Officials in pledge to limit impact of West Midlands Interchange

Officials in Staffordshire have vowed to do all they can to limit the impact of a huge rail depot, after it was approved by the Government.

Four Ashes, where the West Midlands Interchange rail freight hub is set to be built

The West Midlands Interchange, which will be the size of 430 football pitches, will be built next to the M6 at Gailey.

Residents, councillors and MPs in Staffordshire were largely opposed to the scheme but ministers say it will bring huge economic benefits.

The county council said it would be seeking to minimise "environmental damage" and pressure of roads.

Economic chief Councillor Mark Winnington said: “The county council did not approve of this proposal due to its location in the South Staffordshire green belt.

Timeline of coverage:

April 2016: 8,500 jobs promised as plans unveiled
April 2016: A boost for the region or a grave concern?
June 2016: Angry residents vow to fight £8.5m freight depot
July 2016: MPs unite to fight 'disastrous' rail hub
August 2016: Expert gives damning view on £8 million rail hub
July 2017: Second consultation launched on West Midlands Interchange
July 2017: Two new parks and road promised as part of super rail hub
August 2018: Plans for major freight rail hub near Wolverhampton facing inspection
September 2018: Gavin Williamson steps up fight against Interchange
June 2019: Planning experts get closer look at controversial rail freight hub
December 2019: Planning experts make recommendation to Government
February 2020: Residents in limbo as decision date looms
March 2020: Campaigners in the dark on Interchange decision
May 4, 2020: Huge rail hub approved despite residents' four-year fight
May 6, 2020: 'We won't give up': Campaigners vow to fight on despite West Midlands Interchange go-ahead