Metro have now set out (in summary) their proposed changes to Railplan 7 in response to public consultation.
Regular readers may recall that for some reason which is not altogether clear, data and proposals about the train service at Slaithwaite and Marsden were absent from the draft Railplan which went out for consultation.
SMART is pleased to note that several of the points we raised, particularly in relation to the Huddersfield to Manchester local stopping service, cross-boundary fares and improved Sunday services, have been accepted either partially or in full.
The following table summarises the key messages and proposed revisions to RailPlan.
| Key Feedback Messages | Proposed Revision to RailPlan |
| Requests for improved connectivity – more frequent services, to more destinations and quicker journey times. | Phase 2 of the Yorkshire Rail Network Study will seek cost effective and affordable ways to improve connectivity throughout West Yorkshire and beyond. Plan to be revised to explain that specific proposals to provide new services will be considered following completion of this study. |
| Requests for specific new stations to be included. | New stations at Kirkstall Forge, Apperley Bridge, East Leeds Parkway and Low Moor are identified.
Plan to be revised to set out the criteria/conditions for considering further new station locations e.g. sufficient new passenger demand and a strong financial and economic business case. |
| Fares are too high. | Plan to be revised to set out that fares (especially cross boundary fares) will be reviewed as part of the re-franchising and devolution work, and that the introduction of smart card ticketing will enable customers to be offered the best value for money ticket. |
| Details of Huddersfield – Manchester local stopping services have been omitted. | Plan to be revised to add the detail for the line, consistent with other routes. |
| Requests for more early morning, evening, Saturday and Sunday services. | Plan to be revised to refer to improved services at these times. |