The origins
of the Group go back to the 1990’s when a number of interested
parties considered the needs for maintaining and developing the
potential of the then named 'North Warwickshire Line', between Birmingham
and Stratford-upon-Avon. Commissioned research confirmed untapped
passenger opportunities, including domestic and international
tourism, among the target markets. Notwithstanding the international
visitor centres at each end of the line, there is a lot in between.
The resident populations along the Stratford
to Birmingham corridor, are from a mix of urban suburbs, market
towns and rural locations – all requiring reliable and attractive
travel facilities for commuting, business, educational and leisure
purposes. The Line is unique in that the route is used by both
scheduled rail services and mainline heritage steam trains
The combination of these factors has resulted
in a diverse range of member organisations, each contributing
their particular expertise and working together to develop the
line. This in terms of the quality of product (trains, stations,
associated facilities) and encouraging high levels of passenger
service awareness, support and usage.
The designation was changed subsequently to
The Shakespeare Line to reflect and identify with the historic
and cultural past of the area. The Group recently appointed
a Development Officer, to work with stakeholders and others
and achieve both short and longer term line development objectives.
In addition, the Group has strong working relationships
both collectively an individually, with a wide range of public
and private sector organisations on regional and national bases.
Areas of involvement include Transportation Strategy and Policy,
Regional Economic Development, Tourism and Heritage Maintenance.
The Shakespeare Line Steering Group continues
to play a significant role in initiating, encouraging and supporting
positive change, for existing and potential rail users, along
the diverse corridor between Stratford upon Avon and Birmingham.
