Nuneaton’s MP, Marcus Jones, has responded to the Department for Transport’s InterCity West Coast Rail Franchise consultation.

In his response, the MP highlighted the increase in passenger numbers from Nuneaton station, which has increased significantly in recent years. There are now over 1.2million users of the station per year. He also mentioned that whilst the level and frequency of services is generally positive between Nuneaton and Euston during peak time, and he believes that there should be more fast off peak intercity services from Nuneaton, both to Euston and the north-west.

Marcus also spoke about the importance of MIRA Technology Park, which is less than four miles from the station and currently provides employment for 1500 people and is expected to add a further 2000 jobs within the next decade.

Commenting, Marcus said: ‘The level of growth potential demonstrates an increasing demand which would justify more fast intercity services stopping at Nuneaton in the off peak. I am also aware that there is a strong level of demand for the current intercity peak time services which I believe needs to be maintained and if possible enhanced.

‘In my consultation response, I made it clear that I would fully support a reduction in first class carriages which quite often appear to be under-utilised in favour of creating more standard class space and that I would fully support the introduction of free Wi-Fi on intercity services.

‘The railways are an important way in which economic growth can be achieved and Nuneaton will be in a far stronger position to reach its potential should more fast services be provided to and from Euston and the north-west.’