'Improvements to rail line would be transformative'

Investment in a main rail route, including the provision of a new hourly service from London to Shrewsbury, would be transformative for the West Midlands region, employers and civic leaders have said.

Businesses in Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin have backed proposals to improve the railway line between Shrewsbury, Telford, the Black Country, and Birmingham.

The proposed changes, which include signalling improvements, electrifying the line and increasing the speed of the line, are being put forward in an outline business case by transport body, Midlands Connect.

The plan was also backed by MP for Telford, Shaun Davies, and leader of Shropshire Council, Lezley Picton.

Businesses backing the plans include insurance company Phoenix Group, which has offices in Telford and Birmingham, as well as Telford-based HM Revenue and Customs and Shrewsbury-based tourism company, Visit Shropshire.

"By investing in the Birmingham to Telford to Shrewsbury rail line, we would lay the groundwork for a more integrated and prosperous regional economy, encouraging tourism, attracting trade, and supporting our businesses to flourish," said Mr Davies.

Ms Picton also voiced her support for the proposals: "Boosting line speeds on this important route is vital to fulfil Shropshire's economic growth potential, enabling faster and more direct journey opportunities for passengers and businesses alike."

The rail timetable between Shropshire, Birmingham and the Black Country had already seen improvements, when earlier this summer a second hourly West Midlands Railway service between the areas was added.

But, Midlands Connect added, further investment was needed to unlock "economic potential" across the region.