Issue - meetings

Purpose of the report:  Policy Development and Review

The report outlines the work undertaken on Surrey’s rail priorities since the publication of the Surrey Rail Strategy. This includes detailed assessments on the North Downs Line and the Crossrail 2 project.

Declarations of Interest:

None.

Witnesses:

Paul Millin, Travel and Transport Group Manager

Key Points Raised During the Discussion:

1     The Board noted that the benefits from the proposed Crossrail 2 scheme would be better connectivity between the County and Central London and reduced congestion on trains, particularly between Wimbledon and Waterloo.  Wimbledon would become a key interchange for passengers travelling to and from Surrey.

2     Assessment work being completed by the County Coucnil demonstrated a case for Woking Station to be incorporated into the Crossrail 2 proposals.  Research underway suggests that improved journey opportunities could be achieved by the inclusion of Woking Station in the scheme. Analysis currently suggests that no benefits would be derived from the inclusion of Guildford.

3     A Network Rail report on the electrification options, including the  North Downs Line was expected imminently, and details would be shared with the Board in the next update report.  The access issues at Dorking Deepdene Station were discussed, and it was noted that Mole Valley District Council planning officers had stated that the options for the provision of lifts and fully accessible ramps were very limited due to the lack of space available.  However, the Travel and Transport Group Manager would raise this again with First Great Western to see if a solution could be found and how this could be funded.

Actions:

·         It was agreed that a further update report would be brought to the Board in the new year.

·         It was also agreed that a copy of the County Council’s formal response in relation to the devolution of rail services in London would be circulated along with the Minutes (attached to the minutes).