Local MP’s fight against Southeastern cuts to services
Date: Wed 9th May 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Local MP’s fight against Southeastern cuts to services
Gareth Johnson MP for Dartford and Adam Holloway MP for Gravesham are both fighting against a Southeastern Trainsproposal to cut the number of trains stopping at Longfield and Meopham during off-peak times.
Southeastern Trains are currently undertaking a consultation on the issue. The results of which will be presented to the Department for Transport as the proposals are contrary to the terms agreed in the original franchise agreement. The proposals aim to increase the number of fast trains from the Kent coast but in doing so reduce the number of fast trains from both Meopham and Longfield Stations.
In response to the consultation Gareth and Adam have invited Southeastern Trains to hear what the public thinks about the proposal at a public meeting on Thursday 17th May at 7pm at Longfield Community Hall, Fawkham Road, Longfield DA3 7QP.
Gareth said
“As someone who regularly commutes from Longfield station I am aware of the serious impact these proposals would have on local rail users. I have raised my concerns about this proposal with the Department for Transport and would encourage all those affected to attend the meeting I have arranged on the 17th May or to register their concerns either directly with Southeastern or via my offices.”
Adam said
“The number of people objecting to this is important, and we need to rebut the arguments of those on the East Kent Coast who want fewer trains to stop in Meopham and Longfield. If local residents spend a few moments sending to me their thoughts, then I can pass these on to Southeastern before their ‘consultation’ ends on 31 May 2012. Local councillors and the parish council are working hard on this with a petition, and it is important that as many people as possible respond to show our strength of feeling. It will also be good to see as many people as possible at the meeting that we have arranged.”
If you are unable to attend the meeting responses to the consultation can be sent to Southeastern by email to: [email protected] or by calling 0207 620 5430. All responses must be received by Southeastern by the 31st May.
ENDS
For further information please contact Gareth Johnson on 02027 219 7047 or at [email protected]
Residents in from Dartford Constituency should contact Gareth Johnson and residents from Gravesham should contact Adam Holloway
All media are very welcome to attend the public meeting
Southeastern trains have confirmed that a representative will be present at the meeting
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