Meriden MP, Dame Caroline Spelman, today launched a fresh campaign to improve the frequency of peak trains from Berkswell following news that London Midlands will cease as operators of the regional rail network from 2018.
In advance of the takeover by West Midlands Trains Ltd, Dame Caroline has contacted their Chief Executive and Transport for West Midlands to request that they explore all possible options to reinstate the 0821 service from Berkswell - Birmingham New Street which was removed from the timetable by London Midland in May this year.
The decision to withdraw the service was made on the grounds that the service was ‘too busy’ and that this contributed to delays.
In her letter to the Chief Executive of West Midlands Trains, the MP said: ‘It is regrettable that for some time now our regions rai network has been unable to meet passenger demand. This has resulted in numerous delays and cancellations to services which have cost both commuters and the local economy millions of pounds each year
‘With this in mind, I would like to raise your awareness of issues arising from the recent suspension of the 0821 service which previously called at Berkswell.
‘Upon assuming responsibility for the operation of the regions network, [I request that] West Midlands Trains Ltd carefully consider whether it may be possible to resume the suspended service to ease journeys made from Berkswell and to restore the confidence of a significant number of my constituents who depend upon the regional railways to travel into Birmingham?’