THE huge proposed structural changes to many listed buildings and bridges has been ill thought-out.

Why can’t Network Rail electrify the rail tracks by adding a third ‘rail’ midway between the already-in-place routes?

The London Underground operates this system very efficiently.

Granted, this central ‘rail’ would be a live rail but there are methods available to cover this live rail with a material that insulates against intrusions from animals and wildlife. This material has a simple zip installed which opens up access to the ‘live’ rail for the train’s contacts travelling along the rail to allow the electric current to pass into the train’s motors, behind which the zip closes the live rail again.

This simple connection would save much disruption and make it possible for the electrification to be completed much sooner than the current plans.

ADRIAN TAYLOR
Duncan close
Eynsham




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