Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP joined fellow MPs Robbie Moore and Jonathan Hinder in a meeting today, 3 November, with representatives from the Skipton–East Lancashire Rail Action Partnership (SELRAP) to reaffirm cross-party support for reopening the historic Skipton–Colne railway line.
The meeting, held in Parliament, brought together campaigners, local business leaders, and transport advocates to discuss the strategic importance of restoring the line, which was closed in 1970. SELRAP, formed in 2001, has long championed the project, citing its potential to boost regional connectivity, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
Commenting after the meeting Julian said, “Reopening the Skipton–Colne line is a vital step toward improving transport infrastructure in non-metro regions like North Yorkshire and Lancashire. Today’s meeting demonstrated strong cross-party commitment to making this happen. The SELRAP team presented a compelling case for restoring the Skipton to Colne rail link, which could unlock significant economic growth across North Yorkshire and Lancashire."
The group highlighted the recent Network North funding announcement and called for similar investment in rural and semi-rural areas. While a previous Government response indicated the project would not be progressed under the current spending review, MPs and campaigners agreed to intensify lobbying efforts at the local level.
You can find out more about SELRAP at: https://www.selrap.org.uk/
