The Campaign for Borders Rail organised an event in Carlisle on May 22 to discuss the potential for reopening the entire former ‘Waverley Route’.

Carlisle MP John Stevenson was told about the successful reopening of the route from Edinburgh to Tweedbank, as well as the potential benefits to the Scottish Borders and Cumbria of extending the line.

Also at the event was Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP John Lamont, who said: “The business case for bringing the line to Carlisle is clear to me. There could be huge benefits in terms of job creation, better connectivity to the West Coast Main Line and Carlisle airport, and added benefits like getting some freight off our roads.

“In my view, the Borderlands Growth Deal is the perfect opportunity to fast-track the extension of the railway. Better cross-border routes are exactly the type of projects that Borderlands should be supporting.”

Stevenson described the proposals as “potentially very exciting”, adding: “It could help boost the connectivity and economy of a substantial part of the Borderlands region. I look forward to working with all parties to try and make this a success.”

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Author: Andy Roden
Contributing Writer, RAIL

Andrew joined RAIL in 2000 as a news and features writer. He has written four books, covered the UK and international rail industries, and led 2005’s successful campaign to save the ‘Night Riviera’ sleeper train. He is also a regular commentator on rail matters on television and radio for RAIL.