Rail bosses pledge to look again at electrification after MP bids for new rail infrastructure package for the Lakes Line

Rail bosses have promised to look again at electrifying the Lakes Line following pressure from local MP Tim Farron.

During recent meetings with rail bosses from Network Rail and the Department for Transport, Tim argued for a passing loop, station improvements and once again made the case for the line to be electrified.

Last summer, the Government shelved plans to electrify the line and improve stations.

Over the past few months, the Lakes Line has been subject to an onslaught of cancellations and delays.

Tim said: "Passengers in South Cumbria have had to put up with a lot over the past three months, and we continue to make the case for Northern to be stripped of the franchise.

"Rail bosses from across the industry have apologised for this shambles but it's time to show that they really care about rail passengers in our area and start giving our railways the proper investment that we so desperately need.

"In the case of the Lakes Line that means proper infrastructure improvements - a passing loop will allow more trains to run on the line and better accessibility at Staveley station is badly needed for mums with prams and people in wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

"After local people were betrayed last year when electrification was cancelled, it's right that bosses at Network Rail say that they're prepared to look again."