Reopening of Haxby Station moves a step closer following meeting with Rail Minister
March 11, 2015
Local MP Julian Sturdy met with the Rail Minister, Claire Perry, to make the case for the long anticipated reopening of Haxby railway station. Numerous plans to regenerate the station have been proposed since the 1980s as the town grew in size and congestion increased on York’s northern ring road. The station, which has been closed for over 80 years, could be given a new lease of life following the meeting.
Mr Sturdy has been lobbying behind the scenes ever since Council plans to reopen the station were shelved back in 2012. Ms Perry, who is in responsible for the country’s rail network, recognised the need for the station and said that Haxby was amongst the top four stations in the region in the running to be reopened. Commenting on the plans Ms Perry said “I was pleased to discuss the matter in detail and as ever Julian Sturdy made a very strong and passionate case for the re-opening of Haxby station. I will continue to work with Julian, the LEP, Network Rail and train companies to move this important issue forward.”
Welcoming the Minister’s positive reception, Mr Sturdy said “The economic case for reopening Haxby station is compelling. A new station would provide direct access to the rail network for thousands of local residents from Haxby and Wigginton and surrounding communities. It would also help take cars off the road, reduce congestion, particularly on the northern ring road, as we strive to provide a more joined up transport service for local residents.
“I will continue to work hard to deliver a rail service that communities the size of Haxby and Wigginton deserve”
Mr Sturdy is now developing a detailed business case and funding package for the station and will continue to work closely with local residents, the Council, York’s two Local Enterprise Partnerships and the Department for Transport. Further developments will be announced later in the year.
