THE results of a public consultation mounted by Network Rail into the construction of a new rail link to Heathrow Airport show that most people support the plan for a spur from the Great Western Main Line, but more than a fifth of those responding were against the idea, mainly because the plans include a road closure in the Iver area.
The figures show that 72 per cent of respondents, who included rail users, communities, businesses and other interested parties, were in favour of the plan as it has been drawn up, while 23 per cent voiced dissent, mainly because of the road closure.
The proposed line would leave the GWML between Langley and Iver, allowing passengers from the west of England and south Wales to travel directly to Heathrow from Reading, Twyford, Maidenhead or Slough, without having to change in London. This would make journey times to Heathrow as short as 26 minutes from Reading and seven minutes from Slough. The link includes a 5km tunnel under Richings Park and Colnbrook. From there trains would use existing lines and terminate at Terminal 5.
Network Rail route managing director Mark Langman said: ‘We are delighted that the proposals have been given the overwhelming support of the public, businesses and stakeholders. We have also heard the concerns of some local residents so will continue to work hard to make sure our final plans, which will be submitted for consent in 2019, work with other developments in the area.’
Network Rail said it will publish finalised plans and hold public information events immediately before submitting an application for a Development Consent Order to the Planning Inspectorate in the middle of next year.