A new bus depot is set to be constructed in Birmingham as part of the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) ambitious strategy to take control of the region’s bus network. The proposed East Birmingham Depot, located on Lea Ford Road in Kitts Green, is poised to gain approval from the WMCA Investment Board.
The project is estimated to cost up to £19.93 million, with Birmingham City Council contributing at least £14.93 million. This investment marks a significant step in the WMCA’s broader initiative to purchase multiple bus depots across the area, facilitating the switch to a franchised bus service model.
The East Birmingham facility replaces the current depot, which has been sold by National Express for redevelopment. WMCA already owns the Walsall depot on Carl Street and plans to acquire additional depots including Perry Barr, Cox Street in Coventry, Wolverhampton, Pensnett, West Bromwich, Acocks Green, Birmingham Central, and Yardley Wood.
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Owning these depots is crucial for the move towards franchising, as it enables greater competition in a market long dominated by a single operator. West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker has called the current bus network “failing” and champions franchising as a means to give passengers more influence over fares, routes, and schedules.
Mayor Parker stated, “Investing in Kitts Green is a vital part of taking control of our bus network. Public ownership of depots removes barriers for new operators, encourages competition, and leads to lower costs. Passengers will benefit from better services and more affordable fares as every fare penny is reinvested.”
The WMCA Investment Board is scheduled to meet on Monday, February 23, to finalize the decision on the new depot.