By Ross Brewster

Last updated at 13:17, Monday, 25 February 2008

KESWICK Town Council is to be asked if it will become a “champion” for the plan to re-open the rail link between the town and Penrith.

The managing director of CKP Railways, Cedric Martindale, wants to reinstate the line which has been closed for several decades.

He said the technical feasibility of the project had been reaffirmed and a North West Development Agency (NWDA) study had noted many benefits which would accrue to the area as a whole.

The agency carried out a consultation during and after the study period which, said Mr Martindale, found support for the railway project in many quarters, but little formal recognition in local, regional or national strategies.

The NWDA had advised that a public sector “champion” would greatly assist the much needed recognition and this would assist the development and construction of the railway.

Mr Martindale will next week be asking members of the town council if they would be willing to undertake the role.

He said CKP Railways were not seeking funding from local authorities but a “a voice” which could put forward the project’s benefits.

First published at 09:10, Saturday, 16 February 2008
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk