Transport cash prioritised for 'greatest benefit'

A review of how big transport projects are funded will make sure money is spent on those giving the "greatest benefits for communities", regional officials have said.

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is looking at how best to utilise £2.4bn of devolved transport funding and seeing what stage more than 160 schemes are at.

A report to the WMCA board said there would be a focus on ensuring funding goes where it will have the greatest impact.

"It means clearer priorities, stronger governance and confidence that funding decisions reflect local needs," Sandeep Shingadia, executive director of transport, told members.

Economist Bridget Rosewell is carrying out the review which will propose "a clear and transparent prioritisation process" for the funding covering the period of 2027 to 2032, the meeting heard.

Up to 25 recommendations aimed at improving the way projects are managed have been identified, with an action plan to be implemented in the coming months.

Some schemes being looked at include the Metro extension to the £3bn Sports Quarter and Birmingham City FC's new ground and investment into Witton and Aston Railway stations to support Aston Villa.

"Some projects are ready to proceed in the current funding period, others are important but need further development before funding can be committed," Shingadia said.

"Some are longer-term proposals that will be delivered in future funding rounds.

"What this will help is to generate that strategic transport investment pipeline of the West Midlands needs, looking forward over the next 10-15 years."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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