Why a Crossrail boost brings with it worries about fares and overcrowding

  • London
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A Crossrail boost to the Thames Valley could raise new concerns about fares and overcrowding.

The £15 billion commuter rail line from Essex and Kent to Maidenhead in Berkshire is being extended to Reading.

Credit: Crossrail

Crossrail trains will also stop at Twyford, increasing the total number of stations on the route to 40. It could mean eastbound trains in the morning rush hour are already full by the time they reach other Crossrail stations.

Credit: Press Association

It is unclear whether commuters from Reading and Twyford will be able to use Oyster cards.

Transport for London admitted an Oyster deal has yet to be reached with mainline rail commuters, although London mayor Boris Johnson is hopeful.