West Midlands and London in transport partnership
A memorandum of understanding has been signed between Transport for the West Midlands (TfWM) and Transport for London (TfL) to share best practice and work towards common gaols in matters like limiting the disruption caused by large-scale transport projects, reducing congestion and managing world-class sporting events.
The Mayor of the West Midlands Combined Authority, Andy Street, and the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, have both given an enthusiastic welcome to this knowledge-sharing agreement, which is the first of its type between the UK’s two biggest cities.
Street said:”In the next few years, the West Midlands will be playing host to huge events, requiring us all to be at the top of our game in terms of managing transport, particularly on our public transport networks. Transport for London has a wealth of experience in accommodating extra travellers and we are keen to tap into this knowledge ahead of the Commonwealth Games and Coventry City of Culture.”
“This memorandum is an important first step in making sure all future events are remembered for the show the West Midlands puts on, not for any challenges the transport networks might face.”
Street’s comments were echoed by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, who said:”London and Birmingham face many of the same challenges so I am delighted that the signing of this agreement further strengthens our commitment to work together. Among other things, sharing information will help us better deal with major incidents, manage world-class sporting events and reduce congestion, improving our cities for everyone.”
Later this summer a delegation from TfL will visit Birmingham to discuss in greater detail how both TfL and TfWM can work with the freight industry and its customers in the business community to minimise the impact of major events and construction work.
