On Monday 28 July 2025, the Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that West Midlands Trains – operator of services under the West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway brands - is set to transfer to public ownership on 1 February 2026. This announcement is part of the DfT’s ongoing Public Ownership Programme.
We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition to public ownership. Our customers can be assured this change will not impact our train services, timetables or stations. All ticket validities and conditions of carriage are unaffected.
Ian McConnell, managing director of West Midlands Trains, said: “I am extremely proud of what we have achieved under this franchise, delivering a £1billion investment in two new train fleets and delivering significantly improved performance which has transformed rail travel for millions of customers
“As we transition to a publicly owned railway, our focus remains on delivering an outstanding service for our passengers.”
