Tom Gordon’s Campaign Secures Momentum for Local Rail Improvements
Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, is continuing to make headway in his long-running campaign for better transport links and improved connectivity beyond the constituency.
Speaking in Parliament, Tom raised concerns about the regular disruption faced by passengers on the Harrogate to York line, caused by a section of single track. He highlighted the indefinite pause of the York Area Capacity Scheme, a project that would have helped solve this problem, and called on the Government to reconsider. If the scheme is not restarted, Tom urged ministers to bring forward an alternative plan to improve capacity and reliability.
In response, the Minister confirmed that neither project has been ruled out. Encouragingly, the Government will continue to look at options to dual the single-track section between Knaresborough and York as part of future infrastructure plans. The Minister also agreed to keep working with Tom on the possibility of extending platforms for trains arriving from Harrogate.
Tom will meet with the Minister for Rail to keep these crucial upgrades on the agenda and press the case that investing in them is vital for unlocking economic potential and delivering the Government’s ambitions for growth.
Commenting, Tom said:
“Dualling the line between Knaresborough and York, along with creating a new platform for trains arriving into York from Harrogate, would transform journeys for local commuters.
“Right now, passengers face constant delays, unreliable services, and capacity issues. This needs to change – especially if the Government is serious about delivering growth and improving transport in the North.
“I was encouraged to hear the Minister confirm these projects are still on the table. In my meeting with the Minister for Rail, I’ll keep the pressure to make sure our community gets the modern, reliable transport network it deserves.”
