Following sustained pressure by Crispin Blunt MP on behalf of the Reigate, Redhill & District Rail Users’ Association, John Halsall, Route Managing Director at Network Rail today confirmed that design work has started on a longer platform at Reigate rail station.

Mr Halsall spoke to Crispin Blunt on the sidelines of the AGM of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Southern Rail held today.

Crispin Blunt said:

“An extended twelve car platform at Reigate would allow longer train services to run between Reigate and London. I am pleased that the design work on the extension of the platform at Reigate has commenced. This is only the first stage of the process and will identify funding and construction challenges, but I remain convinced that there is an overwhelming business case for it. This work will provide the data on which to advance the case.”

The AGM received a joint presentation from John Halsall of Network Rail and Nick Brown, Chief Operating Officer at Govia Thameslink Railway, which updated MPs on the £330 million new infrastructure programme announced following the formation of the APPG and coordinated parliamentary pressure on the Government. The group was also informed about the status of the modernisation programme, including the introduction of new rolling stock, increased driver recruitment, and automated delay repay for Key smartcard holders. Passengers continue to suffer from the impact of industrial action unfairly high fares, and Crispin Blunt will continue to make the case for infrastructure and service improvements and the extension of Oyster zonal fares.