Pre Metro is working with Oakham Research to conduct further public consultation about the proposed Dasher service.

Previous surveys took place between November 2019 and May 2020, where 88% of the 1,438 responses showcased how locals in Stourbridge and Brierley Hill were in favour of a proposed light rail link between the two locations.

Since the previous research was conducted, the West Midland Metro extension between Wednesbury and Brierley Hill has begun construction, and the proposed service would connect Stourbridge with this development.

The aim of this latest round of questionnaires and field research is to engage with local businesses online and on the ground regarding their viewpoints on the Dasher.

They are hoping to gain a greater understanding of the impact that this proposed service could have on local businesses’ ability to recruit and retain suitable staff alongside the knock-on effect in terms of sales and prosperity with easier accessibility and passenger footfall.

As well as this, Pre Metro hopes to understand the potential ticketing packages that could be offered to local businesses to encourage regular commuter patronage.

Steve Jasper, Operations Director of Pre Metro, stated:

“We are confident that the passenger service from Stourbridge to Brierley Hill will benefit everyone along the route and beyond – businesses, commuters, shoppers and leisure travellers. The survey will provide further data to support our proposals.”

John Poole, Research Director at Oakham, added to this, highlighting that:

“This is a great opportunity for local businesses, large and small, to shape improvements to the local transport network and tell us about their thoughts on this initiative.”