This evening (6 pm) the West Locality Board which covers strategic issues across Willenhall and Darlaston meets at Walsall Council House. The main item on the agenda is a presentation and discussion on the new train stations planned to open in time for the Commonwealth games in 2022.

This could be just another event in the process of consultation. Or, as we hope, the start of some really positive moves to integrate transport in all its forms for the benefit of all and the prosperity of our town. I and my colleagues on the Locality Board will be arguing for just that. Willenhall residents and businesses need to be involved as these plans develop.

The new train station needs to have a prominent position on the rail bridge in the centre of our town with easy access for pedestrians, bus passengers and car users alike. Above all there has be easy access to both platforms for those with mobility issues. Done properly this new train station could and should be a golden opportunity to kick start a new era for our town.