Network Rail has published a wide ranging set of proposals for electrification. The plan is the most ambitious of its kind for nearly 30 years.
The Midland Main Line has moved centre stage, following the DfT's approval of Great Western electrification in July.
Network Rail says Midland electrification would now yield a positive benefit: in other words, the railway and the nation would be worse off if the work was not done.
Network Rail's stance on electrification has become more positive since the draft of this RUS was published in the spring. NR is no longer suggesting widespread electrification: it is now urging it, in the interests both of railway passengers and the environment.
However, Network Rail's proposals will place further financial pressure on Ministers, who are already facing budget restraints.
Meanwhile, early reactions from around the industry have been favourable.
East Midlands Trains, which is the principal passenger operator between Bedford and Sheffield, said: "We are extremely supportive of any plans that would allow faster journey times on our main line route. We know this is a key priority for our passengers, and in December 2008, we made some significant journey time improvements with journeys between Sheffield and London improved by up to 14 minutes, and between Derby and London by up to ten minutes. This is a clear demonstration of our continuing commitment, and we welcome any plans that would help us to bring further improvements.”
ATOC Chief Executive Michael Roberts also welcomed the plans. “Proposals to electrify more lines are good news for passengers, taxpayers and the environment. Electric trains are better for the environment and bring lower costs, better reliability and more capacity as well as shorter journey times. These are all key factors in helping to improve the value for money that passengers are calling for," he said. He added that the RUS backed up the "already overwhelmingly strong case for further electrification", and concluded: "We must get on and deliver it."
*** IN RAILNEWS PRINT EDITION FOR NOVEMBER
SPECIAL FEATURE: Has network electrification come of age at last?
*******************************************************************************