WEST Midlands Metro’s tram service has been suspended again until further notice.

All services have been suspended from Sunday, March 20 until further notice, West Midlands Metro confirms.

The service was also suspended yesterday due to an operational issue.

After inspection, bodywork cracks were found in some of the older trams.

This means this will be the third time, tram services have been suspended in nine months.

In a statement, West Midlands Metro said: “Due to an operational issue, there will be no service in operation from Sunday 20th March until further notice.

"The safety and security of our customers and team members is always our first priority.

"During inspections, new bodywork cracks have been identified on some of our older trams which require additional checks to be carried out by the manufacturer. As a precautionary measure, tram services have been suspended until further notice.

"We are working alongside the manufacturer, to restore services as quickly as possible. While this situation is ongoing, we are committed to keeping our customers moving.

"We understand the frustration many people will feel at this latest interruption to services, and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Travellers have been advised that metro tickets and passes will be valid on the following alternative modes of transport:

  • National Express bus service 74 between West Bromwich and Birmingham
  • National Express bus service 79 between Wolverhampton and West Bromwich
  • National Express bus services 9, 12/12A, 13/13A, 23, 24, 82, 87, 126, X8 and X10 in Birmingham city centre
  • West Midlands Railway and Avanti train services between Wolverhampton and Birmingham