The mayor was shown the proposals – which included the redevelopment of key sites in the town – during a tour hosted by Dudley Council.

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If the council successfully secures the funding, it will be used to support a number of key regeneration projects in the town centre, including:

• the leisure, retail and residential redevelopment of the Cavendish House site
• the development of the metro and bus interchange
• enhancing the visitor economy by investing in the access to the Castle Hill attractions and improving historic buildings

Cllr Patrick Harley, the leader of Dudley Council, said the funds would lever an additional £100m in match-funding and private sector investment.

During the tour, council bosses also updated Mr Street on big projects happening in Dudley, including the very light rail innovation centre and details to transform the waterfront, including the introduction of the music institute and metro stops.

The mayor said: “It’s great to see an authority with ambition and a clear plan to work with key partners, businesses and developers to boost the local economy and drive forward change.

“During my visit, I have seen for myself the difference investment and regeneration has made in Dudley town centre and I strongly support the authority’s plans.”