In 2020, the fast trains between London and communities in Hertfordshire such as Knebworth and Welwyn North were understandably "temporarily" suspended due to the pandemic. 

But now, in mid-2022, despite trains being increasingly busy at peak times, the fast trains have not returned.

A commute time of 19 minutes from Knebworth has doubled to 40 minutes. For many, this has prevented or delayed a full return to work. 

Residents have been given no timescale or indication of when they might return beyond “when operationally possible”. Train prices meanwhile have not reduced, meaning that residents are getting far less value for money.

Double the journey time, on a crowded train, for the same price, or more!

Train companies have said in the past that they are waiting for passenger numbers to rise before adding more services, but this does not make sense because they are not offering the same journey options. If they want more people to use their trains, it makes sense to bring back the trains people rely on to get to work. 

Many residents have chosen to live in these areas due to the fast and convenient journeys into London and now face unworkable door-to-door commute times.

At the same time, many bosses are demanding more attendance in offices, putting residents in the position of considering having to move from the homes they love so they can get into work in a reasonable timescale.

To Govia Thameslink and Great Northern who manage these routes, please bring back fast trains in 2022.