A HAMPSHIRE MP has claimed commuters are set for a “nightmare” Christmas present as rail chiefs install unpopular seating on a busy London train.
The 6.51am service from Southampton to Waterloo will have 140 extra seats from later this month as part of a £65 million revamp by South West Trains.
But Winchester and Chandler’s Ford MP Steve Brine branded the move a “nightmare” for those trying to work on their commute because the new carriages will have three-in-a-row seating.
He said: “The blue trains are not popular and what’s more, I always understood they were being phased out not increased.”
The switch to Class 450 “blue train” will “cause a great deal of anger” among commuters who pay thousands to get into London, Mr Brine added.
• The public can view the consultation document at gov.uk and respond via post or email on SouthWesternFranchise2016@railexecutive.gsi.gov.uk
South West Trains said the move will ease overcrowding.
A spokesman said: “We know our services from Winchester and other stations on the mainline are extremely busy during the morning and evening periods and we therefore run every possible service with the maximum number of carriages.”
A date has yet to be set for the change.
It comes as the Government prepares to tender the South Western franchise, deciding who runs the service from 2017.
Mr Brine is urging the public to get involved in a 12-week consultation which will help direct bids from prospective operators.
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