Rachel Maclean, MP for Redditch County, today took the next steps in her campaign to get more peak time express train services from Redditch by raising the issue with the Rail Minister.
During Transport Questions this morning, Rachel asked the Rail Minister, Paul Maynard MP, to work with her to develop an updated business case to take to West Midlands Trains Ltd who take over the franchise in December.
It follows the publishing of the Government’s ‘strategic vision for rail’ yesterday, which Rachel has backed.
The ambitious vision for more reliable and improved rail services sets out sweeping proposals aimed at expanding the rail network to boost housing and economic growth.
And in answer to Rachel’s request for the Rail Minister to meet with her to help develop an updated business case, Mr Maynard said he would welcome the opportunity to discuss what more can be done to get more peak time express train services from Redditch.
Speaking in the House of Commons in response to Rachel’s request, Mr Maynard said: “I am always happy to meet colleagues, and train operating companies.
“We always seek journey time improvements on networks, not least by improving roll-out times for new rolling stock.
“I know that my hon. Friend will welcome the fact that we have earlier and later services from Redditch into Birmingham, and an increased frequency.
“I am more than happy to meet her to discuss what more can be done.”
Speaking after leaving the chamber, Rachel said: “Today I took the next steps in my campaign to get more peak time express train services from Redditch – something I know residents and businesses have long been calling for.
“Faster rail services will help to improve transport links between Redditch and Birmingham and will go a long way in helping to boost the town’s economy.
“But to make this a reality a business case must be developed and that’s why I am glad the Rail Minister kindly agreed to meet with me to discuss this further.”
For more on the ‘strategic vision for rail’ visit: www.gov.uk/government/news/strategic-vision-for-rail
