From Watford Observer

Rail link plans get backing

By Dina Behrman


PLANS for the Croxley Rail Link were approved by transport bosses this week, as
part of the Mayor of London's five-year transport plan.

On Wednesday, Transport For London (TFL) gave the plans its backing, which will
see £10billion spent on projects in London, including £97million on a rail link
from Croxley to Watford Junction.

Transport campaigner for Watford and District Friends of the Earth, Terry Figg,
said he was pleased the plans had been approved but said funding was a big
issue. He said: "It very much depends whether the Government will give any
money for this. It hasn't been given funding so far."

The rail link would see the Metropolitan Line re-routed to allow the Watford
branch of the line to be connected with Network Rail's disused Croxley Green to
Watford Junction line, via a new viaduct about one kilometre north of Croxley
station.

According to Mr Figg the scheme would be good news for the area. He said: "It
would certainly help the people of West Watford to get into the town centre and
it would help cut down on traffic congestion.

"But it is a question of funding and political will. There is a lack of any
political clout being used - where are the politicians knocking on ministers'
doors?"

It is hoped cash for the scheme will come from London Underground,
Hertfordshire County Council and Watford Borough Council, with central
Government stumping up about £70million.

The plans also include new stations at Ascot Road and Watford West, plus
refurbishment of platforms and stations at Watford High Street and Watford
Junction. The new link would enable Metropolitan Line trains to run from
Watford Junction to London every ten minutes.

The original transport blueprint has now been revised because of a shortfall in
estimated Government subsidies, although it is not yet known whether this will
effect the Croxley Rail Link.

TFL will now carry out a public consultation before a final decision on the
plans is made.
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John Burke
Watford Rail User Group