Train delays are unacceptable, says MP

An MP has written to Transport for Wales to express his concern

Train firms must get a grip and reduce disruption on the line between Shrewsbury and Birmingham, an MP has demanded.

Labour's Shaun Davies, who represents Telford, said it was "unacceptable" for trains to be terminating at Wolverhampton this week.

He has written a letter to bosses at Transport for Wales (TfW) to highlight his concerns.

A spokesperson for the operator said the problems were due to heavy maintenance exams and autumn related repairs and apologised to customers

Mr Davies said the latest disruption was not an isolated incident, calling it "part of a long-standing pattern of unreliable and inadequate rail services" affecting his constituency.

“Issues such as frequent delays, cancellations, and overcrowded trains have been consistently reported causing frustration and hardship for daily commuters,” he said.

"I request a detailed plan outlining the steps that will be taken to resolve the current disruptions and prevent similar occurrences in the future and an urgent meeting."

Transport for Wales said more trains than usual needed to be repaired

A TfW spokesperson said: "The problems we’ve seen on the Cambrian line in recent weeks are as a result of a number of trains undergoing heavy maintenance exams and repairs for autumn related defects as well as two units out of service following the incident at Talerddig."

A train from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth crashed into a stationary train on 21 October near Llanbrynmair, Powys.

Two trains crashed in mid Wales

The statement continued: “As such we’ve been forced to cancel some services and replace them with road transport.

"To give customers more certainty, for the remainder of the week, our Birmingham International services will be terminating at Wolverhampton, with tickets for onward travel accepted on all other operators including the Midland Metro.

“We would like to apologise to all affected customers.”

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.