Castle Bromwich, Coventry East and Tettenhall top the list for potential stations, aiming to improve connectivity and support regional development in West Midlands.
The West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) has earmarked £1 million to develop proposals for three new railway stations, marking a significant step forward in improving public transport links across the region. The three stations have been shortlisted after a feasibility study identified them as locations with high potential to benefit from better rail access.
"With five new railway stations under construction and a sixth on the way, we're getting on with delivering the transport infrastructure local people want to see right across our region," said Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMRE Chair. "These three stations - Castle Bromwich, Coventry East and Tettenhall - are the ones most likely to deliver the biggest benefit to the communities they serve."
The proposed stations, located on existing lines, address areas currently lacking rapid public transport options and facing high levels of deprivation. Castle Bromwich would restore a station closed in 1968, while Coventry East and Tettenhall would offer brand new connections. Station names will be decided in collaboration with local communities.
The development funding comes from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement awarded by the Department for Transport. While other proposed stations didn't make the immediate shortlist, Mayor Street emphasised their potential inclusion once the £1.7 billion Midlands Rail Hub project is underway.
"The £1.7 billion Midland Rail Hub scheme - now fully funded by Government - may provide an avenue and will certainly be a game changer enabling us to connect even more towns and communities to the rail network." he said.
The Midlands Rail Hub project which has been backed by the government as part of its Network North plans aims to significantly increase rail capacity between the East and West Midlands and is a key driver for this further investment.
“New rail infrastructure can be transformative for an area - offering residents sustainable and convenient access to rapid and reliable public transport. That’s why it’s good news that local people will benefit from these stations very soon.”, added Mayor Street.
Once completed, the new stations will offer a range of benefits including improved connectivity alongside reducing congestion.
Join us on February 29, 2024 for TransCityRail Midlands, bringing together the key decision makers in rail across the region for to connect, share knowledge and build partnerships.
Photo Credit: iStock
