More frequent train services have been proposed for up to 43 communities, towns and cities throughout the region as part of a massive package of improvements to transform east-west connections in the Midlands.

The proposals aim to reduce journey times, increasing rail journeys and improve the economy by bringing the East and West Midlands closer together. 

The plans submitted to the government by sub-national transport body Midlands Connect are backed by a range of organisations including the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE). 

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMRE and WMCA, said:

 “Midlands Rail Hub is a game changing scheme for our region. The benefits it can bring to local people and businesses are many – whether it’s connecting millions more people to the HS2 network; creating space for more local journeys, stations, and rail lines; or opening faster and more frequent rail links for commuters as well as business and leisure travellers.