BIG developments across the Dudley borough such as the Metro extension can help to reduce the issue of child poverty in its towns, say council chiefs.

The News revealed last week that in several areas of Dudley, Halesowen and Stourbridge, almost half of children are growing up in poverty.

But Dudley Council says it is doing its best to tackle the issue with a variety of approaches, particularly boosting the borough's economy.

Martin Samuels, strategic director for people at Dudley Council, said: “There’s a commitment across organisations in Dudley borough to reduce the impact of poverty on children’s lives.

"This is demonstrated by poverty being one of the three priorities in the borough’s health and wellbeing strategy.

“This is very much a partnership approach and together we have identified steps we can take to address poverty.

"For example, we were recently part of a pilot project that offered free lunches to eligible children during the school holidays to tackle holiday hunger.

"We are also supporting the voluntary sector on projects to reduce period poverty.

"In addition, we work to tackle fuel poverty through our winter warmth service and host the Castle and Crystal Credit Union, which can support families to access affordable loans.

“But the best way to reduce poverty is to increase job opportunities and wages.

"The council is therefore playing a central role in a range of major developments across the borough, including the Metro extension, which will boost our economy and lead to the creation of new jobs.”