The West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) in the UK has published a 30-year investment strategy to transform rail services in the region.
The Rail Investment Strategy includes short, medium and long-term plans to improve railway services across the West Midlands.
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West Midlands Rail Executive chair Roger Lawrence said: “We are pleased that our approach received wide and strong support.
“The Strategy will support the exciting regeneration and growth plans that exist across our partner authorities, recognising the role that rail plays in connecting people, communities and businesses.”
Overall, the strategy sets out seven definite objectives, which involves WMRE working with the Department for Transport (DfT) to deliver £1bn of upgrade works.
It entails enhancing cross-Birmingham connectivity, introducing Camp Hill and Walsall-Wolverhampton services, building stations and increasing train capacity.
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By GlobalDataAdditionally, it will ensure minimum standards of six, four and two trains per hour at stations under the 6-4-2 rail services plan.
WMRE will work with High Speed 2 (HS2) to support the regional opportunities associated with the high-speed rail system. It will also start works to identify key infrastructure changes required following the delivery of HS2.
Furthermore, the strategy aims to maximise the benefits of freight movement to the region.
WMRE executive director Malcolm Holmes said: “Our strategy shapes the new era for rail travel by West Midlanders.
“It evidences our ambitious plans to work together with Midlands Connect and the rail industry to transform the train services and physical network to support the needs of the region.”
The West Midlands rail investment strategy was developed by the WMRE in consultation with Midlands Connect, DfT and the rail industry. It was finalised after consulting with all concerned stakeholders including organisations, businesses and individuals.
