Dudley Council leader Cllr Patrick Harley has called for accountability from Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) officials following additional delays in the Midland Metro project, which is now set to miss its revised opening date of August 2026. In a heated exchange, Harley expressed his frustration over what he described as 'unacceptable' delays and a lack of competence from TfWM. The tram line, designed to connect Wednesbury to Brierley Hill via the Merry Hill Centre, has faced numerous setbacks due to rising costs and unforeseen construction challenges. A spokesperson for TfWM acknowledged the project's complexity, highlighting the need for extensive testing and commissioning before the line can open. Although a specific opening date has not been provided, TfWM is optimistic that trams will be operational before the year's end. Harley, however, remains adamant that those responsible for the delays should face consequences, suggesting that if this were a Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council (DMBC) project, he would have dismissed the entire team.