Win for community campaign after Network Rail back down over plans to close local underpass

Network Rail have announced they've scrapped plans to infill the underpass which links Rusland Park to Castle Grove after a community campaign.

Local Lib Dem county councillor Chris Hogg had written to Network Rail to raise concerns that the plans would see local children having to walk to school via the less safe Parkside Road railway bridge.

A petition set up by local Lib Dem councillors calling for Network Rail to scrap their plans received over 260 signatures within 48 hours.

But now Network Rail have written to Chris Hogg saying that they have decided not to go ahead with their plans and that the underpass will remain open.

Chris said: "I was horrified when I saw that Network Rail was talking about these plans.

"This is a well-used path by local residents - and especially by children on their way to school. We've also worked to keep it attractive by getting a much-loved mural painted depicting the history of Kendal.

"Thankfully, Network Rail withdrew the plans just days after we launched a petition against them. It's another victory for community action!"