Rail Infrastructure and inequality

Pacer train

An old Class 142 sitting at a platform at Hull station

Most would agree that the rail infrastructure in the UK is badly in need of upgrading. Many lines were closed in the 1960’s as part of the “Beeching axe”, this has arguably had the affect of increasing inequality in certain regions.

Over the recent decade investment in the rail network has increased significantly with new rolling stock and closed lines being scheduled for reopening.

My research interests are; between poor rail infrastructure, indequate policy decisions and/or railway links to my central theme of inequality, and sub theme of environment.

I argue that high speed rail is a necessity but should be built from the top of the country down. Simultaneously, I also argue for increased capacity in the North of the UK by increasing platform lengths, increased electrification, the upgrading of rolling stock and signalling systems.


Latest Research Articles

9 May 2020 / Rail

The Varsity Line: Connecting Oxford and Cambridge

The Varsity Line connecting Oxford and Cambridge is due to re-open in 2030. Bidwells cites it as a new line, however, there was a Oxford-Cambridge connection until closed in 1968 due to the beeching cuts.

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13 January 2020 / Rail

To help England’s north, link it up – The Economist

A review of a recent Economist article on the subject of transport and linking the country up. Arguing the case for HS2 and its improved rail links to the existing network, the capacity it will provide and the reduction in congestion on the West Coast Mainline.

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