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| Re: Thameslink 2020 inches closer (356494) | |||
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Re: Thameslink 2020 inches closer |
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Posted by David Fairthorne on Wed Dec 20 14:57:03 2006, in response to Re: Thameslink 2020 inches closer, posted by Rail Blue on Mon Dec 18 07:13:39 2006. Here is a much simpler service plan for Thameslink 2000 (compared with the proposed offical service plan), intended to improve reliability by running fewer trains through the Thamslink tunnel and severely reducing the number of branches.1. All Thameslink services to run via London Bridge and the fast tracks via New Cross Gate and Norwood Junction. 2. All services via Elephant & Castle to terminate at Blackfriars (bay platforms re-sited on the west side of the station). 3. Proposed services via Finsbury Park to be completely eliminated. 4. Proposed services via Lewisham or Parks Bridge to be completely eliminated. 5. Total Thameslink tunnel service to be at most 16 tph (peak), to allow ample dwell times, and at least 8 tph (off-peak). 6. Have a regular (clock-face) off-peak timetable, but allow irregular services in the peak periods. Proposed off-peak services: -- Bedford (fast) to Brighton (via Quarry line) -- 4 tph; -- St Albans (slow) to Three Bridges (via Redhill) -- 4 tph. Proposed services in busiest single hour (all from Bedford, Luton or St Albans): -- Brighton (via Quarry line) -- at least 4 tph; -- Three Bridges or other (via Redhill) -- at least 4 tph; -- Eastbourne, Littlehampton and Bognor Regis (via Quarry line) -- at least 4 tph in total. In my opinion there is not sufficient demand to warrant running 24 tph (peak) through the core Thameslink tunnel, and the attempt to do so, especially with so many branches, would compromise reliability. I agree with John Armitt, retiring head of Network Rail, that Thameslink 2000 is a worthwhile project, and that users of little-used rural routes should take a taxi. See the Observer. |
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