Harrogate MP says 'momentum is building' for key rail improvements on York to Harrogate journeys
Harrogate’s MP says he is still hopeful the Government has not abandoned plans to dual the single-track railway section between Knaresborough and York.
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon raised the issue in Parliament, emphasising that ‘dualling’ was crucial to creating better transport links for the town and beyond.
The Lib Dem MP highlighted the regular disruption faced by passengers on the Harrogate to York line, caused by a section of single track.
He called on the Government to either resurrect the idea as part of the York Area Capacity Scheme or bring forward an alternative plan to improve capacity and reliability.
In response, the Minister confirmed that neither project had been ruled out.
He said the Government would 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 the Harrogate and Knaresborough MP on the possibility of extending platforms for trains arriving from Harrogate.
“Dualling the line between Knaresborough and York, along with creating a new platform for trains arriving into York from Harrogate, would transform journeys,” said Mr Gordon.
“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 will keep the pressure to make sure Harrogate and Knaresborough get the modern, reliable transport network it deserves.”
The Harrogate MP started his campaign for dualling last year.
At one point he posted on social media: “I took a ride in the train cab with Northern Rail to see first-hand how the single-track bottleneck between Knaresborough and York is causing delays, cancellations and frustration for commuters.
“The solution is simple – dual the track.”
The planned York Area Capacity and Performance upgrades were paused by the Government last year, pending a decision on its wider East Coast Main Line strategy, while regeneration work at York station continues.