The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has launched a 12-week public consultation, which will help shape targets for the next InterCity West Coast (ICWC) franchise.

The consultation will give rail passengers, businesses, and local councils the opportunity to put forward their views on how the ICWC line can deliver better services from London to Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Holyhead.

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Feedback will help shape the invitation to tender for the next franchise, which is due to be issued later this year.

UK Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "We are investing a record £38bn in our railways to deliver better journeys for passengers and it is essential that their needs are at the heart of franchises in order to build on this investment.

"The consultation will give passengers, businesses, and local councils the opportunity to put forward their views."

"The ICWC line covers a vitally important part of our rail network, linking major cities in England, Scotland, and Wales. I want to see improvements to customer satisfaction and investment during the next franchise."

In November next year, the DfT will announce the winning train operating company, in time for the franchise to begin in April the following year.

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Upon selection, the new operator will also have an important role to play in the effective delivery of High Speed Two (HS2), with construction beginning next year.