their views on services and facilities at the station.</p> <p>Bilston Bus Station opened in 1989 and was last upgraded 13 years ago. Around 1,220 buses use the facility on a daily basis, taking people across the Black Country.</p>"
"Bilston Bus Station is the latest of public transport promoter Centro's facilities to get a makeover, with a £461,000 refurbishment set to benefit passengers."
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0
12
0
Ramping up the Metro at Lodge Road
2004-06-28T00:00:00
2004-06-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A new link to the Midland Metro in West Bromwich will soon be available for users of Lodge Road stop, with public transport promoter Centro set to provide a new access ramp.</p> <p >Disabled passengers, parents with child buggies and people with bulky shopping will all benefit from the £224,000 addition to the popular Metro station, on Line One which runs between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton.</p> <p >The ramp, on the Wolverhampton-bound side of the stop, will provide more direct access between the Metro and West Bromwich town centre, via Victoria Street, and also includes a new stair link. Lighting and signing along the ramp will also be included.</p> <p >At present ramp access is available on the Birmingham bound side, with a lift also available, but requires a longer walk for users. It is hoped the new ramp will be installed during the next year, subject to agreement.</p> <p >"Getting people safely and easily on to the Metro is important and the installation of this ramp will help achieve that end," said Cllr Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority's Project Development and Monitoring Committee. "We want the service to be as accessible as possible to help regular users and attract new ones."</p> <p> </p>"
"A new link to the Midland Metro in West Bromwich will soon be available for users of Lodge Road stop, with public transport promoter Centro set to provide a new access ramp."
9369
0
12
0
Rail improvements booked for local commuters
2004-06-28T00:00:00
2004-06-28T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Rail passengers can look forward to better station booking facilities thanks to a major package of improvements proposed by West Midlands public transport promoter Centro.</p> <p >Over £1 million has been earmarked for a number of locations on the network to bring them up to modern standards during the next twelve months. The planned improvements, which will form part of a package of transport improvements annually submitted to Government, are aimed at meeting the needs of rail customers on some of the busiest commuter lines.</p> <p >Stations to benefit from new and improved buildings would be Berkswell on the Coventry line, Whitlocks End, Yardley Wood and Spring Road on the Stratford line, Lye on the Stourbridge line, and Hamstead on the Walsall line.</p> <p >Additionally there are plans to improve stations at Bloxwich and Bloxwich North on the Walsall line, which will include longer platforms. There will also be an extended platform at Wythall station on the Straford line. Stations across the Centro region will also have improvements made to signage, fencing, and waiting areas.</p> <p >Cllr Paul Allen, Vice Chair of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority's Project Development and Monitoring Committee, said: "With more people using rail there is a need to bring stations up to the standards they would expect. These plans show we are committed to making our local rail network modern, attractive and easy to use."</p> <p >Rail travel is increasing in the West Midlands, with one in every six commuter journeys into Birmingham now by train, making it the busiest network outside London.</p> <p> </p>"
Rail passengers can look forward to better station booking facilities thanks to a major package of improvements proposed by West Midlands public transport promoter Centro. Over £1 million has been earmarked for a number of locations on the network to bring them up to modern standards during the next twelve months
9369
0
12
0
Timely launch of new park and ride offers jam relief for M-way road works
2004-06-25T00:00:00
2004-06-25T00:00:00
9369
"Motorists are being offered free parking and a shuttle bus to Birmingham city centre from early July as a way of avoiding the worry of motorway road works. <p> West Midlands public transport body Centro is promoting the launch of a new park and ride scheme to provide welcome relief for commuters faced with contraflow on the Aston Expressway and M6 this summer. <p> The scheme is a joint partnership venture between Centro, Birmingham City Council, family entertainment complex Star City and the Highways Agency and will operate six days a week � from 7am to 7pm on weekdays and 10am to 6pm on Saturdays. It is part of a regional park and ride strategy and had been expected to launch later in the year. <p> "This is the latest in our park and ride schemes which already take around two million car journeys a year of the region's congested roads," explains Centro director general Rob Donald. "By launching in July we can provide a viable alternative to motorists who are reconsidering their daily journey because of the motorway works. We hope that some of them can be persuaded to become more regular users of public transport as a result." <p> Centro has also launched a dedicated website to help commuters planning to leave their cars behind but who are unfamiliar with public transport at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/beginner"" target=""_new"">www.centro.org.uk/beginner</a>. <p> "Motorists face possible disruption as we carry out essential major repairs to two stretches of the M6 through Birmingham," comments Highways Agency route manager Paul Cockell. "We are all aware that providing the Star City Park & Ride alternative into the city offers motorists another choice." <p> Birmingham City Council will also be working on the Aston Expressway during July and August. Both organisations stress that the roads will remain open, but that contra-flow operation could cause delays and are advising drivers to plan ahead. <p> The resurfacing and structural repair work is essential, says city council head of transportation strategy David Bull. "Disruption to traffic will be reduced by carrying out three sets of road works at the same time," he explains. <p> The good news for motorists is that from Saturday 3 July, Star City will make more than a thousand free spaces available at its secure car park close to Spaghetti Junction and just off the A47 Heartlands Parkway. From there a fleet of dedicated buses will ferry commuters and shoppers to Birmingham city centre for a return fare of £2 per person � which is less than the cost of most city centre car parking. <p> "We are delighted to get involved in this scheme because it is in the interests of all Birmingham businesses to cut congestion," explains Star City manager Mark Wilson. "Our car park, which has won a police Secure Car Park Award for four years now, provides an excellent location because it is easy to reach from Spaghetti Junction and M6 junction 5 via the Heartlands Parkway." <p> The park and ride buses will be able to take advantage of bus priority measures introduced along the Lichfield Road by Birmingham City Council and which should cut the journey time to under 20 minutes. <p> "Park and ride is a key part of the city council's transport strategy and we hope commuters, visitors and shoppers will all take advantage. By making bus travel more attractive we can provide a better deal for passengers and cut congestion for the benefit of all road users," adds David Bull for the city council. <p> There are already more than 4,000 rail-based park and ride spaces serving Birmingham city centre."
Motorists are being offered free parking and a shuttle bus to Birmingham city centre from early July as a way of avoiding the worry of motorway road works. West Midlands public transport body Centro is promoting the launch of a new park and ride scheme to provide welcome relief for commuters faced with contraflow on the Aston Expressway and M6 this summer.
9369
0
12
0
Radio hide and seek to track down party tickets
2004-06-24T00:00:00
2004-06-24T00:00:00
9369
"Radio early-bird Tammy Gooding from the new 96.4 BRMB will be playing hide and seek with listeners on the West Midlands public transport network this week (Monday 28 June to Friday 2 July) <p>She's broadcasting live from secret locations close to rail stations and tourist attractions as part of a campaign to get more people using trains, tram and buses.</p> <p>One of the campaign targets is the 2004 Party in the Park. Public transport promoter Centro is hoping to persuade revellers to leave the car at home to travel to the party on Saturday 10 July. Local buses are serving the event at Cannon Hill Park which features big names from the pop world such as Blazin' Squad, Gabrielle and Jamelia. There are also good connections from train and Midland Metro services.</p> <p>Tammy will be giving out clues during the Big Brum Breakfast Show for listeners to win free tickets to the concert every day this week.</p> <p>"I'll be somewhere on the local rail network and the first to track me down will get free tickets to Birmingham's biggest open-air pop concert," says Tammy.</p> <p>As well as promoting travel to <a href=""http://www.brmb.co.uk/pitp/"" target=""_new"">the Party in the Park 2004</a>, Centro is offering special deals for families to visit West Midlands tourist attractions by train during the school holidays. One day during the week, Tammy will be playing hide and seek from one of the region's top tourist hot spots.</p> <p>"Centro's all-in-one tickets allow big savings and remove the hassle of traffic and parking from family days out," says Centro marketing boss Julia Lameris. "And all the attractions are within easy walking distance of rail stations."</p> <p>Venues on offer include Cadbury World, the National Sea Life Centre and Thinktank and IMAX at Millennium Point, the Black Country Living Museum and Warwick Castle.</p>"
"Radio early-bird Tammy Gooding from the new 96.4 BRMB will be playing hide and seek with listeners on the West Midlands public transport network this week (Monday 28 June to Friday 2 July) She's broadcasting live from secret locations close to rail stations and tourist attractions as part of a campaign to get more people using trains, tram and buses."
9369
0
12
0
Region comes top for park and ride
2004-06-15T00:00:00
2004-06-15T00:00:00
9369
"<div > <p >Findings to be revealed at a national transport conference today (Weds 16 June) show motorists in the West Midlands have more choice of park and ride than in any other major urban area.<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17566.aspx#footnote"">(See footnote)</a></p> <p >Public transport promoter Centro now provides more than 5,400 free spaces at rail and Metro stations which are reckoned to take two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p >The figures are being presented at a conference in London today where transport experts will study the West Midlands success story. Other big cities like Liverpool and Manchester have thousands fewer places available.</p> <p >Centro rail boss Peter Sargant will explain how secure car parking, with CCTV linked to a regional control centre, has helped make park and ride immensely popular among local passengers. One sixth of Birmingham commuters now make their daily journey by train and the majority (72%) have been tempted away from using their car.</p> <p >""Quality park and ride is an important part of the mix to provide a better service for passengers and make public transport more attractive. By helping to tackle congestion, Centro can also provide a boost to the local economy,"" he says.</p> <p >Three Midland Metro stations also have well-used park and ride facilities and a new bus-based jam busting scheme is about to be launched by Centro, Birmingham City Council and Star City. The alternative to the congested Aston Expressway will provide free secure parking and buses every ten minutes direct to Birmingham City Centre.</p> </div> <a id=""footnote"" name=""footnote"">Note</a> The comparison is between major conurbations outside London, which are covered by Passenger Transport Executives such as Centro in the West Midlands.<a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease17566.aspx#Top""><em>(back to top)</em></a>"
Findings to be revealed at a national transport conference today (Weds 16 June) show motorists in the West Midlands have more choice of park and ride than in any other major urban area.
9369
0
12
0
Centro launches a beginner's guide to beating the jams
2004-06-14T00:00:00
2004-06-14T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A national survey has raised concern that car commuters considering a switch to the bus or train to avoid Birmingham's summer of motorway road works wouldn't know where to start.</p> <p >One in ten said they would struggle with the alternatives – and regular drivers in the West Midlands knew least about public transport routes between their home and work, according to the opinion poll conducted for the TravelWise campaign.</p> <p >To help make the switch, public transport promoter Centro has produced a guide explaining everything from route planning to how to catch a bus.</p> <p >"If you make the same journey to work, the same way, every day then changing that routine can be a big step," says Centro services director Robert Smith.  "People who haven't used the bus or train for a long time, if at all, may well be surprised at how extensive the public transport network in the West Midlands really is."</p> <p >Already one in six Birmingham commuters choose the train to travel to and from work and there are almost 70 million work trips a year on bus, rail and Metro.</p> <p >To help newcomers to public transport, the beginner's guide on Centro's website includes a journey planner which will plot the best route for any commuter just by typing in their home and destination address or postcode.</p> <p >The web guide, called <i>A Beginners Guide to</i> <i>Public Transport</i>, also covers how to pay for a ticket and the range of travel cards available.  It can be found at <a href=""http://www.centro.org.uk/beginner"" target=""_blank"">www.centro.org.uk/beginner</a></p> <p >"Some people might be confused about such things as small change for their bus fare, unaware that they can get a Centrocard and other season tickets for example," says Robert Smith.</p> <p >"Lack of information is one of the key barriers in persuading motorists to switch to public transport and Centro is working on many fronts to plug this gap," he adds.</p> <p >The beginner's guide is expected to be particularly useful to commuters considering a switch to public transport as a way of avoiding road works on the M6 and Aston Expressway this summer.  New initiatives, such as a park and ride alternative to the Expressway are also included in the guide – the Star City scheme will provide free parking and buses direct to Birmingham city centre every ten minutes.</p> <p> </p>"
"A national survey has raised concern that car commuters considering a switch to the bus or train to avoid Birmingham's summer of motorway road works wouldn't know where to start. To help make the switch, public transport promoter Centro has produced a guide explaining everything from route planning to how to catch a bus."
9369
0
12
0
Motor Show fans shunned cars by the thousand
2004-06-09T00:00:00
2004-06-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p >An 'off-road experience' proved a huge success as thousands of car fans travelled by train to this year's Motor Show at the NEC.</p> <p >More than 10,000 people in the West Midlands took up a Centro offer of free travel to the event.</p> <p >The region's public transport promoter negotiated a special rate for local people so it could offer bus, train and tram travel plus Motor Show admission, for the same price as a standard price entry ticket.</p> <p >Centro, which co-ordinates bus, train and tram services in the West Midlands leapt at the opportunity to use the UK's biggest feast of car worship to promote alternative forms of transport.</p> <p >"We were delighted to be able to deliver a great deal for local people and help boost Motor Show attendance figures, which is important for the regional economy," said Centro marketing boss Julia Lameris.</p> <p >""This is just one of many travel deals we have been able to negotiate, promoting public transport as the best way to visit world class events held in the region.  It means we can demonstrate the benefits of train, bus and Metro travel to more people and, in the long term, that will help tackle the congestion faced by motorists," she added.</p> <p >Organisers of the Sunday Times Motor Show Live have already hailed this year's event a great success and have started work on planning the next event at Birmingham in 2006.</p> <p> </p>"
"An 'off-road experience' proved a huge success as thousands of car fans travelled by train to this year's Motor Show at the NEC. More than 10,000 people in the West Midlands took up a Centro offer of free travel to the event."
9369
0
12
0
Park up and take the train at Smethwick Galton Bridge
2004-05-26T00:00:00
2004-05-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The popular Smethwick Galton Bridge rail station is set to attract even more users as a brand new Park and Ride facility from public transport promoter Centro opens for business.</p> <p>Galton Bridge's £550,000 Park and Ride plus revamped interchange opens for public use on Tuesday 1 June to attract more motorists off congested roads.</p> <p>It has 78 free parking spaces, five of which are for disabled badge holders. The car park will also have CCTV, public address, help points, lighting, fencing, and pedestrian access. Other artistic features will enhance the appearance of the site.</p> <p>There are also two new bus shelters with easy access kerbing, an information point with art feature, new road surfacing and markings for buses, and footway markings directing people to the new rail station and Park and Ride.</p> <p>Smethwick Galton Bridge serves both the Jewellery Line connecting the Stourbridge, Solihull and Shirley lines through Birmingham Snow Hill, and the Coventry to Wolverhampton line via New Street.</p> <p>Centro offers over 5000 free car parking spaces at rail and Midland Metro stations across the West Midlands, which take an estimated two million car journeys off the road each year.</p> <p> </p>"
The popular Smethwick Galton Bridge rail station is set to attract even more users as a brand new Park and Ride facility from public transport promoter Centro opens for business.
9369
0
12
0
£2m worth of new rail carriages make tracks for the West Midlands
2004-05-24T00:00:00
2004-05-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Up to ten new rail carriages are to appear on local railways following a £2million deal by public transport promoter Centro, to help make sure passengers are not left standing. </p> <p >Following discussions with operator Central Trains, Centro is to add the diesel carriages to the 112 already running on the network. They will ease the burden on many services that are overcrowded at peak periods and will encourage up to 1,000 cars off the road each morning and evening peak. Centro has been able to lease the carriages from extra money recently made available through its budget. The deal has been agreed by the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority and is supported by the region's seven district authorities.</p> <p >The first carriages will appear on the Stourbridge to Stratford line this autumn and all will be operating by early 2005, covering lines serving Walsall and Leamington amongst others.</p> <p >"One of the most important attractions for using the train is the guarantee of a seat," said Centro Director General Rob Donald. "Many trains are standing room only at peak times, and Centro is delighted to be able to agree with Central Trains the lease of these new carriages that will go some way to easing the overcrowding problem. Rail travel is in increasing demand, and we want to provide longer trains to address the issue of overcrowding," he added.</p> <p >One in six commuter journeys into Birmingham city centre are made by rail. Half of local rail passengers who have a car available for their trip travel by train instead. In addition over 5,000 free car parking spaces are available at rail stations throughout the West Midlands, with more planned.</p> <p> </p>"
"Up to ten new rail carriages are to appear on local railways following a £2million deal by public transport promoter Centro, to help make sure passengers are not left standing."
9369
0
12
0
CCTV's eye to roam further on public transport
2004-05-19T00:00:00
2004-05-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Centro will be helping keep a safe eye on even more users of public transport facilities in the West Midlands with investment in a whole host of new CCTV cameras planned.</p> <p>A £206,000 expansion plan will enable cameras at ten rail, bus and Midland Metro sites to be linked to the Network Safety and Security Centre (NSSC). Public transport promoter Centro is a partner in the control centre with Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands and British Transport police forces. The centre centrally monitors activity at public transport facilities from one location 24 hours a day, all year round.</p> <p>CCTV will appear at such sites as the new rail Park and Rides at Stourbridge Junction and Smethwick Galton Bridge, at Wednesbury's new bus station, on the completed 11 Outer Circle Bus Showcase route, whilst Line One of the Metro and Moor Street rail station will also get new systems.</p> <p>Tom Magrath, Centro Projects Director, said: "The NSSC and Centro's Safety and Security Strategy has been very successful, and more and more users of public transport are assured that they can travel and also leave their vehicles in the most secure of surroundings. This valuable investment underlines Centro's commitment to modern and effective CCTV.</p> <p>"The visible presence of CCTV in public transport is a key issue for users, encouraging greater use and reducing traffic congestion."</p> <p> </p>"
Centro will be helping keep a safe eye on even more users of public transport facilities in the West Midlands with investment in a whole host of new CCTV cameras planned.
9369
0
12
0
Backing for big city bus reforms
2004-05-06T00:00:00
2004-05-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p >Government proposals aimed at giving public transport bodies like Centro a greater say in how local buses are run have received national support.</p> <p >The Passenger Transport Executives Group (PTEG), which represents passenger interests in major conurbations, has backed the Government proposals, but warns that even with reform the legislation would be "too slow and too cumbersome".</p> <p >PTEG is calling for the bus franchising system that has helped deliver improvements in London to be extended to other metropolitan areas including the West Midlands.  One third of all bus trips in the UK take place within these areas.</p> <p >A recent survey by West Midlands public transport champion Centro showed for the first time how the current system is failing passengers.  It found that 40% of commercial bus services did not run on time – on one route in Birmingham as many as six buses arrived at once and one in ten simply went missing.</p> <p >A Department for Transport consultation on changing the legislation regarding local control of bus networks through what it calls Quality Contracts ends this week (Friday 7 May).</p> <p >"We are pleased to see the Government taking steps to pave the way for quality contract bids.  This reflects the growing consensus that it's time to get some pilot bus franchises in place," comments Centro director general Rob Donald, who takes the lead for PTEG on buses.</p> <p >"However, even with the Government's proposed changes any quality contract proposal faces some formidable procedural obstacles – not least of which is the legal requirement to prove that a quality contract is the only practicable way of achieving a PTE bus strategy," he adds.</p> <p >"We will continue to press for further simplification of the process.  Bus franchising works well in London and should be given a chance outside the capital.  But for that to happen we need a process that is fair, straightforward and proportionate."</p> <p >The Government is currently consulting on proposals to reduce the gap between the approval of a scheme by the Secretary of State, and its implementation from the current 21 months to either fifteen, twelve, nine or six months.  PTEGwants the gap reduced to six months.</p> <p >However, welcome though this change would be the process will remain complex and lengthy according to the national public transport body.</p> <p >Recent research commissioned by PTEG has shown that even with the Government's proposed changes, it would still realistically take around three years for a Quality Contract scheme to go from first proposal to final implementation.</p> <p ><strong><em>Related news stories:</em></strong><br /> <a href=""http://centro.journalistpresslounge.com/centro/news/index.cfm/fuseaction/details/id/1140D50F-7220-4E90-842D0A5D03499F1D/cnt/1/ref/main/type/news%20releases/ses/1.cfm"" target=""_self"">Survey shows region is missing the bus</a></p> <p ><strong><em>Related items on the PTEG website:<br /> </em></strong><a href=""http://www.pteg.net/assets/DfT_QC_amendments_Final.pdf"" target=""_blank"">Response to Government consulatation on timescales for introducing Quality Contracts</a><br /> News release: <a href=""http://www.pteg.net/assets/final-press-release5may04.pdf"" target=""_blank"">pteg backs government moves to speed up bus franchising process</a></p>"
Government proposals aimed at giving public transport bodies like Centro a greater say in how local buses are run have received national support.
9369
0
12
0
West Mids passengers £22m better off at end of year
2004-05-06T00:00:00
2004-05-06T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Passengers in the West Midlands are feeling the benefit of a bumper year of investment in the region's bus, train and Metro networks.</p> <p>Public transport body Centro finished the financial year ahead of the investment target agreed by councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>As part of a £22m package of improvements, Centro spent £5.7m on Midland Metro route development, £2.8m on award-winning bus showcase schemes, £1.9m on rail station improvements and more than £1.5m on park and ride – which now takes more than 2m car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p>There were improvements to 20 bus and rail interchanges, better disabled access at stations, £0.9m on rebuilding Wednesbury bus station and £2m spent on preparations for satellite-tracking of buses.</p> <p>The total investment in keeping the West Midlands moving will climb to £34m over two years.</p> <p>"This is a very ambitious investment programme, but we still managed to complete almost two thirds of the work in the first year," comments Centro projects director Tom Magrath.</p> <p>"There is a great deal to be done before we have the quality public transport system this region deserves – but we are making real progress."</p> <p>"We have the busiest bus network outside the capital and rail passenger growth higher than in London.  We also have the busiest roads and congestion costing business £9m for every working day – so the need to switch to public transport is greater than ever," he adds.</p> <p>The final capital budget for 2003/04 will be reported to the PTA's Project Development and Monitoring Committee on 17 May.  It shows Centro spent £22,029,000 on infrastructure improvements compared to a forecast of £21,059,000.  The public transport promoter also administered a £13m capital programme on behalf of the seven district councils of the West Midlands.</p>"
"Passengers in the West Midlands are feeling the benefit of a bumper year of investment in the region's bus, train and Metro networks."
9369
0
12
0
Survey shows region is mything the bus
2004-05-04T00:00:00
2004-05-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p >It has become something of an urban myth that you can wait for a bus for ages and then three come at once – but a new survey has shown that truth is even stranger than fiction.</p> <p >The study, by public transport champion Centro, found that on one route in the West Midlands as many as six buses arrived at once and one in ten simply went missing. </p> <p >Councillors on the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority are to be presented with the results of the first major survey of its kind at their meeting on Monday 10 May.  They will be told that on a sample of routes two out of five buses did not turn up on time – although on high-frequency routes waits at the bus stop of more than fifteen minutes were rare.</p> <p >"If we want bus companies to deliver quantifiable improvements for passengers, then the first thing needed is a measure of current standards of performance," comments PTA Chair Cllr Richard Worrall.</p> <p >"More than 90 per cent of public transport trips in the West Midlands are by bus, so improvements are vital if we are to make a real difference," he adds.</p> <p >Detailed results from the first year of survey work have been shared with the bus operators concerned and Centro, which is responsible for promoting and developing public transport, has pledged to work with them on finding ways to make buses more reliable.  The region's largest private bus company Travel West Midlands has already made a few changes following the survey results and is supporting Centro with satellite tracking of some of its buses in the near future.</p> <p>For the survey, almost 50,000 scheduled operations by eleven different bus companies were checked across the West Midlands.  The worst performers were services operated by two of the smaller bus companies in Birmingham where only around half of the scheduled buses turned up at all.  Only one route, the Arriva service 876 from Wolverhampton to Stafford, managed to run without any cancellations at all – although more than a dozen others managed 100% operation on particular days.</p> <p>When punctuality was checked, just over 40% of buses were either a minute too early or more than five minutes late.  Time-keeping was poorest on the Alcester Road and Stratford Road services in Birmingham.</p> <p>Congestion</p> <p >Local highway authorities have invested in bus priority measures, but both Centro and the bus operators say more is needed to help speed buses through the jams.</p> <p >"Congestion is an issue and we are all looking for solutions, but I don't believe that a lack of bus priority can explain why four out of ten buses do not turn up on time," comments Centro director general Rob Donald.  "All the agencies involved – bus operators, district councils, traffic police and ourselves – need to play our part in making public transport more attractive to passengers," he adds.</p> <p >"Monitoring of commercial bus services will help to identify congestion trouble spots, which can then be targeted for highways investment, including future bus Showcases and Red Routes.  It also provides valuable information for operators to make changes and, where things have gone badly wrong, it can be passed on to the Traffic Commissioner to take appropriate action against poor performing bus companies."</p> <p >Unlike London, where bus services are regulated, public transport bodies in other major cities have limited powers to enforce improvements.  Centro and the PTA rely on partnerships with bus operators and highway authorities to provide vehicles and bus priority measures.  Where these have been successful, on Showcase Routes, there has been a marked improvement in passenger numbers, but no-one has published reliability data for commercial bus services before now.</p> <p>Secret</p> <p >"There's a whole world of suffering out there, which I experience daily alongside hundreds of thousands of other bus users – but we have never had such comprehensive information on how good or bad things actually are," says PTA Chair Cllr Worrall.</p> <p >"We don't know what monitoring bus companies carry out and when I made a recent request from Travel West Midlands it was rejected because they said it was commercially confidential."</p> <p >"This shouldn't be a trade secret.  Operators should not be afraid to tell passengers how good the buses are and what's being done to make things better.  Then if we can show a measurable improvement more people are likely to leave their cars and switch to the bus."</p> <p>Improvements</p> <p >On a positive note, the Centro survey showed that all Bus Showcase routes covered by the survey improved their reliability.</p> <p >In the first year of operation all the monitored buses on Line 33 between Birmingham city centre and Pheasey estate arrived within one minute of the scheduled time during the morning rush hour.  On Showcase routes in Walsall and in Coventry the average interval between buses was reduced and the number of cancelled services fell significantly. </p> <p >In the Wolverhampton to Bloxwich corridor, arrival times were far less variable post Showcase.  On service 560, punctuality increased from 83% to 91% following Showcase investment by Centro, the district councils and bus company Travel West Midlands.  Performance on TWM route 67 was even better as 94% of departures met the target compared with 87% pre-Showcase.</p> <p >Investment in more Bus Showcase and Red Route schemes should improve reliability of services, Centro tells councillors in its report to the PTA's Policy and Strategy Committee.</p> <p >Centro's practical contribution to improving bus services includes providing new shelters and passenger information.  The public transport promoter is also setting up digital displays to give passengers live information about when the next bus will arrive.</p> <p >Travel West Midlands is a major partner in the £4m scheme which is now being tested at stops in south Birmingham.  The bus company is fitting satellite-tracking devices to 300 of its vehicles and says the live data will also help it prevent the bunching of buses in future.</p> <p >The same satellite technology could be used to turn traffic lights to green as the bus approaches.  Public bodies including Centro have been awarded £6m of Government money to look at this and other new developments.</p> <div> <div id=""ftn1""> <p > </p> </div> </div>"
"It has become something of an urban myth that you can wait for a bus for ages and then three come at once � but a new survey has shown that truth is even stranger than fiction. The study, by public transport champion Centro, found that on one route in the West Midlands as many as six buses arrived at once and one in ten simply went missing."
9369
0
12
0
'Pay to learn' pupils won't lose bus pass
2004-05-04T00:00:00
2004-05-04T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Pupils who take up new Government payments for staying on at school will not be stripped of their bus pass, transport bosses in the West Midlands have pledged.</p> <p>There had been fears that the new Educational Maintenance Allowance, to be introduced in September, would disqualify 16-18 year olds from receiving travel concessions on buses, trams and trains.  The rules previously said that anyone receiving payment for their studies would not qualify for half-fare travel.</p> <p>But councillors on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority say they will change the rules to make sure young people don't miss out.</p> <p>"We have moved to change our concession scheme ahead of the new grants, so that we are well-prepared and young people in education will continue to benefit," says PTA Chair Cllr Richard Worrall.</p> <p>"By subsidising public transport we can help give better, and more affordable, access to education and job opportunities for many thousands of deserving young people," he adds.</p> <p>From September, teenagers staying on in full-time education will receive up to £30 per week, depending on parental income, with additional bonuses for education and achievement.  In the West Midlands there are currently some 70,000 16-18 year olds staying on at school or college.</p> <p> </p>"
"Pupils who take up new Government payments for staying on at school will not be stripped of their bus pass, transport bosses in the West Midlands have pledged."
9369
0
12
0
Midland Metro attracts international investment interest
2004-04-29T00:00:00
2004-04-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>International property experts have hailed the Midland Metro, with an indication that the expanding network could help bring jobs to the Black Country.</p> <p>Praise for the tram system was delivered at a meeting of Europe's major development companies in Cannes, France.  They commented that the Metro has a positive impact on West Bromwich's international reputation.</p> <p>"Without doubt, the presence of a light rail system through our area is a positive draw to international investors," says Ros Kerslake, chief executive of RegenCo - the urban regeneration company responsible for West Bromwich and its surrounding towns.</p> <p>Kerslake was at the international event to sell the merits of investing in the Black Country.  More than 5,000 companies were present on the look out for multi-billion pound development opportunities.</p> <p>"Unusually, our area is blessed with a robust transport infrastructure – normally the top priority for any regeneration company," she said.  "We've main line rail stopping at Sandwell & Dudley (which I'd like to see renamed to West Bromwich) an award-winning bus station and we're at the UK hub of the motorway network.  They all weave together to powerful effect – even the canals which bring with them lucrative residential and leisure potential."</p> <p>"We hope to work extensively with organisations such as the region's public transport promoter Centro to realise coherent plans for transforming the area (West Bromwich, Smethwick and Hill Top Wednesbury). For instance, I'd like to see another Metro stop between Great Bridge and Wednesbury Hill Top as we have identified it as a key future employment area for the Borough.  It's not planned at the moment as there's limited demand but we imagine that by 2011 it will be a thriving economy."</p> <p>The Midland Metro line between Wolverhampton and Birmingham, via West Bromwich opened five years ago and has now established itself as the region's most reliable form of public transport.  A public inquiry to extend the system from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill has just concluded and five further lines are planned, including a link to Walsall.</p>"
"International property experts have hailed the Midland Metro, with an indication that the expanding network could help bring jobs to the Black Country."
9369
0
12
0
Audit spotlight on barriers to light rail
2004-04-23T00:00:00
2004-04-23T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A report to MPs highlighting the shortcomings of developing tram systems in England has been welcomed by transport authorities in the major conurbations.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro, which is proposing six new lines for its Metro system in the West Midlands, says the National Audit Office report on problems with progress so far contains no real surprises.  It welcomes the forward-looking aspects of the report, which identifies the barriers to further light rail development and tells the Department for Transport how these could be removed.</p> <p>The report to the House of Commons by Auditor General Sir John Bourn says the new generation of trams such as in Croydon, Manchester and the West Midlands have been welcomed by passengers and their modern look and attractive services have enhanced the image of the cities where they have been built.  However, since 1980 only seven systems have been built, systems are not attracting as many passengers or delivering as many benefits as they should, several are running at a financial loss and construction costs are rising.</p> <p>"Light rail systems have improved the quality and choice of public transport, by offering fast, reliable and frequent services," says Sir John.  "However if more systems are to secure private sector investment, construction costs must be brought down and operations placed on a sound financial footing."</p> <p>The Auditor General's report has been welcomed by West Midlands public transport boss Rob Donald.</p> <p>"The report gives MPs a very comprehensive analysis of the difficulties we face and the issues we agree need to be tackled if light rail is to be delivered faster, better and cheaper.  I hope the recommendations will help the Government sign up to our planned development in the West Midlands because the greatest benefits can only come from a comprehensive and integrated network," comments the director general of Centro.</p> <p>His remarks are supported by the audit report, which says the Department for Transport needs to take a more strategic approach to encourage developments in selected cities to fit in with the Government's national transport objectives.</p> <p>It envisaged that up to 25 new lines could be built by the end of the decade.  The current situation is that if all the proposals take off some ten English cities or conurbations could have modern trams by 2010.  By comparison, there are already 11 cities in France, and some 50 cities in Germany, with a light rail system.</p> <p>Much of the revised approach suggested by the National Audit Office is already the subject of talks between Passenger Transport Executives promoting light rail and the Department for Transport, according to Rob Donald.  Issues such as separating contracts for building and operating systems are being discussed, while many of the planning issues that have held back earlier systems have been addressed in more recent expansion plans.</p> <p>"The audit report suggests the Department for Transport should be more of a partner in promoting light rail, rather than just an adjudicator of the proposals that it is sent.  That is something we would very much welcome as a helpful step to providing integrated public transport in our major cities," says Rob Donald.</p> <p>Centro is awaiting the outcome of two recent public inquiries for £200m Midland Metro extensions through Birmingham city centre and from Wednesbury to Dudley and Brierley Hill in the Black Country.  The PTA and seven local authority leaders in the West Midlands have recently earmarked four further routes likely to cost more than £1bn and work on preparing business cases for these is now underway.</p> <p>The first Midland Metro line between Wolverhampton and Birmingham ran into teething troubles which are well-documented in the National Audit Office report, but is now running at more than 98 per cent reliability, is much-loved by passengers, has added popular park and ride sites and is starting to approach patronage targets.  It currently attracts more than 5.1 million passengers a year against a target range of 6-8 million.</p> <p>"As far as passengers are concerned, the tram is a success story," comments Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.  "Now we need to get on and expand the network so many more people can benefit from better public transport."</p> <p>"This is a huge investment we are talking about.  The auditor's report gives some very valuable pointers as to how this can be made more attractive for the private sector," he adds.</p>"
"A report to MPs highlighting the shortcomings of developing tram systems in England has been welcomed by transport authorities in the major conurbations. Public transport promoter Centro, which is proposing six new lines for its Metro system in the West Midlands, says the National Audit Office report on problems with progress so far contains no real surprises."
9369
0
12
0
Tram study to highlight benefits
2004-04-19T00:00:00
2004-04-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A new study is to look at the success of the new generation of trams in tempting motorists out of their cars.</p> <p>The research has been commissioned by a national public transport body to help promote Midland Metro-style systems in major cities.  It will review the transport, economic, environmental and safety benefits following the return of trams.</p> <p>"Midland Metro line one has established itself as the most-reliable form of public transport and it is extremely popular with passengers – but it needs to be part of a wider network if more people are to feel the benefit," says Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority.</p> <p>"This study could provide some very useful evidence of how investment in light rail can cut congestion across the board, so that everyone – including motorists – get a better deal," he adds.</p> <p>The report has been commissioned by the Leeds-based <i>Passenger Transport Executives Group</i> to draw on the experience of both long standing systems like the Tyne and Wear Metro, as well as the new generation of light rail and tram schemes now operating in Britain, like those in the West Midlands, Croydon and Manchester.  It will focus in particular on their success in attracting motorists out of their cars, on promoting regeneration, and on the advantages over other modes on busy urban corridors where the circumstances are right.</p> <p>Consultants Steer Davies Gleave will also take a look at recent overseas light rail and tram schemes to see what lessons can be learnt for the UK – particularly on integration with other transport modes and on supporting urban renewal.</p>"
A new study is to look at the success of the new generation of trams in tempting motorists out of their cars. The research has been commissioned by a national public transport body to help promote Midland Metro-style systems in major cities.
9369
0
12
0
Black Country tram system clears inquiry hurdle
2004-04-16T00:00:00
2004-04-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Midland Metro tram services through the Black Country to Dudley and Brierley Hill are a step closer following the conclusion of a Public Inquiry into a £139 million expansion of the network.</p> <p>The bulk of remaining objections have been withdrawn during the four-week hearing.  A report will now go to the Government and public transport promoter Centro says passengers could be travelling on the line in less than five years time.</p> <p>In summing up, Centro's counsel told Government inspector Graham Self the proposal would deliver a high quality public transport service, improve accessibility for the area and support the economic and environmental aims of both Sandwell and Dudley borough councils.</p> <p>The Wednesbury to Brierley Hill route will have 13 easy-access stops with four Park and Ride sites serving shopping and business areas in Great Bridge, Dudley Port (connecting with local train services), Dudley town centre, the Waterfront and Merry Hill before terminating near High Street, Brierley Hill.  Modern trams would cover the distance in 23 minutes, travelling on-street through parts of Dudley and following the route of a mothballed railway line for much of the remaining journey.</p> <p>During the course of the Inquiry, 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.</p> <p>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 "<i>…</i> <i>there is no demand that would justify a passenger service on the Walsall to Stourbridge axis, either now or in the foreseeable future</i>".</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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."</p> <p>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.  In its development plan Dudley Borough Council, for example, has promised Brierley Hill Traders that any lost parking spaces would be replaced.</p> <p>"We now have to wait for the Inspector's report and the Secretary of State's decision, but I'm confident we have demonstrated a very positive case," says Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for Metro on the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, the policy-setting body for Centro.</p> <p>""Extending the Midland Metro between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill is a crucial step in providing the high quality public transport worthy of a major region - and a successful outcome to this Public Inquiry will move us ever closer to that reality.</p> <p>""Modern trams have proved immensely popular elsewhere because they get people close to their destination in comfort.  The vehicles are reliable, emission-free and fully accessible.  Once this system is running in a few years time, moving around the Black Country will be so much easier for everyone," he adds.</p> <p>The Inquiry also heard that the Metro extension could create around 750 jobs and lead to an increase in local property values.</p> <p>Andrew Newcombe, appearing for Centro, said at the close of the Inquiry today: "This is a well-designed and thought through scheme which offers material benefits for Dudley, Sandwell, the West Midlands Conurbation as a whole, and for the public."</p> <p>"None of the 'in principle' objections to the scheme has been substantiated," he concluded.</p> <p>The Secretary of State is expected to give his decision later this year.  That would open the way for construction to start in 2005, with the first trams expected to start running in 2008.</p>"
Midland Metro tram services through the Black Country to Dudley and Brierley Hill are a step closer following the conclusion of a Public Inquiry into a £139 million expansion of the network.
9369
0
12
0
Rail investment 'vital for regional economy' says report
2004-04-07T00:00:00
2004-04-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >A failure to invest in commuter rail services could hold back the economic growth of the West Midlands, according to a report released today (Wednesday 7 April)</p> <p >Findings by transport planning consultants JMP – a national firm with offices in Lichfield – show rail investment is capable of providing almost double the return to the regional economy.  But their report also says the economic growth of core cities like Birmingham is leaving the rail network struggling to cope.</p> <p >The study <i>Rail in the City Regions</i> has been commissioned by the Passenger Transport Executives Group (PTEG), which includes Centro in the West Midlands.</p> <p >"Rail is already vital to the successful functioning of our major city economies.  Without their rail networks these cities would be unable to function," the report says.</p> <p >It also highlights the bias in national rail policy which focuses investment on South East commuter and InterCity services at the expense of urban rail networks in the rest of the country – even though the 137 million trips per year in major cities is almost twice the number carried by inter-city operators.</p> <p >"We should not under-estimate the importance of the regional rail network to the West Midlands economy," says Centro director general Rob Donald.  "One in six Birmingham commuters now travel by train and around half of those have left their car at home or at a park and ride site – that makes an enormous contribution to tackling the congestion that is costing the region more than £2bn a year."</p> <p >The PTEG report shows that investment by bodies like Centro in their rail networks over the last twenty years has brought with it significant growth in passenger numbers - with the use of some networks doubling. </p> <p >"In the West Midlands a long term investment strategy for the Cross City Line through Birmingham has resulted in a high frequency 'turn-up-and-go' commuter service that is the busiest route in the region.  Initiatives such as this by the PTE and its partners have resulted in a 25% increase in patronage on local services in the conurbation since 1997," the report says.</p> <p >However, in general UK networks still lag behind their counterparts in similar major European cities where regional public transport bodies are often given a much greater role.  PTEG and Centro recently welcomed British Government proposals to devolve powers as part of the forthcoming rail review.</p> <p >Today's report points out how the cost of running and developing rail networks in city regions has increased dramatically since privatisation – and it says costs could be reduced significantly by reform of the industry.  At the moment it would cost nearly six times more to put a shelter on a station platform than to install an identical bus shelter by the roadside.</p> <p >The report recommends:</p> <ul> <li>cutting costs and delays through simplifying the structure of the industry – potentially creating a single 'delivery agency' (based on Network Rail) with responsibility for planning, service delivery and infrastructure<br /> </li> <li>replacing most of the post-privatisation track access charge regime with a block grant from Government to Network Rail. This would return PTE networks to marginal user status and significantly improve their economics<br /> </li> <li>devolving more powers over local rail networks to the PTEs to enable them to manage, develop and fund their local rail networks as part of wider integrated public transport networks for the city regions. This follows the success of similar policies of devolution of transport powers in mainland Europe and in Merseyside. Since last Summer Merseytravel (Merseyside PTE) has been responsible for the self-contained Merseyrail Electric network – currently the second most reliable operator after the Isle of Wight line.</li> </ul> <p >PTEG is now expected to use the consultants findings in its lobbying for a better deal for the 13 million people covered by its members in the seven metropolitan areas outside London.</p> <p >Commenting on the apparent Government bias towards the South East, Roy Wicks, Director General of South Yorkshire PTE, who takes the lead for PTEG on rail, said:  "The Government wants the GDP of the regions to better match that of the South East. There is strong growth in core cities which is now driving the economies of their surrounding regions.  But without modern and efficient commuter rail networks it will prove increasingly difficult for those cities to flourish and in doing so take some of the pressure off the South East.  Yet despite this, the bias in national rail policy towards InterCity and South East commuter routes leaves our networks last in line for available investment."</p> <p> </p>"
"A failure to invest in commuter rail services could hold back the economic growth of the West Midlands, according to a report released today (Wednesday 7 April)"
9369
0
12
0
MPs back call for regional control of railways
2004-04-01T00:00:00
2004-04-01T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A call to give the West Midlands more control over railways in the region has been backed by a powerful all-party committee of MPs.</p> <p>The Commons Transport Select Committee hit out at existing rail bosses for appearing to block moves towards rail devolution.</p> <p>Earlier this week Centro, along with public transport bodies from other major conurbations, submitted a four-point plan for their role in the future of UK railways.</p> <p>They said regional bodies should control the franchising process in their areas; take a greater role in running and developing stations and car parks; and be able to contract extra trains and carriages to relieve overcrowding.  They should also be able to expand their influence into the wider 'journey-to-work' areas surrounding conurbations.</p> <p>Secretary of State Alistair Darling has already signalled his intention to give regional Passenger Transport Executives more power when he announced the rail review in a Commons statement earlier this year.</p> <p>Now the idea has received the backing of the influential group of MPs following a successful trial on Merseyside.</p> <p>"We hope that the Government will ensure, wherever possible and with appropriate local adjustments, that the arrangements in Merseyside can be repeated not only with the PTEs, but wherever they appear workable.  More generally, we think that there are lessons to be learned by all franchisees in the absolute focus on passenger service which lies at the centre of this operation," says the Transport Select Committee in its report on the future of the railways published today (1 April).</p> <p>MPs said the position of the existing Strategic Rail Authority on "closing the door to the approach adopted (on Merseyside) appears highly unimaginative."</p>"
A call to give the West Midlands more control over railways in the region has been backed by a powerful all-party committee of MPs.
9369
0
12
0
Passengers the big winners in regional rail plan
2004-03-31T00:00:00
2004-03-31T00:00:00
9369
"<p>West Midlands transport bosses have joined a call for the region to be given more control over the way trains are run and greater powers to ease overcrowding on commuter services.</p> <p>They say passengers locally have the most to gain or lose from the Government's rail review.</p> <p>Secretary of State Alistair Darling has already signalled his intention to give regional Passenger Transport Executives more power when he announced the rail review in a Commons statement earlier this year.</p> <p>"It seems everyone agrees that management of the rail network needs simplification.  Centro is working with the Regional Transport Partnership to agree a method for determining local train service patterns and forwarding regional lobbying for our rail investment needs," says Centro director general Rob Donald.</p> <p>"With one sixth of all commuter journeys in Birmingham being made by train and New Street Station pushing capacity to the limit, we have been lobbying hard with other regional bodies. The review is an opportunity to build on the meetings we have had with ministers and really make changes for a better railway for passengers in the future."</p> <p>Centro, along with public transport bodies from other major conurbations, has submitted a four-point plan for their role in the future of UK railways.</p> <p>The proposals by the Passenger Transport Executives Group (PTEG), which represents more than 13 million passengers, say regional bodies should control the franchising process in their areas; take a greater role in running and developing stations and car parks; and be able to contract extra trains and carriages to relieve overcrowding.  They should also be able to expand their influence into the wider 'journey-to-work' areas surrounding conurbations, PTEG says.</p> <p>"We already play a major role in specifying and developing local rail networks," says PTEG rail spokesperson and South Yorkshire transport boss Roy Wicks.  "Over the last twenty years we have invested heavily in new trains, services and stations - achieving some big increases in passenger numbers as a result.  The rail review provides an opportunity to build on this success story by giving us more of the powers we need to take our rail networks to the next level.  These reforms would also bring us a step closer to providing fully integrated public transport networks for the city regions that we serve."</p> <p>PTEG has also recommended wider changes to the structure of the railways aimed at streamlining and simplifying arrangements for planning and delivering rail services.  It is proposing a structure aimed at combining the functions of the Strategic Rail Authority and Network Rail and which gives the Government overall control of the industry's finances.</p>"
West Midlands transport bosses have joined a call for the region to be given more control over the way trains are run and greater powers to ease overcrowding on commuter services.
9369
0
12
0
Eye in the sky clears the way for buses
2004-03-29T00:00:00
2004-03-29T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Traffic lights operated by satellite could help speed up public transport in the West Midlands.</p> <p>It is one of a number of ideas being tested as part of a package of bus demonstration projects aimed at improving service for existing passengers and tempting more people out of their cars.</p> <p>The Government has given £6m of extra funding to public transport promoter Centro and district councils in the West Midlands.  As well as supporting the implementation of new schemes, the money will pay for thorough 'before and after' surveys to measure the benefits.  The results could then help plan investment in public transport across the UK.</p> <p>"We have the busiest bus network outside London, so the potential benefits are huge," comments Centro projects director Tom Magrath.  "At the same time, we also have the busiest roads and congestion is costing the region more than £40m a week – so persuading more people onto public transport is vital to keep the West Midlands moving," he adds.</p> <p>In a recent survey more than four out of ten commuters in the West Midlands who did not use public transport said this was because they considered the system unreliable.  The same survey said 70 per cent would be prepared to switch to public transport if investment improved reliability. *</p> <p>One idea already being road tested is a special bus lane camera in Wolverhampton that names and shames offending motorists by flashing their registration number onto a giant screen.  In the future the vehicle identification technology – similar to that being used to enforce the congestion charge in London – could lead to on-the-spot fines for drivers trespassing into bus lanes.</p> <p>The eye in the sky idea would use satellite tracking to monitor the progress of buses and then change traffic lights to green as they approach.  It is thought giving priority to buses in this way could shave as much as ten per cent off the time spent on an average bus journey without increasing congestion for other road users.</p> <p>The project is looking at a number of other ideas, including changing the colour of bus lanes, to see how effective they are in improving public transport reliability.</p> <p>Bus companies Travel West Midlands and Pete's Travel are backing the project and, together with district councils and Centro, will use the results to help get the best value out of future investment.</p>"
Traffic lights operated by satellite could help speed up public transport in the West Midlands. It is one of a number of ideas being tested as part of a package of bus demonstration projects aimed at improving service for existing passengers and tempting more people out of their cars.
9369
0
12
0
New research highlights obstacles to improving big city bus services
2004-03-25T00:00:00
2004-03-25T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Key targets for improving the quality of bus services and increasing the number of passengers are not being met in some of Britain's largest cities, according to a report out today (Thursday 25 March)</p> <p>And the report, which looks at the situation in the West Midlands, claims passengers will only see limited improvements unless the Government gives more powers to local transport authorities.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro, its counterparts in other metropolitan areas and a growing number of MPs are now calling for bus services in major cities to be regulated in the same way as they are in London.</p> <p>The West Midlands has by far the busiest bus network outside the capital with around 350 million passenger journeys a year.</p> <p>"Competition between bus companies is a good thing," says Centro director general Rob Donald, "but companies should compete for franchises rather than involve passengers in bus wars on the road.  What passengers really want is a coordinated network of bus, rail and Metro which is accessible to all."</p> <p>In their study of major cities outside the capital, transport consultants Steer Davies Gleave say the five big bus companies – which operate 90 per cent of services – are "motivated by profitability with a focus on revenue-maximising fares" and that they tend to control costs through service reductions.  The report commissioned by the Passenger Transport Executives Group goes on to warn the public authorities seeking new powers to "expect vigorous defence of operators' current lucrative business."</p> <p>Since deregulation of the bus industry outside London in 1986, bus use has declined by nearly 30 per cent, fares have risen by more than a quarter in real terms, and reliability is well below Government targets.</p> <p>In contrast London Mayor Ken Livingstone has used powers to franchise bus services to deliver radical improvements and there has been almost a 20 per cent increase in passenger numbers over the same period.</p> <p>Transport for London, which is accountable to the Mayor, specifies in detail what bus services should be provided. It decides the routes, timetables, fares and even the colour of the buses.  The services themselves are operated by private companies through a competitive tendering process.</p> <p>In the rest of Britain it's a free market. Just about anyone can start up a bus service – but in reality most bus provision is run by a handful of private companies who rarely compete against each other.  Local passenger transport authorities are only allowed to fill in gaps where there is no commercial service.</p> <p>In today's report, bus operations are described as the major 'cash cow' activity for large transport groups.  In London the average pre-tax profit margins are under six per cent, but the average profit margin is more than double in other major cities.  And in the West Midlands, where the National Express Group operates eight out of ten buses, profit margins are in excess of 20 per cent.</p> <p>"The dominant bus company is making super-profits from fare increases and public funding, while blocking moves to introduce the sort of multi-operator ticketing that would make travel easier for passengers," says Rob Donald.</p> <p>""We need a new approach where the public sector determines an integrated bus, train Metro public transport network with improved information and ticketing.  Bus companies should compete to provide the specified bus network thus ensuring value for money and avoiding excess profits being made.""</p>"
"Key targets for improving the quality of bus services and increasing the number of passengers are not being met in some of Britain's largest cities, according to a report out today (Thursday 25 March)"
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0
12
0
West Midlands to press on with £570m Metro plan
2004-03-16T00:00:00
2004-03-16T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A development plan for the Midland Metro is set to be agreed by West Midlands councillors.  It would allocate £400m out of the extra £1bn Transport Secretary Alistair Darling announced for the region for an initial three-line extension to the tram network over the next decade.</p> <p>The ambitious plan will go to the policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority for approval at its meeting on Monday 22 March. </p> <p>It envisages a phased extension of the network that promises a turn-up-and-go, modern transport system to around half a million people in Birmingham and the Black Country.  The total cost is estimated at £570m for the first phase and more than £1bn to complete the network.</p> <p>Public transport promoter Centro believes it can meet Government criteria and is now seeking approval to submit outline business cases.  It will need to show that direct benefits outweigh the costs and that the tram system can run without public subsidy.  There would also be substantial economic regeneration and social benefits, although the Government does not allow these to be added in to the justification.</p> <p>"Expanding the Midland Metro network alongside improvements for bus and rail services is vitally important to address the problem of increasing traffic congestion," says Centro director general Rob Donald.  "Agreement to this programme of Metro expansion is an important milestone in achieving real choice for motorists."</p> <p>Consultants predict around 25 million passengers would use the Midland Metro following expansion of the network, with as many as a quarter of rush hour motorists tempted away from their cars according to a recent opinion poll.</p> <p>"The benefits for people living and working in the West Midlands will be substantial.  We now have the foundations for a good business case and are confident we can win Government backing – although there remains a lot of work to be done to clear the higher hurdles that are now being set," adds Rob Donald.</p> <p>"There is a provisional funding allocation that would allow us to go ahead with 2-3 lines, while we continue to lobby and press the case for future expansion which we can show is in line with the Government's transport priorities."</p> <p><strong>New lines</strong></p> <p>The first phase would provide new lines from Wolverhampton to Walsall; from Quinton along the Hagley Road through Birmingham city centre to Eastside; and north from Birmingham along the A34 to Great Barr.  It would cost £570m and envisages trams running from 2011.</p> <p>This would then be followed by a link from Walsall to Wednesbury and a Metro line to serve Birmingham International Airport and the NEC.</p> <p>Modern emission-free vehicles carrying up to 200 passengers each would provide communities across Birmingham and the Black Country with a fully-accessible public transport system.  On the Great Barr route, for example, they would whisk people into town at twice the speed of buses.</p> <p>In total, the plans now being put forward by Centro and its local authority partners could improve public transport links to two hospitals, half a dozen universities and colleges, more than ten shopping centres, as many as forty leisure centres and tourist attractions, dozens of schools, major employment areas and create new interchanges with motorways, the rail network and airport.</p> <p>The Leaders of all seven West Midlands district councils have expressed their support for the plan now being presented to the Passenger Transport Authority meeting.</p> <p>"Last year we agreed that £400m of the extra £1bn Government funding should be spent on developing the Metro network up to 2011.  Now we have agreement on a phased approach to develop a full network up to and beyond that date," explains Cllr Richard Worrall, chair of the Authority.</p> <p>"The plan will deliver wider regeneration benefits for the West Midlands and takes into account the needs of individual districts – as well as making the most of restricted Government funding."</p> <p>"But above all, the people of the West Midlands will be able to experience a step-change in the quality of public transport," he adds.</p> <p>The first Midland Metro line,  between Wolverhampton and Birmingham Snow Hill, opened five years ago and now runs at more than 98 per cent reliability.  A 'best value' survey of passengers also highlighted the tram system's accessibility, frequency, comfort, cleanliness and value for money.  Extensions through Birmingham city centre to Five Ways and from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill are now approaching the final stage of Government approval with trams planned to start running in 2008.</p> <p><strong>Consultation</strong></p> <p>Centro, the body responsible for developing and promoting public transport in the West Midlands, and its district council partners undertook an initial public consultation on further expansion of the Metro network during late 2003 and early this year.  They sought public reaction on a number of different corridors and views on more than a dozen different alignments.</p> <p>Almost 100,000 detailed brochures were sent to people living close to the proposed routes and more than 50 special events and exhibitions took place.</p> <p>The results of that process including letters, petitions, 2,000 questionnaires and other comments are now been considered by Council Cabinets in the five West Midlands cities and districts concerned. <em>(see news analysis for comments about each council's process)</em></p> <p>Birmingham City Council will consider the results of the consultation next month.  The Cabinet is expected to consider flyovers or underpasses at key junctions to keep both the trams and other traffic flowing smoothly – and to back a joint study to investigate options for underground running of Metro in the city centre.</p> <p>Councillors are also expected to share Centro's view that proposals for a line serving Harborne, the University/QE Hospital and Bartley Green should now be dropped.  Substantial revision would be necessary for the route to meet the Government's raised benefit-cost ratio criteria and there was little public support for particular alignments being suggested.</p> <p><strong>Development</strong></p> <p>Centro is continuing high-level discussions with the Department for Transport on the funding process for both the current Line One extensions and the phased future development now being proposed.  Proposals include the separating of construction/maintenance and operating concessions and the allocation of risk, to avoid bids coming in over budget as has happened in other metropolitan areas.</p> <p>An outline business case would be submitted to the Government late this year, when further detailed public consultation would also get underway.  The funding process would need to be agreed with the Department for Transport during the latter half of 2005, leading to a public inquiry in late 2006.  This could then give Centro the powers to build and operate the routes, with construction starting in 2009 and a phased opening leading to three new lines carrying passengers by 2013.</p>"
A development plan for the Midland Metro is set to be agreed by West Midlands councillors. It would allocate £400m out of the extra £1bn Transport Secretary Alistair Darling announced for the region for an initial three-line extension to the tram network over the next decade.
9369
0
12
0
"One small step for passengers, a giant leap for bus quality"
2004-03-03T00:00:00
2004-03-03T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Public transport promoter Centro is to invest £175,000 helping people get on and off the bus in Coventry.</p> <p>More than 30 new shelters are to be installed on the busy 'PrimeLine' bendi-bus route which runs to Walsgrave Hospital from Longfellows Road.  The shelters mean passengers can wait in comfort and come with easy access kerbs for passengers to use both doors of the bus.  The extended 'platform' means a much smaller step between the kerb and the bus – especially useful for people in wheelchairs or with buggies.</p> <p>"This is one of the most important bus routes in Coventry and the modern new shelters will further raise its already high standards," comments Passenger Transport Authority member Cllr Graham Wilkes.</p> <p>Councillors stressed that the views of people living near the scheme would be taken on board and consultation at venues along the route would shortly get underway.</p> <p>PrimeLine is a partnership between Centro, local bus company Travel Coventry and Coventry City Council.  All are committed to improving the quality of bus services in the city and easing road congestion problems.</p>"
"Public transport promoter Centro is to invest £175,000 helping people get on and off the bus in Coventry."
9369
0
12
0
More investment on public transport pledge from WMPTA and Centro
2004-03-02T00:00:00
2004-03-02T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A £35 million package of public transport improvements is set to bring many benefits to the West Midlands' travelling public in the coming year.</p> <p>The region's public transport developer Centro is to push ahead with such schemes as Bus Showcase, rail and Metro Park and Ride expansion, modern passenger information and much more, in many cases in partnership with districts. The money will forward further fully integrated transport – bus, rail and Metro – for the West Midlands, the second busiest metropolitan conurbation in the country, and one of the most congested.</p> <p>Centro is one of the biggest spenders in the country on public transport schemes, and one of the most highly rated. The budget for 2004-05 is an increase on this year's £26m and represents the second highest investment programme of all the Passenger Transport Executive areas. Another aim will be to improve on the Government's 'above average' rating of the West Midlands Local Transport Plan – which sets out public transport priorities for the region.</p> <p>Major schemes for 2004-05 include £1.6m to complete the Outer Circle Bus Showcase, a £2m expansion of the popular Stourbridge Junction Park and Ride, a £220,000 project to continue to supply new customer facilities and a coach lounge at Wolverhampton Bus Station, Midland Metro development, a new rail Park and Ride at Smethwick Galton Bridge rail station costing £249,000, and new electronic passenger information boards at Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton Bus Stations.</p> <p>Other schemes include the start of rail Real Time Information, Bilston Bus Station refurbishment, bus improvements for Longbridge and Weoley Castle interchanges, disabled access for Metro stops, and joint partnership initiatives such as Red Routes and Bus Showcase.</p> <p>Centro and its many partners are committed to improving the quality of public transport in the West Midlands by creating a fully integrated 'Network West Midlands' offering turn up and go frequencies on all forms of public transport.</p> <p>Achieving this requires investment and delivery. In the current programme (2003-04) there have been starts on or completion of seven new Bus Showcase schemes, 14 bus to bus and nine bus to rail interchanges, Park and Ride at six major rail sites and starts on new bus stations for Wednesbury and Bearwood.</p> <p>"Investing in and delivering quality public transport to help get the West Midlands moving is something the WMPTA and Centro has, and continues to do" said WMPTA member Cllr Graham Wilkes, Chair of its Project Development and Monitoring Committee. We want to get the best possible deal for existing passengers, and attract new users to finally tackle once and for all the crippling effects of road congestion."</p>"
A £35 million package of public transport improvements is set to bring many benefits to the West Midlands' travelling public in the coming year.
9369
0
12
0
Passengers to gain from local rail improvements
2004-02-27T00:00:00
2004-02-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Rail travellers in the West Midlands could be looking forward to improved local stations, if a proposed £3.3 million package of upgraded facilities is realised.</p> <p>The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is committed to new and improved ticket offices, better station and access facilities, extended platforms, plus CCTV and on-train announcements, all of which public transport promoter Centro would implement.</p> <p>Cllr Graham Wilkes, Chair of the PTA's Project Development and Monitoring Committee, and Lead Member for rail issues, said: "We have a list of priorities and we are drawing up a programme to get on and deliver more benefits for rail passengers.  More and more people in the West Midlands are travelling by rail and we want to make sure they have the best facilities at their disposal."</p> <p>New booking offices are planned for Berkswell (<strong>Coventry</strong>), Spring Road (S <strong>Birmingham</strong>), Lye (<strong>Black Country</strong>) and Whitlocks End (<strong>Solihull</strong>), whilst Yardley Wood (<strong>B'ham</strong>) would have its booking office moved.  Bloxwich and Bloxwich North stations (<strong>Walsall</strong>) are to have their station facilities upgraded, including longer platforms.  Wythall could also have its platform extended, whilst a new access ramp is intended for Shirley (both in <strong>Solihull</strong>)</p> <p>In addition there are plans for Real Time Information – electronic displays saying when the next train is due – at more stations, extended CCTV coverage, and automated passenger announcements and information on trains. There would also be better signage, waiting facilities and fencing.</p> <p>One sixth of Birmingham commuters use rail and patronage across the West Midlands is rising faster than in London. Centro hopes these proposals will not only benefit existing passengers but also attract new ones from the region's congested roads.</p>"
"Rail travellers in the West Midlands could be looking forward to improved local stations, if a proposed £3.3 million package of upgraded facilities is realised."
9369
0
12
0
Proposals to break Tipton congestion problems welcomed
2004-02-27T00:00:00
2004-02-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Better bus services and a new Park and Ride for rail users are on the cards for Tipton after plans were revealed to ease a long running road congestion problem in the area.</p> <p>The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority and public transport promoter Centro both welcome the planned closure of a level crossing on the railway at Owen Street, next to Tipton station, which will enable buses – including the 311 Bus Showcase – to run more smoothly through the town, along a new by pass road which will part run in a tunnel beneath the railway.</p> <p>Tipton station's new Park and Ride will replace the existing one and will have extra spaces (with more for disabled users), pick up/drop off point, taxi area and other features at a cost of £250,000.</p> <p>Buses have been held up in Tipton for several years because the level crossing is closed for 45 minutes each hour to allow for trains using the busy West Coast Main Line. The 311 Bus Showcase was routed away from Owen Street because of the delays but will return to use the new relief road.</p> <p>"The WMPTA and Centro are pleased that this issue has been satisfactorily resolved and that public transport users will be among the biggest winners from the proposals," said Cllr Graham Wilkes, Chair of the PTA's Project Development and Monitoring Committee. "We look forward to working with Sandwell MBC on this exciting new scheme."</p> <p>Cllr Bob Badham, Sandwell's Cabinet Member For Urban Form added: "We are pleased to work in tandem with Centro to progress the relief road and the Park and Ride site. It is important that this project goes ahead in order to relieve traffic congestion, and bus users will be able to better access facilities in the town."</p> <p>Work on the project is expected to begin in 2005.</p>"
Better bus services and a new Park and Ride for rail users are on the cards for Tipton after plans were revealed to ease a long running road congestion problem in the area.
9369
0
12
0
MPs and councillors seek review of bus industry
2004-02-26T00:00:00
2004-02-26T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Signs that the Government is warming towards reviewing the ways buses are run in big cities have been welcomed by Centro, the country's biggest passenger transport body outside London.</p> <p>The West Midlands bus, train and tram promoter is backing calls for regulation of bus services to be made easier.  Councillors on its policy-setting Passenger Transport Authority are to discuss the issue next week (Monday 1 March) and five local MPs have signed a Commons motion calling for greater control of private bus companies.</p> <p>"Outside London, the Government is in real danger of missing its ten year plan targets for increasing bus use," says Cllr Richard Worrall, chair of the West Midlands PTA, who also speaks on behalf of all seven metropolitan areas as chair of the PTA Special Interest Group.</p> <p>The West Midlands has by far the busiest bus network outside the capital with around 350 million passenger journeys a year.</p> <p>Since deregulation of the bus industry outside London in 1986, bus use has declined by nearly 30 per cent, fares have risen by more than a quarter in real terms, and reliability is well below government targets.</p> <p>In contrast London Mayor Ken Livingstone has used powers to franchise bus services to deliver radical improvements and there has been almost a 20 per cent increase in passenger numbers over the same period.</p> <p>Transport for London, which is accountable to the Mayor, specifies in detail what bus services should be provided.  It decides the routes, timetables, fares and even the colour of the buses.  The services themselves are operated by private companies through a competitive tendering process.</p> <p>In the rest of Britain it's a free market.  Just about anyone can start up a bus service – but in reality most bus provision is run by a handful of private companies who rarely compete against each other.  Local passenger transport authorities are only allowed to fill in gaps where there is no commercial service. </p> <p>"We want to work with Government and the industry to turn this situation around and deliver the quality bus services our big cities need.  We welcome the Government's recent announcement that it plans to remove one of the barriers to bus franchising but the legislative and procedural hurdles to bus franchising remain daunting," comment Cllr Worrall.</p> <p>"The vast majority of public transport journeys are made by bus - far more than by rail - yet the attention that the media and national decision makers give to buses is minimal," he adds.</p> <p>To support their lobbying, passenger transport bodies in the big cities have jointly commissioned consultants to review the current dynamics of the bus market and to examine the implications of different regulatory frameworks.</p> <p>At the moment five big companies, Arriva, National Express, First, Go-Ahead and Stagecoach operate 90 per cent of services in the metropolitan areas.  Travel West Midlands, part of the National Express Group, operates 83 per cent of bus services in the Centro area.</p> <p>"Partnership working between Centro, local authorities and bus companies will continue but this has not increased overall bus patronage," comments Centro director general Rob Donald.  "We need a new approach where the public sector determines an integrated bus, train and Metro public transport network with improved information and ticketing.  Bus companies should compete to provide the specified bus network thus ensuring value for money and avoiding excess profits being made."</p> <p>PTEG, the group that brings together Centro and six other public transport bodies, believes that London-style bus franchising (known as 'Quality Contracts') would ensure big cities could develop bus networks which helped achieve broader objectives for tackling social inclusion, stimulating local economic growth and reducing congestion.  Existing legislation does allow for Quality Contracts, but PTEG claims the hurdles to be overcome before councils and passenger transport authorities can introduce them are set too high.  It has been lobbying Government to speed up the process and issue guidance on developing quality contract bids.</p> <p>Transport Minister Tony McNulty announced earlier this month that the 21-month gap between approval of a scheme and its commencement could be reduced.  The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority is expected to back calls for this to be cut to six months at the meeting of its policy committee on Monday 1 March.  The Transport Minister has also promised a guidance note to help Quality Contract bids.</p>"
"Signs that the Government is warming towards reviewing the ways buses are run in big cities have been welcomed by Centro, the country's biggest passenger transport body outside London."
9369
0
12
0
Wolverhampton and Coventry airport plans under fire
2004-02-24T00:00:00
2004-02-24T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The region's public transport boss has hit out at moves to create a second and third passenger airport for the West Midlands.</p> <p>Cllr Richard Worrall, chair of the Passenger Transport Authority, argues instead that airlines should focus on Birmingham International where there are excellent existing transport links.</p> <p>The PTA is expected to endorse a formal objection to development at Halfpenny Green Airport outside Wolverhampton when its policy committee meets next week (Monday 1 March). </p> <p>"Passengers would be short-changed by unsupported development at Halfpenny Green," says Cllr Worrall.  "Providing meaningful public transport infrastructure and access to such development would be difficult, if not impossible."</p> <p>"If there are to be other major airports in the region – and I do not accept that the case has been made – then it should be part of a properly thought-out regional strategy rather then the result of ad-hoc private sector development."</p> <p>"Air travel, like any transport mode, should be properly co-ordinated.  We should make the most of Birmingham International where there is a motorway and rail station on the doorstep and we have just invested £7 million in a public transport interchange," he adds.</p> <p>Centro, the public transport promoter answerable to the PTA, will be supporting Birmingham International in efforts to get a quarter of passengers at the airport on to public transport.  It says similar targets are beyond the reach of developments at Wolverhampton and Coventry.</p> <p>Transport Secretary Alistair Darling recently gave a qualified go-ahead for expansion at Wolverhampton in the Airports White Paper – but he said the scale of growth should be controlled by local planning policies.  Centro has objected to the expansion proposals in the South Staffordshire Local Plan and asked for public transport planners to be given a bigger say in any expansion decision.</p>"
The region's public transport boss has hit out at moves to create a second and third passenger airport for the West Midlands.
9369
0
12
0
Company car drivers back public transport campaign
2004-02-10T00:00:00
2004-02-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A campaign that promotes an annual car-free day has won one of the top prizes at a motor industry award ceremony.</p> <p>The National TravelWise Association, which is backed by the West Midlands public transport body Centro, was highly commended at the Fleet Excellence Awards for its eco-friendly congestion-busting.</p> <p>Campaign work to encourage more people to travel by bus, or to ride their bike to work, collected an award alongside the 125mph Jaguar X-type.  Winners were chosen by readers of Fleet Week and Fleet Management magazines, who have responsibility for running business car fleets and business transport and travel.</p> <p>"It was a real surprise to find ourselves nominated – but it was excellent that the fleet industry has recognised the role and value of TravelWise," says the organisation's chair Tim Malynn.  "We are not anti-car and can help fleet and other transport groups to run businesses in a sustainable way," he adds.</p> <p>In the West Midlands, Centro's TravelWise team provides half price travel passes for motorists prepared to give up a company parking space.  After a year, nearly three-quarters of commuters gave up their parking space for good and became permanent users of bus, rail or Metro for their journey to work.</p> <p>According to Centro, the rewards for companies in the busiest commuter region outside London, are reduced congestion, a healthier workforce, reduced car parking costs and a boost to their 'green' credentials.</p>"
A campaign that promotes an annual car-free day has won one of the top prizes at a motor industry award ceremony.
9369
0
12
0
Car crime halved at congestion-busting park and ride
2004-01-27T00:00:00
2004-01-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Transport bosses are hailing the success of park and ride improvements as new figures show car crime has been almost halved.</p> <p>Public transport body Centro is investing £6 million to make park and ride more attractive across the West Midlands – with the potential to take two million car journeys a year off the region's congested roads.</p> <p>As well as providing bigger car parks at train stations, Centro is upgrading security, lighting and safety features to meet Home Office 'Secure Car Park' status.  This is already paying dividends with criminal damage incidents relating to vehicles down by 42% in the past year.</p> <p>At Dudley Port and Whitlock's End (Solihull) the latest statistics show car-related crime fell by 82% and 90%, councillors on the policy-setting West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority (PTA) were told.</p> <p>"Park and ride is becoming extremely popular with rail and Metro passengers, but we want people to feel they can leave their vehicles safe and secure," says committee chair Cllr Graham Wilkes.  "This investment shows how serious we are towards the welfare of the travelling public and reducing crime, and perceptions of crime."</p> <p>In a survey, nine out of ten park and ride users said the installation of CCTV cameras was an effective deterrent to crime.</p> <p>Across the West Midlands, Centro provides over 5,000 free parking spaces at 34 rail stations and four Metro stops as part of its campaign to develop an integrated transport system.  By 2006 the publicly-funded transport promoter will link security cameras at all car parks to its network safety centre. </p> <p>The PTA's project development committee, chaired by Cllr Wilkes, this week earmarked £2.4m for other improvements including lighting, fencing, landscaping, resurfacing, public address and help points at another 23 park and ride locations.</p> <p>Secure Car Park status is a Government and police initiative encouraging high quality safety and security features in car parks.  Centro's Safety and Security Strategy aims to help achieve this, improving security and reducing crime in partnership with operators, local authorities and police.</p>"
Transport bosses are hailing the success of park and ride improvements as new figures show car crime has been almost halved.
9369
0
12
0
Regional transport body welcomes rail review
2004-01-19T00:00:00
2004-01-19T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has welcomed Alistair Darling's proposals to restructure the rail network and simplify the organisational structure – with a greater voice for the region.</p> <p>Speaking in the Commons this afternoon, the Transport Secretary revealed the Government would publish proposals for reform in the summer.  He said there were currently too many organisations, with overlapping responsibilities, running trains and track.</p> <p>Robert Smith, services director for Centro – the body responsible for co-ordinating public transport provision in the West Midlands – said the Government statement showed that some important messages were getting through.</p> <p>"With one sixth of all commuter journeys in Birmingham being made by train and New Street Station pushing capacity to the limit, we have been lobbying hard on behalf of the region.  We have had meetings with ministers and it does seem that they are listening to our concerns."</p> <p>He added that the Secretary of State's wish for more responsibility to be given to regional bodies like Centro would deliver an opportunity to make much-needed improvements for passengers in the West Midlands.</p> <p>"We will be putting forward our proposals to improve the structure of the rail industry in the review."</p> <p>"It seems everyone agrees that management of the rail network needs simplification.  The West Midlands is at the hub of the national network, so we suffer most from national problems and – it could be argued – we have the most to gain from a restructure."</p> <p>Robert Smith added Centro would be seeking to ensure that existing progress on raising the issue of New Street Station is protected in this summer's review and that the West Midlands needed to continue to lobby for Government funding to be allocated to building a solution.</p>"
The West Midlands public transport promoter Centro has welcomed Alistair Darling's proposals to restructure the rail network and simplify the organisational structure � with a greater voice for the region.
9369
0
12
0
Birmingham city centre Metro inquiry reaches its end
2004-01-15T00:00:00
2004-01-15T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The Public Inquiry into the proposed extension of the Midland Metro through Birmingham City Centre has now closed, moving the process on to its most decisive stage.</p> <p>The inspector has indicated that his report on the inquiry will be submitted to the Secretary of State for Transport around Easter. It is hoped that the Secretary of State will decide to award Transport and Works Act powers to build the extension by the end of the year.</p> <p>At the start of the inquiry in early December, public transport developer Centro stated its case for a 3.2km, ten stop tram extension to the current Metro line 1 route through the centre of Birmingham that will enable people to journey from Snow Hill to Hagley Road in just 13 minutes, going via Corporation Street, New Street rail station, Victoria Square and Broad Street. The route will serve the main shopping and business areas, plus the ICC, Brindleyplace and other attractions. It is hoped to start construction in 2005 and have trams running in 2008.</p> <p>Altogether 143 objections were made to the extension, at the end of the inquiry only 59 remained as Centro was able to satisfy many of the concerns of objectors.  A number of the outstanding objections were heard by the inquiry, including a late one from Travel West Midlands regarding arrangements for relocating buses serving Corporation Street. It has been agreed by Centro and Travel West Midlands (TWM) that no Traffic Regulation Orders to remove bus services from Corporation Street will be implemented until Birmingham City Council has provided the new Bus Mall arrangements.</p> <p>Centro Projects Director Tom Magrath said: "We are pleased that the Public Inquiry has allowed all parties concerned a chance to state their case, and in many instances objections have been withdrawn during the process. The next step forward is for the City Council to complete its work on the Bus Mall, in consultation with Centro and Travel West Midlands, and advise Government of the solution so that the way is clear for Government approval to build this important public transport link for Birmingham."</p> <p>David Bull, Birmingham City Council's Head of Transportation Strategy, added: "The City Council are working in partnership with Centro and Travel West Midlands on revised Bus Mall proposals, which should be completed for City Council and PTA members to consider in March. We are looking forward to a successful outcome that will allow the Metro to run through the centre of the city, marking an important step change for public transport."</p> <p>Arrangements are now to be made for the other planned Midland Metro extension, covering Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via Dudley and Merry Hill, which is planned to start in March.  The pre-inquiry meeting to agree arrangements for this inquiry will take place next Monday, 19<sup>th</sup> January.</p>"
"The Public Inquiry into the proposed extension of the Midland Metro through Birmingham City Centre has now closed, moving the process on to its most decisive stage."
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0
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Agreement on Midland Metro Birmingham City Centre extension and Bus Mall changes welcomed
2004-01-08T00:00:00
2004-01-08T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Centro, the West Midlands' public transport promoter, has reached agreement with Travel West Midlands and Birmingham City Council over how to take forward the relocation of bus services from Corporation Street to the Bus Mall.</p> <p>It has been agreed by Centro and Travel West Midlands (TWM) that no Traffic Regulation Orders to cease bus services on Corporation Street will be issued until the new Bus Mall arrangements have been approved by the City Council in consultation with Centro and TWM. This follows concerns by TWM about where its buses would be redirected to in the light of recent changes made by the City Council to the Bus Mall.</p> <p>Though TWM objected to this aspect of the TWA Order, a joint statement between Centro and TWM was provided to the inspector, which outlined how all parties will continue to work together to achieve an acceptable solution before the construction of the City Centre extension takes place.  The Inspector accepted this and agreed that this was sufficient to enable him to write his report and close the Public Inquiry as currently programmed.</p> <p>Once Birmingham City Council has developed and approved a new scheme, Centro will submit details to the Government as part of its Transport and Works Act Order application. TWM will be able to make submissions of its own to the Secretary of State following the application if it wishes.</p> <p>Tom Magrath, Centro Projects Director, said: "Centro welcomes this agreement that we hope will, eventually, lead to a good deal for all public transport users in the city centre. We look forward to seeing the new proposals and reaching a prompt conclusion that satisfies all concerned."</p> <p>Birmingham City Council are investigating a revision to the Bus Mall in the vicinity of Moor Street rail station that will allow the proposed Midland Metro City Centre extension to proceed without any further delay.</p> <p>David Bull, Head of Transportation Strategy at Birmingham City Council, said: "The City Council is working in partnership with Centro and TWM to develop a revised Bus Mall as quickly as possible so that proposals can be considered by elected members, and an approved scheme will allow the Secretary of State to agree to the Metro project, pending the outcome of the Public Inquiry."</p>"
"Centro, the West Midlands' public transport promoter, has reached agreement with Travel West Midlands and Birmingham City Council over how to take forward the relocation of bus services from Corporation Street to the Bus Mall."
9369
0
12
0
Bus pass generation shuns cheaper travel
2003-11-27T00:00:00
2003-11-27T00:00:00
9369
"<p>A rise in car use means that fewer than half of people over 60 now apply for their senior citizen's bus pass.</p> <p>Department for Transport figures released today (Thursday 27 November) show the take-up rate has fallen from 60 per cent ten years ago, to just 47 per cent.  This is despite a requirement for all local councils to provide at least half-fare bus travel to those aged 60 and over.</p> <p>"More older people are now likely to be car drivers, so their use of buses is declining," according to the Government report.</p> <p>Take-up has even fallen in the West Midlands, where the Passenger Transport Authority extends the scheme to free travel for people over 65 and gives concessionary travel on trains and Metro services as well as buses.  The public transport promoter Centro has just launched an advertising campaign to encourage more people to apply for their pass.</p> <p>Centro calculates almost forty thousand people in the West Midlands could be missing out on free travel on buses, trains and Metro and a further 12,000 have not taken up the offer of half fare travel.</p> <p>Elsewhere in its report, the Government's public transport statistics reveal the number of local bus passenger journeys in England increased by three per cent in 2002/03 to 3,897 million, up from 3,798 million the previous year.</p> <p>But there is a significant gap between services in London, where passenger numbers grew by eight per cent, and the rest of the country, where passenger figures are still falling.  Local bus fares increased by one per cent in real terms in England in 2002/03, while in London there was a real fall in bus fares of three per cent.</p>"
A rise in car use means that fewer than half of people over 60 now apply for their senior citizen's bus pass.
9369
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12
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Have your say on better public transport
2003-11-07T00:00:00
2003-11-07T00:00:00
9369
"<p >The future shape of public transport goes on show from this week – as public consultation gets underway on expansion of the Midland Metro to serve communities across Birmingham and the Black Country.</p> <p >If all the routes were to get the green light from the Government more than half a million people will live or work within walking distance of a new Metro stop.</p> <p >Exhibitions, talks and meetings take place during November and December to seek views and explain the benefits of a network of new tram routes.  Staff from public transport promoter Centro and local councils will be on hand to discuss the proposals.</p> <p >More than 100,000 brochures are also being sent to homes adjacent to the routes for people who cannot attend exhibitions or meetings. </p> <p >The suggested new lines for the modern, pollution-free trams run across Birmingham from Quinton to the Airport; to the M5 at Frankley, via the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Birmingham University; North via Perry Barr to the M6; and a link to serve new development at Eastside.  There is also a proposed Five Ws Route – from a city centre loop in Wolverhampton, via Wednesfield, Willenhall and Walsall to connect back with Line One at Wednesbury.</p> <p >Within these corridors, potential travellers are being given a say on more than a dozen different alignments across the planned network.</p> <p >In total, the plans now being put forward by Centro and its local authority partners could improve public transport links to three hospitals, half a dozen universities and colleges, 18 shopping centres, as many as forty leisure centres and tourist attractions, dozens of schools, major employment areas and create new interchanges with motorways, the rail network and airport.</p> <p >The first Midland Metro line from Birmingham to Wolverhampton opened four years ago and is running at more than 98 per cent reliability.  A second line from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill and an extension through Birmingham city centre are entering the final stages of approval.</p> <p >Consultants predict around 30 million passengers would use the Midland Metro following expansion of the network, with as many as 25 per cent of rush hour motorists tempted away from their cars according to a recent opinion poll. </p> <p>"This could change the face of the West Midlands and be the single biggest step towards an integrated transport system and solving the problems of traffic congestion," predicts Centro projects director Tom Magrath.</p> <p><strong>Important note:</strong></p> <p><em>This news release is one of many issued during 2003 to support the consultation process, which ended in February 2004.  It has been posted onto the news website to provide background information.</em></p> <p><em>If you need any more information, please contact us.</em></p>"
The future shape of public transport goes on show from this week � as public consultation gets underway on expansion of the Midland Metro to serve communities across Birmingham and the Black Country.
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Workers call for bosses to help green up their act
2003-09-10T00:00:00
2003-09-10T00:00:00
9369
"<p>Major employers in the West Midlands should think more about their impact on congestion according to their staff.</p> <p>A national opinion poll showed workers in the West Midlands, more than any other region, believed taking care of the environment should be a corporate responsibility.</p> <p>In the survey published ahead of TravelWise Week, more than three-quarters said bosses should help their staff make more sustainable travel choices.  The West Midlands percentage was more than 20 points ahead of the North-East and Yorkshire.  Workers were 10 per cent less concerned in London and the South East.</p> <p>Road and rail congestion in the West Midlands is estimated to cost businesses more than £9m for every working day.</p> <p>TravelWise teams employed by local councils and bodies such as Centro aim to combat the problem by promoting journeys by foot, bike, bus, train and tram.  They work with companies in their area to offer employees more sustainable travel options.</p> <p>In Birmingham, for example, when Mitchells and Butlers relocated to new offices in the city centre, the firm helped their 1,000 strong workforce with the move by joining the Company TravelWise scheme.  This provided employees with discounted annual travel passes and the company further reduced staff travel costs by offering a relocation payment.  Company TravelWise also organised sessions with timetables, maps and advice to help employees plan their daily journey.  As a result, more than 17 per cent of Mitchells and Butlers staff have given up their car for the daily commute and public transport use continues to rise.</p> <p>In the national survey by pollsters TNS, 22 per cent said they would definitely ditch the car and use public transport if their employer provided a discounted or free travel pass.  (14% said they would probably switch to public transport and a further 9% said they would at least give it a try)  In Birmingham alone, that could potentially cut rush hour traffic by 25,000 cars a day.  The rewards for companies, according to TravelWise are reduced congestion, a healthier workforce, reduced car parking costs and a boost to their 'green' credentials.</p> <p>When asked what big companies could do to help reduce traffic congestion 69 per cent said they should provide showers for people who cycle to work, 75 per cent said they should provide free or discounted travel passes and 62 per cent said they should offer other incentives for employees not using their cars.</p> <p>Commuters and shoppers are being encouraged to leave the car at home more during TravelWise Week (15-21 September 2003) as part of a growing campaign to promote environment-friendly and healthier travel.  The campaign organisation encourages major employers and health authorities to become involved through a corporate challenge and other local activities.</p> <p>"If this week helps people change their travel habits we can enjoy the advantages of less traffic on the road all year round," says Centro TravelWise officer Alison Harrington.  "A successful campaign can also help the environment and the health and wealth of the West Midlands," she adds.</p>"
"Major employers in the West Midlands should think more about their impact on congestion according to their staff. A national opinion poll showed workers in the West Midlands, more than any other region, believed taking care of the environment should be a corporate responsibility."
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0
12
0
Bigger fines for train fare cheats
2003-07-16T00:00:00
2003-07-16T00:00:00
9369
"Fare dodgers who cheat the West Midlands transport network out of £� million every year could soon face stiffer penalties. <p> Local politicians say the current on-the-spot fine, which the Government limits to £10, offers little disincentive to persistent offenders. Now they say Transport Secretary Alistair Darling is close to agreeing a doubling of the penalty � although even that may not be enough. <p> "The £10 limit was set almost fifteen years ago, so a review is well overdue," says Cllr Richard Worrall, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, whose organisation has been campaigning for the increase. <p> "Fare dodgers are cheating their fellow passengers and forcing the rail industry to put a lot of effort into enforcement when they should be concentrating on running a better service," he says. "Rail companies have a difficult job to do when the current £10 limit can lead regular cheats into taking a calculated risk. That loophole could be closed quickly and easily with a stroke of the Ministerial pen." <p> The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority area covers commuter and local rail services running more than 850 trains a day, as well as the 98%-reliable Midland Metro. Other UK passenger transport authorities, in a grouping chaired by Cllr Worrall, have also been calling for the change."
Fare dodgers who cheat the West Midlands transport network out of £� million every year could soon face stiffer penalties.
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Metro not derailed claims transport body
2003-07-11T00:00:00
2003-07-11T00:00:00
9369
"<p>The vision of a super-reliable, easy to use Metro system for Birmingham and the West Midlands is still very much alive according to public transport body Centro.</p> <p>It says the modern trams that have proved such a hit in other major European cities will be running on the streets of Birmingham by the end of the decade.  The system will be popular with passengers, relieve congestion and boost the image of the region.</p> <p>The Government announcement on transport spending earlier this week raised some concerns about future proposals, but the region's public transport body Centro is confident that Alistair Darling has cleared the way for a Birmingham city centre extension and a route linking Wednesbury, Dudley and Brierley Hill.   The Transport Secretary re-stated that these first two extensions had already been provisionally approved.</p> <p>"Alistair Darling has left us in no doubt that Metro network proposals will face rigorous examination, but we are already in the process of working up robust business cases with the district councils for three further lines in order to pass the Government tests.  The rules haven't changed," said Rob Donald, Centro director general.</p> <p>"The Secretary of State is allocating a further £1bn to the West Midlands with an indication that this could be spent on two more Metro extensions, super showcase bus schemes and strategic park and ride.  His thinking seems to be in line with our own approach to public transport development, where we look at a range of solutions including Metro light rail and bus showcase for each potential route.</p> <p>"The £1bn is a welcome injection of funds, but we clearly need to make the case for more funding if we are to take all three lines forward," the Centro boss said.</p> <p>In a Commons address that was mostly about road building schemes Alistair Darling singled out the West Midlands for extra spending on public transport, including Metro.</p> <p>"Perhaps that shows a belief that an integrated transport plan is the best way forward for this region.  We will find out more in his response to our Local Transport Plan which is being submitted to the Secretary of State next week," adds Rob Donald.</p> <p>Speaking in the Commons on Wednesday (9 July), Alistair Darling gave his long-awaited response to the West Midlands Area Multi Modal Study which identified £7.5bn-worth of transport proposals for the next thirty years, including a network of a further ten Metro lines.</p> <p>Centro is keen to point out that it was this ambitious network that was described as 'unrealistic' by the Transport Secretary because of the costs involved.  The £1bn allocation for the first ten years still allows for considerable progress on the Metro, which remains a top priority of the Local Transport Plan.</p> <p>In his announcement, the Secretary of State also left the way open for proposals to be brought forward in later years.  "The longer term measures, for delivery beyond 2015, provide a useful indication of future investment needs but it is too early to take a firm view on the priorities for which we might provide funding in the latter part of the next decade and beyond," the Transport Secretary said.</p>"
"The vision of a super-reliable, easy to use Metro system for Birmingham and the West Midlands is still very much alive according to public transport body Centro."
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Transport spending announcement �an opportunity � but not a solution� for West Midlands
2003-07-09T00:00:00
2003-07-09T00:00:00
9369
"<p align=""left"">Public transport bosses in the West Midlands today gave a muted welcome to Secretary of State Alistair Darling's announcement on spending – although it seems clear that all the demands identified in the Government's own transport studies will not be met.</p> <p align=""left"">"We will of course make the most of the opportunity of spending an additional £1 billion over the next seven years, and we will be devising a programme with our local partners" said Rob Donald, Centro Director General.</p> <p align=""left"">The Government-sponsored West Midlands Area Multi Modal Study called for investment of £7.6 billion over the next 30 years.  In line with the study's findings, the seven districts of the West Midlands and the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority are to submit a new seven-year £2.2bn Local Transport Plan to Alistair Darling next week, detailing the West Midlands' needs.</p> <p align=""left"">"The extra funds will help expand and develop the very successful Bus Showcase programme and expand the Midland Metro" says Rob Donald.</p> <p align=""left"">The need for rail investment is still critical to the West Midlands and Centro is working with the Strategic Rail Authority and other partners to develop the case for expanding capacity, he adds.</p> <p align=""left"">"Sorting out New Street station and rail capacity remains a top priority for the West Midlands as the hub of the UK rail network."</p> <p align=""left""><strong><em>Links:</em></strong><br /> <a href=""http://www.go-wm.gov.uk/MultiModal/stories/storyReader$57"" target=""_blank"">Background from Government Office for the West Midlands</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.go-wm.gov.uk/static/gems/MultiModal/WMAMMS.doc"" target=""_blank"">Department for Transport Press Notice</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.go-wm.gov.uk/MultiModal/stories/storyReader$58"" target=""_blank"">Alistair Darling's Response to Multi Modal Study</a><br /> <a href=""http://www.go-wm.gov.uk/MultiModal/stories/storyReader$56"" target=""_blank"">Tony McNulty's letter to the Regional Planning Body</a></p> <p><br /> <br />  </p>"
Public transport bosses in the West Midlands today gave a muted welcome to Secretary of State Alistair Darling's announcement on spending � although it seems clear that all the demands identified in the Government's own transport studies will not be met.
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0
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