We've tried to save link

Letter: There have been lots of mixed messages from different parties about the future of the Walsall to Wolverhampton rail service.

I would like to take this opportunity to clarify things.

Centro has fought to keep this vital rail link going on several occasions over recent years. Therefore, we were extremely disappointed when the Government again informed us of its intention to axe the service, especially after patronage has grown so significantly.

Since hearing this news, we have continually lobbied the Department for Transport to see if, together, we can find a way to retain the service.

Unfortunately, it is not only funding for the line that is preventing the rail link from continuing.

Due to rail timetable changes taking place in December related to the improved service to London, there will be no trains available to run the Walsall to Wolverhampton service, as they all need to be used elsewhere on the local rail network. If funding is provided by the Department for Transport or from local authorities, this problem will still stand in the way of retaining the service.

The only way to resolve this issue is for the Government to step in - they alone can provide the rolling stock - but unfortunately our appeals have fallen on deaf ears.

Because of this, the service will be taken off.

All Centro can do for passengers now is to look at how we can work with the Government and train companies to bring back the rail link as soon as possible.

This will involve looking at options for an even better service including the possibility of two trains an hour, a station at Willenhall and through trains to Birmingham, as part of a wider study to improve rail connections around Walsall.

Providing a rail service between Walsall and Wolverhampton has been a priority for Centro for many years, and will continue to be one.

Cllr Gary Clarke,

Chairman,

Centro-WMPTA.