Rail Forum Midlands is the only regionally based trade association for the rail industry. Providing a range of services for our members the Annual Conference is always a key event in our calendar and whilst this year will be a bit different to normal we have a packed schedule of virtual presentations and discussions spread over two days with ‘something for everyone’. This year has turned out different to what we all envisaged at the start of January with the Covid19 pandemic bringing totally unexpected challenges. Train operators (TOCs) have seen drastic reductions in passenger numbers and the government recently signalled an end to franchising at the same time as agreeing Emergency Recovery Measures Agreements with the TOCs. Network Rail has continued on its devolution journey and the UK government has promised a ‘green recovery’ further raising the profile of decarbonising the railway. 

Looking forward one thing is for sure our railway is changing; we all need to get to grips with what that future will look like and where the opportunities will be. Our conference theme ”Planning for the Journey Ahead” will set us all firmly on that track. We encourage you to get involved; hear from our speakers, ask questions, visit our conference sponsors, take the opportunity to network with old friends and make some new ones along the way.  

Finally a massive thanks to all our Patron, Gold and Silver Members who are sponsors of our Annual Conference.