Train services to the new Worcestershire Parkway will be able to run from the new station as soon as it is ready, it was confirmed today. A nationwide halt on timetable changes had threatened to delay planning for services at the new station which is due to be completed next year. West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has spoken to both train operating companies who plan to use the new station and both are making plans for stopping at the station. And Rail Minister Jo Johnson has written to Harriett confirming that the Network Rail delay on timetable improvements should not affect planning for the new station. Harriett commented: “The decision to halt all timetable improvements this year was very concerning and I wanted to make sure that both the Department and the rail operators are making sure that they will be able to use the new station as soon as it is ready. “My constituents currently have to drive to Birmingham, Warwick or Oxford to get onto their commuter trains so the new station will help reduce car journeys and offer extra convenience. “I am glad that, in particular, Great Western Railways is able to proceed with the planning for this extra stop but have made it clear that this must not be delivered at the expense of other stations along the Cotswold Line, such as Pershore. “We need faster, more frequent, more reliable services for county commuters and Worcestershire Parkway is an important part of that jigsaw. “There is still time for local people to have their say on the new Cross Country rail franchise which will have an impact on rail users in the county and I urge people to take part.” Local people can have their say on the Cross Country franchise by visiting: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/cross-country-rail-franchise