By Wyatt Gates, Events Strategy Manager, South West Trains.

The Chairman welcomed Wyatt Gates from South West Trains to the meeting and invited him to address Members to give an update on the subject of major event planning (September 16 – December 2017). 

Wyatt Gates explained that some of the South West Train carriages had been increased to ten cars and took just under an hour to get to Waterloo.  Councillor Shelim explained that some of the ten carriage trains overhung the platforms which was causing a few issues.  Wyatt Gates agreed to highlight the issues to Network Rail to see what could be done. 

Danny Mare from South West Trains gave Members a short presentation on their project and explained how it would affect the Royal Borough.  It was noted that work was taking place on the former Waterloo Int. Terminal and once complete would be referred to as the ‘Windsor Terminal’.  It was noted that a new track would be installed, platforms shortened and a bridge installed throughout March – July.  It was noted that Platforms 1-9 would be closed from the 5 – 28 August and Platforms 1 – 4 would be extended to cope with the ten car suburban service.  It was noted that new track and signalling would be installed on Platforms 1 – 8. 

Danny Mare went onto explain that maps had gone out to South West Train passengers in January to notify them of the impacts to the service.  It was noted that the impacts highlighted to passengers would be supported by bus services and other rail services.  The Forum was informed that tourists to Windsor may be affected by issues as on the 25 August Windsor would be at 66.7% of it’s normal 100% usage. 

It was noted that work was currently on-going 24/7 and the communications campaign was well underway by way of stickers, leaflets, social media and information on the South West Trains website.  Danny Mare explained that South West Trains were unable to publish its final timetable until twelve weeks from the final date.  Members were shown an artists impression as of December 2018 which showed a retail offering underneath the terminal and a direct link to four train lines. 

In the ensuing discussion the following points were noted:

·         That whilst the terminal would not officially be called the ‘Windsor Terminal’ the name might be considered in the future.

·         That South West Trains were unable to confirm at the present time whether more concessions would be available in the future.  It was noted that the franchises were due to be announced in April.

·         That the timescales mentioned were currently accurate.  It was noted that an anticipated timetable could currently be found on the South West Trains website but that this timetable might change. 

·         That South West Trains were reviewing the potential of a fast train from London to Windsor and Eton. 

The Forum agreed that the Council should start lobbying the new franchise holder for a fast train to Windsor and Eton.

The Forum was informed that regular calendar updates would be provided to Members.