Calls for more train services to boost economy

Calls have been made for rail services to be increased across the West Midlands to boost connectivity and the economy.

They come after members of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) board agreed to extend a "collaboration agreement" between West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) and the Department for Transport (DfT).

The deal gives devolved powers to WMRE including the ability to propose changes to fares and passengers services, day to day contract and commercial management of services and ownership of the West Midlands Railway brand.

Members told West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker increasing the number of services would bring "benefits for years to come".

Parker said he was continuing to lobby government to ensure areas get the level of services they need.

City of Wolverhampton Council leader Stephen Simkins said he supported the collaborative agreement and that "it is the right thing to do."

"But what I would ask is we need to evolve and develop the powers and responsibilities," he explained.

"You need to have the full autonomy over the train and network and the operators in the interim period until it becomes a fully nationalised entity.

"A good example of an opportunity that could expand not just the network but economically, is the railway connection that needs to be on a more regular basis from Shrewsbury to Wolverhampton.

"Connectivity needs to be paramount and if we get the powers we can put the investment in. The Shrewsbury to Wolverhampton line is a real key economic driver."

Councillor Rob Pocock, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for transformation and governance, said while the city is pleased to have the Pineapple Road, Moseley and Kings Heath new stations they would be of "no value" if the services were not "reliable and frequent".

"I think that would be enormously valuable in helping deal with traffic congestion and also strengthening economic links across that line."

Solihull Council leader Karen Grinsell and Walsall Council deputy leader Adrian Andrew also called for increased services.

Mr Parker said: "One of the things I am keen to do working with the leaders of the councils here is to have a greater say in how the revenue support for the rail services across the region is actually spent.

"As we know, there are some places that aren't going to get the services we would like.

"I'll continue to work with the leaders and deputy leaders of the councils that are impacted by that and continue to lobby government to ensure we get the services running on the ground this region needs."

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