August 2001 Newsletter

National Express Extends its Fleet

Recently, c2c (WAGN’s sister company operating on the London-Tilbury-Southend line) accepted its new fleet of 44 “Electrostar” train-sets for use in peak times. Previously, teething troubles prevented c2c from running these units during the rush hour. As a result, class 317 units currently sub-let to c2c will be returned to WAGN.

It is hoped that some of these units will be brought into service on the West Anglia route through Harlow. You’ll recognise them by their distinctive “green-stripe” livery!

SRA publishes PIXC figures

On the 13th July, the SRA (Strategic Rail Authority) published the PIXC (Passengers In eXcess of Capacity) figures for the London commuter lines. When PIXC exceeds 3% measured across both the morning and afternoon peaks, the SRA will call WAGN to explain what action they will be taking to reduce the problem.

Last November, when the PIXC figure was measured, WAGN’s PIXC was 2.3% averaged across both peaks.

Given the major housing developments in both Bishop’s Stortford and Harlow, it will not be long before the 3% threshold is hit, requiring WAGN to take action. We strongly hope that WAGN will take action BEFORE the SRA call them to task, rather than after.

Furthermore, the Harlow Rail User Group believes that the PIXC rating is not in line with the Government’s planned aim that NO passenger should have to stand for more than 20 minutes, and that the SRA should take more

firm and decisive action, possibly including financial penalties for breach of franchise commitments, when standing becomes a regular feature of rail travel.

Why not let us know your opinions of WAGN’s services by filling in our e-Survey or submitting a comment to the e-Forum?

Government 10-Year Rail Plan

In a nut-shell, the government’s aims are that there should be:

• 50% passenger growth over the coming ten years
• more frequent services on commuter lines
• no passengers standing for more than 20 minutes

The plan can be found at http://detr.open.gov.uk/

You are encouraged to read this document and air your views in the Harlow Rail User Group e-Forum.

Did You Know ...

... That discounts were available on WAGN tickets if you travel by bus to the station? Leave the car at home and save on the commuter car park charges...

Ask at the ticket office about discounts for bus users and combined bus-rail ticketing