Context
Railway users face regular disruption due to the single track route between Harrogate and York, which affects trains on the Leeds to York via Harrogate line. The indefinite pause of the York area capacity scheme exacerbates this issue.
Question
Constituents relying on the Leeds to York via Harrogate line experience regular disruption due to part of the route being single track. Given the indefinite pause of the York area capacity scheme, which means that trains from Harrogate to York still have to use the fast east coast main line, we will continue seeing delays. Will the Government reconsider this pause and what alternative plans will they set out in the meantime to address capacity constraints and improve reliability for my constituents?
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Keir Mather)
The Harrogate line interventions have not been funded in this spending review period, but that does not preclude doubling the single track between Knaresborough and York as part of a future local or national infrastructure pipeline. Platform extensions and electrification have previously been developed to a strategic outline business case level of maturity. Based on current and future demand forecasts, dualling the line was not considered necessary, but I am happy to continue engaging with the hon. Member on this very important issue.
Not addressed: The indefinite pause of the York area capacity scheme and alternative plans for addressing rail service issues were partially addressed without specific commitments or timelines.
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