The direct train service between Liverpool Lime Street and Blackpool North is to end on October 5. Train operator Northern Rail will be introducing Class 319 electric multiple units between Liverpool Lime Street and Preston, and these cannot continue to Blackpool as that line is not yet electrified.

To compensate for this loss of trains between Preston and Blackpool North, the present Buxton/Hazel Grove to Preston service is to be extended.

However, there will be a small reduction in the number of trains serving the seaside town - one fewer train in either direction every day expect Saturday, and two fewer trains from Preston and three fewer from Blackpool North on Saturdays.

Northern already operates an hourly Class 319 service from Lime Street to Wigan North Western, so the conversion of the Preston service to electric power will bring a half-hourly EMU service between Lime Street and Wigan.

The information was given in a Track Access Application lodged by Northern Rail in late August.