Today’s decision by the independent Office of Rail and Road is disappointing, but it is not the end of the road for our campaign for better rail connections for Telford.
I know many of you will be asking: what happens next?
Quite simply, we keep pushing.
I will continue pressing Government and the rail industry for the more reliable, frequent and better-connected services that Telford residents and businesses need and deserve.
And in the shorter term there are opportunities ahead for Telford:
Next year, the Avanti West Coast main line is due to return to public control thanks to this Government. That gives us another opportunity to improve our train services and revisit the case for a direct connection between Telford and London.
But it’s not just about London. Improving services across Telford and the wider West Midlands is equally important and I will continue pushing for more frequent, reliable and better-connected rail services across our region.
Stronger rail links for Telford means better access to jobs and education, easier journeys to see family and friends, and stronger opportunities for local businesses and our economy.
Sharing your experiences and feedback is an incredibly important part of my work on this – they help me make the strongest possible case to Government and transport decision-makers.
Today’s decision may be a setback, but my work on this will continue.
I’ll keep working to get Telford and wider Shropshire the rail connections we need to grow, thrive and stay better connected.
