Photo - Havant MP Alan Mak delivers his proposal to the Department for Transport.
Havant MP Alan Mak has delivered his own proposal in the government consultations over the South Western train franchise. With Stagecoach South West Trains’ operation cycle set to end in 2017, the Department for Transport has encouraged a period of consultation for commuters and rail users to raise issues and suggest improvements for future services across the region.
Mak wrote on behalf of his constituents demanding ‘quicker, longer and better trains’. With a growing population, a buoyant economy, and rising numbers of visitors, the Havant MP stressed that it was more important than ever to ensure an efficient and reliable train network.
Mak said: “I use South West trains from Havant to London, so I know as well as anyone that more needs to be done to make train journeys a pleasant and viable method of travel. We must be prepared to invest more in local and regional infrastructure if we are to capitalise on our rising population and strong economic platform.”
The Havant MP added: “The South West network is a crucial link between Havant and London as well as other key centres around the Solent region. At peak times in the day as many as 19,000 passengers use the lines that serve my constituency. For those who commute to London, and those who live and work locally, I am determined that we should get a good deal.”
Mak’s response was part of his wider drive to encourage local investment and improvements to infrastructure around Havant and the Solent region. He has lent his support behind the planned regeneration of Market Parade – the gateway to Havant from the train station, and advocates the redevelopment of Dunsbury Hill Farm into a thriving business park with the help of the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.
The Havant MP noted that such investment would only be maximised with a modern and competitive rail network. Mak said: “I hope that the franchise opportunity in 2017 will be a good chance for the train operating companies to make sure that they meet demand in a very profitable area for the infrastructure that we need.”
His specific recommendations for improving service included: an increased number of ‘fast trains’ between Havant and London to 4 or 5 times per hour during peak periods; introducing Class 444 trains with better seating options; and improving Wi-Fi availability on new trains.
Alan's proposal along with the findings of the Hampshire All-Party Parliamentary Group can be found below. More information on the consultation can also be found at: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/south-western-rail-franchise
Update 22/03/16 - The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Claire Perry MP, has acknowledged receipt of the submission.