Task group looks at Wiltshire rail travel

7:09am Sunday 15th April 2007

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Rail travel in Wiltshire has been looked into by the overview and scrutiny committee of Wiltshire County Council after concerns expressed by local people.

The members discussed issues such as fare increases, overcrowding and reduced services. These have been blamed by passengers on the new train timetable introduced in December by First Great Western, having taken over the franchise for train services in the region.

It is written into the franchise agreement with the Government that, by January 2008, the total number of seats in the regional train fleet will have reduced by 7,387.

It is believed that this will have an impact on services in Wiltshire on the Cardiff to Portsmouth and Bedwyn to London trains.

From December 2007 the Department for Transport will cease to support the First Great Western local trains between Westbury and Southampton and instead will support a Southampton to Salisbury service.

This leaves a gap in service between Westbury and Salisbury.

The open returns that are required for occasional travel in the peak periods have considerably increased in price, while long distance season tickets to London are regulated fares.

Members heard that First Great Western have responded to some of the concerns with minor changes and improvements.

Unfortunately the county council has no direct power over the rail industry, however it will continue to push for a solution that mitigates the impacts where possible, including working with others to make the case for Wiltshire.

Jeff Osborn, chair of the overview and scrutiny committee, said: "It is important that continued pressure is applied on First Great Western and the government over poor performance as a result of the new franchise timetable.

"As such, the scrutiny role of the county council is vital in allowing elected members to gain a greater understanding of the issues and represent the concerns of the public."