Today, East West Rail published its latest report, and Richard has reiterated his concerns about the project’s impact on Bedfordshire communities, particularly communities in North Bedfordshire.
Richard Fuller MP said:
I will review the details carefully, but the fundamental concerns remain: the impact on Clapham; the totally inappropriate route north through Ravensden, Wilden and other rural areas; the confusing routing in East Bedfordshire as it crosses the A1; the disruption in Bedford town centre at the current mainline station; and the risks to Bedford Hospital, both during construction and for its long-term plans.
He also highlighted the financial burden on taxpayers:
At a time when families and businesses are feeling the squeeze, the cost of this project is deeply troubling. Next week, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, will unleash even more pain on taxpayers, yet she continues to support a loss-making, environmentally damaging railway line through North Bedfordshire for a railway company that can’t even work out who should open the doors on their trains.
Richard stressed that this issue goes beyond transport:
This is not just about transport, it is about cost, disruption, and the future of our communities.
Read the full East West Rail report here.
