SURREY County Council has backed a report calling for Crossrail 2 to be taken forward as a priority.

Following the publication of Lord Adonis’ national infrastructure report, the council is calling for the proposed rail line to become a focus due to the benefits it could have for residents.

Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for environment and planning Mike Goodman said: “This report proves that Crossrail 2 is just the ticket for the region’s overburdened rail network and the country’s future prosperity.

“Not only will the line relieve the morning crush and speed up journeys, it will drive economic growth in London, Surrey and way beyond, which is why we have put forward the case for extending the line to Woking and Dorking.

“With four Surrey train services already among the top 10 most overcrowded in the country and passenger demand forecast to rise 40% by 2043, it’s vital we do everything possible to ensure it’s full steam ahead for a regional project with national significance.”

A study for the council found that there was strong evidence for supporting a Crossrail 2 service to stations on the line to Woking and potential for extending the railway from Epsom to Dorking.