Transport leaders in the West Midlands are facing a critical deadline to secure the future of local control over the region's railway network.
Urgent Vote Required to Maintain Rail Powers
The existing collaboration agreement between the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) and the Department for Transport (DfT) is due to expire on 1 February. A report has warned that failure to renew this pact would see the region revert to a state of having no meaningful control over rail outcomes.
Members of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) board are being urged to approve a special resolution to continue the arrangement. The vote is scheduled for a meeting on Friday, 16 January.
What the Devolved Powers Mean for Passengers
The agreement grants WMRE significant devolved authority, elevating it from a stakeholder to a client with real influence. Key powers include:
- The ability to propose changes to fares and passenger services.
- Day-to-day contract and commercial management of services.
- Ownership of the West Midlands Railway brand.
This framework allows WMRE to compel action from rail operators and hold them accountable for delivery to customers. The report states that in England outside of London, only the Liverpool City Region has more extensive devolved rail powers.
A Simple Roll-Over to Protect Integration Goals
Both the DfT and the WMRE Board have confirmed in writing their desire to continue the existing devolved powers. The proposed new agreement is described as essentially a roll-over of the previous terms.
The report emphasises that losing these powers would make it much harder to realise the goal of a fully integrated transport network, especially as progress is being made with bus franchising. WMRE, which is owned by the Combined Authority and seven local councils, was established to manage rail transport in the region.
The coming days are therefore crucial for the future governance of West Midlands rail services, with transport integration hanging in the balance.
