Written question asked by Richard Holden (Conservative) on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 January 2026. It was answered by Keir Mather (Labour) on Monday, 26 January 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

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c2c: Community Railways Initiative

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether officials in her Department have had discussions with (a) c2c, (b) Network Rail and (c) relevant local authorities about establishing a community rail partnership on the c2c route; what assessment she has made of the case for a c2c community rail partnership; and what the (i) required steps, (ii) decision making process and (iii) indicative timetable are for recognition of such a partnership.

Answer

Officials have not discussed with Network Rail or relevant local authorities; however, officials have discussed establishing a community rail partnership with c2c which both parties see value in.

Next steps would include building the proposal and securing sufficient funding; officials will continue to explore what opportunities there might be in future business planning rounds.

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Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

105745

Session

2024-26

Subjects

Community railways initiative c2c

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk