In its response to the Office of Rail Regulation’s draft determination of Network Rail’s Strategic Business Plan, the bodies have called for full support for Network Rail’s core high speed route strategy for the Great Western Main Line. They also demand backing for the infraco’s original plans to redevelop Reading station and a commitment to specific funds for schemes including a fourth platform at Bristol Parkway station that are required in order to achieve a Bristol Metro high frequency service.

The SWRA and SWRDA also want other rail schemes, such as Swindon to Kemble track redoubling and a Taunton to Westbury line speed increase, reinstated. They say that if accepted by the ORR, the changes would help to ensure that the rail network and rail services are capable of meeting current and future demands of people, places and businesses in the south west.

Cllr Julian Johnson, chair of the Assembly's Regional Transport Board said: "The Assembly is committed to supporting a railway that can cope with the expected growth in housing and employment over the next 20 years and helping maintain the south west’s economic viability. We will continue to lobby the rail industry and government to ensure that the right improvements are made to rail services in the south west.”

The ORR is due to publish its final determination regarding Network Rail’s business plan on 30 October 2008. The infraco will then be required to implement those schemes contained within the final report.