The region's new transport body is promising a host of improvements after signing a partnership deal with London Midland.

Transport for West Midlands, which recently replaced Centro as a result of the new West Midlands Combined Authority, has agreed the 45-point plan with the rail operator which it said would "deliver further local improvements for customers in the region".

They include developing and agreeing a delivery plan for enhanced services on the Chase Line following electrification, working together to fully integrate the Midland Metro at New Street station and maximising the opportunities brought by HS2.

Other benefits the body said would arrive include working to support the proposed redevelopment of Wolverhampton's interchange and identifying suitable sites to expand the park and ride scheme at stations.

There is also a pledge for greater use of wi-fi for passenger services, improved ticket machines at stations and enhanced CCTV on board trains.

The partnership comes as London Midland attempts to retain operation of the West Midlands franchise which operates the busy cross-city route from Worcestershire to Staffordshire via Birmingham city centre.

The operator is currently in a two-way battle with Dutch transport group Abellio to win the tender which starts in October 2017.

Coun Roger Lawrence, transport lead for the new combined authority, said: "Demand for rail services is as high as it has ever been so it is crucial we work together to develop and extract the maximum benefits from the network for the passenger.

"I am confident this joint agreement will be good news for passengers as it cements the good work that has already been done and sets out the foundations of further improvements."

London Midland managing director Patrick Verwer added: "We have a strong history of working in partnership in the West Midlands.

"The improvements we are planning to introduce over the next 15 months are based on what local people have said are important to them. These are exciting times for the region.

"London Midland has supported the idea of devolution as it helps us get closer and respond more quickly to the needs of local rail users."