Report states 'huge economic benefits' for direct Shropshire to London train ahead of decision

A new report states the “huge economic benefits” for a direct Shropshire to London train.

Julia Buckley, Labour MP for Shrewsbury, confirmed she has submitted the strategic business case document in her bid to help secure the fresh direct connection with the capital.

A decision on whether the route gets the go-ahead will be taken later this month.

Mrs Buckley has been campaigning for the introduction of the service for a number of months, alongside local business leaders and other politicians.

She said the report makes the case for the new service, and outlines how it could boost investment, tourism, and the wider economy.

Writing on social media she said: “For months, I've been working with partners across Shropshire, the West Midlands and Wales to make the strongest possible case for restoring a direct rail service between Shrewsbury and London.

“I've now submitted a major new report, our Strategic Business Case, setting out the huge economic benefits this connection could bring to our county.

“The report shows that Shropshire's visitor economy is now worth more than £1 billion a year, supports almost 9,500 jobs, and that businesses, education providers and tourism organisations are united in backing a direct London service.

“It argues that better connectivity would help attract investment, boost tourism, widen access to jobs and education, and unlock opportunities across Shropshire, Mid Wales and the West Midlands.”

Mrs Buckley said the decision on the WSMR direct London service proposal will be announced by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) on September 29.

She added: “Whatever the outcome, we will keep making the case that Shropshire deserves the same connections enjoyed by every other mainland English county.”

The MP has also highlighted improvements to the current route to Birmingham.

She said: “There's more positive news for rail passengers regarding our regional route to Birmingham.

“Following a productive meeting with Transport for Wales, I can confirm that the long-awaited upgrade of the Shrewsbury to Birmingham service is moving ahead.

“The rollout begins this month, with trains increasing from two carriages to four and five carriages, and by Spring 2027 all services will be operating with larger trains.

“Even better, over the Christmas period, the existing rolling stock will remain in service alongside the new trains, effectively providing double capacity at one of the busiest times of the year.

“After years of overcrowding, this is a really welcome step forward for passengers across our region.”