Time running out to support Surrey’s inclusion in Crossrail 2

Proposed Crossrail 2 regional route

There are just two weeks left for people to support Surrey’s inclusion in Crossrail 2, which could have benefits across the South East.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson is consulting on the new cross London rail line, which could increase capacity on the South West Main Line by up to 40% at peak times.

There are two options for Crossrail 2 being considered. One stays within London and the ‘regional option’ stretches into Surrey, but would also have benefits for places along the South West mainline, such as Portsmouth and Southampton.

John Furey, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment, has urged people to take the chance to support the regional option, which takes in Shepperton, Epsom, Hampton Court and Chessington South stations on its southern tip, in the Transport for London and Network Rail consultation.

He said: “The benefits to Surrey of inclusion in Crossrail 2 will include reducing overcrowding and boosting the economy in Surrey, London and the wider region.

“Surrey and London are the UK’s economic engine rooms and we need fast links between the two to support business growth.”

“Surrey has some of the most overcrowded trains in the country, with the 7.32am service from Guildford to Woking the second busiest train nationwide.*”

Mr Furey went on to say: “Surrey is a growth area and with predicted increases in population and employment, demand for rail transport is set to rise. It will be necessary to increase rail capacity and Crossrail 2, including links to Surrey is the best way to provide much needed extra capacity.

“I would urge everyone to take part in this consultation to tell Boris Johnson that the regional option is the best way forward for Crossrail 2.”

The consultation runs until 2 August 2013. People can take part by visiting https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/crossrail/2

* According to the Department for Transport figures release in December 2012, the commuter service has a load factor of 164%, which means there were 64% more passengers stuffed onto what is already considered a full train.

ENDS

Media requiring more information can contact Surrey County Council senior media relations officer Dave Ward on 0208 541 7259.

Notes to editors

Surrey County Council is currently consulting on its own rail strategy. You can find out more here.