Enfield calls on action to improve local rail services

englandtimes-Their joint letters ask for local rail services between Moorgate and Welwyn, Hertford and Stevenage to be brought under the control of Transport for London.The move would improve infrastructure, economic opportunities, and support Enfield’s much-needed new housing. Enfield Council’s Leader and Chief Executive have joined forces with Members of Parliament and the London Assembly Member representing Enfield to call on the government to bring local rail services between Moorgate and Welwyn, Hertford and Stevenage under the control of Transport for London (TfL).

In letters sent to Heidi Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Transport, Enfield’s leaders highlight how moving from the current operator to TfL could improve train reliability, increase the number of trains and bring about better integration with London’s transport network.

The proposals focus on the Great Northern suburban lines, which serve key Enfield stations including Enfield Chase, Gordon Hill, and Crews Hill.

Cllr Ergin Erbil, leader of Enfield Council, said: “Improved public transport is essential to unlocking Enfield’s full potential. Bringing these services under TfL’s control would bring more frequent and reliable trains for all residents. It would also help us create the new homes and infrastructure our borough needs including at the proposed new town around Enfield Chase and Crews Hill.”

The letters to government stress that better rail services are central to tackling London’s housing challenges and supporting sustainable growth. Under TfL management, other suburban lines – such as those now part of the London Overground – have seen improvements.

A government-led New Towns Taskforce has recently identified Enfield Chase and Crews Hill as a potential location for a major new community of around 21,000 homes along with the schools, transport links and green infrastructure needed to support it.

Enfield Council believes that devolving the Great Northern rail services to TfL is vital to making this vision a reality if the government decides to proceed with a New Town in the borough. It would ensure the area is well connected, sustainable and supported by the right transport network from the outset.

Perry Scott, Chief Executive of Enfield Council, added: “Devolving local rail services would give communities in Enfield greater certainty that investment and service planning reflect their needs. It’s an important step toward building connected, thriving and sustainable neighbourhoods.”

Enfield’s leaders are urging the Department for Transport to move quickly to support the transfer, which they say would create a clearer route to improved services, new homes and stronger communities.