Residents across south Bucks have been called to have their say in a major rail development that would see trains run directly from the Thames Valley to Heathrow Airport.

The proposed link – which includes a 5 km tunnel - would connect Maidenhead, Twyford, Reading and Slough to Heathrow without the need to change at Paddington.

The second public consultation will take place between Tuesday, February 23 and Saturday, March 12 with a final submission dare for feedback for Monday, April 4.

Network held a first round of public information events last year, and based on feedback has been investigating design options and the exact location of the tunnel, among other things.

Managing director for the Western Route of Thames Valley, Mark Langman, said: “This proposed link presents many opportunities for residents and businesses based across the Thames Valley, south west and west.

“It will not only provide millions of passengers with faster journeys, but it will also help to relieve congestion at London Paddington and open opportunities for thousands of businesses, enabling them to become more competitive and increasing economic growth.”

For more information on consultation locations go to http://www.networkrail.co.uk/westernraillinktoheathrow/