West Midlands Railway has announced that they have taken charge of Wolverhampton station, and replace the previous operator, Virgin Trains West Coast.
To celebrate the handover, the new owners provided reusable cups and free coffee to customers on the morning commute. Across the station, the distinctive orange branding has announced the arrival of the new train operator.
The changeover is part of a widespread move throughout the West Midlands towards more devolved transport services. This focuses more on the local towns, cities, and residents.
Alongside the work being done at Wolverhampton, West Midlands Railway will be introducing a variety of improvements for the region, including 20,000 extra seats and standing room for an additional 50,000 passengers at peak time in and around Birmingham,
Additionally, West Midlands Railway intends to introduce seven new stations across the region.
What did the officials say?
Richard Brooks, customer experience director at West Midlands Railway, said:
“The West Midlands has been crying out for its own dedicated rail operator for a number of years now and we're extremely proud to be in the process of delivering that.
“Wolverhampton is a key part of our network in the region and as the new station facilities owner, we want to make sure our customers have the best experience possible whilst the works are underway, and into the future when they are complete.
“The response we've had from colleagues and customers has been overwhelmingly positive and we're excited to be a real part of the city's ambitious development plans.”
Malcolm Holmes, executive director of West Midlands Rail, said:
“We believe local responsibility of the railway and its infrastructure is good for passengers, good for the economy and good for taxpayers.
“Once complete, Wolverhampton Interchange will be a fabulous gateway to the city and to the wider West Midlands through massively improved connectivity across all modes of public transport.
“The railway station is a key part of the Interchange. Local management is quicker to identify and respond to the service levels, facilities and development needs of an area and ensures investment goes where it is most required.”
- Visit the West Midlands Railway website
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What about Kenilworth? When is West Midlands Trains actually going to reopen Kenilworth railway station. As it was suppose to reopen back in December last year then was put forward to March this year. And now there is no conformation on whether about the station will soon reopen. I think that WM Trains along with Network Rail, Warwickshire County Council and the local MP’s have delayed it even more.