'We're really happy': Commuters react as first trains depart Willenhall and Darlaston stations for first time in 60 years

Early commuters were among the first to use the long-awaited stations, with services beginning just before 7am. The first train towards Wolverhampton departed Darlaston at 6:47am, followed by Willenhall at 6:50am. Trains heading towards Birmingham New Street left shortly after, at 7:07am from Willenhall and 7:11am from Darlaston.

The reopening marks a major milestone for the area, reconnecting communities that have gone more than six decades without direct access to the rail network. Both stations were originally closed in 1965 during widespread cuts to Britain’s railways, and their return has been described as a transformative moment for local transport.

Adding a splash of colour and local identity to the new station in Willenhall is a series of artworks created by local graffiti artist Jack Sankson, who revealed he took inspiration from the town's history when creating his designs.

"I wanted to take inspiration from the history of Willenhall, and pieced it all together with a workshop that I did," he explained. "I tried to include a lot of old padlocks that used to be situated around Willenhall, and after looking at this job in November there's been a lot of work that has gone into the design. It took around two weeks from the first bit of paint going on the wall to the actual finished product.

"Having this connectivity up to Birmingham New Street now just gives residents the chance to commute, it also opens up new job opportunities and cuts down travel time, and I just think that having some artwork here that connects with local residents is great."

Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director for WMR, said: “We are delighted to officially open these two brand-new stations for passengers in Willenhall and Darlaston, unlocking faster and greener travel options for local residents.

"These stations will make a huge difference to thousands of passengers in the Black Country, bringing direct transport links to major hubs in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Telford and Shrewsbury. From today, we are excited to welcome new passengers on board the service for the first time and we look forward to seeing even more customers on board in the coming months.”

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands said: “The reopening of Willenhall and Darlaston stations is a huge moment for communities that have been cut off from the rail network for six decades. I promised to restore these vital links, and today, we’ve delivered.

“These stations will bridge the gap to new jobs and leisure, revitalising our high streets and driving local growth. We’re already working behind the scenes to expand the timetable and create even more opportunities for everyone in the area.”

The new stations have been built near the sites of their historic predecessors, combining modern facilities with a revival of the area’s rail heritage.

Darlaston station includes a large park-and-ride car park with around 300 spaces, while Willenhall offers additional parking for commuters. Both locations are expected to become key transport hubs, linking the Black Country more effectively with Birmingham, Wolverhampton and beyond.

"It's a God-send," Willenhall resident Paul Jay said. "I live just over the road in the flats and it's going to make a big difference for me having the station here.

"It's like having my own personal railway station, and I know a lot of people over there are really happy. I'll be using it at least three times a week."