849. SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE ARRANGEMENTS. (Contd.)
It was decided that priority should be given to the schemes for Saltley
and Toton in addition to any of the schemes which were nearing completion.
850. SCHEMES AUTHORISED BUT NOT YET IN
OPERATION
1. Marylebone Suburban Services
Progress in bogie modification and refurbishing
Mr.Stanley reported that the programme of bogie modification and
refurbishing of the Marylebone 4-car sets was up to date and 4 sets had been
completed to the 8th April.
2. Chester - Birkenhead
Chester - Liverpool (Lime Street)
It was confirmed the programmed date of June 12th for the
commencement of these services would be met.
851. SCHEMES IN OPERATION
1. Manchester Part 3
Mr. Gould reported that the Manchester Part 3 scheme introduced on
the 6th March was working satisfactorily and the loading of mid-day trains
had improved slightly.
2. Watford - St.Albans and Harrow - Belmont
The comparative statement of the estimated annual net revenue of
the passenger train services on the branches when operated (i) by A.C.V. units
and (ii) by two car (M.C. + D.T.) Multiple Unit sets was examined and in view
of the excess of the total costs of each of the services over the receipts it
was agreed that it would be necessary to decide the future of the services
before a submission could be compiled for the authorisation of the two car
sets in lieu of the A.C.V. units.
Mr. Bell stated that an investigation was already proceeding into
the possibility of withdrawing the passenger train service between Harrow and
Belmont.
The question of the high track and signalling costs attributed to
the Watford - St.Albans branch was discussed and Mr. Riley explained broadly
the make up of the figure. Mr. Gould and Mr. Beatty agreed to investigate
whether the debit to the scheme for signalmen's wages and repairs to track
earthworks, bridges etc. respectively could not be reduced.
It was agreed to await a further report on the future of the
Belmont passenger services and on the track and signalling costs on the
Watfoord - St. Albans branch before the compilation of a submission for
authority for the two-car sets was undertaken.
