Former railway boss says SWR timetable changes 'don't add up'
South Western Railway is facing heavy criticism for changes to its services
A former South Western Railway (SWR) boss is questioning recent changes made to the operator's train timetable.
There are currently fewer services running through several stations across our region.
According to SWR, the temporary changes are due to reduced demand and staff sickness, both attributed to the Coronavirus pandemic.
However Stewart Palmer, former South Western Railway managing director, said there is "no evidence from recent weeks that the levels of sickness by staff from COVID has forced these changes".
'These changes will just drive passengers away'
Instead, Mr Palmer is calling for an increased service on behalf of RailFuture, a national campaign group.
He says customers are finding different ways to their destinations.
"SWR has already reduced the attractiveness of these services by reducing frequencies, extending average journey times and the withdrawal of on-train refreshments.
"They seem to display a cavalier disregard for the needs of rail users.
"These changes will just drive passengers away to higher carbon means of transport. Rail users and their elected politicians, both local and national, need to make their voices heard to reverse this madness," he added.
The rail operator has stressed this is a temporary measure, that will be reviewed on a weekly basis.