Rail group calls for major revamp of Sandwell and Dudley station

West Midlands Rail said the station needed modernising in order to be recognised as a 'Black Country hub'.

The group has also suggested re-naming Birmingham International station.

West Midlands Rail (WMR), a consortium of 14 local authorities from across the Midlands, said there needed to be better recognition of the importance of the Oldbury station, which is the busiest between Wolverhampton and Birmingham.

It comes after Labour deputy leader and Black Country MP Tom Watson criticised proposals to cut the number of high-speed trains stopping at the station.

The Government is currently consulting on the future of the Inter-City West Coast Rail Line.

Councillor Mark Winnington, WMR chairman and head of economic growth at Staffordshire County Council, said: "This requires station modernisation, better facilities, and consideration of how other modes of transport can better integrate with the railway.

"Addressing these issues and enhancing the opportunity for modal interchange would see Sandwell and Dudley move towards realising its potential as a significant regional inter-city hub."

The group also says the last train of the night should stop at Sandwell and Dudley to ensure passengers have more choices and to support the evening economy in the area.

Late trains between Birmingham and Wolverhampton often go via Walsall, missing out Sandwell and Dudley.

They also say there is a need for clearer and simpler ticketing.

WMR has also called for the name of Birmingham International station to be changed to Birmingham Airport and NEC to reflect its importance to the region.

Councillor Winnington said: "Re-naming the station would increase its profile as an interchange for the airport and the National Exhibition Centre, which are two key assets of the regional economy.

"It is part of a package of our aspirations to improve late-night and early-morning services there.

"The station is of major strategic importance and needs to be modernised to meet the needs of all users and to be ready for the arrival of HS2."

In July, West Bromwich East MP Mr Watson spoke out about a possible reduction in high-speed trains stopping at Sandwell and Dudley, which are among proposals being considered by the Government.

Labour's deputy leader said the change would create real problems for commuters and could impact on businesses in the region.