Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

South Fylde Line

18 October 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Mark Menzies Con Fylde

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Mark Menzies raised concerns about south fylde line in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Mr Deputy Speaker acknowledged Mark Menzies' efforts to improve services on the South Fylde line
  • Menzies noted the unreliability of train services, citing delays and cancellations affecting commuters
  • The Minister expressed support for the proposal to introduce a passing loop to increase train frequency

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Mark Menzies Con Fylde

Mr Deputy Speaker acknowledged Mark Menzies' efforts to improve services on the South Fylde line. He discussed the history of the rail network, highlighting improvements made over the years and emphasising the need for a passing loop to double train services. Despite some progress, he noted that further work was needed due to the lack of communication from the Department regarding the strategic outline business case (SOBC) submitted in 2021. Menzies also mentioned the unreliability of services, citing delays and cancellations affecting commuters. He cited examples from a survey conducted with constituents illustrating how unreliable train services forced them to drive rather than use public transport, thereby increasing traffic on roads. Menzies argued for more frequent trains as part of levelling up efforts and called for Government support to deliver this project.

Other contributors (1)
  • Scott Benton Lab Blackpool South

    My hon. Friend hit the nail on the head. The unreliability of rail services at Blackpool South means that people often opt for other modes of transport, such as cars, to reach major attractions like Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Government Response

Huw Merriman

The Minister acknowledged the reliability issues on the South Fylde line and noted that Northern is working on improving its service. He expressed support for the proposal to introduce a passing loop to increase train frequency, but stated that some issues at Preston need addressing. The Minister committed to exploring new possibilities following the Prime Minister's decision regarding HS2, aiming to find solutions for transport projects in the north of England. He highlighted the Network North strategy and a £2.5 billion fund to improve local transport across rural counties and smaller cities. The Minister also confirmed that Cottam Parkway station is developing its full business case under the transforming cities fund. He assured Mark Menzies that he would continue discussions with him regarding transport opportunities for Fylde constituents, particularly concerning the South Fylde line's passing loop.

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