Overview

London Midland was a UK train operating company that operated the West Midlands franchise from 2007 until 2017. Owned by Govia, the franchise provided a mix of suburban, regional, and intercity services across the West Midlands, North West, and London. London Midland was known for its extensive commuter network connecting Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, and London Euston, as well as regional services to towns such as Walsall, Stafford, and Crewe. Its silver, green and black livery became widely recognised, reflecting the company’s modern approach to regional and commuter rail services.

London Midland took over the West Midlands franchise on 11 November 2007, succeeding the previous operator Silverlink. The company invested in service improvements, new rolling stock, and station upgrades, aiming to provide reliable and frequent commuter services across the franchise area. London Midland operated until 10 December 2017, when the franchise was taken over by West Midlands Trains. During its operation, London Midland was praised for modernising the suburban rail experience, introducing Class 350 Desiro electric units and Class 150/153 diesel units to enhance capacity and comfort.

London Midland operated a wide network across the West Midlands, North West, and London. Key commuter routes included London Euston to Birmingham New Street and Coventry, as well as Birmingham to Wolverhampton, Walsall, and Rugeley. Regional services connected towns such as Stafford, Crewe, and Shrewsbury, while urban services in Birmingham and surrounding areas offered frequent stops catering to local passengers. The franchise focused on high-frequency services in densely populated commuter corridors, while also maintaining longer-distance regional connectivity.

London Midland operated a modern fleet of electric and diesel multiple units. Key trains included the Class 350 Desiro units for electrified commuter and regional services, as well as Class 150, 153, and 323 units for shorter-distance routes. Interiors were refurbished with improved seating, air-conditioning, and accessible facilities. The silver and blue livery, combined with modern interiors, created a professional and recognisable brand across the franchise. While the franchise focused primarily on commuter comfort, some longer-distance services offered First Class accommodation and catering options.

Passengers travelling with London Midland could choose from a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime, and season tickets for commuters. The operator participated in the National Rail network, allowing seamless travel across the franchise and connections to other services. Ticketing was available online, via mobile apps, and at stations, with smartcard integration introduced on selected urban routes to improve convenience for regular passengers.

London Midland was widely regarded as a reliable and professional commuter operator, praised for modernising rolling stock and improving service punctuality. While challenges such as overcrowding and service disruptions were occasionally reported, the franchise maintained high standards for commuter and regional travel. It played a key role in connecting the West Midlands and surrounding areas with London and the North West, leaving a lasting legacy before the franchise transitioned to West Midlands Trains in 2017.

• London Midland introduced Class 350 Desiro electric multiple units across its electrified routes to improve capacity and reliability.

• The franchise operated both suburban commuter services and longer regional routes, balancing high-frequency stops with longer-distance connectivity.

• Its silver, green and black livery became an iconic part of the West Midlands rail network during its decade of operation.

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