Contact: Michael Hedderly, ext 5492 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the proposed responses to the South Western Main Line Route Utilisation Study and the South Western Franchise Consultation Document be approved.

1.2 On 18 January 2006 the Environment Policy Review Committee considered this item. Members' comments will be reported orally at the meeting.

2. Reason

2.1 This decision supports Aims 3 and 5 (Achieving Economic Prosperity and Improving Services) of the Corporate Strategy by showing the extent to which the rail industry, through its Route Utilisation Strategy and franchise proposals is seeking to introduce efficiencies and improve services, thereby contributing to the economic prosperity of the region. At the same time certain aspects have been identified which are likely to have an adverse impact.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 Not to provide a response which was rejected as this would not support County Council advocacy of transport issues and its representation of Hampshire communities' interests.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or Other Executive Member Consulted - None.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - Not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - Not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor T G Knight

755Decn/MH