Plymouth Employment and Skills Board (ESB) have joined the plethora of voices backing the proposed rail link between Reading and Heathrow Airport, opening up a faster connection to London for the far South West.

The £500 million proposals which are being discussed by Transport Secretary, Philip Hammond, Network Rail and the British Airport Authority would mean Westcountry passengers could change at Reading and take a high speed train directly to Heathrow.

Graham Stirling, Chair of Plymouth ESB said: “These proposals represent a lifeline to Plymouth. We want to attract inward investment and bring new business to expand or relocate to the city. The closure of the airport has dealt a blow to our industries, higher education, priority sector companies and businesses which trade internationally.

“This is precisely the type of development that has the potential to transform Plymouth’s reputation for business. We have a fantastic location that we need to capitalise on. Targeted investment in transport networks and high speed broadband with the resulting free flow of skills into the city will enable and stimulate our capacity for growth.”

The plans would mean a potential 30 minute reduction in journey time to Heathrow for Plymouth passengers. If implemented, the scheme would not be in service until 2021.

ENDS