Richard Younger Ross on FGW new rail franchise

Teignbridge's former MP Richard Younger-Ross has welcomed news that FGW have had their franchise extended and will now bring forward new trains for the South West.

"This is long overdue news, the muddle over the franchise has delayed investment in new rolling stock. At last the Department of Transport has got its act together.

"But whilst I welcome this it is of little value unless we secure the future of the seawall between Teignmouth and Dawlish. Any alternative route is at least 10 years away, we need decisions now to secure the future of the seawall, either through a new seawall or by constructing a wave breaking reef.

"We also need the funding to be agreed to improve the lines to London, protect them from flood risk, improve signalling and put back passing loops.

"These measures could improve journey times in the next couple of years."

The likely manufacturer will be Hitachi Rail Europe who will supply 200 km/h AT300 bi-mode trains. They will use their electric engines as far as Newbury and then will use diesel for the remainder of the journey. They should take 5 minutes off the journey time from London to Exeter. Negotiations should be concluded in June.

Contact

Richard Younger-Ross 0778 593 1044