Is Airtrack a Threat to Local Services?

11.45.46am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 12th Aug 2008

Local MPs Vincent Cable and Susan Kramer have met both Network rail and South West trains managers to discuss local services and in particular the implications of the proposed Airtrack link between the airport and Waterloo.

The Airtrack proposal is being financed by the Civil Aviation Authority as part of its commitment to developing transport links alongside airport expansion. The two local MPs have different concerns about the project. Vincent Cable is worried that local commuter services may be sacrificed to accommodate a fast airport service and Susan Kramer is alarmed at the implications for the level crossings in Barnes, Mortlake and North Sheen which could remain closed for long periods of time blocking local transport.

Vincent Cable said: "I can see that many residents would be delighted at the idea of a fast train from Richmond or Twickenham to the airport. If this can be done without detriment to commuter services I would be very supportive. But we have been warned by the rail managers that track utilisation is already close to capacity and there is a real danger that the new commuter trains we need to reduce overcrowding and improve services could be put at risk".

Susan Kramer commented: " Level crossings in my constituency are already down a significant proportion of time, and I understand that with Airtrack this could increase to up to 45 minutes in every hour at peak times."

"This could create real transport problems-effectively cutting off many local residents and creating significant congestion problems."

"I am also really concerned that Airtrack services do not squeeze out local commuter trains as peak services are already seriously overcrowded."