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Making the connection
Hello Supporter
Rail is one of the UK’s most powerful and proven tools for sustainable economic growth, delivering between £2.50 and £4 for every £1 invested. It also helps reduce regional inequality, allowing people to access opportunities previously out of reach and revitalising communities long left behind – all without compromising environmental goals.
That's why our latest report, Making the connection: Rail and the sustainable growth opportunity (supported by West Coast Partnership), focuses on the economic and societal importance of the rail network and makes the case for continued investment in all parts of the network.
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A good example of the power of rail is the Northumberland Line, which closed to passengers in the 1960s, but reopened last year, reconnecting Ashington, Bedlington and Blyth to Newcastle's job market and city centre. It was anticipated to carry around 200,000 passengers a year, but in fact it saw over 250,000 journeys in just three months. Additional stations on the line - in Bedlington, Blyth Bebside and Northumberland Park - are under construction and will open soon.
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The benefits of rail are not just economic or environmental. Feel Good Field Trips, part of Avanti West Coast’s schools programme and supported by Community Rail Lancashire, connects young people from a range of backgrounds to opportunities that may have previously been inaccessible to them.
So far, 5,250 pupils have made 215 trips, clocking up an incredible 50,000 miles to 60 destinations including the Lake District, the Houses of Parliament, Gladstone Pottery Museum and The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum to enjoy hands-on learning experiences.
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With the official launch of Making the connection: Rail and the sustainable growth opportunity having taken place at the Labour Party Conference earlier this week, we'll be spending the coming weeks and months making sure the report finds its way into the hands of the people in charge of delivering inclusive, sustainable growth.
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With a clear commitment, sustained investment, effective planning and visionary leadership, the railway can power a more prosperous, better connected and more equitable Britain.
Read Making the connection: Rail and the sustainable growth opportunity.
Best wishes,
Silviya
Silviya Barrett, Director of Policy and Campaigns
Campaign for Better Transport
Northumberland Line photo: Northumberland County Council
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