A proposed rail connection between Reading and Heathrow Airport could help end “ridiculous” long-winded journeys for passengers travelling from the South West and Wales, according to Slough MP Tan Dhesi.

The scheme, which would include a stop in Slough, was put on hold indefinitely in 2020. Heathrow unveiled its £49 billion expansion and modernisation plans over the summer, with a potential third runway backed by the government.

Dhesi said the lack of direct connectivity made little sense. “We have got people coming from Wales and the South West [to go to Heathrow]. They are having to get off either at Reading [to change at the town's train station] or then catch a coach or a bus to travel to Heathrow. It's absolutely ridiculous. It's not effective, it's not efficient and it's not environmentally friendly. This would benefit not just my Slough constituents but 20% of the UK population.”

Airport bosses have described the site’s expansion as “urgent” and said it is currently working at capacity “to the detriment of trade and connectivity.”

Dexter Smith, Slough Borough Council’s Conservative leader, added: “It's not just a third runway. This is an increase in the size of Heathrow Airport of 50%. The government should grab it by the horns and make it a condition that if the airport expansion goes ahead there should be a western rail connection as well.”

A Heathrow spokesperson said: “We remain committed to making journeys to Heathrow easier and more sustainable. That's why we're continuing to explore options for a new rail link from the west, which would offer faster, direct connections from the West of England and South Wales to the airport. We're pleased to be part of the national conversation on future transport plans and will keep working with our partners to improve rail connections that support local communities and help the UK grow.”

Image: Heathrow Airport