Longer rail franchises needed to roll back Beeching

The Liberal Democrats today published a list of railway lines and stations to be reopened in a reversal of the Beeching rail cuts in return for longer franchises for train operating companies.

The Liberal Democrats have proposed major reform of the current short rail franchise system to grant 30 year franchises with five year service quality checks.

In return, train companies would be required to deliver major improvements to their network including re-opening railway lines closed under Beeching.

Local Lib Dem parliamentary campaigner Councillor Ann Haigh was pleased that the new policy called for the reinstatement of four tracks between Tottenham Hale and Broxbourne.

Ann Haigh said "Residents in Epping Forest, particularly Waltham Abbey, who use Waltham Cross Station have suffered from overcrowding for many years. Doubling the number of tracks would help increase the capacity and reduce overcrowding on a vital commute route."

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Transport Secretary, Norman Baker said:

"If we are to escape cattle truck Britain our railways need investment. This Government is content to continue to pour money into road expansion schemes but is cutting back on the railways.

"By replacing current short franchises the Government would be in a position to demand that, in return, train companies deliver the new railway lines, stations and improvements that are so urgently needed.

"Passengers are paying more and more every year for rail travel but are rewarded with overcrowded carriages and delays. The Government has an opportunity to change this."