Croydon Mayor Urges Chancellor to Fix East Croydon Rail Bottleneck
A long-standing rail issue at East Croydon is hindering billions in potential investment and job creation, according to local leaders.
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Croydon's Mayor Jason Perry and Gatwick Airport CEO Pierre-Hugues Schmit have jointly urged the Chancellor to prioritise fixing a significant rail bottleneck at East Croydon. They argue that this long-standing issue is preventing billions of pounds in investment and job opportunities from materialising in the borough and across the Thameslink corridor.
The call comes as Gatwick Airport prepares for expansion with a second runway. Mayor Perry stated his ambition for Croydon to become a major business events hub and a premier destination in the South of England by 2040. He believes this vision, which includes attracting international hotel operators and new restaurants, is contingent on government backing for rail infrastructure improvements.
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The Croydon Area Remodelling Scheme
A proposed rail upgrade project, known as the Croydon Area Remodelling Scheme (CARS), was initially put forward in 2020. The scheme aims to increase capacity at the complex rail junctions where multiple lines converge into the Brighton Main Line. This upgrade is seen as essential for London and the South East to benefit from Gatwick's future growth.
In their joint letter to Chancellor John Healey, Mayor Perry and CEO Schmit highlighted the widespread impact of delays. Schmit noted that disruptions at the junction can affect journeys from Brighton all the way to Bedford. He emphasised that unreliable train services for commuters and customers deter business growth, and suggested the cost of upgrading the railway should be weighed against the economic cost of inaction.
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Engineering works will affect Southern services across multiple routes, with replacement buses operating.
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport acknowledged the importance of rail infrastructure for economic growth in the South East. They confirmed the government's commitment to enhancing performance and reducing journey times on the Brighton Main Line. This commitment has already seen £250 million invested in upgrades to Gatwick Airport station, alongside track and signalling improvements. The department also stated that Network Rail is continuing to investigate options for further enhancements to address capacity constraints on the line.
Questions this report answers
+What is the main issue affecting East Croydon station?
The main issue is a long-standing rail bottleneck at East Croydon. This bottleneck occurs where several rail routes merge onto the Brighton Main Line, causing delays that can impact journeys across a wide area.
+Who is calling for action to fix the bottleneck?
Croydon's Mayor Jason Perry and Gatwick Airport CEO Pierre-Hugues Schmit have jointly written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to demand action. They are supported by local authorities and Croydon East MP Natasha Irons.
+What are the potential economic consequences of the bottleneck?
The bottleneck is believed to be holding back billions of pounds in potential investment and job opportunities for Croydon and areas along the Thameslink corridor. Business leaders argue unreliable services deter growth.
+What has the government said about the issue?
The Department for Transport stated the government is committed to improving rail performance and reducing journey times on the Brighton Main Line. They highlighted £250 million already invested in Gatwick Airport station and other track upgrades.
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