James Williams’ Post

It would make far more economic sense to invest this money in improving internet quality across the UK. Our internet speeds are quite frankly embarrassing - 48th in the world, behind Vietnam in 47th place. For context, Iceland is 6th fastest, so it's not about the money, it's about priorities. We're investing in out-dated transport that doesn't even connect northern cities, when we should be thinking digitally.

The rail line between Dublin's Connolly Station and Grand Canal Dock will close from 26 December until 5 January. Iarnród Éireann will replace 4.2km of track on the loop line, the busiest section of the rail network. DART services will run between Howth/Malahide and Connolly, and Grand Canal Dock and Bray/Greystones. Limited bus shuttles and Dublin Bus ticket acceptance will help passengers. Intercity services to Rosslare will include bus transfers. Northern and Maynooth commuter trains will terminate at Connolly.

What did this week have in store for light rail? Award-winning networks, real-time travel updates and a pledge from light rail leaders to push for legislation change for young volunteers. This week's news round-up highlights key developments shaping the sector. → Edinburgh Trams in the running for more industry awards → NET Nottingham Trams updates safety guidance for tram operations → Manchester Metrolink customers set to benefit from annual fare savings → Tyne & Wear Metro launches a real-time map for better journey planning → Track renewal works underway in Croydon. Stay informed – read the full round-up via the comments link.

🗣️There has been overwhelming support for Network Rail’s plans to restore, respect and regenerate Britain’s busiest station, with three out of four passengers are in support of Network Rail Property’s new plans to make Liverpool Street station fit for the future. Follow the link below to read the press release and hear more about the plans: https://lnkd.in/erwhgXpH #time4liverpoolstreet

Public Transport

Public transport

I am deeply disappointed but not surprised to read in the Daily Telegraph today that the Government has ignored road recommendations by an expert review panel. Soon after my election, I questioned the Government’s decision to not proceed with funding the M7 Motorway expansion. The recommendations from this panel highlighted the critical nature of these major infrastructures, including the urgent funding of 10 high-priority road projects. These are not just numbers on a page; they represent the lifeline of our community. And a growing one. It seems from the report that despite clear warnings, the necessary funding allocations for upgrades and expansions to alleviate congestion and support for our rapidly growing population in Western Sydney was ignored. I recently wrote a letter to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government outlining that the decision to withdraw $110 million in federal funding for the M7 Motorway expansion and its connection to the new M12 Motorway is a blow to the socio-economic development of Western Sydney. The livelihood of the country’s economic engine – Western Sydney – must be prioritised by the Labor Government to ensure we have equitable access to opportunities and foster a thriving, connected region. The M7-M12 link is crucial for the new Western Sydney International Airport and the prosperity of our commercial and residential hubs. The residents of Fowler, where nearly half rely on their cars for daily commutes, are facing the brunt of this oversight. I will continue to urge the government to reconsider its stance and to recognise the national significance of these projects. As the voice of Fowler, I stand firm in my commitment to fight for the infrastructure our community deserves. We must not be forgotten in the federal resource allocation. * This video is from back in March 2023 #QuestionTime when I asked the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government on "What will you do to restore (this) critical transport link for my community?" #DaiLeMPFowler #VoiceForWesternSydney #WesternSydneyRepresentation #AusPol #AusPolitics #Infrastructure Margaret Cheng James O'Doherty News Corp Australia

Over the last few years, I've been lucky to see up close how the South Wales Metro is coming together. Great to see the Class 398 tram-train fleet at the Transport for Wales Taff's Well depot! For my latest report for Sharp End, we hear from Lewis Brencher MCIPR on what's been achieved so far, and the next milestones for the project. And with growing calls for the UK Government to provide more money for rail improvements works in Wales, Sarah Williams-Gardener from the Western Gateway and Mark Barry set out the opportunities for new schemes. Report below or watch the full show here: https://lnkd.in/eCGuw4tE

Discussion about transport in Ontario. There is better train and public transport within the GTA but subject to disruption. And then there is all the road construction in Toronto itself lately… #ontario #transport

The first month of results are in from the 50c public transport trial across Queensland. Network trips have increased 15% with substantially higher percentage increases on weekends. Will be interesting to continue to watch this space across the rest of this year. https://lnkd.in/g4czxi_g #queensland #publictransport #fares #transport