News

Bus scheme driving cleaner air and better facilities for Solihull town centre

Bus passengers in Solihull can expect cleaner buses and improved facilities if a landmark scheme to improve quality gets the go ahead.

Talks set to start on second devolution deal for West Midlands

Business secretary Greg Clarke confirms the government and the West Midlands are set to start talks on securing a second devolution deal for the region.

Child ticketing gets smart with move on to Swift

Thousands of children across the West Midlands will see their travel passes move on to the Swift card from next month.

Mayor welcomes Government confirmation of HS2 routes in north of England

Andy Street hails the "huge opportunities" for the West Midlands as Transport Secretary Chris Grayling confirms Britain’s high speed rail lines to the north-west, East Midlands and Yorkshire.

West Midlands Combined Authority gets £5.84m from Government to help keep traffic moving

Improved roads, reduced congestion and better journey times are the target in a £5.84m programme of improvements underway across the West Midlands.

West Midlands Combined Authority submits its case for region to become the home of Channel 4

Midlands offers Channel 4 the best location for its HQ outside London and relocation could add £5bn to the local economy, Government is told.

Swift rolled out on bus and rail as smartcard use hits 3m

The Swift smartcard is extended to rail and bus users outside the metropolitan area as the number of journeys made with it tops 3m a month.

Deborah Cadman appointed new WMCA chief executive

West Midlands Combined Authority appoints Deborah Cadman as its new chief executive.

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street names his team for the coming year

Mayor Andy Street has revealed the team to deliver his priorities and those of the West Midlands Combined Authority over the coming year.

Mayor declares Dudley “open for business” at DY5 launch

Dudley open for business says the Mayor at the launch of new enterprise zone DY5.

Science & Innovation Audit points the way to drive up productivity

Findings from a new Science and Innovation Audit point the way to drive up productivity in the West Midlands.

£200m Midland Metro expansion plans presented to Government

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street hands over the business case for the Wednesbury-Brierley Hill extension to transport secretary Chris Grayling.

Clean Air Day high on WMCA agenda

WMCA welcomes the UK’s first ever Clean Air Day with ideas to get people out of their cars.

National survey sees satisfaction soar on Midland Metro as passenger numbers near 8m

Patronage hits a record high as the Midland Metro sees the UK's biggest rise in tram passenger satisfaction.

Coventry development schemes awarded £3.7m loan by WMCA Collective Investment Fund

The new West Midlands mayor has welcomed investment by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) for two Coventry city centre projects.

West Midlands Combined Authority launches Forum for Growth

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is staging a launch event at the end of next month. The event will bring together central and local government representatives with colleagues from the private sector and offer them the opportunity to discuss and debate key issues around growing the region…

Global manufacturer Guhring unveils new UK HQ in Birmingham

German-owned cutting tool specialist opens £12 million facility at city’s Advanced Manufacturing Hub

Digital tech industries to add £2 billion to region’s economy

Report shows how a growing and increasingly innovative technology sector will create 14,000 jobs across the West Midlands

New Mayor and combined authority back bid to host Commonwealth Games

Birmingham's bid to bring the 2022 Games to the region has been given an emphatic endorsement by the WMCA

Historic vote sees Andy Street elected first West Midlands Mayor

Conservative candidate wins a three year term as Mayor and will also chair the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Voters urged to ‘be part of history’ as polls open for region's first elected Mayor

People have until 10pm tonight to choose who they want to oversee the on-going transfer of of powers from Westminster to the West Midlands

West Midlands mayoral election – how to find your polling station

With the forthcoming West Midlands mayoral election now less than a week away voters can find out online where they need to go to make their mark.

West Midlands Growth Company is formed to promote region on global stage

A new company to co-ordinate the region’s business and tourism assets to secure investment from around the world is formed.

West Midlands Walking Out Of Darkness – got the T-shirt?

Ten days left to register for West Midlands Walking Out Of Darkness - time to get the T-shirt.

Deadline looms to apply for a proxy vote for West Midlands mayoral election

Voters wanting a proxy vote for the historic West Midlands mayoral election have just a few days left to apply.

First mayoral election postal ballot papers go out to voters

Voters who have registered for a postal vote in the forthcoming West Midlands mayoral election should start to see them arriving through their door this week.

Just days left to apply for mayoral election postal votes

People need to apply quickly if they want to vote but cannot make it to their local polling station on May 4

Innovative support scheme for young people

Transport for West Midlands is supporting a £50 million scheme to help young people into education, employment and training.

Be part of history

Voters are urged to 'be part of history' next month - by deciding who will be the West Midlands' first ever elected mayor.

WMCA starts search for permanent chief executive

The search to find a permanent chief executive for the West Midlands Combined Authority has officially begun.

West Midlands Walking Out Of Darkness

Suicide prevention and mental health awareness campaigners Jonny Benjamin and Neil Laybourn were in Birmingham promoting West Midlands Walking Out Of Darkness.

Only one week left to register for West Midlands mayoral election

Commission launched to boost productivity and skills

Expertise of business people, technical specialists and academics will be harnessed to help WMCA raise the region's economic performance

Nominations close for candidates for the West Midlands Combined Authority mayoral election

The official list of candidates for the first West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) mayoral election is now confirmed.

WMCA's transport arm to take direct control of Midland Metro services

Decision will see Transport for West Midlands bring operations 'in house' as major expansion of tram network gets underway

New look smartcard rolled out to thousands of rail passengers

Transport for West Midlands to switch 9,000 nTrain direct debit customers from paper tickets to Swift

West Midlands Combined Authority gives £53m to Black Country LEP for brownfield clean-up projects

The West Midlands Combined Authority has awarded £53m to a programme to help landowners and developers redevelop former industrial land in the Black Country.

Independent chair sought for key WMCA position

WMCA makes investment towards £5.5m development of former Birmingham factory site

WMCA welcomes Midlands Engine Strategy announcement by Chancellor Philip Hammond

There are big wins for the West Midlands in the Midlands Engine Strategy announced by Chancellor Philip Hammond.

WMCA welcomes findings of Inclusive Growth Commission

WMCA chair Cllr Bob Sleigh welcomes a think tank report calling for a new deal between Whitehall and local authorities.

West Midlands Combined Authority growth company scheme gets ministerial support

The creation of a West Midlands Combined Authority growth company to market the region and boost investment wins the backing of DCLG minister Sajid Javid MP.

Boost mental health awareness and suicide prevention with ‘Walking Out of Darkness’

New senior management roles at West Midlands Combined Authority

Martin Reeves, Chief Executive at Coventry City Council and Jan Britton, Chief Executive at Sandwell Council have new senior management roles as part of the emerging West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

The West Midlands Citizen’s Jury application process is closing

There are just a few days left to be considered for a place on the region’s Mental Health Commission’s Citizens’ Jury, with applications closing on 4 March.

HS2 go-ahead to power West Midlands renaissance

The news that Royal Assent is to be granted for the high-speed rail route between London and the West Midlands has been welcomed.

Local people needed for West Midlands Mental Health Commission

The emerging West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Mental Health Commission is working hard to understand the impact poor mental health and wellbeing has on public services. As part of its work, it is setting up a Mental Health Commission Citizens’ Jury and is looking to recruit local people who …

Regional resilience plans approved

West Midlands Combined Authority has approved plans to help cope with anticipated congestion caused by a series of major road, rail and infrastructure projects.

Time for action on mental health, launch event is told

Action - not words – was the challenge at the launch of ‘Thrive West Midlands’ - the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Mental Health Commission action plan.

Dudley’s Business and Innovation Enterprise Zone gets the green light

A multi-million pound business and innovation Enterprise Zone in Brierley Hill has been given the green light and is set to bring in thousands of new jobs to the region.

Call to action on mental health

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will next week launch an action plan to transform the way people with mental health problems are treated by public services and employers.

Firm appointed for Coventry redevelopment project

Shearer Property Group to deliver multi-million pound City Centre South scheme which is being part-funded by the WMCA

Combined Authority responds to Government's Industrial Strategy

Consultation on Green Paper offers chance to shape a strategy that supports the region’s goals for greater prosperity

First Midland Metro tram leaves UK to be fitted with batteries

A Midland Metro tram is in Spain to be fitted with hi-tech batteries allowing it to run without the need for overhead power cables.

WMCA points government to priority projects

WMCA leaders highlighted priority projects to the National Infrastructure Commission.

Clearance work to begin on Wednesbury-Brierley Hill Midland Metro extension

Work to progress the proposed extension of the Midland Metro from Wednesbury to Brierley Hill is due to commence this week.

OBE honour for Combined Authority chair

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) chair Cllr Bob Sleigh has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list.

Authority welcomes Government announcement on business rates

The region's seven metropolitan councils are set to keep 100 per cent of business rates under three year pilot scheme

West Midlands Region shortlisted for prestigious National Rail Awards

Local Enterprise Partnerships working as part of the Combined Authority have been shortlisted at the prestigious National Rail Industry awards.

Coventry cashes in on devolution deal

WMCA has approved almost £100 million in funding for major city centre development in Coventry.

Original artworks put West Midlands on the map

Specially commissioned original artwork is now on public transport maps and posters across the West Midlands.

West Midlands Combined Authority makes first commercial development funding award

A £21.6 million development creating an estimated 425 jobs is the first project to receive backing from a new West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) investment fund.

WMCA Mental Health Commission director in post

Superintendent Sean Russell has begun his role as Mental Health Commission implementation director.

HS2 a catalyst for West Midland prosperity, Parliamentary reception is told

Delegates hear how package of transport projects and skills investment can secure maximum benefits from high speed rail line

Further devolution on course for West Midlands following Autumn Statement – WMCA chief

Today’s Autumn Statement charts the route to further devolved powers for the region, Cllr Bob Sleigh has said.

WMCA chair welcomes Govt announcement on HS2

WMCA chair Cllr Bob Sleigh welcomes a Government anouncement setting out its preferred route for the northern section of HS2.

WMCA appoints independent audit & standards chair

WMCA has appointed David Lane as independent chair of its key audit and standards committee

Programme to boost employment support for people with disabilities and health conditions

Government support announced to design a trial scheme for unemployed with health issues in West Midlands.

avid: Devolution deal is proving to be great news for the West Midlands

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid today welcomed progress local leaders across the West Midlands have made to use the powers and funding they have through their ground-breaking devolution deal.

West Midlands Combined Authority unveils housing growth prospectus for Greater Icknield and Smethwick

A blueprint to accelerate the building of more than 5,000 new homes in Birmingham and the Black Country has been unveiled.

Public Accounts Committee comes to the region

Parliament comes to the region next week when City of Wolverhampton Council hosts the Public Accounts Committee’s West Midlands Devolution Conference, next Friday, October 21.

New Cross Country rail contract ‘lost opportunity’

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) transport boss has branded a new contract for Cross Country Trains a ‘lost opportunity’ to boost passenger capacity.

TfWM wins top award at transport Oscars

The West Midlands Combined Authority has landed a major award after its transport arm was named best in the UK at the industry’s equivalent to the Oscars.

Government commitment for HS2 puts region on track for greater prosperity

High speed rail line will boost regional economy, creating thousands of new jobs and apprenticeships

Midland Metro does the double at Global Light Rail awards

The Midland Metro is celebrating a glorious double after scooping two prizes at the prestigious Global Light Rail Awards in London.

Minister praises WMCA for work on HS2 as party conference hailed a success for region

The Government is 100% committed to the HS2 high speed rail line with building work scheduled to start next spring, Transport Minister Andrew Jones has told senior figures from the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Campaigning comic commuter embarks on another challenge

Adham Fisher sets out to visit every train station and tram stop in the West Midlands in one day

Milestone reached for proposed £137.2m Midland Metro extension in Birmingham

The Midland Metro Alliance has formally applied on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority for a Transport and Works Act Order to build and operate the Birmingham Eastside extension from Bull Street to Digbeth.

Prime Minister welcomed to region by combined authority chair

Cllr Bob Sleigh meets Mrs May as Conservative Party opens in Birmingham

‘Good transport links vital to future prosperity through Midlands Engine’, Labour conference hears

Good transport links will play a vital part in the economic strategy aiming to bring thousands of jobs and billions of pounds of investment to the region, Midlands Connect chair Sir John Peace tells a fringe event at this year’s Labour Party conference.

Midlands Engine at party conferences

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) delegates to last week’s Labour Party Conference hailed the event as a great opportunity to share the Midlands Engine agenda on a national and international platform.

West Midlands Combined Authority chair calls for greater devolution in open letter to Prime Minister

The chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority today issued a letter of welcome to Prime Minister Theresa May as the Conservative Party arrives in the West Midlands for its annual conference.

Mayoral functions consultation report submitted to government

A report summarising the findings of a public consultation over what powers a mayoral West Midlands Combined Authority should have has been delivered to the government

Transport minister Andrew Jones launches Swift card on West Midlands rail network

Transport minister Andrew Jones MP has launched the Swift smartcard on to the West Midlands rail network.

Consultation call on better Black Country cycling & walking routes

Transport bosses are seeking views on plans for radical improvements to Black Country cycling routes.

Independent chair sought for top West Midlands Combined Authority committee

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is seeking an independent chair for one of its key committees.

West Midlands Land Commission launched to help unlock sites for development

Independent panel of property and infrastructure experts will advise on suitable land for jobs and housing

Alejandro Moreno appointed as director of Midland Metro Alliance

Alejandro Moreno has been appointed as director of the Midland Metro Alliance.

Sajid Javid MP officially opens Bromsgrove Railway Station

Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid has officially opened the town's new £24m railway station.

New look at mental health care

A panel of people with personal experience of mental health issues has helped to shape plans for future care provision, in a new partnership approach by West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

West Midlands Combined Authority receives multi-million pound devo boost

Local people in the West Midlands today received a multi-million pound cash boost to invest directly in the future of their region.

Cllr Peter Hughes appointed chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Committee will review decisions and actions of the Combined Authority Board in its work to increase regional prosperity

WMCA welcomes Prime Minister’s praise for West Midlands

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) chairman has today welcomed warm words of support for the region from the Prime Minister.

Reducing inter-city services is unacceptable, government told

Proposed cuts to long distance trains calling at Wolverhampton and Coventry would damage regional economy and hit local commuters

WMCA support for Commonwealth Games bid...

The Chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has offered his support to Birmingham if it decides to go ahead in its bid to stage the 2026 Commonwealth Games!

Award-winning Jobseeker support goes online

Jobseekers in the West Midlands can now access award-winning support anytime, anywhere - with WorkWise Online http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/information-for/jobseekers/, the first scheme of its kind in the country.

London Midland and Transport for West Midlands sign new partnership deal

Rail passengers are in line for a range of benefits and enhanced services following the signing of a new partnership deal between transport chiefs and train operator London Midland.

Aston Martin boss gives WMCA’s Productivity and Skills Commission a flying start

Dr Andy Palmer CMG, President and Chief Executive Officer of Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd, has agreed to chair the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Productivity and Skills Commission.

Physical activity is at the heart of new vision for the WMCA

An exciting and ambitious new plan to increase physical activity across the West Midlands is being developed..

New era in public transport begins as Midland Metro Alliance is formally signed

A new partnership to revolutionise the £1.2 billion construction of future tram routes across the West Midlands has been formally launched.

West Midlands businesses in box-seat for HS2 opportunities

Businesses across the West Midlands are being given a head-start as the race begins to bid for billions of pounds worth of contracts to build Phase One of HS2.

Mayoral West Midlands Combined Authority consultation begins

A consultation on the Mayoral West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Functions Scheme starts on Monday 4 July at 9:00am and runs until midnight on Sunday 21 August.

Transport bosses welcome rail improvement proposals

West Midlands transport bosses today welcomed a Network Rail study outlining future development proposals for the region’s railways.

Portfolios announced

Today the newly vested WMCA announced the portfolios for Lead members at its first AGM, Wednesday 29 June.

European referendum statement

Cllr Bob Sleigh, chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority, said: “We are taking stock of the referendum vote but remain confident that our recently launched economic plan will deliver positive results for the region over the next decade and beyond.

Go- ahead given for Wolverhampton tram extension

Plans to extend the Midland Metro in Wolverhampton were given the go-ahead today (Tuesday June 21), paving the way for the next stage in a wider £120 million redevelopment of the city centre.

First day for WMCA

The Order officially creating the West Midlands Combined Authority came into force today.

Jobs Homes Growth

The West Midlands Combined Authority’s Strategic Economic Plan (SEP), launched today, is the blueprint for the region making its mark regionally, nationally and internationally.

£4 billion of transport infrastructure over coming decade

The emerging West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will drive forward more than £4 billion of transport infrastructure over the coming decade, including more tram extensions, new suburban rail lines, cycle routes and better motorways.

Collective Investment Fund (CIF) set to stimulate major growth

The setting up of a £70 million commercial development war-chest will stimulate jobs, opportunity and growth.

Mental Health Commission paving the way for transforming delivery of mental health services

Plans to revolutionise the way people with mental health needs are cared for across the West Midlands are set to be made public this week.

Update on Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) launch

We are looking forward to launching our Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) ‪tomorrow (‪10 June) at the ICC in Birmingham at 10am. There will also be an update on transport, the Mental Health Commission chaired by Norman Lamb MP, and the Collective Investment Fund.

Laura Shoaf appointed managing director of Transport for West Midlands

In one of its final actions before being dissolved the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) has appointed Laura Shoaf to head up Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) – the body that will replace it.

Council welcomes Magna International announcement: Multi-million pound investment in new Telford facility

Telford & Wrekin Council today welcomed the announcement that Magna International Inc plans to build a new world class aluminium casting facility at T54 - the Borough’s flagship automotive and advanced manufacturing employment site.

Proposed new bus powers welcomed

Proposals offering the West Midlands greater freedom to improve its local bus services have been welcomed by the region's transport chiefs.

Mental Health Commission listening events a success

Over 120 people have taken part in a series of listening events as part of the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Mental Health Commission.

West Midlands unis to join forces in devolution-inspired collaboration

Three West Midlands universities are joining forces to meet the demands of devolution across the region, putting higher education at the centre of the drive for economic growth.

Major step forward for National College for High Speed Rail as construction starts

Ground breaking ceremonies at Birmingham and Doncaster sites mark the start of construction of the National College for High Speed Rail (NCHSR).

Draft WMCA order in Parliament

The draft West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) establishment order has now been published in Parliament.

Last chance to have your say on the Mental Health Commission

People who want to contribute to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Mental Health Commission have got less than a week to register their interest in one of three listening event taking place across the region.

Have your say on the Mental Health Commission

The West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Mental Health Commission is holding a series of listening events across the region and it wants members of the public to get involved.

West Midlands Combined Authority tribute to Councillor Darren Cooper

Leaders and officers from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) have expressed shock and sadness at the sudden death of Sandwell Leader, Councillor Darren Cooper.

West Midlands Combined Authority response to budget

The West Midlands Combined Authority has welcomed the Chancellor’s backing for the Midlands Engine in today’s budget (16 March), whilst recognising it will feature more significantly in future budget announcements.

Mental Health Commission listening events coming soon

The West Midland Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Mental Health Commission is holding a series of listening events across the region.

Councils agree to sign up to WMCA

Sandwell Council has become the seventh, and final of the original local authorities in the region, to formally agree to become a member of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

Walsall formally joins the West Midlands Combined Authority

At a specially convened full council last night (7 March 2016) Walsall Council members voted to formally sign up to be part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), giving Parliament the green light to pass the legislation needed to create this new way of working.

Positive response to WMCA survey

There were over 1900 responses to the survey that will help government decide whether it is appropriate to form a West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

WMCA survey is closing

The survey that will help inform the government’s decision on whether it is appropriate to establish a West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) closes today 08 February at 5pm.

Stratford District Council welcomed to WMCA

The Chair of the emerging West Midlands Combined Authority shadow board, Councillor Bob Sleigh, has welcomed Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s decision to become a member of the region’s Combined Authority.

Stratford District Council's press release

Stratford District Council joins West Midlands Combined Authority

Coventry and Warwickshire LEP event

Coventry and Warwickshire businesses have been told that their interests will be at the "centre of the action" as a combined authority moves towards reality.

Consultation starts for West Midlands Combined Authority

The emerging West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is consulting on its proposed role and functions. A survey is on the WMCA website from today (18 January) until 08 February and people are encouraged to take part and leave feedback.

New website for WMCA

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has launched phase one of its new website. The site is designed to share information about the emerging combined authority, share progress about the proposed devolution deal with government and highlight priorities for the coming year.

Exciting 12 months ahead for incoming West Midlands Combined Authority

Leaders in the West Midlands are confident the region’s emerging Combined Authority will prosper in 2016, as plans to deliver on the proposed devolution agreement with government start to take shape.

Mental health commission heads to Westminster

Norman Lamb MP, chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) mental health commission, met with the region’s MP in parliament last week.

Chancellor’s tribute to devolution proposal for West Midlands

Chancellor George Osborne heralded historic devolution deals, including the biggest in the country for the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), in his Spending Review today (25 November).

Businesses welcome historic devolution agreement

Business leaders from across the region have welcomed the proposed devolution agreement between Treasury and the emerging West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

Historic devolution agreement reached for the West Midlands

Senior politicians and business leaders across the West Midlands are hailing the country’s biggest devolution deal to date. The proposed agreement with government will see it make an annual contribution worth £40 million for 30 years to support an overall investment package worth £8 billion, alongsi…

Find your future at The Skills Show

The nation’s largest skills and careers show comes to Birmingham 19-21 November.

Norman Lamb MP announced as chair of mental health commission for the West Midlands Combined Authority

WMCA Scheme submitted to government

The shadow West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has submitted its final Scheme and Governance Review to government.

WMCA builds support at Parliamentary event

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) took its ambitious programme of growth and public service reform to Parliament last week. Business leaders, together with partners from the education, voluntary and public sectors, joined Peers, MPs and Councillors from across the region to hear more about…

Parliamentary event speeches

This week (20 October) a parliamentary reception about the proposed West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) took place. Business leaders together with partners from the education, voluntary and public sector joined Peers, MP's and some of the region's Councillors, to hear more about the rationale be…

West Midlands Combined Authority Shadow Board appoints Chair and Vice Chair

Councillor Bob Sleigh of Solihull Council has been elected Chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority Shadow Board and Councillor Darren Cooper of Sandwell Council elected Vice Chair at an inaugural meeting on Friday 21 August.

Devolution proposals for the West Midlands submitted to government today

Ambitious proposals that, if agreed, would see powers devolved from Westminster to the incoming West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) have been submitted to government today (04 Sept).

Growing the UK economy through a Midlands Engine

A West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) that has plans to become an economic powerhouse and attract investment, increase productivity and create thousands of jobs for the region, published its plans for the future today (06 July).

Growing the UK economy through a Midlands Engine 1 :)

A West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) that has plans to become an economic powerhouse and attract investment, increase productivity and create thousands of jobs for the region, published its plans for the future this week.