28/7/2009 - Lakes train line given cash boost

The Lakes Line Community Rail Partnership, which runs trains between Oxenholme and Windermere, has been allocated £5,000 by South Lakeland Local Committee.

Formed in 2006, The Lakes Line CRP supports the line and ensures the long term sustainability of the route, which links Windermere, Staveley, Burneside, Kendal and Oxenholme.

The local committee allocation of £5,000 for 2009/10 will be used to help fund a full-time project officer for the Lakes Line partnership. The successfull candidate will also help develop a Furness Line CRP.

The aim of the partnership is to raise awareness and promote the line, while responding to the particular needs of the communities it serves. It also acts as a link between the train operator and the local community. 

The main benefit to the partnership is that certain restrictions on fares and timetabling can be lifted which could mean special rates for people in the local community. 

There have been a number of successes over the last few years including safe walking routes to the station in Kendal and improvements to the station at Oxenholme.

Chair of South Lakeland Local Committee, Cllr Geoff Cook, said: "I’m delighted that the local committee has agreed to help the Lakes Line partnership again.

"We’re very keen to encourage the use of rail as a mode of travel and to encourage alternatives to cars in the area. A project officer will help the partnership flourish further and this will in turn assist the economy of the area by bringing in visitors."

The Lakes Line Community Rail Partnership is made up from the following organisations: TransPennine Express, Cumbria County Council, South Lakeland Development Trust, Lakes Line User Group, Lake District National Park, Friends of the Lake District and Windermere Lake Cruises.

ENDS

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