MPs signal cash bid to reopen the Curves
THE MPs for Southport and West Lancashire have come together to launch a bid for a share of a £500m government fund that could allow the restoration of the Burscough Curves railway links.
Conservative MP Damien Moore and Labour MP Rosie Cooper met on Tuesday last week to discuss the new Beeching Line Fund that aims to connect long isolated communities around the country that will benefit from better rail connections and boost access to jobs and education.
The Beeching cuts were proposed by British Rail chief Dr Richard Beeching in 1963 and ended passenger services on about a third of the network.
They closed more than 2,300 stations and up to 5,000 miles of track.
The Burscough Curves – a district line between Southport and Preston, through Ormskirk – was one such line; but the formation still remains.
Southport MP Mr Moore said: “Reopening the Burscough Curves would enable residents living in Southport greater access to opportunities through the Preston corridor and would help our tourism-economy recover through increased footfall and investment.
“And by working with Rosie Cooper on a cross-party basis – we can truly deliver rail investment for our town, and all communities along the Burscough Curves, and unlock greater economic potential.”
West Lancashire MP Ms Cooper said: “Reopening of the Burscough Curves will greatly improve local rail connections, offering real benefits for passengers and the local economies of both West Lancashire and Southport.
“Working with Damien on this issue will strengthen our campaign for the government to include this rail line in upcoming funding allocation.”
Speaking on a visit to the Fleetwood and Poulton-le-Fylde line on January 28, where Prime Minister Boris Johnson had announced the policy in November last year, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps launched the new investment that will drive forward the reversal of the controversial Beeching cuts.
Mr Moore said: “The government’s announcement to invest in restoring former Beeching lines is good news for Southport, West Lancashire, and Preston residents.
‘‘Investing in transport links is essential to levelling up access to opportunities across the country, ensuring regions in the north of England are better connected.”
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