Keighley MP to meet Transport Secretary for rail route talks

Keighley News 17th January 2025

KEIGHLEY MP Robbie Moore is stepping up his support of a campaign to reopen a railway line.

He's to meet Government Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander to discuss the restoration of the former Skipton-Colne route.

Supporters say that resurrecting the 12-mile line – which was closed in 1970 – would create huge economic benefits for Keighley, providing a direct rail link into Lancashire.

Skipton and East Lancashire Rail Action Partnership (SELRAP) has long been pressing for the route to be reopened.

Mr Moore says: "The reinstatement of the railway line between Skipton and Colne has my full support.

"It would create new commuting options for people to work in Lancashire and Greater Manchester, open-up speedier access to Manchester Airport and the University of Central Lancashire, and boost connectivity for Keighley's engineering sector with businesses in Lancashire and beyond.

"With the start of a new Parliament, now is the perfect time to promote SELRAP's proposals and I look forward to my meeting with the Secretary of State to bang the drum for this project."

Last year, Keighley Town Council also gave its backing to the campaign, saying it recognised the economic benefits that an east-to-west rail connection would bring to this area.