THE suggested £2.5 billion railway revamp appears to be laudable in many points, such as "Railtrack's plan to increase the Great Western main line from two track to four from London to the West Country". In other words, four tracks fully installed from Didcot Parkway to Swindon, throughout.

Likewise the plans to install stations for commuters at Wootton Bassett, Corsham and south of Devizes, merit attention.

However, the demolition of Reading Station, is highly questionable, given the fact that the station there has been modernised under British Rail, incorporating facilities specifically for rail users. It appears that Railtrack has a one track mind to develop property, rather than invest in the actual railway track.

In Wiltshire, the Swindon to Kemble line needs to have the double track re-instated, thus eliminating delays to trains caused by the single line.

The line from Swindon via Gloucester, is an important diversionary route for South Wales, when problems occur in the Severn Tunnel.

Railtrack ought to deal with investment to make rail travel better.

FRANK ADAM

Gambier Parry Gardens

Gloucester