1. Performance Targets
The Wharfedale and Airedale lines are operated by modern rolling stock with a self contained service pattern and should be able to achieve more demanding performance targets than the current global franchise targets. We therefore seek that:
1. The punctuality target should be raised to achieve 96% on time or within five minutes
2. The reliability target should be improved to 99.5%
3. Seats should be available for all passengers, except between Guiseley and Leeds at peak periods when a loading of 20% in excess of seating capacity may be planned
4. Published specific standards are set for train cleaning, to ensure that trains enter service fully cleaned and that on train light cleaning and litter removal is given between peaks
2. Investment for growth and reliability.
The growth in passenger numbers has not been matched by investment in additional trains or infrastructure capacity. The Yorkshire and Humber Route Utilisation Strategy (RUS) should address these issues; we would argue that it should deliver the following outcomes:
1. An enhanced train and resources plan to relieve current overcrowding and provide for longer term forecast peak demand, which also meets our improved targets for performance and passenger comfort. In our view, this requires a minimum peak service of six trains at roughly 15/20 minute frequency to arrive at Leeds between 0730 and 0900 and depart between 16.50 and 18.35. Provision of a peak hour through train between Baildon and Leeds via Guiseley should be considered, subject to infrastructure improvements
2. The infrastructure improvements necessary to support the enhanced train plan, which at a minimum should include improved signalling between Guiseley and Ilkley to permit 4/5 minute headways and possible platform lengthening at selected stations
3. A capacity study of the routes between Apperley, Esholt and Dockfield Junctions to determine the optimum layout to meet longer term growth and improve reliability
4. Improved information and control systems to allow better recovery from, and timely information to passengers about, major delays and incidents
3. Train service
The Line enjoys a generally well planned and effective timetable, but this needs major enhancement to reduce peak hour overcrowding (see Item 2 above) and adjustments to match extended working hours, changing demands at weekends and better connections for London.
1. Standard journey times should be no greater than 29 minutes to/from Leeds, and 32 minutes to/from Bradford
2. Present basic weekday pattern of two trains per hour to/from Leeds and Bradford should be maintained, and arranged to give as close as possible an even interval service between Ilkley and Guiseley. Half-hourly service from Leeds to be extended until 21.00 hours: last train from Leeds to provide connection from London no earlier than the present 20.30 departure
3. An earlier first departure is required from Ilkley to Leeds SX to give a London arrival before 09.00. On Saturdays, two trains per hour to Leeds/Bradford required from Ilkley from 07.00
4. On Sundays, Bradford-Ilkley frequency should be hourly, in the first instance during the summer period to test loadings: consideration should also be given to increasing frequency to Leeds to half-hourly during shopping hours (10.00-17.00). Earlier first departures are required from Ilkley and Leeds to give connections at Leeds into 09.40 departure to London, at Shipley into first Settle and Carlisle departure and at Ilkley into first Dales Bus departures
5. Timetable should be planned to maximise connections at Shipley, primarily for passengers making journeys between Baildon and Leeds, but also for those travelling between Wharfedale and Airedale line stations
6. Any additional rolling stock should have at least the performance and passenger comfort specifications of the current four car Class 333
7. To maintain the speed advantage of rail and prevent further overcrowding, additional stops should not at this stage be introduced at the proposed new Kirkstall Forge station
4. Station Facilities
There has been welcome investment in stations over the last few years, but more is required to provide a clean, safe and welcoming approach to passengers. We therefore seek that:
1. Ticket Offices and/or Ticket machines should be adequate to cope with peak demand at all stations, with machines on each platform where access between platforms involves steps. Improved maintenance of ticket machines to reduce out of service frequency. Pre-paid, smart card and remote ticketing systems e.g. home printing should be developed
2. All stations should have enclosed and heated waiting shelters, high intensity lighting and monitored security CCTV and public phones for rail service information and emergency use
3. Effective barrier systems, using smart-card technology with high-flow capacity should be considered for Leeds and Bradford Forster Square. These and more effective on train tickets checks would assist in prevention of ticketless travel
4. Clear signage of station facilities is provided. Up to date local bus information and taxi phone numbers to be clearly displayed at stations
5. Regular cleaning is provided for buildings, waiting areas and platforms. Provision of effective rubbish containers, and their regular emptying, should be a priority
6. At busier stations, consideration should be given to increasing the hours at which the station is staffed. This is particularly applicable at Shipley, for evening interchange
5. Accessibility issues
The Group expects the franchisee to provide good access for elderly, disabled and encumbered passengers at all locations and on all trains; this includes
1. Ramps on all trains
2. Proper signage of location of level access
3. Easy well graded access between platforms at all stations
4. Appropriate high resolution screens and effective PA systems
6. Car Parking
There is a serious shortage of parking spaces at all stations on the Line, exacerbated by the lack of proper bus connections. Solutions are likely to require considerable investment because of the lack of adjacent available land. The Group wishes to see a specific development programme agreed between the franchisee and Metro to create extra capacity and enhance safety and security.
At the same time, encouragement should be given to walking and cycling to stations, which would require a modest investment in safe walking routes and increased cycle storage at stations.
7. Integrated transport
An area where, despite valiant efforts in the past, there is considerable scope for improvement
1. The existing Menston-Otley bus link should be enhanced to serve the areas of Otley north of the Wharfe, new bus links introduced linking Baildon station with the upper town, within Ilkley itself and linking Ilkley to Addingham and upper Wharfedale. All these services should be specifically timed to connect with trains, able to wait for limited periods in the event of late running and have simple through ticketing arrangements
2. New ticketing systems (see 4.1 above) should ensure that through ticketing is available between train and rail-link buses and vice-versa
3. A combined local bus and rail timetable should be available for Wharfedale, giving better publicity for leisure and tourism travel
4. Increased capacity for cycles on train should be provided when current rolling stock becomes due for major overhaul or replacement
Wharfedale Rail Users' Group: July 2008