Blackpool North and Cleveleys MP Paul Maynard is calling for expansion of the Blackpool tramway to be considered as part of a wider Government review of light rail in the UK.
Mr Maynard has written to Trams Minister Jesse Norman, asking him to consider restoring the link between Fleetwood and Poulton as part of a wider scheme to improve transport links and reduce congestion. Last month Mr Maynard launched bold proposals for light rail expansion on the Fylde coast and believes the Government’s consultation is a real opportunity to make progress in delivering the scheme.
He said: “I recognise the benefits light rail can deliver, restoring links to the rail network, helping people to get to and from work and building on other significant investment in our area.
“I have shared with the Minister my own ideas and the views of transport operators that expansion is cost effective and viable and encouraged interested parties to join the consultation.
“We need to show the Government why investment in light rail on the Fylde coast makes sense.”
The Department for Transport has launched a call for evidence on future light rail and Mr Maynard made clear his support for a light rail solution serving his own constituency.
He said: “It is important the Department sees this is a viable project and the fact we can submit a report with feasibility analysis and costings will hopefully make a big difference.
“I have made clear the benefit this scheme would deliver to Thornton, Cleveleys, Fleetwood and to businesses on the Hillhouse Enterprise Zone.
“I believe tramway expansion is the best way to restore lost connections, reduce congestion and open up new journey opportunities.”
Mr Maynard recently met with representatives of the Fylde Coast Rail Users Association and with the Poulton and Wyre Railway Society to discuss his plans. He believes organisations can work together to deliver a sustainable transport future.
He said: “I see no reason why light rail and heritage rail cannot be developed together, serving different aims and very different markets. My aim is to provide a reliable, affordable and efficient day to day service but the hard work which has gone into the line already cannot be ignored.
“I will do all I can to support the aims of PWRS and to ensure the two plans can work side by side.”