The Leader of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, Patrick Harley, visited Waterfront Dudley in March to witness first-hand the exciting developments shaping one of the region’s most dynamic business and leisure destinations.
Tour Highlights Major Metro Development
During his visit, Asset Manager Alex Hall led a detailed tour of the site, showcasing the ongoing works to deliver the West Midlands Metro extension. This major infrastructure project is set to significantly enhance connectivity across the region.
Councillor Harley welcomed the progress made so far, particularly noting that the works have caused less disruption than anticipated an important factor for businesses operating on-site and visitors accessing the area.
Improved Connectivity Set to Boost Dudley
Connectivity was a central theme of the visit. Councillor Harley highlighted the long-standing issue that two train stations named “Dudley” are not actually located within the borough itself.
The Metro extension is expected to address this gap, providing a direct and reliable transport link into Dudley. This improvement will play a key role in driving economic growth, increasing visitor numbers, and making the area more accessible for businesses and commuters alike.
Growing Business Community and Recent Successes
Discussions also focused on the future of Waterfront Dudley, including interest from prospective new tenants and the continued success of current occupiers.
Recent award wins for Dudley Baby Sensory and Ten Steps Coffee were highlighted as standout achievements. These businesses reflect the diverse and thriving community at the Waterfront, helping to position it as a hub for innovation, wellbeing, and independent enterprise in the West Midlands.
Dockworks Development Impresses
The visit concluded with a stop at the newly developed Dockworks site, where Councillor Harley was particularly impressed by the quality of the space and its strong branding.
He praised the development as a credit to the hard work and vision of everyone involved. Although his visit took place on a Thursday when the popular food trucks were not operating he was keen to return the following Friday to experience the vibrant street food offering available on-site.
Waterfront Dudley Continues to Attract Attention
Waterfront Dudley continues to gain recognition at the highest levels. Over the past year, the site has welcomed the local MP, the West Midlands Metro Mayor, and now the Leader of the Council.
This continued engagement demonstrates the growing importance of the Waterfront as a key driver of regeneration and economic development in Dudley, reinforcing its reputation as one of the West Midlands’ leading destinations for business and leisure.
Watch the Full Visit
To see highlights from the visit and hear more about the exciting developments at the Waterfront, watch the full video here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWoRuyHCWL-/
