MP for Hertsmere Oliver Dowden expressed his disappointment with delays to the planning Oyster Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) extension to Radlett station.

Govia Thameslink’s franchise agreement included a committed obligation to use all ‘reasonable endeavours’ to introduce Oyster PAYG to Radlett by the end of September 2015.

However, due to complications and the complexity of extending Oyster PAYG this target has not been met.

Mr Dowden said: “I am aware that for many of my constituents the cost of train travel is a cause of concern.

“Many Radlett residents were expecting Oyster PAYG to be extended to Radlett station by the end of September and I know that they will be disappointed by the delay.

“I wrote to the chief executive of Govia Thameslink calling for them to set out clearly the time scales involved with extending Oyster PAYG to Radlett station.

“The Department of Transport have informed me that Govia Thameslink committed in their franchise agreement to use all reasonable endeavours to extend Oyster PAYG to Radlett by the end of September 2015.

“I want to know what reasonable endeavours have been taken and when the complications they refer to will be addressed.

“It is vital that DfT officials and representatives from Govia Thameslink get their heads together to determine who precisely is responsible for what, and how to address the complications that Govia Thameslink cite as being the reason for the delay.

“Both my constituents and I expect as much, and I will continue to monitor developments closely.”