Local leaders claim devolved control of the line is “essential to unlocking Enfield’s full potential”

The Hertford Loop Line in Winchmore Hill

A joint letter signed by local politicians in Enfield calls on the government to devolve control of a key rail route through the borough.

Enfield Council’s leader and chief executive joined forces with members of parliament and a London Assembly member to call on the government to bring local rail services between Moorgate and Welwyn, Hertford and Stevenage under the control of Transport for London (TfL).

The line through Enfield is known as the Hertford Loop and serves stations at Crews Hill, Gordon Hill, Enfield Chase, Grange Park, Winchmore Hill, Palmers Green and Bowes Park. It is currently operated by Great Norther, which is part of the larger Govia Thameslink Railway franchise which is set to be nationalised next year.

However, local leaders argue that nationalisation is the perfect opportunity to devolve control of the line to TfL, likely meaning that it would become a new branch of the London Overground network.

In letters sent to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, Enfield’s leaders highlight how moving from the current operator to TfL could improve train reliability, increase the number of trains and bring about better integration with London’s transport network.

Council leader Ergin Erbil said: “Improved public transport is essential to unlocking Enfield’s full potential. Bringing these services under TfL’s control would bring more frequent and reliable trains for all residents. It would also help us create the new homes and infrastructure our borough needs including at the proposed new town around Enfield Chase and Crews Hill.”

The letters to government stress that better rail services are “central to tackling London’s housing challenges and supporting sustainable growth”. Under TfL management, other suburban lines – such as those now part of the London Overground – have seen improvements. This includes what is now known as the Weaver Line, which until 2015 had been operated by private rail operator Greater Anglia.

As well as the council leader, letters have been sent by Enfield North MP Feryal Clark, Edmonton and Winchmore Hill MP Kate Osamor, and Joanne McCartney, London Assembly member for Enfield.

Perry Scott, chief executive of Enfield Council, added: “Devolving local rail services would give communities in Enfield greater certainty that investment and service planning reflect their needs. It’s an important step toward building connected, thriving and sustainable neighbourhoods.”

The Department for Transport was invited to comment in response for this article but has not yet replied.

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