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Blackpool rail switch on scheduled for 2016
WORK to switch the main rail route into Blackpool from diesel power to electric will be completed by 2016.
Transport Secretary Lord Andrew Adonis made the pledge during a whistle-stop visit to the resort.
And he also said the 200m electrification scheme – part of a 1.3bn Government package to improve the North West railway network – would increase the possibility of a direct Blackpool to London link being re-introduced.
Quicker
Speaking at Blackpool North Station, which he described as "one of the best in the North West" because of its tidiness and cleanliness, Lord Adonis said: "It will improve the quality of the rail service – it's fundamental for the Blackpool economy and a good deal for rail passengers."
The scheme will provide an electric route on the 17-mile stretch between Blackpool North and Preston as well as electric links from the Fylde coast to Liverpool and Manchester.
For full story see today's Gazette
Heidi Mottram, managing director for Northern Rail, said: “We are delighted that several key routes in the North-West are to be electrified because this will mean faster and more frequent services for passengers.”
Doug Garrett, chief executive of Blackpool’s regeneration company ReBlackpool, said: “The announcement is great news.
“Not only will the new service offer faster, smoother and more comfortable travel to the millions who flock to Blackpool every year, it will also mean shorter journey times – meaning people can get to Blackpool to enjoy the thrills, spills, unique attractions and sights faster than ever before.”
Regional minister Phil Woolas added: “Extending the electrification plans to Blackpool will improve the transport links between not just the major cities in the North West, but through the West Coast Main Line will bring it closer to the rest of the country.”
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Weather for Blackpool
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
