: On November 28, 1988, the line was extended to Lichfield Trent Valley .
: Initially, services utilized refurbished Class 116 Diesel Multiple Units . 2. Expansion and Modernization (1980s–1990s)
As the line gained popularity, its reach and infrastructure were significantly upgraded: Birmingham Cross City Line
: The project saw the reopening of Five Ways station and the construction of new stations like University and Longbridge to serve the expanding city.
: It linked Four Oaks in the north to Longbridge in the south via Birmingham New Street . : On November 28, 1988, the line was
: A fleet of Class 323 Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) was introduced, becoming the line's iconic rolling stock for decades, though they are currently in the process of being replaced by newer Class 730 trains. 3. Modern Evolution (2018–Present)
: Services reached Redditch in 1980, eventually increasing from hourly to half-hourly due to high demand. : On November 28
The concept for a unified line began in 1970 when the newly formed sought to integrate local rail services. The project, approved in 1971 and officially opened on May 8, 1978 , merged existing tracks into a single through-service: