Campaigners continuing efforts to scare away ghost train

A local group in Goole have continued to step up their campaign, encouraging the Train Operator Company (TOC) to increase the direct passenger service between Goole and Leeds.

LAVRAG, Lower Aire Valley Railway Action Group, are pushing forward their campaign in an attempt to make greater use of the existing infrastructure, as well as bringing a number of logistical benefits to those who use the Goole to Leeds line, to the mutual benefit of the TOC and nearby communities.

It is a fact of history that good rail services assist towns and villages along the line to grow, prosper and develop. The growth of such communities provides profitable long-term revenue to passenger train operators.

It is believed that a direct rail service between Goole and Leeds would be attractive to the growing number of commuters travelling from the communities above, due to car journeys being neither time or cost effective.

In addition to the commuter demand, this service also has strong potential to attract tourism and increased options for socialising, that could provide local economic growth.

The provisions that are currently in place, are known as ‘The Ghost Trains’ operating directly between Goole and Leeds, passing through Rawcliffe, Snaith, Hensall and Whitley Bridge. These journeys have acquired such a title due to their inconvenient departure times, and consequent lack of passengers.

Looking back, It seems hard to believe that in the 1960s and 70s, the same service had up to 11 trains operating per day, and even 5 trains per day in the 80s.

In the last 18 years the population in the catchment area has increased significantly, approx. 9%, according to the 2001 – 2011 censuses. This amounts to a large population that does not have a frequent direct rail link between Goole, Leeds and the surrounding towns and villages.

To help and support the group go to the Facebook page for Lower Aire Valley Rail Action Group to take part in the poll or contact your local council or MP.