As you may be aware, Marylebone is currently the only station in London to use diesel only trains, something that greatly increases the noise and fumes in the area. Nickie knows from her mailbag that this is an issue that greatly concerns both local people and local UK businesses. Nickie is particularly concerned about the health of children as young as eight who play in the Fourth Feathers Youth & Community Centre which backs on to the platforms.
Nickie agrees with the Marylebone Society and residents across the neighbourhood that the Chiltern Railways franchise which ends on 31st December 2021 presents an excellent opportunity to address these matters by stipulating that all diesel DMU coaches be converted to diesel/battery bi-mode-hybrids in any renewed contract. This will enable the engines to be run on battery when in urban areas, thereby reducing the levels of noise and noxious fumes when approaching stations in densely populated areas such as Marylebone.
Nickie has written to the Rail Minister, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, asking for this to be urgently considered in the new contract. Nickie has also requested a meeting with the Minister to discuss how the Department of Transport is looking to address the problems of rail-related air pollution, particularly in urban areas such as around Marylebone Station.
If you would like to share your opinion, please let Nickie know below.
