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<p>As part of the Rail Investment Strategy, Network Rail has delivered a package of
major infrastructure improvements in the Stafford area. This includes the grade separation
of Norton Bridge junction – which was been brought into use almost 12 months early
this May – and has created additional capacity for services on the West Coast Main
Line.</p><p> </p><p>Rail services between Stafford and London are currently provided
by the West Midlands and InterCity West Coast franchises. These franchises are due
be replaced when they expire in October 2017 and April 2018 respectively. The Department
has completed a consultation in respect of the replacement West Midlands franchise,
and commenced another in respect of InterCity West Coast earlier this month. The outcomes
of those consultations will be published in due course.</p><p> </p><p>Looking to the
future, HS2 will deliver high-speed services between London and Stafford from 2026.</p>
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