08.02.18
Grayling consults on plans to reopen historic northern line
The transport secretary has this week revealed plans to complete a feasibility study on reopening the Skipton-Colne line, closed in 1970.
Chris Grayling said the line had the potential to deliver a “vital connection” between Lancashire and Yorkshire, boosting economic and business opportunities in the north of England.
The move is part of the wider Northern Powerhouse plans and is backed by Transport for the North (TfN), which is attempting to improve connectivity in its Central Pennines corridor.
The line was first opened in 1848 and, although it was not listed for closure as part of the 1960s Beeching cuts, it was shut down in 1970 and has remained disused.
TfN chief executive, Barry White, said: “We are delighted that the Department for Transport has committed to exploring the possibility of reopening the railway line between Skipton and Colne.
“We will now work with the Department, taking note of previous work undertaken, to produce a cost and economic benefit study for re-opening the line.”
In its recent Strategic Transport Plan, TfN pointed out the Central Pennines area as a key geographical location to be listed as one of its seven corridors for growth. White has said opening up the line between Skipton and Colne again would likely be beneficial to this plan for both passengers and freight.
Following his announcement of the feasibility study, Grayling commented: “The historic line between Skipton and Colne could deliver a vital connection between the North-West and North-East, generating a vital cross-Pennine link to boost business and move goods between the east and west much more quickly.
“I want this study to look clearly at the business case and value that the line could provide.”
Rail North, which is planned to merge with TfN from April this year, intends to commission further work looking at the potential for other re-openings across the north of England.
TfN released its landmark transport strategy last month, including plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) a new network connecting six major cities.
The £70bn plan concentrates heavily on linking northern hubs with HS2, although some commentators have levelled criticism at the government for not giving enough power to the body, which still does not have the authority to generate its own income and relies on central grants.
Top image: David Mirzoeff PA Wire
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