MP urges Government to invest in clean public transport for the Lake District to help tackle the climate emergency

In Parliament this morning, local MP Tim Farron urged ministers to invest in local rural bus services and upgrades to the Lakes Line in a bid to tackle the climate emergency.

Almost 16 million people visit the Lake District each year, but an estimated 83% of those arrive by car.

Speaking during the debate on the Government's plan for net zero emissions, Tim said: "Not only does the use of diesel and petrol-powered cars have a devastating impact on the environment, but the Government's failure to invest in public transport prevents people from choosing better options.

"Bus provision is a colossal problem in our communities in the Lake District.

"With the cancellation just this month of bus services 552 between Arnside and Kendal and 530 between Cartmel, Levens and Kendal, the decline appears to be accelerating.

"I am of course fighting those cuts along with the community but, more broadly, I ask the Minister to make provision of a comprehensive, affordable and reliable rural bus service in Cumbria a key plank in the northern powerhouse."