Bauer Technologies ‘On Track’ to Deliver Specialist Piling Works on Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Tram Line Extension

Bauer Technologies has been appointed to deliver specialist piling works as part of Phase 2 of the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension, a major infrastructure scheme forming a key element of Transport for West Midland’s (TfWM) massive investment in the West Midlands Metro network.

Sub-contracted by MPB Structures, Bauer Technologies will undertake foundation piling works for a series of new structures along the route, supporting the delivery of this strategically important transport link. The project is being delivered for TfWM by Midland Metro Alliance (MMA), a collaboration between the West Midlands Combined Authority, design partners Egis, Tony Gee and Pell Frischmann, and rail construction specialists Colas Rail, along with Colas Rail’s sub-alliance partners.

Works for the second phase of the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension commenced in spring 2025 and these current works are set to continue into the third quarter of 2026, with Bauer’s scope covering a complex range of reinforced bearing piles, contiguous walls and test piling works across multiple structures. These include embankment stations, abutments, piers and retaining elements, delivered using a combination of rotary bored piling and continuous flight auger techniques to suit varying ground conditions and access constraints.

The programme includes the installation of large-diameter bearing piles (up to 1000mm), restricted-access piling operations, and integrity testing using advanced methods such as DTIT thermal profiling, reflecting the technical complexity and quality assurance requirements of the scheme.

Speaking about the project, Bauer Technologies’ Managing Director, John Theos, said: “Being involved in the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension is an excellent opportunity for Bauer Technologies to contribute to a project that delivers long-term social, economic and environmental benefits. The scale and complexity of the piling works require careful planning, technical expertise and a strong focus on sustainability, all areas where Bauer has extensive experience. We are pleased to be working alongside MPB Structures and the wider Midland Metro Alliance team to help deliver this important piece of regional infrastructure.” 

The Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension will provide improved connectivity between Birmingham city centre and the Black Country, offering a reliable and environmentally sustainable public transport alternative. The scheme also plays a central role in supporting regeneration across Wednesbury, Dudley and Brierley Hill, enhancing accessibility for communities, businesses and future development.

Sustainability has been embedded into Bauer Technologies’ delivery approach, with a range of carbon-reduction measures implemented across the works. These include the use of low-carbon, locally sourced reinforcement steel, optimised reduced-carbon concrete mixes, localised transport for inter-site movements, and the deployment of modern piling rigs, cranes and pumps fitted with Stage IV and Stage V engines. The works align with PAS 2080 carbon reduction principles, supporting the wider environmental ambitions of the project.