Sustainable Development and Transport Scrutiny Commission response
Questions to the Commission
The FOSBR 2006/7 campaign generated widespread support and the agreement of all four local political parties to fund an additional train between Temple Meads and Avonmouth Stations for the three years stipulated by First Great Western (FGW). The reliable and more frequent service since May 2008 has attracted a 40 % passenger increase. On 12/1/2011 Bristol Evening Post reported that the Severn Beach Line has been saved from the axe.
- FOSBR request a report on negotiations between Bristol City Council, First Great Western, the Department for Transport (DfT), Network Rail and the West of England Partnership since November 1st 2010 on this service. Has the same level of investment been committed to ensure the same level of service which passengers have enjoyed since May 2008?
- Have the negotiations been concluded, if so can we be told the frequency of service in the May 2011 timetable and how long is it for ?
- Have any improvements to the service been secured?
- Please will you tell us the date of the next meeting with First Great Western and other stakeholders?
Response
The negotiations have made significant progress and they are expected to conclude by the end of February 2011. The current enhanced service level will continue beyond May and is incorporated within the June 2011 timetable. Discussions are continuing on further potential improvements to be introduced in the December 2011 timetable change. All parties are confident that, due to passenger increase achieved to date reinforced by further enhancements to rolling stock and facilities, it will be possible to provide additional service improvement.