25^th February 2010

Rail freight update – Network rail silent on rail freight planning

It has been a little while since my last update, so I wanted to write to let you know about a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Thameslink Group I attended this week. At the meeting I seized an opportunity to press representatives of Network Rail on their lack of consideration of the potential impact of a rail freight terminal in Park Street on passenger services.

I am disappointed to report that, during their lengthy presentation on the future of Thameslink, the Network Rail spokesmen failed to make any reference to the potential impact of complex rail pathings and rail possessions which are expected to result from the Park Street rail freight proposal, if it were approved. During my subsequent questioning they were unable to address any specific points on the subject.

I had real concerns that the presentation seemed to fall down at this point. There was even a real degree of embarrassment when I sought assurances about the potential impact of the proposal on the Thameslink programme. Rail representatives could only promise to talk to Route Director, Dyan Crowther, and the really should have done this already if they are to talk with authority on the delivery of Thameslink.

Frankly, I was surprised at the lack of communication which is taking place within Network Rail. This smacks of a silo mentality and this is exactly why Network Rail should have been cross-examined at the Rail Freight Inquiry. I made it clear to Network Rail’s Graham Goodwin that I believe if there is still any doubt they should definitely make representations to the Secretary of State if they believe – as I do – that the Rail Freight plan would impact on passenger services.

I have been told that the decision on the appeal, by the Secretary of State, will be issued on or before 23rd June 2010. I will, of course, continue to keep you updated with any developments.

With best wishes,

Anne Main

Member of Parliament for St Albans

maina@parliament.uk - 0207 219 8270