The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is building new stops on the Walsall to Wolverhampton line in Willenhall and Darlaston – home to the famous Cadbury World

Officials have provided an update on the construction of a new UK railway station that is part of an ambitious £85 million project, which includes brand-new stops on the Walsall to Wolverhampton line at Willenhall and Darlaston – near the famed Cadbury World.

It’s all part of the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) grand plan to enhance transportation connections in the area. As of October, the build-up for Willenhall station has been described as forging ahead with “strong progress”, and officials were happy to announce that the overall scheme is keeping to its intended timeline.

By that date, critical work such as “important groundwork”, setting up the vital foundations for structural elements and platform bases had been wrapped up, leading the way for upcoming “significant” developments anticipated over the next few months.

READ MORE: Emma Sleep’s foam pillow in spring sale for under £50 and shoppers say it’s a ‘game-changer’

Further commenting on the budgeting aspects, officials confirmed: “Both stations remain within budget, and WMCA continues to focus on delivering these stations efficiently, ensuring they provide a crucial boost to the local transport network.”

Nevertheless, Project Sponsor Victoria Kinally concedes that not everything has gone without a hitch. She said: “We are pleased with the progress made so far on both Willenhall and Darlaston stations.

“While there have been challenges, our teams are working hard to keep the project on track and deliver these important stations, which will significantly improve transport connectivity in the region.”

Moreover, upon completion, the project looks set to re-join Willenhall and Darlaston to the rail map after more than half a century of absence – the original stations having closed back in 1965, reports the Express.

The ongoing work will inevitably lead to disruptions, including a five-month southbound closure of Bilston Street and Rose Hill in Willenhall until August 11.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has put diversions in place and is encouraging locals to factor in additional time for their travels. From July 18, as the works approach their final stages, Bilston Street will be entirely closed on weekends.

Bus services will be rerouted to accommodate the closures, but authorities assure residents that they will still have access to their properties and businesses.