MP meets with Treasury minister to take forward Lakes Line passing loop plans

Last night, local MP Tim Farron met with Treasury minister Helen Whately to make the case for a passing loop on the Lakes Line from Oxenholme to Windermere.

Cumbria County Council are currently developing a feasibility study into a passing loop which would double the amount of trains that run into the Lake District.

During the meeting, Tim told the minister that increasing the trains from every hour to every half hour would provide a big boost to commuters, school children, businesses and would help to reduce carbon emissions in the process.

The county council will submit a business case to the Department for Transport in September.

Speaking after the meeting, Tim said: "I'm really grateful to the minister for the opportunity to get this vital project on the Government's radar.

"The Lakes Line is such an important transport link into the Lake District so doubling its capacity has to be an absolute no brainer.

"If we're serious about tackling climate change by reducing the number of cars on our roads then having more frequent rail services is going to be crucial."