Sisk has won a multi-million pound contract to complete the Cross City bus priority programme by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) with WSP also announced as designers for the design and build project.
The routes will see new bus lanes, upgrades to junctions, traffic signals, parking and bus stops installed to allow buses to bypass traffic jams and provide more reliable, regular and predictable journey times – saving thousands of passengers’ valuable time on their commute.
The first wave of routes include:
- Further work on the route Druids Heath to Birmingham City Centre
- Longbridge to Sutton Coldfield
- West Bromwich – Chelmsley Wood route via Soho Road and Bordesley Green.
Early works, such as trial holes to assess utilities and assist with construction design, are expected to begin in spring 2026. Construction is scheduled to start in phases from summer 2026, with the aim of commissioning and opening up completed sections as swiftly as possible. This phased approach will ensure people start seeing the benefits of the improvements at the earliest opportunity.
The extensive bus priority programme also supports Mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker's flagship policy of taking back control of bus services. The works will take place during the transition from a private operator led network to a franchise system run for the benefit of residents.
Alan Rodger, MD, Sisk Infrastructure said: “We are delighted to be working with Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) on their ambitious plans to improve bus and active travel across the region. We look forward to working with TfWM and local communities as we begin to develop and deliver these activities, which will bring significant benefits to commuters, residents and employment for many years to come.”
Philip Santos, Regional Growth Director, WSP said: “We are immensely proud to be Sisk’s design partner for this significant design and build scheme. Our design expertise will ensure these bus priority routes are delivered safely and efficiently, providing the foundational infrastructure necessary to achieve the Mayor’s vision for a faster, more reliable, and ultimately more productive West Midlands.”
Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, said: “By making bus travel more reliable, we're not only improving daily commutes for thousands of people, but we’re also tackling congestion and boosting our region's productivity. This investment is a vital part of my Growth Plan and a key step towards taking back control of our bus network, ensuring it works for the people of the West Midlands.”