Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will increase the requirements placed on Network Rail to consult local communities on infrastructure planning.

Network Rail has to comply with all relevant legislation in carrying out works on its network. It also has to comply with the terms of its Network Licence, enforced by the Office of Rail and Road, which includes provision on dealings with stakeholders and maintenance of long term plans for the network. Any changes to these licence requirements are a matter for the Office of Rail and Road.

Network Rail works with over 60 Community Rail Partnerships (a government initiative). This involves local people in the development and promotion of local and rural routes, services and stations, aiming to increase passenger numbers and freight use and improve the revenue and efficiency of services.