THE MP for West Worcestershire is backing plans to build the new Parkway train station in the city.

MP Harriett Baldwin has submitted formal feedback to Worcestershire County Council backing the scheme as part of a consultation exercise run by the council.

The station in the Norton area of Worcester is expected to be constructed in time for an opening in May 2017 and will serve both the Cotswold Line between the county and London and also trains between Bristol and Birmingham, should any planning application be approved.

Mrs Baldwin said: “I have seen the Parkway Station plans and want to ensure that the current infrastructure allows for adaptation to the dualling of the line to Pershore and Evesham.

“It is not yet scheduled, but many of us are making the case and I would hope that it can be included in the 2019 Network Rail Strategic Plan.

“I have consistently lobbied to complete this vital piece of work which is one of the major stumbling blocks preventing faster and more frequent trains to and from London.

“Having had conversations in Westminster discussing the impact of the single line track on services to Worcestershire, the message is reaching government that this investment is now crucial to support our economic ambitions."

Anyone interested in finding out more and sharing their views can log on to www.worcestershire.gov.uk/parkway.