Agenda item

To receive a verbal update on progress in developing and promoting the proposed scheme.

Attached, for reference, is the latest brochure setting out the scope and benefits of the scheme.

Prior to the provision of a verbal update on progress in developing and promoting the West London Orbital Rail (WLO) scheme the Chair welcomed Mr John Cox (as a local resident) to the meeting who had requested to speak on the item.

In thanking the Chair for the opportunity to address the meeting, Mr Cox noted the previous update in January 2024.  At that stage, members had been informed of the progress being made in completion of the GRIP 2 Stage of work which it had been anticipated would confirm technically feasibility of the scheme and include an updated cost estimate enabling a decision to be taken on the next stage of work involving detailed design and public consultation in order to move to the GRIP 3 stage.  Mr Cox expressed a desire for more concrete details on the subsequent progress made.

Mr Cox also raised the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation’s (OPDC) approach towards development on Old Oak West and the implications he felt this may have on the benefits of WLO across other parts of West London and Park Royal.  Concerns were also highlighted in relation to the impact on the surrounding area of the proposed removal of a footbridge at North Acton station.

As a final comment, clarification was also sought on the membership & quorum arrangements for the Board, which the Chair advised would be addressed outside of the meeting.

In thanking Mr Cox for his attendance, ongoing interest and representations made in relation to progress on West London Orbital Rail the Chair then invited David Francis (Director - West London Alliance) to provide a brief update on progress in development of the scheme, with the following issues highlighted:

·             Confirmation was provided that the GRIP Stage 2 process had been completed with work now underway to move to Stage 3 and the project advancing toward the Transport and Works Act phase.

·             Subject to completion of the necessary stages and confirmation of the required funding, the aim was to have completed delivery of the scheme to coincide with the opening of HS2.  The complex nature of the process was noted given the various partners and stakeholders involved including TfL, GLA, London Boroughs and the new Government.  Whilst the strategic case for WLO included a focus on enhanced connectivity, reduced congestion, and the creation of new homes and jobs it was noted delivery would also be contingent upon the necessary funding allocations being made available as part of the Business Case, which would need to include consideration of TfL’s financial settlement.

Given the limited time available for the remainder of the meeting, Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Chair) in acknowledging the points raised by Mr Cox confirmed the Board’s commitment to delivery of WLO given its strategic importance for West London.  This included support for the ongoing collaboration between the WLA, GLA and TfL to develop the business cases and maximize the associated housing, business, and leisure opportunities.

On this basis, the Board noted the update provided at the meeting on the progress made with the design and development of the Business Case and funding plan to support delivery of West London Orbital.  Having noting the representations made by John Cox at the meeting it was also RESOLVED that regular progress updates continue to be provided at future meetings.