Transport investment between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury would boost the economy
Midlands Connect, the Sub-national Transport Body for the Midlands, has released a report outlining its vision for improved connectivity between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury.
The research shows the corridor has the potential to drive growth and investment in the West Midlands and beyond.
Improvements in transport across the area will boost the regional economy, benefit productivity, support key employment sectors, and enhance regional connectivity.
The report focuses on how enhancements to the rail line, key roads such as the M54 and A5, bus networks, and active travel could achieve this growth.
Midlands Connect has identified eight clear priorities for investment. These are:
1. Integrated transport networks
2. Line speed and capacity improvements
3. Simplified ticketing and travel information
4. Electric vehicle infrastructure
5. Enhanced freight connectivity
6. Smarter use of highway infrastructure
7. Reduced congestion and cleaner air
8. Active and sustainable travel
Julia Buckley, MP for Shrewsbury, said: “I welcome the publication of today’s important report by Midlands Connect, which sets out the case for investment in Shrewsbury’s strategic transport links. Building on the work of the Shrewsbury Transport Integration Group, this strategic policy document identifies the key benefits for Shrewsbury in terms of health, education, employment and tourism if we can secure investment to improve our public transport offering, as well as upgrading the A5 road. I will be working closely with partners to take forward these proposals as a key driver for economic growth.”
Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, said: "We’re passionate about making sure everyone in Telford and Wrekin can access the best Education, Healthcare, jobs and opportunities, and that is why we support this vision and have continued to champion better rail links as well as the M54/M6 Northern Link road.
"The corridor between Telford and Wolverhampton is vital, with many local jobs and businesses reliant on these routes. A clear vision has the potential for us to work across the region and Government to open up opportunities for our businesses and residents while further strengthening the economic and social ties which have existed between our Borough and the Black Country & West Midlands since before the start of the Industrial Revolution."
Maria Machancoses, Chief Executive of Midlands Connect, said: “This document sets out a shared vision for investment in transport to support new housing, growing employment hubs, thriving town centres, and greener, more sustainable ways to travel.
“It builds on what’s already working, aligns with other regional and local plans, but also makes the case for where we must go further.”
The vision document highlights how investment in this corridor would support the local area, and how the benefits could be felt further afield, thanks to improved access to Wales.
Growth along this key corridor aligns with priorities on the other side of the border, highlighting the area’s national strategic value. Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s latest statement allocated £445m over 10 years specifically for transport infrastructure across Wales.
The Midlands Connect Strategy, as well as its latest reports, can be downloaded here: midlandsconnect.uk/publications/.
