Reading rail user group proposed
I mentioned in a previous post last week’s Reading Borough Council Scrutiny Panel meeting with First Great Western and Network Rail. I have to do the right thing and confess that I wasn’t present on the occasion, simply because I work in London and wasn’t able to get back to Reading in time (my fault, not the trains).
I’m disappointed with myself, despite sharing my thoughts on the trains prior to the meeting with the indefatigable Cllr Daisy Benson, who impressed me during the first scrutiny of FGW’s performance a year ago.
From what I’ve read and heard, the meeting went well, with highlights as follows:
- FGW plan to add 80 extra seats to 54 trains to cut overcrowding
- FGW plan a £4m staff development programme
- the creation of a Reading rail user group was suggested to improve dialogue between customers and FGW (this was proposed, as I understand it, by Cllr Gareth Epps). Count me in.
- FGW plan the introduction of more recycling facilities at Reading and Old Oak Common depots (in response to a question by Daisy)
More on these actions can be read in the following accounts of the meeting:
- Holding FGW to account: one year on (Daisy Benson)
- Rail services ‘back on track’ says FGW boss (getreading)
Hi Matt,
A user group was mentioned when Mark Hopwood was asked about how the company communicates with it’s travellers, and user groups was mentioned, it was stated Reading doesn’t have one, and well, maybe it should, but somebody needs to start one up.
Be particular important for Reading to have one with the disruption that may be caused by upcoming redevelopment of the station and track around it.
Maybe you should start one yourself Matt!
Cheers,
Ollie