A budget of more than £900m, including funding for infrastructure, regeneration and job training schemes that can support the region’s post-Covid-19 economic recovery and help protect the environment, has been approved by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

The 2021/22 WMCA Budget includes a package of major transport projects designed to help drive economic growth and cleaner air, as well as funding to unlock and transform the region’s derelict industrial sites for new, energy efficient homes and jobs.

Projects to be funded include the expansion of the electric-powered Metro tram system, the opening of new railway lines and stations at Darlaston, Willenhall, Moseley, Kings Heath and Hazelwell, the development of a ‘Sprint’ rapid bus network using zero emission vehicles support for the continuing conversion of buses from diesel to hybrid, more cycling and walking routes and concessionary travel for older people, the blind, disabled and children.

Andy Street, the mayor of the West Midlands, said: “The investments outlined in this budget will help the West Midlands make significant strides towards a quick and effective recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, as well as tackling the climate emergency facing our region.

“We’re investing hundreds of millions of pounds in our green public transport network, with zero carbon and Sprint buses, new rail stations, cycling infrastructure, and of course Metro extensions – with almost £100m alone being spent over the next year on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension.

“Meanwhile, more than £116m is being spent on the remediation of derelict brownfield land, saving acres of greenbelt from development, and we’re investing £142m to level up our skills, getting us ready for the huge boost in the green jobs of the future as we look to help get people into work.

“What these investments will do is help to create and protect jobs at what is such a critical time for many people’s livelihoods, whilst also helping us on our way to becoming carbon neutral by 2041.