LOWER AIRE VALLEY RAIL ACTION GROUP (LAVRAG)

MISSION STATEMENT

To encourage the Train Operator Company (TOC) to increase the direct passenger service between Goole and Leeds, utilising existing infrastructure to the mutual benefit of the TOC and the communities of Goole, Rawcliffe, Rawcliffe Bridge, Snaith, East & West Cowick, Carlton, Gowdall, Pollington, Heck, Hensall, Eggborough and Whitley Bridge.

PREAMBLE

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.

A direct rail service between Goole and Leeds would be attractive to the growing number of commuters travelling from the communities outlined above; the journey by road is not time or cost effective. The expense of daily car parking in Leeds and traffic congestion increases the desirability for a fast, reliable passenger service which would be of value to the growing number of people who would prefer to live in the communities along the line. In addition to the commuter demand this service would also attract tourism into the area creating economic growth.

Access to Glasshoughton, near Castleford, would be an attractive destination to passengers visiting the Xscape entertainment destination and Junction 32 Outlet Shopping Village. Considerable house building is in progress or planned in the communities listed, the majority of the houses being family homes. Examples of community growth over a short period of time exist due to a regular rail service being provided.

UNIQUE SELLING POINTS

The travel time between Goole and Leeds using a direct service via Snaith would be faster than the existing service via Doncaster, removing the inconvenience of transfer between platforms.

A direct service between Goole and Leeds via Snaith may prove cheaper than current fares via Doncaster. Fares would be attractive to passengers when compared with the cost of road travel plus parking charges.

Regular commuter use would also encourage family members use for leisure trips and onward travel to other destinations.

Rail users would find visits to Leeds more convenient as stations serving the communities along the line are close to the centre of towns and villages, some offering free car parking.