The group discussed the implications the TfSE
Strategic Plan had on Blackwater Valley.
There was a strategic plan meeting that had
been attended at Guildford. The purpose of the meeting was to have
discussed the strategic outline of what would need to occur in
Outline 4.
Within the southeast region, there were sub
areas which investigated what wound need to occur. It was
recognised we were area 10. A map of area 10 had been discussed
which discussed how the connectivity in the area could have
improved not only for the present structures and infrastructure but
also for the future structure and infrastructure housing to
come.
There was a report created on local areas
which had suggested there needed to be an interchange between the
Reading to Guildford line and the Farnborough line at a joint
station. However, the report showed the plan had failed. There was
a suggestion the interchange could be considered again.
It was suggested the electrification of the
line between Reading and Gatwick should be put forward as a matter
of some urgency.
A few issues had been raised on the call for
representatives of the train operators. In response to these, it
was noted by Great Western:
- Everybody in the industry was keen
to look into electrification but the third rail would not be the
long-term solution to the current situation because the industry
had moved away from third rail where possible for several
reasons.
- It was noted the government had set
itself the aim for all diesel trains to be removed by 2040.
- There would need to be an
alternative to diesel trains which was why battery trains were
being investigated. The proposed trial on the Greenford Branch
later this year was an interesting trial for the industry as it
would determine whether batteries were a potential option. However,
it was essential to remember the Greenford branch was a 3 mile line
with the trains going approximately 16mph. This meant it might not
have be the best way to test battery trains, but it would be a way
to show the industry was looking for the most effective way for
trains to be quicker, more efficient and provide the service
required.
- It was suggested electric trains and
electrification would be the best way forward.
- It was noted the new tri-mode
rolling stock was still being tested to ensure they were reliable
for service.
- It was noted that the three trains
an hour proposal on the Reading to Gatwick line would not be part
of the May timetable change as there was not the demand three
trains an hour since the pandemic.
- Area 10 discussions focused on how
the connectively had improved. A suggestion was made to have a
Blackwater Valley ticket for all transport. However, it was noted
it would be more effective to use contactless travel so various
transport modes could be used without needing a ticket. A trial had
been introduced to connect buses with trains at Farnborough and for
both journeys to be made with one ticket. Research showed the
public preferred the comfort of contactless as there was no need to
worry about losing physical tickets.
- It was noted TFL Oyster cards were
being phased out because it was simpler to use contactless.
·
The legislation for Great British Railways to come into being was
awaited, but may facilitate simpler ticketing.