Work on the final section of Birmingham’s Eastside tram extension has begun, bringing the route one step closer to Digbeth.
Contractors from the Midland Metro Alliance have gained access to the first parcel of land at the HS2 Curzon Street site. They are now preparing the ground for track laying on the link between Bull Street and Digbeth Coach Station.
The extension is being delivered for Transport for West Midlands, with the route built in phases. Trams already run as far as the temporary Millennium Point stop beside the HS2 site, while track has also been completed around Digbeth High Street and Meriden Street. Work continues along New Canal Street.
A second section of land is due to be handed over next year. HS2 is building concrete beams and structural pillars there to create a tunnel allowing trams to pass beneath the future station.
Passenger services to Digbeth Coach Station are expected to start in 2028. The Curzon Street tram stop will open later, alongside the HS2 station, while construction continues above and around the operational tramway.
Why it matters for Britain
The extension will improve public transport links through Digbeth and connect more people with jobs and education opportunities. It also creates the infrastructure for future Metro extensions towards the Sports Quarter and beyond.
