Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, welcomed news that trains could return to Longtown as talks between UK and Scottish government bodies continue.
The Prime Minister, confirmed to the House of Commons that discussions to extend the Borders Railways to Carlisle are currently taking place, which would boost connectivity issues within Dr Hudson’s constituency and beyond.
Dr Hudson has long fought for the connection of Cumbrian stations, to the Borders line which reopened in 2015 as a member of Parliament and an Associate Member of the Campaign for Borders Rail - a local pressure group pushing for the railway extension.
A feasibility study to reopen the full railway to Carlisle is underway as part of the £450 million Borderlands Growth Deal announced last year which aims to create jobs and boost the economy of the Scottish Borders and Northern England.
The Cumbrian MP has raised the issue in Parliament repeatedly, in speeches and questions to ministers.
Working in association with colleague and neighbour Guy Opperman, MP for Hexham, Dr Hudson has also been pushing for the reopening of Gilsland Train Station, near Brampton. This will provide better connectivity, not just for residents, but also for tourists visiting Hadrian’s Wall, and the economic boost they bring.
Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, said:
“The proposals have been under consideration for a long time, so I am pleased the Prime Minister confirmed the Government is progressing with talks. It’s vital the plans move, full steam ahead!
“Better Connectivity is a massive priority of mine and is pivotal to the Government’s levelling up agenda. I’ve raised the Borders Railway extension in Parliament repeatedly so it’s heartening to see the issue being taken seriously at the highest level of Government.
"Thank you to everyone who has so tirelessly campaigned with me on this issue, and in particular the Campaign for Borders Rail!"
