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622.  MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS  (Contd.)

(b)  Order of priority for future schemes  (Contd.)

It was stated that the time involved in (a) the preparation of schemes; and (b) obtaining authority for the expenditure for maintenance depots, delayed the introduction of schemes even though authority had been given for the vehicles, and it was recommended that the Area Board and the Commission be advised of the difficulties under the present procedure and a submission be made for advanced authority for expenditure (based on shot estimates) covering the whole of the four maintenance depots and including Lostock Hall.  Reference to be made in the submission to the possibility of closing motive power depots.

It was agreed that the matter should be discussed initially with the appropriate officers of the Commission Central Staff.

The present position in respect of the five maintenance depots was noted as follows :-

Reddish - Maintenance of 30 2-car sets and 2 Pullman trains at this depot had been agreed with the Eastern Region.  Proposed transfer or Reddish to L.M.Region still under consideration; matter to be settled quickly in correspondence and members of Commitee advised of result.

Chester - Proposed use of Western Region shed in correspondence with Western Region.  Mr.Gould would pursue and clear before next meeting and advise members of Committee.

Nottingham, Low Level - Use of this station agreed in principle subject to final agreement by Messrs.Gould and Butland.