Decision Maker: Executive Board

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 8, 2024

Purpose: To present to Members the proposal by Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway for an open access rail service, run commercially direct from Wrexham to London

Content: RESOLVED –   (i)         That the offer of direct trains from Wrexham to London Euston be endorsed to further enhance our economic growth as a place and city to potentially create up to 50 jobs in Wrexham.   (ii)        That Members make representation to the UK Secretary of State for Transport on the poor level of service provided by Avanti West Coast both in North Wales and to Wrexham.   Reasons for decisions   (i)        To ensure we have a resilient, safe and efficient public transport service for Wrexham and the broader North Wales region.   (ii)       Provide enhanced rail services direct to London matching our economic development and growth aspirations as a new emerging city.   (iii)      The new rail service has the ability to strengthen and support the growth aspirations of Wrexham AFC for moving people to and from the Midlands to Wrexham.   (iv)      To encourage and promote rail as a travel mode of choice for long distance travel from Wrexham across the UK to deliver against our decarbonisation and ecological challenges.