Whitby Councillor Phil Trumper has backed calls for an improved train service between Whitby and Middlesbrough, saying the current service is "not being utilised at all" due to infrequent trains and long journey times.
A new report from the Esk Valley Railway Development Company, titled "A New Beginning," highlights the inadequacy of the current train service, which offers only five return trips daily between the two towns. This limited service results in a journey time of over 90 minutes to cover just 35 miles, making it significantly slower than both car and bus travel.
The report identifies the decision to cut the service in half just before rail privatisation as a "major mistake." The report goes on to say that the service, in its current state, "does not meet the needs of any of the several markets it is intended to serve."
Councillor Trumper echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the train is primarily used by tourists visiting Whitby and is not a viable option for commuters or students. He believes that a significant increase in the number of daily trains is needed to transform the line into a practical transport option for local residents.
The report suggests that immediate improvements, including additional morning and midday services, increased Sunday service, and a reduction in line occupation by the heritage North Yorkshire Moors Railway, are crucial to enhancing the service. Funding for such improvements has been available for eight years, but an agreement between North Yorkshire Council and Network Rail regarding its use remains elusive.
Councillor Trumper expressed his support for utilising the available funding to implement these "quick wins." He believes that investment is urgently needed to improve connectivity in the town and is hopeful that the combined authority will take the necessary steps to make this happen.
The report also highlights the role of the train as a "local bus" for many Esk Valley villages that lack alternative public transport options. It recommends exploring "request stop" technology to maintain service to lesser-used stations while improving overall journey times.
In the long term, the report proposes investigating the construction of a new curve at Battersby, eliminating the need for trains to reverse and potentially reducing journey times by up to ten minutes.
The Community Rail Partnership, which commissioned the report, is seeking support from North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith and Scarborough and Whitby MP Alison Hume to push for improvements to the train service.
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