'We're really happy': Commuters react as first trains depart Willenhall and Darlaston stations for first time in 60 years
For the first time in more than six decades, passengers in the Black Country took to the rails at two new stations in Walsall following their reopening.
Railway stations in Willenhall and Darlaston officially opened on Thursday, March 19, restoring train services to the towns for the first time since 1965.
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.
