Rossendale Council remains determined to forge ahead with scheme for East Lancashire commuter train service

ROSSENDALE Borough Council is to press ahead with its plan for a direct rail link from Rawtenstall to Manchester – despite claims that it could force the East Lancashire Railway to close.

As highlighted in issue 287, the council has been awarded £50,000 under the Department for Transport’s Restoring Your Railways scheme for a feasibility study into the plan, plus a further £100,000 from Lancashire County Council.

However, ELR chairman Mike Kelly questioned the viability of the scheme and said that, at worst, it could force the closure of the heritage railway.

Council leader Coun Alyson Barnes said: “There was a long time when people just didn’t think it would be a goer. We are not going to let this rest.”

Speaking at the recent full council meeting, she said: “I’m really, really optimistic and this chamber, I’m certain, will unanimously support this.

“The council has reached out to the ELR a number of times over the last 12 months to actively involve the ELR in development of the business case to ensure it has a seat at the table and can inform this piece of work.

“On a number of occasions the council has reiterated its support for the ELR.

“I think we are probably in our strongest position ever regarding this initiative.

“We’d be delighted if we can work really closely with the ELR to ensure it can continue its activity on that line.”