7th July 2008

Greens have again called for action on the rail track between Kemble and Swindon. See Martin Whiteside's letter.

We talk about tackling climate change but where is the action?  Several important steps could be taken locally that would make a difference.  Reinstating the double rail track between Kemble and Swindon would allow more frequent train services, encourage more freight to travel by rail and avoid chaos whenever the Severn rail tunnel is closed for repair.  This project was a priority for funding but is now in danger of being dropped, which would be a disaster. 

It is excellent that Gloucestershire County Council, Stroud District Council and our MP are all backing this campaign.  However to really make a difference we need hundreds of ordinary people to write in - showing that we all really care about the future of our rail service.  Please write to Bill Emery, ORR, 1 Kemble St, London WC2B 4AN, Ruth Kelly, Transport Secretary, House of Commons, London WC1 and Network Rail, 1 Gloucester St, Swindon.

The second major improvement would be to re-open the Bristol road station in Stonehouse - this would mean a reasonable public transport link to Bristol, cutting many existing car journeys.  If we could add to this with a really good towpath cycle route along our valleys, a proper transport interchange in Stroud and regular and well used buses to our smaller towns and villages, then we would have the backbone of a more energy efficient transport system.  Then we could expect people to use their cars less, saving money, cutting congestion and reducing accidents.

Let's stop talking about these things and actually do it!

Cllr Martin Whiteside,

Green Party Parliamentary Candidate for Stroud