First Look at Camp Hill Line Timetable Reveals Regular Service for South Birmingham
The first detailed timetable for Birmingham's eagerly anticipated Camp Hill Line has been revealed, showing trains will operate approximately every 30 minutes between Kings Norton and Birmingham New Street Station during weekdays. This marks a significant step forward for public transport in the southern part of the city.
Service Frequency and New Stations
According to the newly released schedule, the Camp Line service will provide a half-hourly shuttle between the two key stations from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the frequency will reduce to an hourly service. The line will serve three brand-new stations that are set to open: Moseley Village, Pineapple Road, and Kings Heath.
These stations represent a major boost for connectivity in south Birmingham, offering residents a fast and frequent rail alternative for commuting and leisure travel directly into the city center.
Detailed Timetable Information
A PDF copy of the timetable, shared by local representatives, provides specific departure times. On weekdays, the first southbound train will depart from platform two at Birmingham New Street Station at 6:27 AM. It will then stop at Moseley Village at 6:37 AM, Kings Heath Station at 6:39 AM, and Pineapple Road Station at 6:42 AM, before arriving at Kings Norton Station at 6:45 AM.
Conversely, the first northbound service to New Street will leave platform one at Kings Norton Station at 6:30 AM. It will depart Pineapple Road Station at 6:34 AM, Kings Heath at 6:36 AM, and Moseley Village at 6:39 AM, arriving at Birmingham New Street at 6:49 AM.
Community Campaign and Official Statements
Local campaigners and councillors have expressed immense excitement about the imminent return of passenger rail services. Brandwood and Kings Heath Councillor Lisa Trickett and campaigner Ben Lockley shared the timetable on social media, stating: "It is absolutely awesome that trains will be running from King's Heath and Pineapple Road stations within a matter of weeks. The community has campaigned for this for years; we are finally getting our train back!"
This revival is particularly historic, as it marks the return of passenger services to the Camp Hill Line for the first time since the early 1940s, ending an eight-decade hiatus.
Operational Details and Modern Features
West Midlands Railway confirmed that the new stations will be served by their modern Class 196 trains. These trains offer enhanced passenger comfort with features including:
- Power points at every seat
- Smart air conditioning systems
- Plenty of capacity for commuters
Furthermore, all three new stations have been designed with accessibility and convenience in mind. Each location will feature:
- Two fully accessible platforms with lifts
- Bicycle racks for sustainable travel connections
- Help points for passenger assistance
- Ticket machines for easy fare purchase
Next Steps and Launch Timeline
While the timetable provides a clear picture of the intended service, an official launch date for the stations and the commencement of operations has not yet been announced. The timetable link is also not currently available on the West Midlands Railway website.
In the coming weeks, work will focus on final preparations, including essential driver training, comprehensive signalling tests, and general site readiness to ensure a smooth and safe launch. This preparatory phase is crucial for delivering the reliable service that south Birmingham residents have long awaited.
