Shadow Transport Secretary Rick Holden joins Fylde MP Andrew Snowden in calling for South Fylde loop

The Shadow Transport Secretary Rick Holden has joined Fylde MP Andrew Snowden to discuss the campaign for new railway line.

Andrew Snowden MP has long supported calls for Government backing for the South Fylde passing loop, insisting that the infrastructure development is particularly important ahead of the Open Championship, which is coming to Royal Lytham and St Annes Golf Club, adjacent to the rail line, in 2028.

Pointing out that the event will necessitate smooth rail access and good transport links for thousands of spectators coming to the town, Andrew Snowden MP has now welcomed Shadow Transport Secretary Rick Holden to Kirkham and Wesham Railway Station to discuss the loop.

“Ever been stuck waiting for the South Fylde train?” wrote the Fylde MP on social media. “I was pleased to welcome Shadow Transport Secretary Rick Holden to Kirkham & Wesham station today to discuss my campaign for a passing loop on the line to Lytham, St Annes and Blackpool South.

“It's the sort of common-sense investment that could improve services for thousands of local people. Labour may have cancelled the Restoring Our Railways fund, but that won't stop us. I'll keep pushing for the investment our railway deserves.”

What is the South Fylde passing loop?

The line, which connects Kirkham to Blackpool South via Lytham, Ansdell and Fairhaven and St Annes, is single track, restricting services to one an hour each way. There has been a long-running campaign for a passing loop, which would double the frequency.

“With only one train an hour on the South Fylde line, we simply do not have the capacity to cope with the level of demand that major events like this will bring,” said Andrew Snowden MP. “More frequent services are essential and that can only be delivered with the South Fylde passing loop.”