Phase 1 – Bus Station
Family on a train Bus

Phase l of the Interchange scheme has been the redevelopment of Wolverhampton Bus Station which was built by contractors BAM.

The new £22.5 million bus station was officially opened on 22nd September 2011 by Parliamentary under Secretary of State for Transport Norman Baker and invited guests, Geoff Inskip, Chief Executive of Centro, Emma Reynolds MP, Steve Parry, Managing Director of Neptune Developments and Cllr Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity.

The new bus station boasts a stylish glass entrance, 19 bus stands; three glass enclosed waiting areas, and fibre optics-based passenger information systems, the first of their kind in the region. Passengers now know exactly which stand to catch their bus from and at what time. As well as displaying bus information, the integrated audio visual system also provides the latest details of train and Metro services.

Safety and security has been improved with the provision of CCTV and help-points and safety has been further enhanced as there are no pedestrian crossings within the bus station. Instead, passengers access their bus stand via covered pedestrian walkways equipped with glass doors that automatically open when buses arrive.

Further new facilities include a travel information centre for the sale and collection of coach tickets, public transport information and West Midlands travel cards for bus, rail and Metro, public toilets, offices for Centro staff and drivers' accommodation.

New commercial space within the development has secured a local Sainsbury's convenience store and a new 400 seat buffet-style restaurant, Georgie Porgie's, which is planned to open in spring 2012.

The landmark Queens Building has been refurbished with the modern additions to the building being removed allowing the Grade Two listed building to be restored to its former glory. The building is now home to an outlet of WH Smith.

Unite the Union has relocated to offices in the Interchange development.

A covered pedestrian footbridge over the ring road, complete with artist-inspired stained glass panels, now links the new bus station with Wolverhampton rail station.

These new developments and use of commercial space have contributed to an overall significant improvement in facilities for passengers as well as creating an attractive and safe environment.

Bus Stance Interchange Entrance Commuters using the Interchange