Telford MP vows to pressure Government over 'game-changer' train link with London after meeting with rail boss

It came after he urged Network Rail to be a "backer not a blocker" of the proposed rail service that would reinstate Shropshire's link with the capital, which it has opposed.

WSMR has proposed to introduce five trains a day between Wrexham General and London Euston - stopping at Gobowen, Shrewsbury and Telford railway stations along the way. Rail operators including Transport for Wales, MPs along the route, council leaders and residents have thrown their weight behind the scheme. 

However, Network Rail delivered a damning verdict on proposals, saying it is "not in a position" to back the plans due to timetable capacity, "congested" infrastructure that is already under strain, existing passenger flows and increased traffic that the service would bring.

Mr Davies met with Network Rail bosses including infrastructure director Adam Checkley on Wednesday (June 25).

The Labour MP said the "vital importance" of the proposed service was discussed, and stated that Network Rail has committed to further discussions about the scheme.

Mr Davies said: "Following a productive meeting in Parliament this week with Network Rail, I am continuing to push hard for a direct train service between Telford and London: a key priority that many local residents and businesses regularly raise with me.

"We had a detailed discussion about the vital importance of this proposed connection and I’m glad that Network Rail recognises the value it could bring to our town.

"They’ve committed to further discussions and I’ll be keeping the pressure on in Parliament to move this forward. There’s no doubt that improved rail connectivity would be a game-changer for Telford.

"A direct line to London would support our local economy, help businesses grow, create jobs, and offer greater convenience for residents who commute or travel for work and leisure.

"This is about giving Telford the strong, reliable transport links we deserve. We need to get things moving."

A formal application to open the service was submitted to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) in May.

ORR's deputy director for access and international, Martin Jones, recently met with Shrewsbury MP Julia Buckley, North Shropshire MP Helen Morgan, MP for The Wrekin Mark Pritchard, and others, in Parliament to discuss the proposals.

MPs hope, despite Network Rail's concerns, that the scheme will gather steam and be signalled the green light.

Mr Davies has urged local residents with views or experiences of local train transport to get in touch with him.

Residents can email the MP at: [email protected].

Network Rail has been approached for comment.