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Ricp   22/07/2013 at 10:53

Uckfield to Lewes is a relatively simple project, whereby the restoration of two routes into Lewes is ultimately possible. Initially the newly restored route would join the existing formation just north-west of Lewes. This is a relatively simple project, and this would help capacity by transferring Eastbourne, Newhaven or the section east of Hampden Park towards Hastings. Over the 2-hour peak window 12 trains run to and from London from either Victoria or London Bridge, and the potential capacity is 12 x 10 or 12 car trains. East Grinstead could be be served by detaching a 4 or 5-car set at Hurst Green. An 8-car set could be split again at Lewes or Eastbourne. There are many possibilities, the most important thing being that there is no loss of service on the Brighton Main Line. While some trains would provide additional capacity, such as 10-12-car trains replacing 4-6 or 8-car trains on the Uckfield line. The main issue is the Campaign for BML2, wher the existin service could be diverted North of Selsdon over the Tramlink route towards Elmers End and Lewisham. This is an interesting sideshow, but it is unlikely to bear fruit, as there are too many 'things in the way', Croydon Tramlink and the Hayes branch Time to get the priorities right. Restore double track an electrify the line throughout at 750Vdc. This can be undertaken using the high conductivity conductor, now the current standard on the Underground. Uckfield will have to be electrified as Southern is looking to run 10-car trains, and the Class 171 DMUs do not meet current emission levels. However they can be released for use elsewhere. 6x 377/6 series units would cover the basics. Meanwhile Network Rail completes its analysis of the two possible routes from Uckfield into Lewes. Both projects could be completed by the end of 2016! Meanwhile the more complex project, approaching Lewes from the east but without the cost of an expensive tunnel. If the various parties would campaign for phasing these works this, this scheme can be completed by the end of CP5, ie the spring 2019. The extension of all London to Uckfield onwards towards Lewes, the East Sussex branches and Coastway route to Hastings would be a start. The best option for operating into Brighton could then be worked up in the GRIP process by NR. The simple message is get started, stop arguing over a/c or d/c 3rd rail, get Uckfield electrified, and at least get to Lewes as soon as possible.