" ... we have been able to put the money into our frontline public services but crucially more investment money.
"As a result today we are able to announce £15.6 bn of investment including £2.4bn coming to the West Midlands for Richard Parker to spend on the priorities of the people here in the West Midlands."
Chancellor Rachel Reeves, speaking against a backdrop of a group of young apprentices and local politicians, said the Government was committed to supporting 'left behind' parts of the country to unlock growth.
The much vaunted line will run from the city centre to the Sports Quarter, then later go on to Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham Airport, the NEC and the HS2 interchange at Arden Cross. The first phase could be ready in five years.
READ MORE: £1 bn tram plan for Blues, NEC, HS2 and Birmingham Airport unveiled that will 'change lives'
The West Midlands is one of several regions handed a package of investment for local transport in today's announcement. The aim is to ensure transport schemes are in place to help unlock jobs, skills, housing and opportunities in poorer parts of the country.
Other transport initiatives to be funded by the West Midlands package are yet to be confirmed. A total of £15.6 billion of investment was announced nationally.
READ MORE: Why tram line to East Birmingham, Blues, Airport and NEC has to happen
Mayor Parker said: "This funding means we can now deliver a new Metro line to the Sports Quarter, connecting it to Birmingham city centre and unlocking one of the most significant private investments our region has ever seen.
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