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Government's rail electrification plan leaves many questions unanswered, says Weston's MP

July 24 2009

Weston-super-Mare MP John Penrose is worried that Government plans to electrify the Great Western Main Line will not include the sea-side town.

Mr Penrose welcomes electrification in principal, but is concerned that rush-hour commuter services between Weston and Bristol could suffer. While the government has promised that services will be maintained, the local MP is concerned by their plans for new hybrid diesel/electric trains to serve destinations beyond the electrified network. The hybrid trains are untried and aren't operational anywhere else in the world and, as there will also be fewer hybrids in comparison to electric trains, he is also concerned that there will be too few high speed trains to provide a satisfactory service to Weston.

John said: "The Government's promises that services won't be affected are very welcome but this announcement leaves many questions unanswered. These new hybrid trains are untried, they aren't being used anywhere else in the world yet, so local people are being asked to take it on trust that they'll work and deliver the improved service and environmental benefits that are being promised.

"Not only that, but if the normal electric trains can't make it to Weston, then the all important commuter rush hour service may have fewer high speed trains. That would mean a return to the overcrowded two and four carriage 'sardine specials' we had before. That would be a disaster for local residents and push more commuters back into their cars and on to the already overcrowded M5."