We act on behalf of people in the West Midlands to maximise the benefits of the rail network for local communities.

The region’s local authorities own the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE), so we are democratically run and accountable to elected representatives. Within the West Midlands Combined Authority area, WMRE is integrated with Transport for West Midlands to provide a specialist rail function.

Collaboration is at the heart of our organisation. We work with the Department for Transport, Network Rail, train operating companies and a multitude of other partners. Historically, the rail industry has been very fragmented. Our collaborative approach is bringing the industry together, creating efficiencies and improving the experience for passengers.

Our role is to:

• specify and manage the West Midlands Railway train service contract in collaboration with the Department for Transport
  • upgrade train stations and build new ones on behalf of Transport for West Midlands and other partners
  • support improvements for passenger and freight train services
  • plan future network improvements in the region

Our influence helps ensure local train services support our regional economy and provide local people with access to jobs, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities.