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17
Oct
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP to campaign for new train station
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has revealed he plans to start a campaign for a new train station to the east of Knaresborough.
More than 1,000 homes are being built at the Manse Farm and Highfield Farm developments on the A59 between Knaresborough town centre and the A1.
This has sparked concerns about whether the infrastructure can cope with the expanding population. A new school for the area, first mooted by North Yorkshire County Council in 2020, has not seen any progress.
Liberal Democrat Mr Gordon said he planned to open talks with rail groups and other stakeholders about a second train station in Knaresborough — but warned it will take time.
He said:
I’m absolutely supportive of any campaign to see a new train station opened to the east of Knaresborough. I’ve seen huge support for a station whilst out knocking doors in the estates. I am particularly keen to see any developers do as promised to support local infrastructure improvements where they are building.
In the coming months, I am looking to begin discussions with Network Rail, Northern Rail, and other stakeholders over improvements to the Harrogate line, particularly dualling the line between Knaresborough and York, and a new station. First, however, there are other more pressing issues to deal with, such as ensuring that Harrogate College keeps its funding to secure a vital rebuild.
Mr Gordon added public transport was “vital for the mobility of the young, elderly, and those unable to drive, as well as making a difference to the planet”.
North Yorkshire Council included a Manse Farm rail halt on a list of possible major schemes for the county. Further details are available in a report published last week, which you can view here.
A rail halt is a small, unstaffed train station.
The report says a station at Manse Farm would reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, cut congestion, support economic growth and improve the experience of transport users.
It says the project could be delivered in one to three years but there are no costings or firm proposals to take it forward, and the council needs to make cuts to balance its budget.
The nearest train station to Knaresborough heading east to York is currently Cattal, some seven miles away.
What do you think about a new train station at Manse Farm? Have your say in the comment section below.
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