23.03.12
Gatwick told to improve rail links
A new report proposes that GatwickAirport’s rail links must be improved if it is to compete with Heathrow and remain up to standard.
The report by the firm designing the HS2 terminal at Euston station, Arup, suggested that if Gatwick wants to attract further airlines, it is necessary to improve and expand direct rail links to other parts of theUK. The report described new train links as being “critical” to strengtheningBritain’s trade links with new markets.
This comes at a time when Prime Minister David Cameron has been emphasising the importance of high-tech transport in theUK, claiming that “without world-class transport we will not get growth, people won’t invest here and regions in decline will be further left behind”.
According to Guy Stephenson fromGatwickAirport, Gatwick’s train links to centralLondonare more convenient and quicker than any otherLondonairport. Yet the report suggested that the Gatwick Express was due for upgrading, suggesting the need for higher quality rolling stock.
Furthermore, the report highlighted problems of overcrowding on trains and proposed that this issue needed to be solved to improve customer satisfaction and business.
Stephenson said: “We have the capacity to handle more flights and strengthen our country’s trade links with emerging markets.
“But if Gatwick is to continue attracting the new routes the economy needs, its rail links must improve in quality and extent.”
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