The Embankment in Brierley Hill will be closed for a five-week period from next month as essential upgrades to utility services take place as part of the Midland Metro extension.

Ahead of main construction commencing in the spring, works to uncover and upgrade utility services near to the Merry Hill shopping centre will get underway in early 2022.

The essential activity will be carried out in three phases, with the first requiring a full closure of The Embankment to vehicular traffic for approximately five weeks. Once the first phase of works are complete further utility upgrades and diversions will continue throughout the winter and early spring 2022 with localised restrictions in place.

The upgrades and diversions are expected to get underway on 17th January 2022 and will remain in situ until spring. Regular updates will be provided at metroalliance.co.uk.

Access to all frontages and pedestrian access will be maintained throughout, however it's recommend the public leave extra time to complete journeys.

Throughout the first phase of works, a clearly signed diversion route will be in place via Level Street, Pedmore Road, Merry Hill, The Boulevard and The Embankment. Motorists are also advised to use alternative routes into the Merry Hill Centre which aren't impacted by the work.

The 11km Metro extension will branch off the current West Midlands Metro line just east of the Wednesbury Great Western Street Metro stop, before heading through Tipton and Dudley town centre on its way to Brierley Hill.