A formal proposition to the Government to put more responsibility for West Midlands rail services in local hands has been approved by councils from across the region; metropolitan, shire and unitary authorities have endorsed the submission document West Midlands Rail Proposition 2014, which will now be formally submitted to transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

The authorities believe that devolving powers from central government to the West Midlands will create a better railway for passengers and for the area’s economy, driving growth and jobs.

If the Government agrees to the proposition, then West Midlands Rail will be the public body responsible for overseeing services when the existing London Midland franchise ends in 2017.

Roger Lawrence, leader of Wolverhampton City Council and chairman of West Midlands Rail, said: “The submission of this proposition is a major step towards securing local management and ultimately delivering better rail services, focused on the real needs of West Midlands passengers.

"The local rail network has a key role to play in supporting the region’s economy; holding more responsibility here in the West Midlands will help make sure that new investment is best targeted to create growth and jobs.”