MP joins fight to veto train cuts
SINCE train company chiefs announced service cuts, commuters have leapt into action and an MP is determined to have their questions answered in the House of Commons. A new train timetable due to start in December shows a significant deterioration in a num
SINCE train company chiefs announced service cuts, commuters have leapt into action and an MP is determined to have their questions answered in the House of Commons.
A new train timetable due to start in December shows a significant deterioration in a number of First Capital Connect (FCC) services, including trains from Letchworth GC to London.
Morning trains will be reduced from 18 to 15 and the fast service will also be reduced from 10 trains to five.
Spearheaded by town councillor Philip Ross, a rail users group has been formed in Letchworth GC to enable commuters to have their voices heard.
Cllr Ross said there are plans to have two meetings with FCC - one to be held privately with rail user group members and one to include the public.
Cllr Ross said: "FCC are willing to come and see us as a rail users group and discuss how these changes will affect both peak and off-peak services.
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"Obviously the changes will affect both regular and casual users of the railway, but the impact could affect everyone as it will have a bearing on the economic well-being of the town."
FCC has submitted a study to the Department for Transport which will decide if all, some or none of the study should be taken forward.
If timetable changes form part of their decision, it will go out to public consultation for at least 12 weeks.
Oliver Heald, MP for Hertfordshire North East, said: "I shall immediately table a series of parliamentary questions to find out how long the Government estimates this process will take, when they aim to go out to consultation and exactly what the implications may be for North Hertfordshire commuters.
"I shall also request that the study be placed in the House of Commons Library."
Anyone who wishes to join the Letchworth Rail Users Group, email Philip Ross at: rosspe@talk21.com
