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Open access operator and council's proposed Shrewsbury "parkway" station take step forward

An early concept of how a new Parkway station in Shropshire could look. WESTONWILLIAMSON+PARTNERS.

Plans for a new railway station in Shrewsbury have taken a step forward.

Open access operator, Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway (WSMR) is working with SLC Rail (rail development and delivery specialist which is one of two firms behind the proposed service) and Shropshire Council to investigate the feasibility and private-financing options for the new station.

Potentially called Shrewsbury Parkway, it would be located on the eastern side of the town with the aim of relieving pressure on the town’s road network and improving Shrewsbury station as a gateway to the town.

The WSMR track access bid for an open access service linking Wrexham and London Euston, going via Shrewsbury, Wolverhampton and Walsall, was submitted to the Office of Rail and Road in March 2024.

Ian Walters, MD of SLC and Director of WSMR said: “We are pleased to be working with Shropshire Council to look into more detail at the case for a Parkway station close to Shrewsbury to serve Shropshire and the borders. 

“Aligning these exciting proposals with WSMR’s plans to operate passenger rail services, shows how an open access rail company can attract much-needed private sector investment in railway infrastructure that will reduce road congestion in town and city centres, create jobs and support housing growth in the UK.”

Shropshire Council’s cabinet lead for transport, Councillor Ian Nellins, added: “WSMR’s plans for new services from Shropshire to London offer a lifeline in connectivity to our communities and ensure that as the population of Shropshire increases, we have the infrastructure to support it.

“Parkway station is part of our longer term plans and would reduce the pressure on Shrewsbury’s station and help cut traffic within the town centre.



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