26.8.2009 Response to Department for Transport Freedom of Information Act request
First Capital Connect response to Department for Transport Freedom of Information Act request- Statistics on the 10 most overcrowded train lines/journeys in 2008. The full Department for Transport's response can be found here.
The First Capital Connect trains on the Great Northern route that feature in the list have significantly changed since the data was recorded in autumn 2008.
In May 2009, five additional trains joined the route and combined with timetable revisions and infrastructure improvements including platform lengthening and power upgrades, First Capital Connect has added over 5000 seats to the peak timetable.
This was the most significant change to the timetable for some 15 years and provides12-carriage trains for the first time. As a result, loadings are much lower on these services.
We will continue to look for opportunities to improve capacity on the route and we are already working with the Department for Transport to seek further ways to enhance capacity.
Ends
Notes to editors
1.17.45 London King’s Cross to King's Lynn
This service is now non-stop service to Cambridge. Previously intermediate stops made this train very busy on route to London. Now that other additional trains and services call at the intermediate stations there is much more space on this Cambridge and King's Lynn service.
2. 07.45 Cambridge to London King's Cross
When this data was recorded the service had 8 carriages. As part of the new Seats for You timetable in May 2009, it now has 12 carriages. It also has three fewer stops on the way to London meaning fewer commuters board the train. Other services call at these stations.
8. 17.23 service from London Kings Cross to Peterborough.
The service has been retimed as part of the new timetable and benefits from extra rolling stock which has increased capacity on the route.
Similar statistics were published last year by the Department for Transport. This information can be found here.
For further details on the changes of the May 2009 timetable change click here:
