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GARY ESSEX looks at the railways that have successfully diversified their income streams, from contract work for main line operators to reinventing themselves as invaluable training sites.

Cancellation of Midland Main Line electrification programme leads operator to revise train procurement plans

Eyebrows were raised among the steam fraternity when the Watercress Line preserved a ‘Sprinter’ diesel multiple unit. Now the train has arrived at Ropley, MARK PEARCE delves deeper into what the move means for the future of heritage rail motive power.

The station’s £140 million rebuild is running several months late, and even when complete it may never realise its potential. HOWARD JOHNSTON investigates

The West Midlands is enjoying something of a railway revival with passenger numbers increasing and five new stations opening this year. Two of the stations are in the Black Country and in areas that are badly in need of regeneration. PETER PLISNER has been finding out more…