Shropshire Star

Leader: Rail link is great news but not end of battle

It is not often that there is great news to report on the public transport front for Shropshire, but today is one of those rare days in which there is a palpable victory to celebrate.

Published

It is not often that there is great news to report on the public transport front for Shropshire, but today is one of those rare days in which there is a palpable victory to celebrate.

The direct rail link from Shrewsbury and Telford to London, something which campaigners, politicians, passengers and commerce have been crying out for, is to be restored as part of the deal for the new franchise on the West Coast line.

First things first, as these things do not usually happen without pressure being applied. Congratulations to the campaigners, including the county's five MPs who worked together, and also the leaders of the two main councils within the county, Keith Barrow and Kuldip Sahota.

When the fizz has gone out of the celebratory bubbly, the serious business will begin with two fundamental challenges.

The first lies with the new operator, First West Coast. It is up to the firm to come up with a timetable and pricing structure which will appeal and ensure success.

The Wrexham, Shropshire and Marylebone Railway which failed in January last year with heavy losses offered a great deal in its pricing and had sky-high approval ratings, but had to take a rather roundabout route and so journey times were not attractive.

As for the second challenge, that lies with Shropshire and our people.

Having fought so hard and so successfully for the direct link to be restored, it would be tragic if passengers and the business community did not take advantage and show that yes, this is something we really want.

All parties now need to work together to make a success of this brilliant news which brings with it new opportunities to boost tourism and business in Shropshire.

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