A rail operator says proposed changes to a popular commuting route are "fundamental" to getting the best out of the line as they throw their weight behind the scheme.

First Great Western - which is responsible for the Marlow to Maidenhead line - has aired its support for plans to increase the frequency of trains on the stretch.

Buckinghamshire Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership (BTVLEP) previously announced an £8.8m extension to its Growth Deal from central government, which it says it hopes to plough into improving services on the busy line.

And First Great Western said the changes are vital to the livelihood of the line.

Spokesman James Davis said: "This track is fundamental to be able to unlock the potential of the line and increase capacity to a half hourly through service, passing through Bourne End to Marlow.

"We will continue to work with the local authority and the LEP to bring forward the future enhancements we know our passengers would like to see."

Currently, during peak times, a shorter Marlow to Bourne End train serves one section of the line and another between Bourne End and Maidenhead.

Installing extra track at Bourne End would allow two direct services per hour, and would improve the long wait once the peak time is over.

Marlow and Maidenhead Passengers’ Association said it would like to see the changes implemented, along with electrification of the line.

First Great Western is negotiating a new franchise deal to run the line, with its current agreement ending in September.