Train operators say 14 new lines could be created in £500m expansion of rail network
A group of train operators has called for a £500m expansion of Britain’s railway network.
In a new report, the Association of Train Operating Companies (Atoc) has proposed 14 extra lines and around 40 new stations, as part of a strategy to meet growing demand.
It said some of the former railway lines closed in the 1960s after a report by Richard Beeching recommended the network be reduced by a third be re-opened as part of plans to serve 1m extra passengers.
Atoc chief executive Michael Roberts said: "Record passenger numbers and rising demand require us to plan for the long term, while climate change and population growth make it vital that in doing so, we adapt the rail network to meet tomorrow's needs.
"Providing attractive new services and easier access to the rail network will encourage passengers to switch to rail from other, less green, modes of transport.
"We have established that there is a strong business case for investment to bring a number of towns back on to the rail network.”
Areas to benefit from any such investment would include Cranleigh in Surrey and Brixham in Devon.
If given the go-ahead by government and Network Rail, Atoc claims the links could be up and running within five to 10 years.
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