Oral Answers to Questions

Sara Britcliffe Excerpts

Thursday 3rd December 2020 Commons Chamber

[Rob Roberts (Delyn) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve rail connections in the north of England.

[Sara Britcliffe (Hyndburn) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve rail connections in the north of England.

[Andy Carter (Warrington South) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to improve rail connections in the north of England.

--- Later in debate ---

[Andrew Stephenson]

My hon. Friend makes a very important point. Earlier this year, we approved funding for the progression of a line speed enhancement scheme for the north Wales coast line. In addition to ongoing work to develop the Crewe hub, my officials are working closely with Cheshire West and Chester Council on developing the business case for improvements at Chester station.

[Sara Britcliffe]

Since being elected, I have been working with Ministers on the reopening of the Skipton to Colne railway line and the potential for a freight terminal in Huncoat. It is an essential line, well worth the investment, that will connect east Lancashire to Yorkshire. Will my hon. Friend meet me to discuss the progression of the railway line and freight terminal, and will he look again at supporting an engineering study for the project?

[Mr Speaker]

Let us have the hon. Member for Colne.