Andy MacNae
Main Page: Andy MacNae (Labour - Rossendale and Darwen)Department Debates - View all Andy MacNae's debates with the Leader of the House
(3 days, 1 hour ago)
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Lucy Powell
Dé Buddha sounds like a fantastic restaurant. I congratulate its staff on winning the “best dining experience” award. Maybe an invitation will follow.
Andy MacNae (Rossendale and Darwen) (Lab)
As the Leader of the House well knows, Rossendale is the only local authority area in the north without a commuter rail link. Rossendale council’s city-to-valley proposal would have finally addressed that by linking us up with Manchester. The idea was repeatedly shot down by the previous Government, but this Government’s increased regional transport fund means that we finally have a chance to get a fair hearing. However, challenges remain in getting the project delivered into the investment pipeline, particularly as it crosses local authority borders. Will she agree to a debate on how we can get vital projects such as Rossendale’s city-to-valley rail over the line?
Lucy Powell
As ever, my hon. Friend raises the issue of connectivity and transport in his Rossendale and Darwen constituency. As a nearby MP, I know all too well the real need for a rail link between Rossendale, Darwen and Manchester, and I look forward to working with him to ensure that this Labour Government deliver on that.