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Written question asked by Paul Farrelly (Labour) on Monday, 28 October 2019, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 30 October 2019. It was answered by Chris Heaton-Harris (Conservative) on Monday, 4 November 2019 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Railways: Staffordshire

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on new funding for (a) the reopening of local railway lines, (b) the reinstating of passenger services on freight lines, (c) new stations, (d) new rolling stock and (e) other local railway services in coalfield towns in North Staffordshire.

Answer

The Government assesses rail enhancement schemes including the reopening of closed lines, use of freight lines and opening of new stations on a case by case basis. The Department continues to work with local authorities and other partners to identify new rail projects that can deliver value for money for the UK taxpayer.

Proposals would be taken forward as part of the Rail Network Enhancement Pipeline (RNEP). The RNEP sets out the Department’s priorities for rail and principles for investment based around the progressive development of business cases and formal investment decision gateways.

From 2020 onwards, passengers using services in North Staffordshire will benefit from the modification and modernisation of West Midlands Train rolling stock which will provide additional capacity. Additionally, the West Coast Partnership will be replacing Voyager trains with 23 new trains which will provide more capacity, be more efficient and have lower emissions. The West Coast Partnership Pendolino fleet will also be refurbished providing increased capacity.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
6256
Session
2019-19
Subjects
Finance Railways Staffordshire
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk