|
Delays & Problems
Even though the Act had given HGDR the
right to use the LSWR line to Guildford, the LSWR did not want
to actually give that right. There was quite some rivalry between
LSWR and LBSCR, and it was seen by the former, that LBSCR were
intruding into their area. HGDR tried to meet with LSWR over the
issue but were told that LBSCR needed to be in the discussions.
The negotiations did not go smoothly, and LSWR continued to avoid
the issue, until HGDR (backed by LBSCR) decided to present a bill
to Parliament over the matter. The LSWR wrote to LBSCR stating
that they would oppose any request for powers to use their line
and station at Guildford. It is thought that the bill may well
have included plans to run an entirely separate line from Peasmarsh
to Guildford just for the Horsham trains to use! But the threat
of going to parliament persuaded the LSWR and by 13th May 1861
an agreement was made.
It was obviously not seen that this
agreement was a final solution, as there was another agreement
drawn up on 5th November 1863, and when the line was finally opened
the LSWR tended to delay trains from Horsham and cause other difficulties.
Final agreement wasn't reached until 33 years after the line opened!
Click here to continue to: 'HGDR & LBSCR - 'Whose line is it anyway!'
|
