7 September 2023
RIA London & South has welcomed the support given to the Heathrow Southern Railway Link by London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, who gave his endorsement for the transformative project on Tuesday (5 September).
The proposed project – which enhances connectivity between Heathrow Airport, South West London, Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire – is expected to improve accessibility for passengers traveling to and from the UK's busiest airport, reduce congestion on the road network, and contribute to a more sustainable transportation system.
The Mayoral backing comes after Transport Minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton gave the Government’s support for a Southern Access to Heathrow scheme earlier this year, in June, with an ambition for the scheme to be funded and delivered by the private sector.
Ryan Anderson, RIA London & South Chair, said: "RIA London & South is pleased to see cross-party support building for the development for a Southern Access to Heathrow scheme. It is great news that London Mayor Sadiq Kahn has given his backing to the Heathrow Southern Railway Link project, following support for such a link expressed by Transport Minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton in June.
“This landmark scheme will not only provide a better passenger experience for those travelling between Heathrow, South London, Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire, but it will also help contribute to reducing carbon emissions by encouraging more people to connect with the airport by rail.
“RIA London & South supports initiatives that prioritise the expansion and enhancement of the railway network in the London & South region, and we and rail businesses across the UK look forward to collaborating with stakeholders to turn this vision into reality. Investing in rail infrastructure is essential for the nation's economic growth and environmental sustainability.”
Notes to Editors
1.
On Tuesday 5 September, London Mayor Sadiq Kahn said: “I welcome the useful role that a Southern Rail Link to Heathrow could play in supporting a shift to sustainable modes [of travel], while transforming access to Heathrow Airport for passengers and staff from South London, Surrey and Hampshire. I am aware that a number of factors coming together in recent months have increased the prospects of a scheme moving forward.”
2.
On 27 June, Transport Minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton said: “Government remains committed to improving rail access to Heathrow airport and our ambition is that any Southern Access to Heathrow scheme is funded and delivered by the private sector. Proposals need to be developed in a way that does not require government funding and secures significant benefits.”
About RIA London & South
In London and the South, rail contributes £20.7bn GVA to the economy; 305,000 jobs and £6.5billion in tax revenue. It is essential infrastructure, transporting people for work and leisure, unlocking business opportunities and offering green transport options to more than 18m people who live in the region. The Railway Industry Association’s London & South Group represents members of the rail supply chain in the region, providing a guiding voice for the sector. Our Leadership Group of industry experts work with clients and stakeholders to drive improvements across the region, making rail more accessible and helping deliver net zero. For more information, please visit
www.riagb.org.uk or follow us on @railindustryLS.