Overview

• The proposed tram line would connect Curzon Street HS2 station, Digbeth, a new £2.9 billion stadium, Heartlands Hospital, the NEC, Birmingham Airport, and the HS2 Arden Cross interchange.
• The project carries a £1 billion price tag, with an initial public funding request of £350–400 million to unlock billions in private investment and create thousands of jobs.
• Regional leaders, including West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, have issued a joint statement endorsing the plan and urging swift government approval.
• If approved, the first phase could be operational by 2030, coinciding with the opening of the new Birmingham City FC stadium, with full completion within a decade.
• No government funding has been committed yet, but a decision is anticipated as part of the June spending review following positive discussions with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander.