Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Hammond and Nick de Bois

Thursday 18th October 2012 Commons Chamber

[Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con)]

4. What recent representations he has received on investment for a third railway track between London, Liverpool Street and Brimsdown.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Stephen Hammond)]

My hon. Friend refers to a small scheme involving a piece of extra track in the Brimsdown area. The Mayor of London wrote to the Secretary of State this week commending the alternative, but more expensive, scheme, which would also facilitate economic regeneration.

[Nick de Bois]

The Minister will know that the project enjoys substantial support from Network Rail, north London boroughs and the Mayor’s office. It is crucial to the development of north London, including for potentially up to 33% of new homes, and for more than 20,000 jobs. Will he meet me to discuss support for financial frontloading with resulting payback from local authorities, developers and stakeholders? Any expression of support would be welcome.

[Stephen Hammond]

I will of course be delighted to meet my hon. Friend and any other colleagues he feels would be appropriate.