Reopening line would be 'a real game changer' say supporters
- David Penney
- Oct 14
- 1 min read
Telegraph & Argus, 13th October 2025
REOPENING a disused railway line would be "a real game changer", say campaigners.
Backers of efforts to resurrect the Skipton-Colne route say it would have massive benefits for people on both sides of the Pennines.
Both Keighley Town Council and MP Robbie Moore are amongst those behind the scheme.
Action group Skipton and East Lancashire Rail Action Partnership (SELRAP) says individuals and businesses would benefit from the reinstatement of the 12-mile line, which was closed in 1970.
And ahead of next Saturday's (October 18) Premier League match between Burnley and Leeds United, SELRAP is highlighting the potential pluses for football fans.
Group chair, Peter Bryson, says: "A direct journey between Burnley Central and Leeds would take only an hour.
"The clubs' fans in the Aire Valley and West Craven would also be able to reach Turf Moor and Elland Road more directly by rail.
"The same would apply for supporters of other teams either side of the Yorkshire-Lancashire border, such as Blackburn Rovers, Bradford City, Preston North End and Accrington Stanley.
"But reopening the Skipton to Colne line would be a real game changer for the whole of the north, not just football fans.
"It would drive economic growth and create jobs."