Theresa May has pressed Network Rail to ensure that Maidenhead and Twyford commuters benefit from improvements to the Great Western route over the coming years. At a recent meeting with senior Network Rail officials Theresa received an update on upcoming improvement works including the electrification of the line, the redevelopment of Maidenhead station, and the introduction of Crossrail. Theresa emphasised the importance of fast services from Maidenhead and Twyford to London Paddington.
Network Rail confirmed that the electrification of the Great Western line is underway and will allow increased capacity on the line. Work to redevelop Maidenhead station will also go ahead in preparation for the introduction of Crossrail. This will ensure improved accessibility with step-free access to all platforms.
Commenting, Theresa said: “It is good to hear that improvement work is progressing, with electrification of the line underway and work to redevelop Maidenhead station on the way. As I have consistently said, fast services from Maidenhead and Twyford must be the priority and these must be at the centre of plans for the future of the line.”
Theresa also raised local residents’ concerns about new railway bridges being erected in the area – particularly in Duffield Road in Woodley, where local residents have expressed disappointment at the ‘ugly’ nature of the new metal bridge which is out of keeping with the surrounding rural area.
Theresa said: “I understand that some of the existing bridges need to be replaced in order to make way for electrification of the line, but the new bridges need to be in keeping with the local area and not eyesores like the one in Duffield Road.”
