In an exciting collaboration, Network Rail, Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), and the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) are joining forces to create a new chapter in Aldridge's transportation history. After six decades without passenger rail services, plans are underway to build and open Aldridge station, marking a significant milestone for the town's residents.
The ambitious £30 million project, allocated from the City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) funding, aims to construct a single-platform station complete with a 40-space car park and road access from Westfield Drive. The site of the future Aldridge station is currently being prepared by Network Rail engineers, paving the way for construction to commence.
Rob McIntosh, managing director for Network Rail's North West and Central region, along with Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, and Kate Trevorrow, TfWM rail delivery director, visited the site on Tuesday 20th February. The station, scheduled to open in 2027, will initially offer a half-hourly service to Walsall town centre, providing passengers with seamless connections to Birmingham and the opportunity to access regional and national services.
Looking ahead, the long-term vision includes electrifying the line to offer direct services to Birmingham and beyond. Aldridge Station could also undergo further upgrades as part of the broader initiative to reopen the Sutton Park Line to passenger services.
The recently established Wrexham, Shropshire, and Midlands Railway Company (WSMR) are exploring opportunities to include Aldridge as a stop on their services from North Wales and Shropshire to London Euston via the Sutton Park Line.
Reopening railway stations aligns with the regional commitment to achieving a net-zero carbon footprint by 2041, offering communities a sustainable alternative to private car use.
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said:
It’s astonishing to think that despite being on an active railway line no passenger trains have stopped at Aldridge since 1965.
“That’s why we are making this investment and working with Network Rail to get this station open for the people of Aldridge – starting with a shuttle service to Walsall from Spring 2027. This will finally start to give Aldridge the railway services it so badly needs – offering residents a convenient alternative to the car.
“But we are not resting there, we are actively seeking further opportunities to improve and increase services at Aldridge. This includes working with the Wrexham, Shropshire and Midland Railway Company on plans to give Aldridge a direct train service to London.
“We will continue to work with partners in the months and years ahead to realise this and our longer term ambition to reopen the Sutton Park Line in full, something which is now a step nearer thanks to the funding we have secured for the Midlands Rail Hub.”
Cllr Mike Bird, WMCA portfolio holder for transport and leader of Walsall Council, emphasized the transformative impact of these new stations on the region, creating opportunities for work, leisure, and future investments in towns.
As part of a broader effort, the £1.7 billion Midlands Rail Hub project, aimed at enhancing rail capacity and links across the East and West Midlands, has secured government funding. This initiative is poised to increase train services into Birmingham city centre, offering the potential to fully reopen the Sutton Park Line.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of West Midlands transport partners signal a promising era for Aldridge, where the revival of passenger rail services brings not only improved connectivity but also economic growth and community benefits. The journey to reopening Aldridge Station is a testament to the commitment to a greener, more connected, and prosperous region.
Reference www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk “West Midlands transport partners working together on plans for a new Aldridge station” Network Rail Media Centre
https://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/news/west-midlands-transport-partners-working-together-on-plans-for-a-new-aldridge-station
