615. SCHEMES UNDER CONSIDERATION BY COMMITTEE BUT NOT YET SUBMITTED TO B.T.C.
(1) Marylebone Suburban Services
Mr.Dow said that he now had a meeting with the Western Region representatives and it had been agreed that a submission should not be made for this scheme until further information had been obtained, particularly in respect of passenger loadings. A questionnaire regarding preference for first class seating had been sent to season ticket holders and, whilst a number of replies were still outstanding, the result showed that approximately 8% on the L.M. and W.Regions and L.T.E. were in favour of first class accomodation. A census of passenger loadings on L.M. and W.Regions was being taken after which a further meeting would be held and agreement reached regarding first class accomodation. Mr.Stanley did not anticipate any delay or difficulty in construction of the stock if first class accomodation agreed.
Regarding platforms, the Western Region did not anticipate any difficulties in lengthening for 8-car sets and no problem arises in this respect on the L.M.Region.
The Chairman stressed the necessity for getting authorisation for this scheme, particularly having regard to the fact that building of the stock would commence in January, 1960, and it was noted that the departments concerned anticipate submission would be ready by the end of January, 1959.
(2) Birmingham Part 2 Scheme
Diesel service in steam timings introduced on June 9th, 1958, and augmented service in diesel timings will commence on November 17th, 1958. Mr.Butland reported that the permanent way work at Walsall (Ryecroft) maintenance depot had started and no difficulty was anticipated in regard to the maintenance and fuelling facilities being provided by November 17th, 1958, subject to the C.M.& E.E. keeping pace.
Departmental submission now received and points of detail were under discussion with Commission officers before final submission to the Area Board and Commission.
(3) North Wales Part 3 (Wrexham, Chester and New Brighton)
Noted that scheme now being further examined by Divisional Traffic Manager.
