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Network Rail open Swindon centre for local efficiency

Network Rail has launched a new independent business unit in Swindon, that it hopes will allow more efficient control of its South West routes.

The unit is being introduced as part of the company’s national devolution drive, that aims to make operations leaner and more responsive by giving more local autonomy on decision making.

Network Rail Western aims to boost rail capacity, especially in Bristol, where there is an immediate need for growth as the city has one of the highest forecast growth in rail passenger demand, at around 44% by the end of the decade.

Patrick Hallgate, Network Rail Western’s new route managing director, said: “The next decade is an exciting and challenging period with passengers on the Western route set to see great improvements.

“We have a big task ahead and devolution is a step in the right direction to enable us to achieve our performance and efficiency targets, whilst seizing the opportunities to drive local economy with these major investments.

“Infrastructure investment is a key economic driver and the rail industry is a growth sector that can be tapped into.”

He went on to say that the local presence will mean Network Rail are better placed to work with local stakeholders, including city councils and local enterprise partnerships.

Redevelopment potential has been recognised in the land and buildings surrounding Bristol Temple Meads, and plans are to provide more platforms, better parking and an integrated transport hub.

The strategy is being developed by the Western team, with contributions from key local leader, and is aligned with the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership.

Colin Skellet, Chair of the West of England LEP, said: “We welcome the announcement of the new devolved structure and the commitment by Network Rail for major investment in rail infrastructure.

“The investments already announced by Network Rail, including electrification of the line from Paddington, will add significantly to the attractiveness of the West of England as a place to do business.”

By 2013, Network Rail Western will spend around £400m to operate, renew and enhance the 995 miles of railway in the West.

This is in addition to the £4.5bn investment secured to transform the Great Western main line into the most advanced intercity urban railway by 2017.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .