Today marks a significant milestone for passengers traveling on Birmingham’s Cross City Line, as they are now able to experience the comfort and convenience of a brand-new train fleet. West Midlands Railway (WMR) has introduced the Class 730 fleet, signalling a new era in rail travel for the popular line that connects Birmingham to destinations such as Lichfield, Redditch, and Bromsgrove. This fleet, consisting of 48 three-carriage trains totalling 144 new carriages, is part of WMR’s substantial investment of £1 billion in new trains and infrastructure.

The new trains offer a host of modern features, including spacious interiors with walk-through carriages, accessible toilets, WiFi, and power points at every seat. Ian McConnell, the Managing Director of West Midlands Railway, expressed excitement about the fleet’s introduction, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the millions of passengers who rely on the Cross City Line each year.

As one of the busiest commuter routes in the UK outside of London, the Cross City Line plays a crucial role in connecting major areas in the West Midlands. The transition to the Class 730 fleet will be phased in gradually over the spring and summer months, with the existing Class 323 trains being gradually phased out of service. By autumn, the line is expected to be fully serviced by the new fleet, providing increased capacity and enhanced comfort for passengers.

The first Class 730 train made its maiden voyage on the Cross City Line today, departing from Birmingham New Street to Lichfield Trent Valley. These trains will run in pairs, ensuring that every service has six carriages and can accommodate over 1,000 passengers. The introduction of the Class 730 fleet represents a significant step forward in enhancing the rail travel experience for passengers on the Cross City Line.

Image credit West Midlands Railway