Trains the issue as Grayling pays visit
TRANSPORT Secretary Chris Grayling has met Southport business leaders concerned over previous plans to change vital train links to the town.
Mr Grayling was invited to a round table meeting, held at Fletcher’s Solicitors, by Southport’s Conservative MP, Damien Moore.
Among those to attend were owners of shops, hotels and other companies who are fighting plans which would reroute the 30-yearold service from Manchester Piccadilly to Southport to other stations.
The group also wants better services and updated rolling stock.
Mr Grayling visited the town last year and said he was looking into the possibility of reopening the Burscough Curves line, linking Southport, Ormskirk, Preston and Wigan.
Speaking after last week’s meeting, he said that the Government was investing in ‘‘ the biggest rail modernisation programme for over a century to improve services for passengers’.’
He also stated that all Pacer trains would be replaced by 2020.
Mr Grayling thanked Mr Moore for arranging the meeting with business leaders, adding: “Damien cares passionately about his constituency and wants to see Southport thrive.
“This is one of Britain’s great seaside towns and I know how important the town sees its service from Manchester Piccadilly as a means to ensure that the town remains a popular destination for commuters, holidaymakers and visitors.
“We are working with Northern to see what can be done to make this happen.”
Mr Moore said: “Southport is a fantastic place, enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year who come to enjoy the sights.
“We’ve also got events such as the world-renowned Southport Flower Show, the comedy festival, the air show, and we frequently hold the Golf Open.
“For all of these reasons and more, it is vital that we have a modern updated train service fit for purpose, which will ensure that the town and everything it has to offer if enjoyed by generations to come.”