It is claimed there will be more overcrowded trains from New Street

Services between Birmingham New Street, Birmingham International and Coventry will be reduced from 27 September.

The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority says only one extra relief train will be on standby for off-peak weekday services, after cuts are made.

Network Rail says it is still trying to satisfy all interested parties.

'Overcrowded' trains

The watchdog says it called a meeting with the rail industry and gave it a week to suggest ways of addressing gaps in services under the proposed new timetable.

It added that the extra relief train was proposed in a joint response from Network Rail, the Strategic Rail Authority and train operating companies.

The watchdog claims the cuts will lead to more overcrowded trains.

It says that on Saturdays there will be two big gaps every hour, along with a 40% reduction in the number of seats.

On weekdays there will be three departures from Birmingham New Street in six minutes, followed by a 24-minute gap, under the latest proposals.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: "Talks are ongoing with all interested groups with the aim of creating a timetable which is agreeable to all parties."