Stratford deserves a direct train to London

For years, our town has been one of the most visited places in the UK, yet we still do not have a direct train to London. 

That is not good enough for residents, businesses or the visitors who support our local economy.

Since I was elected, I have been pushing for better rail connectivity and increased capacity on Chiltern Railways so that Stratford can have a direct, reliable and sustainable link to the capital.

 I am still pressing the Government and rail operators to deliver the investment needed to make direct services a reality. Stratford-on-Avon deserves a rail connection that matches its importance!

I have also raised this issue directly with the Department for Transport:

“To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she is taking steps with Chiltern Railways to reinstate direct rail travel between London and Stratford-upon-Avon.”

Please see the full question and answer here.

I am bringing stakeholders together to improve Stratford’s rail connections.

I have held several meetings with West Midlands Trains and Chiltern Railways, both in Parliament and locally. 

I have also raised Stratford’s rail connectivity directly with Tourism Ministers, including Chris Bryant in 2025 and Stephanie Peacock in 2026. 

I will shortly be writing again to Chiltern Railways and am balloting to secure a debate in the House to ensure Stratford-on-Avon gets the rail links it deserves.