At Last - Electric Rail (Bristol East Liberal Democrats)

Bristol East Liberal Democrats <info@bristoleastlibdems.org.uk>

At Last - Electric Rail

July 24, 2009 1:00 AM

South West Main Line Electrification Mike Popham, Bristol East prospective Member of Parliament has welcomed the £1bn plan to electrify the main rail route between London and Swansea. "Converting from the heavy diesel to lighter electric trains means more energy efficiency, lower running costs and reduced environmental impact for the community." he said.

"Yes, the Government is leaving the taxpayer to foot the bill but this is a substantial step in the right direction because with electric you get a quieter, cleaner, more reliable and much cheaper train which benefits passengers and taxpayers alike." he added.

The move means an electric version of the new Super Express intercity train unveiled last year will be introduced on the Great Western line. The Liberal Democrats and rail industry agree electrification will bring major benefits. Electric trains do not carry their own fuel - weighing around six tonnes for a non-electric intercity train - and they have lighter engines.

Mike is concerned though about that continuing vexed issue of how local services will be improved in the meantime with simultaneously announced cancellation of new vehicles for Cardiff-Bristol-Portsmouth services. "Large scale investment that will take time to turn into a reality for today's rail users does not mean that current problems of too few vehicles should be ignored.", he said.

Brsitol City Council's Cllr Jon Rogers, Executive Member for Transport and Sustainability said "I welcome this news. The Lib Dems have been pushing hard to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and move to more sustainable modes of transport. It is important for us and our children and our environment."

Stephen Williams MP said, "I welcome the Government's announcement. Electric rail will mean faster journeys in modern carriages. This will be an enhanced experience for the passenger as well as a more environmentally sustainable journey.

Liberal Democrat transport spokesman Norman Baker said: "This must be just the start of the project. The Liberal Democrats want virtually the entire network electrified by 2040."