Tram network goes true blue Major overhaul of livery and ticket prices as mayor takes over transport route
BIRMINGHAM’S trams are turning from pink to blue after being taken back under public ownership.
The first trams livery have taken week.
The changeover, complete with new logo, marks the change in management of the tram network with mayor Andy Street and his Transport for West Midlands organisation taking over from private bus company National Express.
Now all the trams will be resprayed in the new colours over the coming weeks.
The network is undergoing a period of major expansion with two extensions being built in Birmingham City Centre, new tracks being laid in Wolverhampton City Centre, the Wednesbury to Brierly Hill extension and firm proposals for a line to Birmingham Airport.
With all these changes on the way it was decided not to renew the contract with private operator National Express, so the service was taken back in house.
Speaking at the change-over last month MML’s director of operations, Carl Williams said: “We’re delighted to be taking up the reins at such an important time. The previous operator, National Express, has achieved a great deal in moving the tramway forward but it is now all about taking the Metro to a whole new level over the coming years.”
Future plans include the development of a phone app to pay for tickets.
Transport for West Midlands is the bearing the blue to the tracks this public transport arm of the West Midlands Combined Authority led by mayor Andy Street.
There are currently a number of West Midlands Metro schemes either in development or under way: Wolverhampton city centre extension, Edgbaston and Centenary Square extensions, Eastside exten- sion, Wednesbury to Brierley Hill ExtensionEast Birmingham/Solihull.
As well as new colours and name, fares were also given an overhaul. These include: A Metro-only day ticket costing £5.50 during peak times, and £4 after 9.30am weekdays and all day at weekends.
The group day ticket, currently £10 (for up to five adults or two adults and up to four children) is being reduced to £8.50 during the day and £5 after 6pm.
There are also reductions on many single and return fares – with prices being set to make finding change easier.
The fares for single journeys are now £1, £2.50, £3.20 and £4 for adults (previously £1, £2.70, £3.30, £4.20) and return fares will be £2, £3.20, £5, £5.50 peak and £2, £3, £3.80 and £4. There are discounts for Swift card users.