Gordon Welcomes Rise In South Station Numbers
Gordon says new figures from the Office for Rail Regulation showing that passenger numbers at Blackpool South Station went up by over 6% in 2008/09 strengthens the case for keeping and expanding it.
Commenting on the rise, up to 112,000 journeys compared with just over 105,000 in 2007/08, Gordon said ‘This sustained rise in passengers travelling to Blackpool South Station with figures that have risen year on year since 2004/05 demonstrates this is a station and a line that needs nurturing. The South Fylde loop from Preston with support from Government for its recent designation as a Community Rail Partnership has I believe great potential. The fact that growth increased even in the economic downturn of 2008/09 proves the point.’
‘It makes it even more important to develop and improve the station and line, not curtail and cut it off as was originally proposed last year as part of regeneration proposals for the South Shore area. The strong public support for the campaign the Rail Users Group and I led to save Blackpool South Station meant the Council have dropped those ideas for now – but we have to be vigilant in arguing the case for its retention.’
‘We should be looking at increasing frequency and highlighting new opportunities - with the increased numbers and new stand at Bloomfield Road - for the line to be a point for entry for residents and visitors - central to South Shore’s regeneration.’
Last year’s campaign by Gordon and the Rail Users Group involved street stalls, online and public petitions on Waterloo Road as well as writing to rail chiefs about the issue. Transport Secretary Lord Adonis who recently announced the electrification plans for Blackpool North has met with Gordon and has kept a close interest in the future of the station and line.
