London Gatwick and GWR Partner to Improve Rail Connectivity Along North Downs Line

London Gatwick and Great Western Railway (GWR) have announced a strategic partnership to enhance the North Downs Line, improving rail connectivity between London Gatwick and key destinations in Surrey and the Thames Valley. The partnership was unveiled during Gatwick’s annual Transport Forum on 14 November, which brings together stakeholders from across the UK transport sector, local governments, and communities.

Enhancing Station and Service Infrastructure

The collaboration aims to drive improvements in station and service infrastructure along the North Downs Line, which connects London Gatwick to Reading and the surrounding areas. GWR and Gatwick will work together to promote the development of better services, with a focus on enhancing the passenger experience. Both organizations plan to develop joint marketing efforts and explore commercial opportunities to improve station facilities, while continuing to engage with local communities to address their travel needs.

Gatwick’s Commitment to Sustainable Travel

The partnership aligns with Gatwick’s sustainability goals outlined in its "Decade of Change" initiative, which aims to increase public transport and zero-emission travel to 60% by 2030. The collaboration with GWR supports this objective by making it easier for passengers and staff to use environmentally-friendly transport options.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick, said, “This partnership with GWR provides a framework for enhancing air-to-rail services, ensuring better connections for passengers and local communities as we expand our operations with the Northern Runway Project.”

GWR’s Role in Regional Growth

Tom Pierpoint, Commercial Development Director at GWR, highlighted the importance of rail transport in supporting regional economic growth and providing accessible travel options for both residents and travelers. He emphasized that the partnership with Gatwick will help unlock the full potential of the North Downs Line.

Forum Discussion and Future Developments

The Transport Forum also featured presentations from key figures in the transport sector, including Shamal Ratnayaka, Aviation Strategy Lead at Transport for London, who discussed the role of international airports in enhancing regional transport networks. Speakers from the Department for Transport, Network Rail, and Govia Thameslink Railway also shared insights on the ongoing investment in Gatwick Airport Station and the wider transport infrastructure.

In addition, Transport for the South East updated attendees on the development of the Regional Active Travel Strategy, while Metrobus provided an overview of its collaboration with Gatwick to expand local services and grow its hydrogen bus fleet.