It represents just a tenth of that price tag of Crossrail, yet will improve the economic prospects of huge swathes of the UK.
The West Midlands must compete with Barcelona, Boston, and Beijing – not with London and Manchester.
Empowering left-wing leaders is the price that one has to pay for the local experimentation that devolving power and funds entails.
It would enhance democracy and local accountability, be better value for money for the taxpayer, and be more effective in reducing crime.
The real returns we are seeing on Birmingham 2022 show what can be achieved by devolved decision making and local leadership.
“But I understand what the Government is attempting to do, and I agree with the whole principle that we have to get growth going,” he says.
I was able to welcome Truss to the Commonwealth Games . What better place to see her commitment to the regions, as it was her who signed the letter confirming Government funding for Birmingham to host.
Successive Conservative governments have delivered more powers and funding to raise up communities across the country. So too must the next.
As believers in low tax, we think that now, more than ever, the council should be doing all it can to reduce the ask on hard-pressed Council Tax payers.
Celebrating our heritage, protecting the green belt, and encouraging healthy living, they reflect the renewal of the West Midlands.
From new housebuilding techniques to green manufacturing, the West Midlands is leading the way towards greater security.
Conservative leadership has meant transport spending in the West Midlands has already increased seven-fold. But there is still more to do.
With 1.5 billion people estimated to be tuning in, the Games will be a fantastic opportunity for my region – and the economic benefits are already apparent.
In the West Midlands, we’re pioneering new ways to deliver better protection both for vulnerable tenants and the broader community.
Decentralisation sits comfortably within the Tory tradition – and pays clear political dividends as well.