The Transport Secretary announced a feasibility study into the scheme on Saturday and said the railway promises to create a faster route across the Pennines for passengers and freight.

 

Transport for the North chief executive Barry White said he is delighted that the feasibility study is being taken forward. “The central Pennines is identified in our recent strategic transport plan as one of seven strategic development corridors vital to future economic growth in the north.”

 

West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s transport committee chair Keith Wakefield added: “We welcome this feasibility study as a sensible step to better understand the financial and engineering implications as well as the economic and social benefits which could be delivered if this project was taken forward.”

 

Elsewhere on another rail line 10km away, the historic Ribble Valley tunnel is currently being restored, with ornamental ‘turrets’ on the castle like structure (pictured) being rebuilt with existing stone. Both tunnel portals are being repointed with lime mortar.

 

The grade II listed tunnel near to the village of Gisburn in Lancashire was built in 1876 to preserve a local view as the new railway was built, and to reportedly prevent horses from being scared by train noise.

 

Network Rail said the purpose of the job is to protect an important corridor for freight trains carrying construction aggregate. “Our £100,000 upgrade will ensure this magnificent railway structure remains safe and retains its heritage appeal for decades to come,” said Network Rail project manager Jack Ryder.

 

Work is being carried out without disruption to train services and is set to complete by 23 February.

 

♦ Mark Carne is to retire as Network Rail’s chief executive later this year after more than four years in charge of the company, it has been announced.

 

The timing of his announcement ensures that a new chief executive will be established in the role before the start of the next five year regulatory control period, which begins in April 2019.