Peter Pawsey, Executive Chair at Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), has welcomed the recent announcement from Thames Valley Berkshire LEP that Network Rail has backed their preferred route for improved rail access from the west into Heathrow.
Western Rail Access to Heathrow will connect the airport to the Great Western Mainline, slashing journey times and bringing environmental benefits, including fewer car journeys and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
The new route was originally proposed six years ago and has been chosen from three alternatives as Network Rail’s preferred option. The project now enters a consultation phase.
Peter Pawsey says: “Heathrow offers a vital link for Worcestershire businesses to access international markets. This announcement and major rail improvements recently completed in and around Reading, will make it easier for business to access overseas markets and make the county more appealing for inward investors.”
He continues: “Together with announcements from Birmingham International Airport regarding their plans for expansion, we feel confident that Worcestershire will compete effectively in international markets by offering the connectivity and communication networks that are so vital for attracting inward investment.”
The Worcestershire LEP, in conjunction with the County Council and the county’s MPs, continues to lobby Network Rail and the train operating companies for the final sections of rail dualling and the significant improvement in journey times from Worcestershire to London Paddington.