MP and Candidates join forces to support Rail and Southern Link improvements. Responding to the consultation on Worcestershire’s transport strategy, the three Conservatives fighting constituencies in and around Worcester have joined forces to urge a focus on improving key transport links. Peter Luff, MP for Mid Worcestershire, Robin Walker, PPC for Worcester and Harriett Baldwin, PPC for West Worcestershire agreed a joint response to the consultation, saying: “We welcome the decision to include plans for Worcester Parkway station which, it is widely agreed, would help to reduce traffic in and around Worcester and improve rail links both East-West and North-South for the whole area. Whilst it is disappointing that these could not be included in the first phase of the strategy, it is clear that strong support from the train operating companies on both lines will be vital for the project’s success. We will all work together to urge the train operating companies to back this project.” “We also welcome the proposed junction improvements on the Southern Link road but are surprised that moves to encourage more dual carriageway were not included in a strategy that spans a twenty year time period. These improvements have been urged by the Chambers of Commerce for Hereford and Worcester for some time and we are happy to support them.” “It is clear that at a time of limited resources, some of the major transport projects discussed, such as the North West Link Road are not likely to go ahead within the next Parliamentary term, but we have noted considerable concern in all our constituencies about the scoping plans and potential route of that road.” “In the short term we support the strategy to improve facilities for travel by road, rail, foot and bicycle and urge the Council to remain ambitious on better transport links for the County.” Harriett Baldwin added: “Better transport links are vital for long term job creation in West Worcestershire. In particular the Southern Link Road from Malvern to the M5 is vital for jobs in Malvern. I am pleased to see that improvements are planned at Malvern Link station and Great Malvern station. Working with Peter Luff MP and Robin Walker, we will continue to press Network Rail for a redoubling of the Cotswold Line to Oxford and I am delighted to see the County Council emphasising the importance of the Parkway Station.”