With 2024 well underway, I’d like to take this opportunity to reflect on the progress we’ve made and to look ahead. For me, 2023 was a year distinguished by conversations with local communities across the region. We were able to update communities in May, publishing an update on the entire East West Rail (EWR) route – followed by 12 events with local communities, where the team welcomed thousands of people to talk about our proposals.  

Also in May, we held the first meeting of EWR Co’s Accessibility Advisory Panel – the first of its kind for a UK based rail company with the goal of setting industry leading standards for accessibility. Later in the year, we invited representatives from a wide range of local organisations to discuss ways we can engage with communities between now, statutory consultation and beyond. Discussions with Parish Councils and Ward Councillors also continued at pace through the EWR Co Local Representatives Group meetings. Topics for discussion ranged from Active Travel, Business Case and Environmental Impact Assessments to inclusion, diversity and social value.  

It was a very productive year, and I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has taken the time to work with the team to help us better understand local communities and their priorities.   

Looking ahead, the entire team is focused on bringing the next stage of plans forward for public consultation – the first phase of which we expect to launch in the first half of this year. I sincerely hope people will feel inspired to help shape the future of the railway and contribute feedback during the consultation period. I hope you enjoy reading about some of the EWR activity since our last newsletter, as well as being encouraged by what’s coming down the line in 2024. As always, thank you for taking the time to read.