Government Failure to Act on Integrated Transport - Stunell

10.52.52am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 3rd Oct 2008

News that the number of spaces for bicycles on trains through Stockport is to be cut has angered local MP Andrew Stunell.

"It's all very well having a cycle path to the train station and bike lockers on the platforms , but what's the point if you can't take you bike on the train."

Arriva CrossCountry trains through the town will in future only have three bike spaces, two of which will need to be reserved in advance. The move comes because the existing trains are being refurbished to make more space for commercially valuable catering operations. There will be a wider range of goods for passengers to spend their money on board but no more space for bicycles.

Hazel Grove MP, Andrew Stunell stated

"In the run up to the key vote on congestion charges The Government is presiding over cuts in bike places on one route, and cuts in passenger seats on another.

"This is yet another example of the Government's lack of understanding of public transport and the need to integrate rail and cycle networks."

ENDS

1. Arriva CrossCountry trains provide services from Stockport to Birmingham, Reading, and the South West.

2. Arriva CrossCountry has operated the Cross Country rail franchise since November 2007 when it took over the franchise from Virgin Trains.

3. Mr Stunell is Vice Chair of the Parliamentary All-Party Cycling Group.