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MPs call for improvements to south-west rail network
Fri 26 Feb 2010
The transport infrastructure in south-west England must be improved if its economy is to thrive, MPs have stated.
According to the South West Regional Committee, the electrification of the mainline railway between London and Swansea could have a number of unforeseen consequences.
For instance, it believes the addition of new rolling stock may be delayed, which means routes such as suburban rail services in Bristol and Bath will become overcrowded.
The government has therefore been urged to publish its rolling stock plan as soon as possible.
MPs also noted that the south-west has the oldest rail fleet in the UK, as well as some of the highest rail fares in Europe.
Alison Seabeck, chair of the committee, said the south-west needs a "new direction in transport" in order to ensure its economy performs strongly in the future.
The Labour MP for Plymouth Devonport added that improving the rail network could help to reduce the amount of congestion on the region's roads.