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Tunnel vision reaps rewards

by Tom Rowley
19/ 3/2008

CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after the Woodhead Tunnel was saved for future rail use.

Transport minister Rosie Winterton has confirmed that the option of using Woodhead for rail once more will now be retained

Campaigners believe that rail freight is the best environmental option for carrying in bulk.

There had been concerns that National Grid’s plans to transfer their high-voltage cables from the Victorian tunnels to the 1953 tunnel would jeopardise such a move.

In a parliamentary debate Mrs Winterton told MPs: "National Grid’s plans will not jeopardise the possibility that the Woodhead Tunnel will reopen to rail traffic at some future date."

Glossop MP Tom Levitt also took part in the debate and welcomed the outcome.

"This is a victory for common sense and forward thinking," he said. Our task now is to demonstrate to government and Network Rail that Woodhead is not only a possible option but the best option for improving Trans-Pennine freight movement."

Under the government’s plans, National Grid will complete its work in 2010 or 2011.

The older tunnels will no longer have a use but will continue to be inspected and maintained. This will ensure that if and when the 1953 tunnel is required for the reinstallation of a rail track, the high-voltage cables can be transferred back into the older tunnels in a cost-effective way.

Green campaigners and supporters of rail travel are hailing the minister’s pledge as a successful outcome to a campaign by those who think that a restored rail link through the Woodhead Tunnel could boost the economies of Glossop, the North West and Yorkshire.

Jonathan Atkinson, Glossop co-ordinator for the campaign, said: "What we really need is a firm commitment on a budget and for the tunnel re-opening to be included in the next White Paper.

"People will be able to get out and use the countryside more. People working in Sheffield and all down that line will be able to use the train and it will help reduce climate change."