Agenda item

(1)       The Rail Action Plan for Kent set out the principal objectives of KCC to ensure that the new Integrated Kent Franchise (IKF) - which was due to commence in April 2014 - delivered a rail service for Kent that met the needs of the county’s residents and visitors. It was not concerned with changing the existing franchise operated by Southeastern Railway, although KCC would continue to press for improvements in its current operation.

(2)       The Plan listed in detail the rail routes which needed addressing in today’s network, and recommended improvements to be incorporated in the new franchise specification. It also recognised the need for the level of rail fares charged in Kent to offer better value for money, so as to encourage economic growth throughout the county.

(3)       Following extensive public engagement and consultation, the final version of the Rail Action Plan for Kent would be presented to Cabinet on 4 April 2011 for approval, and then to the 3^rd KCC Rail summit on 19 April 2011. It would inform KCC’s submission to the Department for Transport (DfT) for the awarding of the contract for the delivery of the IKF from 2014 onwards.           

(4)       The Rail Action Plan for Kent set out in detail the recommended franchise specification for each of the rail routes in Kent, and also listed the particular issues raised by Rail User Groups and others concerning individual rail services. The final draft report was sent to all interested stakeholders on 23 December 2010.   KCC’s Rail Action Plan for Kent aimed to represent the needs of Kent’s residents, businesses and visitors, by ensuring that the new IKF delivered a rail service that met the demand for the future of rail travel in the county and facilitated economic growth in Kent.    

(5)               During debate the following issues were raised:-

(a)               Mr Whiting stated that it was an excellent initiative and thanked the officers involved.  However, he asked if it would be possible to include rail freight issues somewhere as part of Kent’s Integrated Strategy.  Mr Crick confirmed this would be included.

(b)               Mr Northey asked if companies could be lobbied to guarantee the third electrical rail would be operative whatever the weather.  Mr Crick outlined that weather resilience had been included within the RAPK.

(c)               Mrs Tweed referred to the Through Gatwick – Tonbridge – Ashford hourly all day service and expressed disappointment that it might not commence until 2015.  Mr Chard stated that he had met with Southern and Gatwick Airport.  The service needed much development work and officers were looking into the financial viability.  It was more a case of if, than when.

(d)               Mr Manning referred to the Trans-Manche Metro, and asked if it was reality.  Mr Chard stated that it would happen and a business case was currently being prepared.

(6)       RESOLVED that:-

(a)        the report be noted; and

(b)        Members submit any comments in response to the final draft Rail Action Plan for Kent to: 

railactionplan@kent.gov.uk