MP Slams Decision To Reject Rail Safeguards For Wrexham

Wrexham MP Ian Lucas has slammed ministers for rejecting proposals to safeguard Wrexham rail services whilst investing millions on rail lines elsewhere.

Mr Lucas welcomed the announcement that some high speed rail is set to go ahead, but warned that North Wales was being ignored after ministers rejected a suggestion that services between Wales and London should be protected as part of new franchise arrangements for the West Coast Main Line.

The government announced yesterday that the first phase of high speed rail installations between London and Birmingham would go ahead. However, a second stage, which would link to Manchester, has now be delayed until at least 2032.

Mr Lucas said: “It is good news that the government has finally decided to back part of Labour’s high speed rail proposals. The first high speed rail link in the country was built under Labour and today’s announcement carries on that legacy.

“However, I am concerned that the announcement that any link to the north west will not be for another two decades. That delay means slower services for commuters from North Wales while other areas benefit.

“The government have also rejected suggestions which I put forward with other North Wales MPs in December to ensure services between Wrexham and London were protected as part of new franchise arrangements for the West Coast Main Line.

“Transport Minister Theresa Villiers told me ‘I am unable to provide an undertaking that we will specify the provision of services at Wrexham station as part of a new franchise.’

“Coming on the same day the government altered high speed rail proposals in her Buckinghamshire constituency to keep the Secretary of State for Wales quiet, it is quite clear where the Conservatives’ priorities lie and it is not in North Wales.”