foecardiff
Rail
Mon 15th Jun 09 — admin
Photo: Chris Brown, Cardiff Friends of the Earth
Rail
Wales should be served by a modern, well-funded European-style railway. This rail service would bring economic, social and environmental benefits by reducing traffic and social exclusion.
Travelling by rail is much more fuel-efficient and is usually faster than going by car. Both Conservative and Labour Governments have failed to invest in the railways. Friends of the Earth want the Government to invest in the railways over the next ten years to make British rail services as fast, clean and efficient as those in Germany, France and the Netherlands.
A national rail development plan is needed which includes:
- Main lines electrified and upgraded
- New faster, longer and more frequent trains
- Better tracks and signalling. These will reduce journey times
- New safety systems and increased maintenance
- The re-opening of closed lines and the building of new lines
- Better local rail services
- Rail companies that co-operate to make travelling by train work
- Better rail freight facilities
- Travel information that is accurate, understandable and easily available
- Trains and busses that connect with each other
- Simple and affordable ticketing which includes bus services
- Ticket-offers and better marketing
- Measures to reduce crime and the fear of crime
- Building more light-rail schemes such as the Manchester Metrolink
Other ways to improve our lives and reduce dependence on cars include: