Preston to Southport direct trains could be brought back

Remnants of the old Preston-Southport line can still be seen. Pic: Shabbagaz

Preston and Southport could be re-connected by a direct railway service for the first time since the 1960s.

Transport minister Chris Grayling has hinted bringing back the Burscough Curves – removed in the Beeching cutbacks – would be a ‘quick win’.

Mr Grayling was campaigning in Southport in support of Liverpool City Region metro mayor candidate Tony Calderia.

The Tory minister told the Southport Visiter: “Re-opening the Burscough Curves and reinstating direct rail links between Southport, Preston and Ormskirk is a project I am going to take a close look at.

“I have spoken to the Conservative team in Southport today about the prospect of re-opening the Burscough Curves, and I want to look at this and see what we can do. But this is clearly one where I can see the benefits.

“I am looking at projects like this where we can increase rail connectivity in the region by reviving previous routes which have been lost for half a century.

Transport Minister Chris Grayling (fourth left) at Southport train station with (from left): Southport councillor Harry Bliss, West Lancs councillor Sam Currie, Liverpool City Region metro mayor candidate Tony Caldeira, and Sefton Conservative deputy leader Simon Jamieson. Pic: Tarleton Photography

“It is the kind of scheme we are looking to do more of in the future.”

What do you think of Mr Grayling’s comments? Would you use the line? Let us know in the comments below