WEST WORCESTERSHIRE MP Harriett Baldwin has today called for local people to speak up for better services during a review of the Midlands rail franchise.
The West Midlands franchise, currently run by London Midland, will end in 2017 and local people are being asked to have their say before the formal search begins for the next rail operator.
Harriett is compiling a file of constituents’ feedback to send to the Department for Transport, which is leading the consultation process.
Common feedback already sent in to Harriett’s office includes comments on the restricted space on services and the lack of late night trains.
Harriett commented: “We all want better train services and the routes to Birmingham are especially important to my constituents who work in the city or just want to enjoy a day trip there.
“There is a national shortage of carriages and that is clearly having a local impact on the amount of room in trains along the London Midland services. I will be calling on the new franchise holder to ensure it has enough rolling stock to allow every passenger to have a seat.
“It is also clear that local people are frustrated by the number of late night trains back from Birmingham. I know that people want to enjoy more in the city, including the brand new shopping centre and people visiting the theatre or other events really want more late trains back to Worcestershire.
“I will be collating feedback to share with the Department but I would also encourage anyone who has a view on the future franchise requirements to comment on this consultation. Every person’s view is important and this is a valuable opportunity to specify a fit-for-purpose service for the next decade and beyond.”
Local people can have their say by filling in a survey which can be found at http://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/west-midlands-franchise