Theresa May has welcomed the Government’s announcement that it will provide up to £500 million towards a western rail link to Heathrow, which will provide a direct link to the airport from the Thames Valley region. The commitment was announced as part of the Government’s Draft Aviation Policy Framework, and represents a success for businesses and other organisations who have campaigned for a new western access route to Heathrow in order to ensure quicker transport links for those travelling to the airport from the west.
The commitment of funding was announced by the Transport Secretary, Justine Greening, subject to a business case and conclusion of agreements with the aviation industry. The service could come into operation as early as 2021, and will typically cut 30 minutes off the journey to Heathrow from the west of England. More details will be published shortly.
Commenting, Theresa said: “This is a very welcome announcement. Improved access to Heathrow from the west will be a major boost to local businesses and will further enhance the Thames Valley’s reputation as a place to locate a business in order to take advantage of good transport links. It is imperative that Maidenhead station is included in the new link and I will monitor this closely.”
Justine Greening said: “This recognises the continued importance of Heathrow as our major international hub. Businesses west of the airport have been calling for this vital investment for many years.”
