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Network Rail must keep West Hampstead rolling
• IN the rush to get the Thameslink project completed ahead of the 2012 Olympics West Hampstead residents must not be left in the slow lane. Given that the priority for Network Rail is clearly the timely completion of this highly delayed project it is clear that there is a risk that residents could pay a price in terms of disruption to their travel and daily lives.
I have been assured by Network Rail that the north entrance to the station will remain open when the new southern station complex is completed. The higher frequency of the new 12 car trains will clearly mean far better train services from the station.
However, there will be little improvement to the congestion along West End Lane and the larger trains will likely mean even more passengers trying to switch trains.
The rush to upgrade train services which pass through West Hampstead stations coupled with the replacement of water mains by Thames Water is in danger of creating a “perfect storm” of transport disruption.
It should not be beyond the wit of London’s transport planners to make sure that not all train services are suspended at the same time as happened this summer. This was another issue raised with Network Rail – that there should be some co-ordination so that when work is taking place on the Jubilee line, other lines must remain available.
The “interchange” drop in session at West Hampstead Library on the October 21 between 2pm and 8pm will give us another chance to question representatives from Network Rail. It is vital that residents get assurances on noise and disruption now before it is too late. It will also be interesting to get more information on the “green roof” of the new Iverson Road entrance.
The Thameslink scheme could provide a major improvement to transport links to West Hampstead, however it does nothing to solve the underlying congestion problems along West End Lane.
Havard Hughes
Mortimer Crescent, NW6
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