West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has today urged the rail operator of commuter trains to and from Birmingham to add extra capacity to ease carriage congestion. The MP contacted West Midland Railways – which manages the commuter trains between Worcestershire and the second city – following a series of complaints from constituents about the service. The company promised over £1 billion in investment in extra trains services, extra seats and better rolling stock as part of its franchise winning pledges. However, the rail operator has admitted that it is aware of issues on local lines and is not yet able to add extra carriages to the commuter services. Harriett said: “West Midland Railways won the new franchise on the back of a billion pound cash injection, extra service promises and added capacity on the busier train services. “However, anyone who regularly uses these services will know that often these trains are standing room only and the feedback that I have had from rail users is anything but positive. “The franchisee is carrying out a series of reviews into capacity and I strongly urge them to add capacity as quickly as possible. “Commuters and shoppers making the journey to Birmingham often have no choice but to use the train and I hope that West Midland Railway will be delivering on its franchise promises for enhanced capacity and service levels soon.”