Friday 13th, a date most associated with bad luck, and yet it was announced the Swindon – Kemble line re-doubling programme was set to commence in the near future – this is definitely good news for Swindon and Gloucestershire.
Back in the March Budget it was announced that the re-doubling of the Swindon – Kemble line was finally given the go-ahead. The major benefit is that additional trains will be in operation, ensuring an end to delays caused by slow-running services, and commuters and businesses alike will look forward to their journey times being slashed by 20 minutes, when travelling from London to Cheltenham.
At a meeting in Gloucester on Friday, the Department for Transport, Network Rail and First Great Western were among those providing updates around the service enhancement opportunities; as well as presenting the broader and local benefits to the rail network that the Swindon – Kemble line re-dualling programme will bring to the area.
For business, this can only bring good news - as a more reliable workforce becomes apparent and rail services can be seriously considered for commuters - this seems a win-win opportunity.
Ian Larrard, Director of GWE The Initiative in Swindon and Wiltshire said:
“It’s important that we continue to work to improve transport in and around Swindon, so when the economy recovers we have in place a long term strategy for transport. The re-doubling of the Swindon–Kemble line, along with the electrification of the Great Western Mainline from London to Cardiff, ensures that real change will be seen on the ground. The meeting on Friday was well received by both Gloucestershire and Swindon communities, and we welcome further dialogue in what can only be described as taking excellent steps forward.”