We need our railway link back, says Fleetwood MP

Tuesday, 25 November 2025 11:20

By Richard Hunt

MP Lorraine Beavers has made a renewed call for the restoration of Fleetwood’s rail link.

The Blackpool North and Fleetwood MP Lorraine Beavers has made a renewed call for the restoration of Fleetwood’s rail link and raised the question in the House of Commons, saying the town needed improved connectivity because the main road was frequently congested.

Fleetwood lost its main rail link on April 18, 1966, when the main station closed as part of the Beeching Cuts, a huge Government programme of closures of railway stations which were deemed to be under-used and no longer required.

A smaller branch line continued to operate until May 30, 1970, when all passenger services to the town were discontinued.

However, generations of politicians have since called that action a huge mistake and have called for the link to be re-established.

Fleetwood remains one of the country’s largest town’s to be without a rail link.

Ms Beavers told the Commons: “The cul-de-sac of Thornton and Fleetwood in my constituency once had a railway line that served the community well.

“Now there is only one main route in and out by road. it is acknowledged that the lack of connectivity is a determinant of health, wealth and educational inequalities

“Will the minister meet with me to talk about the reinstatement of the Fleetwood to Poulton railway link, to open up opportunities to the people in my community?”

The MP later said although the Government was keen to tackle the nation’s North/South divide, Lancashire County Council was the local highways authority and would need to put forward a business plan to help bring about the rail link’s reinstatement.

She said support needed to come from Reform UK-led County Hall.

Ms Beavers added: “The argument for this railway is clear, businesses want it and our community needs it too. “