NETWORK RAIL'S support for the railfreight project was considered at a senior level and should be taken seriously, transport consultant Nick Gallup has told the enquiry.
Asked by Mr Kingston about the council's sugestion that a junior employee had compiled the company's response, Mr Gallup gave a detailed explanation of how plpanning comments were dealt with by managers.
He concluded: “This is not just a technician receiving an application form and stamping it – it goes right to the top of the hierarchy.”
He added that Tesco's support was very signifiant as the company was by far the biggest retailer in Britain, with experience and particular interest in delivering stock by rail.
He added that the rival Colnebrook site would be difficult for large freight trains from Southampton,which would have to go via Reading, including a locomotive “run-around” .
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