West Midlands Rail Executive Publishes Its Rail Investment Strategy
West Midlands Rail Executive has published the finalised version of its Rail Investment Strategy document. This replaces a document that was published in 2018 and which has been updated to reflect the effect that the Covid crisis has had on the rail industry. It details its revised proposals for improvements to the rail network in the West Midlands between 2022 and 2050.
As far as the Stourbridge Line is concerned, the document proposes the following improvements.
By 2026 - a return to pre-pandemic service levels
Between 2026 and 2031 - the introduction of a new hourly Kidderminster to London Paddington service via Worcester.
Between 2031 and 2040 - the extension of the Kidderminster to London Paddington service to start from Stourbridge Junction
an increase in the frequency of services east of Rowley Regis by constructing an extra platform at Rowley Regis
electrification of the Snow Hill lines from Leamington Spa and Stratford-upon-Avon to Worcester
The electrification of the Snow Hill lines is given the highest priority in a proposed rolling programme of electrification schemes across the West Midlands.
Unfortunately, no new stations are proposed for the Snow Hill lines, which is disappointing for promoters of a new station in the Fernhill Heath area. However, a station west of Worcester at Rushwick is an aspiration in the document.
However, given that the current Government is not a supporter of the rail industry and is more intent on making cuts than developing rail services, the aspirations of the Rail Investment Strategy will remain as pie in the sky until a Government that actually supports the railway is elected.
The WMRE Rail Investment Strategy document may be read by clicking on the button below.