Shaun Davies MP met this week with Lord Hendry, Minister of State at the Department for Transport, to discuss the latest proposals for a new direct rail service between Wrexham and London via Telford. The meeting also explored all other potential options to improve connectivity for Telford, including the possibility of reintroducing a route via Wolverhampton
The meeting, requested by Shaun, focused on the application submitted by Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway (WSMR) to operate a direct service connecting Wrexham to London, stopping in Telford which is currently with the independent Office for Road and Rail; the meeting also explored options.
Shaun Davies MP said: “It is my priority to ensure we have done everything we can at this stage of the second application to prepare for the outcome, so we are on the front foot when we receive the decision. The purpose of this meeting was to once again press the case that this is a service Telford needs and to make that case directly to Ministers.
“This is an important issue for Telford residents and businesses and I hear them clearly. This is not just about Telford residents getting to London but connecting new and existing business to Telford so we can create more jobs here.
“Telford is a growing town, businesses relocating and opening here. Improved connectivity with London would help accelerate growth locally and support the delivery of the Government’s economic agenda.
“I am committed to working with the Department for Transport and the ORR towards a solution that works for them, but also addresses what is a glaring issue for Telford constituents and communities across the region.”
In addition to his meeting with the Minister, Shaun has already scheduled further discussions with the ORR, Network Rail and Avanti West Coast. Alongside the WSMR proposal, Shaun is also continuing to push for improvements to West Midlands Trains services to Telford, seeking broader enhancements to reliability, frequency and passenger experience.
A decision by the independent Office for Road and Rail is due in the Spring . Shaun is meeting with the Rail Minister in a follow up meeting next month and hosting a roundtable with Rail operators later this month.
