Reopening of the rail Line will prove vital

SELRAP Letter in the Yorkshire Post, 5th May 2026

Dear Sir,

The logic of the Government's "Better Connected" strategy (Shift in transport policy is a real change for Yorkshire", 25 April) is encapsulated by the 12-mile missing rail link between Skipton and Colne.

Young people and those without a car would be key beneficiaries of its reopening. 

Quickly and cost effectively, the move would boost access to work, education and leisure opportunities on both sides of the Pennines.

It would be a particular gamechanger East Lancashire, home to some of the country's most deprived boroughs, such as Burnley and Pendle, including West Craven, once part of God's own county.

Located at the edge of three administrative regions, there is no single measure that could would do more to boost rail connectivity and resilience across the North.

Travel time between Leeds and Nelson would fall to under a an hour, for example.

Even Dr Beeching recognised the route's strategic importance, advocating its development.

With fuel costs rising, its reinstatement cannot come soon enough.

Yours faithfully

Jane Wood 

Media Officer 

Skipton East Lancashire Rail Action Partnership