Blackpool and Fleetwood in new Government transport funding announcement

The investment is aimed at reviving parts of the region's railway, with proposals to possibly re-connect Fleetwood's rail link, and encouraging more people to cycle.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said communities in the North West would benefit from more than £46.8 million in funding to increase light rail services, regenerate local economies and make roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The funding is the region's share of a nationwide £225 million announced earlier this month, to create new and permanent cycle lanes and reallocate road space to give more room to pedestrians and cyclists.

The £46.8million comprises £33.5m for an initiative called the emergency active travel grant, of which Blackpool is to receive its £520,000 share, and the rest £13.3m in funding to ramp up critical light rail services in Manchester.

The huge investment has also been linked to Covid-19, with the Government stressing the need for transport to be safe.

Mr Shapps said: “From NHS staff to transport and shop workers, teachers, volunteers and all those staying at home, people across the country are all sharing the same public-spirited approach to tackling the spread of this virus and keeping others safe.

“To make sure people can travel safely when they need to, we are increasing capacity on buses and light rail, as well as helping local authorities fast-track plans to support cyclists and pedestrians, further reducing pressure on our transport network.

“These measures will help keep passengers safe now, but we must also prepare for what comes next. Strengthening vital road and railway connections, as well as encouraging cycling and walking, will be essential to our ambition to level up the country, secure a green legacy, and kickstart regional economies, as we build out of Covid-19 and look to the future.”

Mr Shapps visited Fleetwood in January when he vowed to give £100,000 towards a feasibility study into reopening the train line linking the port to Poulton. and he added today: "The process has already started in Blyth in the North East and Fleetwood in the North West."

Cycling Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said “We’re living in a time where many people are cycling and walking more than they did before, and we must build on this opportunity to bring about longer-term change – where active travel is viewed as the default for shorter journeys, long after this crisis has finished.

“This funding for the North West will help councils provide more space for walking and cycling and make it easier for people to get out and about and reduce the pressure on public transport.”