FREIGHT trains entering and leaving the goods yard may delay passenger trains, causing a knock-on effect for the wider rail network, a First Capital Connect director has told the inquiry.

Strife's last witness, the train operator's commercial director Hugh Clancy, said that although there were sufficient gaps in the timetable to run two goods trains an hour in each direction on the fast tracks past the proposed depot, they would need to cross the slow tracks used by commuter trains.

He said: “Network Rail has been unable to demonstrate that freight trains will be able to enter and exit the strategic rail freight interchange without delays.

“This has huge significance for passenger services.”

He said that under the multi-billion Thameslink upgrade, 12 passenger trains an hour would be using the Midland Main Line, with any delays likely to effect the Great Northern route from Kings Cross , and even trains south of London.

He said: “At the last inquiry, our views were given less weight than those of Network Rail.”

He cast doubt on the support given by Network Rail to the railfreight project, saying it was in its interests as Helioslough proposed to pay for improvements to the network.

The inquiry has adjourned, with Mr Clanvy due to be cross-examined after lunch.