From the
Kemble Chronicle:
Commuter concern over chaos at Kemble
The latest proposals regarding the redoubling of the Stroud to Swindon Line are causing some consternation among regular users of Kemble station.
The work to replace the double track along this length of line will involve engineering trains being used in the area of Kemble Station. Due to the need to maintain track access for through train services for passengers, it has been suggested that the sidings to the east of the station be reinstated, to allow engineering trains to be stabled there during the day.
Network Rail are considering relaying sidings in that area, which used to signal the start of the branch line to Cirencester. While that line is long gone, the land is still part of railway property, so it can be used for necessary rail purposes, without the need for planning permission.
However, local commuters are up in arms about the proposal, as this will involve the excavation of much of the existing parking area to the east of the station.
A Network Rail spokesman said that the work was necessary, to minimise inconvenience to rail passengers. However, Neil Downe did acknowledge that ^the loss of parking facilities might cause some problems for those wanting to park at the station.^
First Great Western, the train company operating services through the station, said that they were happy with the proposals. Their spokesman, Stan Dupp, said ^There is a clear need to improve the railway infrastructure, and these temporary engineering works, while causing some minor inconvenience in the short term, will allow greater reliability in the future.^ He added that this would be particularly helpful, if their franchise was renewed.
A spokesman for APCOA▸ Connect, Carl Parkes, said that they were very concerned at the loss of revenue through this work. ^We may even have to reconsider the use of 0845 numbers,^ he said.
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