We copied Hadrag’s news release to WYCA contacts and a reply from transport committee chair Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe arrived as this newsletter was being written. Cllr Hinchliffe points out that that West Yorkshire is “making the case for service enhancements on existing lines currently and what is lacking is investment from the operators who in turn have to justify business case to Government for increased funding.”
Notes from WYCA find much to agree with in Hadrag’s submission. Practical issues include “network capacity, especially around Sheffield”. Jointly with South Yorkshire and other colleagues “we have been clear that investment in that area must be a priority for the North as a whole”.
“It is essential that the overall affordability of the railway (both operating costs and capital investment) be brought under control.” An essential goal of the new body Great British Railways.
The Horbury/Ossett station proposal has been looked at previously, as Hadrag knows, and been taken as having a relatively modest catchment. But the success of the new Manchester-Wakefield-York TPE service is noted, and the possibility could be reviewed.
WYCA commitment to electrification of our Calder Valley line is duly reasserted. We keep up the campaign, and will keep readers of this newsletter in touch.
Halifax and District Rail Action Group 