A Whitby Councillor is throwing his support behind a proposal to improve the Esk Valley Rail Line
The line, which currently runs five daily return trips between Whitby and Middlesbrough, has been identified as having the worst service frequency in the country for a significant route.
A new study is recommending a number of improvements that could be made to the route.
Councillor Neil Swannick says improving the service would have big benefits for Whitby.
Councillor Swannick says the Esk Valley line isn't attractive to local residents as the journey times are quicker by car or bus.
He want to see new proposals implemented to speed up journeys and make them more frequent.
Councillor Swannick highlighted the line's current drawbacks, noting the lengthy journey times - 90 minutes for a 35-mile trip - making it a less appealing choice compared to buses or driving. He believes reducing journey times and increasing service frequency are crucial for attracting commuters, students, and those needing to access healthcare facilities like James Cook University Hospital. He plans to advocate strongly for these improvements.
The councillor's comments come as a new report, "A New Beginning," by transport consultants Stantec, outlines a comprehensive plan to revitalise the Esk Valley Line. Echoing Councillor Swannick's concerns, the report labels the pre-privatisation decision to halve services a "major mistake".
Key proposed improvements include:
- Additional morning and midday services: This aims to cater to commuter and student travel patterns, making the train a feasible alternative to cars.
- Increased Sunday services: With Sundays being a peak travel day, this would support the booming tourism industry in Whitby and the surrounding areas.
- Reduced line occupation by the North Yorkshire Moors Railway: This would free up capacity for additional Esk Valley Line services.
- Implementation of “request stop” technology: This would allow lesser-used stations to remain operational while improving overall journey times.
- Construction of a new curve at Battersby: This would eliminate the need for trains to reverse, saving up to 10 minutes on each journey.
The report underscores that the existing service fails to meet the needs of its intended markets, including commuters, residents needing access to essential services, and tourists. It stresses the need for "quick wins" funded by a £7 million infrastructure improvement grant awarded eight years ago but still unspent.
The report also highlights that the train service effectively serves as the "local bus" for many Esk Valley villages lacking other public transport options. This further emphasizes the importance of improving service frequency and reducing journey times to address social isolation and inequality for those reliant on public transport.
The Community Rail Partnership, chaired by Alan Williams, echoes the report's call for urgent action. They express concern over the delayed funding and urge both North Yorkshire Council and Network Rail to expedite the implementation of these crucial improvements. The partnership is seeking support from North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith and new Scarborough and Whitby MP Alison Hume.
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