MP hails victory over hourly rail service
SOUTHPORT’S hourly train service to Manchester Piccadilly will be reinstated in December after years of campaigning.
A decision to withdraw the regular service was made in 2014 to the anger of commuters, rail groups and politicians.
Various campaigns for its return have since been carried out, with some daily services added in the timetable changes in May and December last year.
Southport MP Damien Moore listed it as one of his main priorities for the town and said hard work behind the scenes has secured the return of the service.
The Conservative MP said that he worked closely with a succession of transport ministers and was delighted to see the hourly service reinstated, not only for commuters and tourists, but also to bring visitors from Manchester to the town.
He said: “I have campaigned and lobbied as the political lead since the decision was made and have been successful.”
Two campaign groups, the Ormskirk, Preston and Southport Travellers’ Association (Opsta) and Southport Rail Transport
Omega Holidays was established in 1979 and was family owned and managed until becoming part of the JG Travel Group in 2017. The family friendly approach to customer service remains a core part of the Omega offering. Forum, have been vocal in their calls for the return of the service, while Mr Moore said he also held talks with West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper and Wigan representative Lisa Nandy over the issue.
“I always wanted to help not just commuters and students going to university in Manchester, but also to bring people from Manchester to Southport.
“It’s part of a bigger picture. It’s about getting people into Southport, which helps businesses and increases footfall. It also takes away that big issue in Southport which is parking.”
He added: “The next step will be to step up the pressure to improve the rolling stock.”