CAMPAIGNERS have welcomed a step forward in their bid to electrify the Furness Line.
Secretary of State Patrick McLoughlin MP has agreed to look into the issue following a question put to him at the House of Commons by Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron.
The Furness line runs for 29 miles from Carnforth to Barrow and travels through the towns and villages of Silverdale, Arnside, Grange, Kents Bank, Cark and then on to Ulverston.
But there are fears it could be left in the dark as electrification takes place elsewhere across the country.
Electrification is seen as key to safeguarding direct services between Manchester Airport and Barrow because it would allow trains to connect with the network.
And Tony Parker, secretary of Furness Line Action Group (FLAG), said electrification would ‘make all the difference’.
“It’s a long way down the track but we just want confirmation it will be done,” he said.
“What the grey suits don’t realise is how integral this line is.
“They are out of touch and as a result the line has always been neglected. We will keep on nagging and hammering on the door until we get electrification.”
Mr Parker added: “We have the industry giants of BAE in Barrow and the largest pharmaceutical company in GlaxoSmith-Kline in Ulverston.
“There’s also Holker Hall and the RSPB nature reserve at Silverdale.
“Work is ongoing in the North West and by 2016 Preston to Manchester will be electrified.
“We fear being left behind but electrification would connect the line with the rest and safeguard journeys for thousands of passengers.”
In June, Mr McLoughlin announced a £16m feasibility study into electrification of the Lakes Line, which runs from Windermere to Oxenholme.
Mr Farron, who was also involved in that campaign, said Mr McLoughlin had promised to look into the issue.
“We need to protect through trains,” he said.
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