BAA to review Airtrack timetables

More than 300 people in Feltham, Bedfont and Hanworth signed a petition opposing Airtrack when they were told barriers at the Bedfont Lane level crossing - which is already closed for 36 minutes each hour - would need to be down at least three extra times an hour to accommodate the extra trains.

MP Alan Keen, who represents Feltham and Heston, has thrown his support behind the opposition to the plan and held meetings with transport minister Sadiq Khan to get his constituents concerns heard.

Bridget Rogers, of Durham Road, Feltham, signed the petition opposing Airtrack. She said: "It would be a nightmare in Feltham if those barriers are down any longer than they already are.

"It's already like a car park on the High Street during rush hour and we can only hope that this delay means they are taking the time to sort something out."

Under current plans two extra trains are due to pass through Feltham in each direction every hour between Waterloo and Heathrow but it has not been made clear how many of those trains would stop at Feltham.

A public inquiry into the Airtrack scheme was due to begin in January or February but that will be delayed until work on the new timetable is done.

A spokeswoman for BAA said: "In view of this additional timetabling work we will be seeking an inquiry commencement date in late spring of next year. This will have the additional benefit of allowing more time to discuss matters with objectors and to seek to resolve or reduce the issues before the inquiry."