A direct train connecting the region with London could soon become a reality.
Leaders from Wrexham and surrounding regions are travelling to 10 Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister and call for backing for a new rail service to London Euston on Monday, March 2.
The group, which includes politicians, business representatives and college leaders, is supporting a proposed direct route from Wrexham via Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton.
Councillor David A Bithell , Wrexham Council’s lead member for strategic transport, said: "It is important to lobby the decision makers as we look to provide continued support for improvements to rail services and improve links between Wrexham, the Midlands and London Euston.
"We appreciated the Prime Minister Kier Starmer and his team taking the time to speak with us on the proposed service that would not only improve transport links and connectivity but also create jobs and support growth."
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Councillor Mark Pritchard, leader of Wrexham Council, welcomed the progress.
He said: "Our meetings with WSMR have been very positive and we are working closely with all stakeholders to turn this exciting proposal into a reality for Wrexham.
"If we get the go ahead, the new line is anticipated to deliver £9m in economic benefits between Wrexham, Shrewsbury and Walsall at no cost to the taxpayer."
Keir Starmer, PM will be presented with a letter signed by the stakeholders asking the government to support the re-application from WSMR to operate the service.
The application for a train between Wrexham and Euston was organised by Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway (WSMR), which has reapplied to the Office of Road and Rail for permission to operate the route.
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A previous bid was rejected over capacity and safety issues of foot crossings, although the remaining safety issues have now been withdrawn.
The latest proposal includes three daily return journeys, possibly rising to four, using spare network capacity.
Trains would serve Wrexham, Shrewsbury, Telford, Wolverhampton, Walsall, and Nuneaton, with extra stops at Wellington and Darlaston under consideration.
Cllr Bithell said earlier this year: "The time is right for new and improved transport, and these proposals are at no cost to the taxpayer.
"We urge business groups and residents to support our bid."
Discussions have taken place about offering discounted fares for Wrexham AFC season ticket holders and council employees.
WSMR estimates that the service could deliver £9 million in annual economic benefits.
To view the petition, visit www.change.org/p/restore-direct-trains-to-london-from-wrexham-shropshire-and-the-midlands
