Date: 03/02/2018

A study has been commissioned to look into the reopening of a railway line between Skipton and Colne. The 12-mile route, connecting Lancashire with North Yorkshire, last ran in 1970 and if reopened, it could lead to new services between Lancashire, Skipton and Leeds. The study is set to be completed later this year. Transport secretary Chris Grayling said the line could provide a 'vital link across the Pennines'.

External links

Study into Skipton-Colne line reopening

BBC News

A study will look into the possibility of reopening the line, which last ran services in 1970.

Related images

Ivatt 2-6-0 46440 entering Colne from Skipton in June 1952.
Location: Colne
Company: Accrington, Burnley and Colne Branch (East Lancashire Railway)
24/06/1952 G H Robin collection by courtesy of the Mitchell Library, Glasgow

The previous occasion on which I visited this station was during its last week of service in January 1970. Thornton-in-Craven closed, along with the Colne to Skipton line, w.e.f. 2nd February 1970 and there have been campaigns ever since to reopen this missing link between Lancashire and Yorkshire (which should never have closed). View towards Skipton through the old platforms. Map Ref SD 910483
Location: Thornton-in-Craven
Company: Leeds and Bradford Railway
17/12/2008 Mark Bartlett

'The Dalesman' railtour at Earby on 4 May 1963 with Gresley K4 no 3442 running round its train after visiting Barnoldswick [see image 32149]. The special, which ran from Bradford Forster Square, was organised by the RCTS (West Riding Branch).
Location: Earby
Company: Leeds and Bradford Extension Railway
04/05/1963 K A Gray