§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent discussions he has had with the Strategic Rail Authority about services between London and Warrington; and if he will make a statement. [122828]
§ Mr. McNultyThe Authority's final West Coast Strategy, published on 16 June 2003 with the support of the Secretary of State, envisages an h hourly train service between London and Warrington. Copies have been sent to all MPs.
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§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to improve public transport links to Warrington. [122829]
§ Mr. McNultyWarrington received a total of £6.7 million for integrated transport measures as part of the 2003–04 transport settlement. Warrington's Local Transport Plan contains a public transport strategy. This sets out short, medium and long term action plans which cover developing accessibility and best value criteria for supporting bus services which cannot be provided commercially; introducing bus quality partnerships, including bus quality corridors, real time passenger information, bus priority and variable message sign strategy; implementing park and ride strategies, and working with the private sector to achieve the construction of a new bus interchange adjacent to the main shopping centre. This year's annual progress report is due with the Department in July 2003.