18.07.12
Ilkeston could benefit from £20m new stations fund
Plans for a new station in Ilkeston have been given a boost from Government, as the transport secretary voiced her hopes for the project.
Campaigners are seeking a share of a £20m government fund for new stations and believe a station could bring long-term benefits for the town and nearby areas. Improved transport links could boost jobs, making it easier to commute and attracting visitors.
Justine Greening stated that it was a meeting with Jessica Lee, Conservative MP for Erewash that inspired the creation of the new stations fund.
She said: “We needed some money set aside to make sure that new stations for communities that need them, where there is growth happening, could take place.”
Lee said there was now “a suitable fund to apply for the remaining funding required” for Ilkeston train station, which could cost about £6m to build.
“It appears that the pieces of the jigsaw to fund the station are falling into place, but we are not quite there yet,” she added. “I will continue to progress this important project.”
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