Plans for direct rail services linking north Wales, the West Midlands and London have won the backing of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, marking a significant potential boost for regional connectivity.
The proposal by Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway (WSMR) would reintroduce a long-demanded transport link to the capital for communities in Wrexham, Gobowen, Shrewsbury, Walsall and Coleshill.
Aim to reconnect regions to London Euston
Announced in Parliament by Shrewsbury’s Labour MP Julia Buckley, the initiative seeks to re-establish direct access to London Euston from several regional stations. Sir Keir welcomed the proposal, committing to support dialogue between MPs and the rail minister to push the plan forward.
WSMR, a newly formed open-access rail operator, has submitted a formal application to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). If approved, the route will see five trains running daily in both directions from Monday to Saturday, and four on Sundays. The trains would stop at ten locations en route, including Telford Central, Wolverhampton and Nuneaton.
Making use of under-used freight route
A distinctive feature of the service is its use of an under-utilised freight line to bypass Birmingham, providing a more direct route from Wolverhampton and Walsall to Nuneaton – an alignment not previously offered for passenger travel. This move not only improves journey times but also alleviates pressure on the already congested Birmingham corridor.
The renewed interest in connecting Shropshire to the capital follows previous frustrations from residents and businesses over limited travel options. WSMR’s model, as an open-access operator, allows them to operate independently of franchise agreements, providing services based on demand rather than fixed contracts.
Connectivity drives economic growth
The proposal has stirred optimism in the region, as improved transport links are often seen as catalysts for economic development, commuting flexibility and tourism. Local authorities and business groups are expected to lobby hard for the proposal, which represents a shift towards more responsive and regionally focused rail provision.
The government’s support, particularly the prime minister’s endorsement, gives WSMR’s plan momentum at a time when rail connectivity and infrastructure investment remain under intense national scrutiny.
Pending regulatory approval, this direct service could signal a new chapter for regional rail in the Midlands and north Wales – reconnecting overlooked towns with the capital and strengthening economic links across the UK.
