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Written question asked by Daisy Cooper (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Keir Mather (Labour) on Friday, 22 May 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Thameslink Line: Repairs and Maintenance

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will approve funding for (a) the Croydon Area Remodelling Scheme and (b) Midland Mainline capacity improvement to mitigate forecasted capacity constraints on the Thameslink route.

Answer

The Department recognises the significant growth pressures and opportunities facing the rail network from major developments such as the expansion of Luton and Gatwick Airports, the proposed Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire, and extensive planned delivery of new housing.

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has shared initial long‑term demand modelling with the Department, including projections linked to these major developments. This work indicates substantial future growth in passenger demand, and we expect operators to continue working closely with Network Rail and local partners to refine these forecasts and develop the business cases needed for targeted improvements.

Officials at DfT and DFTO are in regular discussions with Network Rail on opportunities to improve services across the Brighton Main Line, including in the Croydon area. As part of Network Rail’s Sussex Railway Upgrade Plan, £900 million is being invested in renewing the Brighton Main Line and its branches between 2024 and 2029.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
500
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Finance Repairs and maintenance Thameslink line
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk