London Northwestern Railway has unveiled a new proposal for train services between London, Manchester, and the West Midlands.
Under the plans, which are designed to improve connectivity between the Midlands and the North West, London Northwestern Railway would extend its current services between London Euston and Crewe through to Manchester Victoria.
Meanwhile, the existing London Northwestern Railway service between Stafford and Crewe would be extended to Manchester Airport.
Ian McConnell, managing director of West Midlands Trains (WMT), operator of London Northwestern Railway, said: “This proposal puts passengers at the heart of the railway and is the common sense solution to increase connectivity between the North West and the West Midlands following the cancellation of the northern leg of HS2.
The proposal would also create direct links from Manchester and Warrington to Atherstone, Lichfield, Rugeley and Tamworth in the West Midlands. These services could be operational as early as 2026.
The services between London and Manchester would use London Northwestern Railway’s brand new Class 730 electric trains, manufactured by Alstom. This new fleet would also provide a significant boost to capacity, with each 10-car train capable of carrying more than 1200 passengers.
LNR will work with Network Rail and local operators to tie the new plan in with the TransPennine Route Upgrade, planned development at Manchester Victoria station and other local improvements in the North West.
Dominic Booth, chief executive officer of WMT's parent company, Transport UK Group, said: "Our new service proposals represent a significant step forward in enhancing the rail network between Manchester and London.
"By leveraging the new Class 730 electric trains, we will provide greater capacity and comfort for customers travelling to Manchester while also supporting the local economy by creating new job opportunities in the North West. This proposal aligns with our commitment to delivering efficient, sustainable, and customer-focused rail services across the UK.”
LNR will formally submit its proposal to the Office of Rail and Road later this year. Subject to approval, the new services could begin in May 2026.
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