Tim Farron meets with Rail Minister to take forward Lakes Line passing loop plans

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron recently met with the Minister for Rail, Lord Hendy, to progress plans for a passing loop on the Lakes Line.

A passing loop could double capacity on the line, which runs from Oxenholme to Windermere, meaning that trains could run every half an hour.

A business case was submitted to the Government back in 2023 by Westmorland and Furness Council. 

The Minister told Tim that the next stage is would be for the Government to include the scheme in the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline - a list of rail projects which require government funding.

The Minister said that they would be announcing the list of projects soon.

During the meeting, Tim was also joined by other Cumbrian MPs to make the case for upgrades to the Cumbria Coast Line which runs between Carlisle and Barrow.

Speaking after the meeting, Tim said: “I was reassured to see that the Minister was incredibly positive about the passing loop, and was clear about the many benefits that doubling capacity on the Lakes Line would bring for businesses, commuters, and visitors.

“Nevertheless I’ve been disappointed by the slow progress on this, despite the warm words of previous ministers.

“It is an absolute no brainer for the Government to back this project – I’m determined to keep up the pressure to make sure they do.”