A RAIL service connecting Bewdley to Birmingham could soon be available to commuters.
Bewdley Town Council documents, seen by the Standard, show town clerk Tracy Bodley has received correspondence from the Severn Valley Railway. They advise that they, along with West Midlands Rail Executive and West Midlands Railway, are working to trial passenger rail services between Bewdley and Kidderminster, providing onward connections to Birmingham.
However, despite documents showing the eight-week trial service is planned to commence on September 1, Severn Valley Railway is remaining tight-lipped on the proposal.
The town clerk’s July report said the proposed weekday service would provide two morning departures from Bewdley. And there would be two evening return services from Birmingham Snow Hill on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The report added partners were thought to be exploring the operation of Saturday leisure services during the trial period.
Bewdley Town Council is backing the move. The authority added it welcomed the announcement of proposed trial passenger rail services linking Bewdley with Birmingham via Kidderminster.
The council said it viewed it as a significant opportunity to improve connectivity for residents, commuters and visitors alike.
“Throughout the preparation of the Bewdley Neighbourhood Development Plan, consultation responses consistently highlighted support for enhanced public transport links and improved connections to surrounding towns and cities.
“The introduction of this trial service directly responds to those aspirations and has the potential to provide a valuable alternative to road travel, helping to improve access to employment, education, leisure and tourism opportunities.
“The council believes strengthening rail connectivity will not only benefit local residents but will also encourage additional visitors to experience all that Bewdley has to offer, supporting the town centre, local businesses and the wider economy.”
At last week’s town council meeting, Coun Sarah Billett suggested the service be promoted within Birmingham to encourage visitors to come to Bewdley.
Severn Valley Railway added it was aware of speculation regarding discussions with other organisations.
“As a matter of principle, we do not comment on speculation or on confidential conversations that may take place from time to time.
“The railway regularly explores opportunities that support its charitable objectives, heritage railway operations and long-term future, but not every conversation results in a formal arrangement.”
SVR added if there was an announcement made, it would be made jointly with the relevant organisation at the appropriate time and it would not be commenting further until then.
- WHAT do you think? Would you like to see a rail service between Bewdley and Birmingham? What other public transport link improvements would you like to see in Wyre Forest? Email: [email protected] with your views.
