Major rail improvements for Walsall and the West Midlands have been announced by the Government.
For Walsall this means more frequent services, more carriages and a new direct rush-hour service between Walsall and London from December 2018.
It's exciting news; great for commuters and the economic growth of our region. More details on delivering this important manifesto pledge below:
Rail passengers will get new longer trains with more seats and more space as nearly £1 billion is invested in services on the West Midlands network.
There will be 400 new carriages rolled out by 2021 and space for an extra 85,000 passengers on rush hour services in Birmingham and London, with the longer trains providing extra seats and space for passengers.
Under the deal with West Midlands Trains Ltd (a joint venture between Abellio, East Japan Railway Company and Mitsui & Co Ltd) to run the West Midlands franchise, passengers will get:
- free wifi on all main line services by the end of 2019
- for the first time compensation if services are delayed by 15 minutes or more
- improved access for those requiring extra assistance, including disabled people
Smart ticketing and live passenger information will also be rolled out under the deal, as part of a package of reforms that will improve journeys for passengers.
The franchise covers services across the West Midlands, as well as trains from London Euston to Crewe and from Liverpool to Birmingham.