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660.  GENERAL MATTERS OF POLICY  (Cont'd)

1.  Programme of Diesel Multiple Unit Operation  (Contd.)

(a)  Employment of vehicles available in 1959  (Cont'd)

In respect of Bletchley carriage shed, which was earmarked as the maintenance depot for the proposed Bletchley - Oxford - Cambridge diesel service, it was noted that this line is recommended for closing to passenger traffic under the revised budget proposals and it was felt that the introduction of a diesel service for a comparatively short time before withdrawal of the service would result in adverse publicity.  After considerable discussion it was agreed that the introduction of a diesel service and the installation of facilities at Bletchley carriage shed, should be deferred for the present and development awaited, the matter to be further considered at the next meeting.

Mention was made of the possibility of Parliamentary powers being required to withdraw the passenger service, and Mr.Johnson will ascertain the position.

Regarding Chester West, it was noted that the Area Board had given approval in principle to the expenditure.  Doubt was expressed as to whether the proposed Chester (Northgate), Wrexham (C) and New Brighton diesel scheme would be financially sound, but it was stated that the depot would still be required to maintain units for other services emanating from Chester, and it was agreed that the provision of maintenance facilities should proceed.

The Chairman again stressed the necessity for submissions to be made for the introduction of diesel services in the aforementioned areas.

(b)  Diesel Multiple Unit Building Programme 1960.

Requirements for the L.M.Region for 1960 noted as follows :-

Anticipated delivery dates from Derby Works are as follows :-

 Low density vehicles - Delivery to commence on 9.1.60. at a rate of one per week concurrently with high density vehicles.  On completion of high density vehicles, production of low density will be increased to two per week.