Response to Rail Prospectus by
18th March 2016
, which covers
the parliamentary constituencies of Old Bexley and Sidcup, Bexleyheath and
Crayford, and Erith and Thamesmead.
ful y support the
proposal that TfL and DfT form a partnership to provide train services as franchises
expire. We feel that with the system as it currently stands provides poor value for
money for commuters in Bexley, who experience an unreliable service, with
overcrowding and high prices.
Our responses to the 6 questions posed in the consultation document are as fol ows:
(Q1) Do you agree with the principle of a partnership to better integrate the
specification of rail passenger services across London and the South East?
Response
We agree wholeheartedly. The proposals wil receive a welcome throughout the
Borough, for rail users in the Bexley Borough who are currently experiencing
appal ing service provided by Southeastern.
(Q2) Do you agree with the principles that the partnership wil work to? Are there
any specific issues that have not been captured?
Response
We agree with the principles outlined in the consultation document, although feel that
more clarity wil be required as the consultation proceeds particularly with regard to
accountability to al rail users throughout the region affected not just those in the
London Assembly area. In particular we would like more information about the
accountability to and consultation process with the Borough Councils and User
Groups.
(Q3) Do you agree with the proposed governance arrangements?
Response
In general yes, but feel it is essential that the governance arrangements take
account of al rail users, not just those in the metro region. The users of the longer
distance services need to be heard.
(Q4) What form do you propose the input from local authorities could take?
Response
It is important to ensure that there is a channel for effective input by rail users
outside the central area. TfL has proved itself to be a competent organization and
has general public support for the services they provide and their ongoing
improvements to the system and infrastructure. However, DfT receives less
confidence from the public, not least because passengers from our area have had to
suffer for the poor decisions made by DfT every day.
(Q5) Do you agree with the safeguards for transfer of inner suburban services to
TfL, as set out here?
Response
We agree with the safeguards as a minimum standard. We would like to see a joint
commitment to the future planning and improvement of al services, including both
inner and outer London routes.
(Q6) Are there other outcomes you might expect to see achieved?
Response
We expect a huge growth in passenger demand as the service improves. Bexley
Borough Council also expects an increase in population over the next decade and
are actively encouraging movement into the area. We would hope that increased
partnership between Tfl and DfT wil al ow for a more ambitious and joined up
approach for infrastructure development in Bexley and the possibility of DLR
extensions to serve the north of the borough and would also welcome further
proposals to increase connectivity within the borough and with central London, in
addition to Crossrail serving Abbey Wood station. We feel plans for additional
capacity at the main London hubs should be incorporated in the plan, and we believe
that current proposals to sel off London termini should be reviewed so there are no
obstacles to future expansion.