Rebecca Paul, the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Reigate, is fervently championing improved public transport links for constituents, showcasing her dedication to enhancing both rail and bus connectivity for residents. With a firm belief in providing viable alternatives to car travel, Rebecca is spearheading initiatives to revolutionise Reigate's transportation infrastructure.
One of the focal points of Rebecca's advocacy is the enhancement of Reigate train station, a bustling hub witnessing over 1 million entries and exits annually. Identifying the extension of its platform as a pivotal improvement, she highlights the necessity of accommodating additional and more efficient services. Currently, Thameslink trains to and from London Bridge bypass Reigate due to length constraints, necessitating the cumbersome splitting and joining of trains at Redhill, leading to extended journey times and overcrowding.
In a bid to rectify this issue, a Network Rail scheme proposed in February 2020 aimed to create a 12-car turn-back platform at Reigate station, garnering overwhelming support from local residents and passengers, with an impressive 87% backing the upgrade. However, the project faced setbacks amidst the pandemic-induced funding constraints and uncertainty surrounding passenger demand, leading to its postponement.
Undeterred by the setbacks, Paul is relentless in her pursuit of enhancing Reigate's transport network. Emphasising the importance of Oyster/contactless functionality, she underscores the inconvenience caused by its absence in Reigate, particularly for students attending Reigate College who rely on Zip Oyster cards.
In a recent meeting with the Reigate, Redhill and District Rail Users’ Association, Paul expressed her solidarity with their efforts to lobby for these vital improvements. Demonstrating proactive engagement, she has penned a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport, Mark Harper MP, advocating for the projects and eagerly awaits a response.
Encapsulating her unwavering commitment to revitalising Reigate's transportation infrastructure, Rebecca said in a blog:
I’m a great believer that if we want people to leave their car at home, we need to give them a good alternative first. And that means better public transport.
For more information on Rebecca Paul's initiatives and advocacy, visit her website.
Rebecca Paul's proactive stance towards improving public transport in Reigate resonates with constituents, who anticipate a brighter future with enhanced connectivity and accessibility across the borough.
