CASE FOR THE RE-INSTATEMENT OF COPPULL RAILWAY STATION

 Introduction:

It’s probably 6 years since this was last proposed. Since then Coppull has changed greatly in house numbers (and hence population). It’s spread with this expansion, and that of the surrounding areas -particularly Chorley at Eaves Green and Gillibrand - has meant closer integration with Chorley.

Further proposed developments will exacerbate this and put more strain on services and infrastructure. It will also increase the number of vehicles on the roads with its consequential effect on the environment. How can this be avoided?

Improve the local bus service. Improve or provide a rail service.

Let’s look at the rail solution. Coppull had a station for many years which was closed in the 60’s. The land upon which it stood is still there. It appears to be used by the rail network companies as a maintenance compound. If this land was used it would mean no encroachment on the surrounding area. Plainly it would require some changes:

It would need a new station or halt. Ticketing could be done online, ticket dispensing machine, payment on the train, even local post office or shop could issue tickets.

It would need not need additional lines. It would need a spur from the existing line to the station.

It would not affect the existing track usage for high speed or freight if scheduled correctly.

It would not need to be electrified. It could use existing multiple unit stock.

It would probably not need manning.

How could it be funded:

1.       Using schemes already put in place.

https://www.networkrail.co.uk/our-railway-upgrade-plan/key-projects/great-north-rail-project/​

https://transportforthenorth.com/northern-powerhouse-rail/

2.       Local tax funded by Lancashire C.C. or Chorley B.C. or even an additional  levy on the Parish   areas.

What would it provide?

1.       Access for employment in Preston and Wigan. e.g. Would take 10min by train to Preston compared with at least 45min in horrendous traffic.

2.       Access further afield – the coast and lakes vis Preston, the cities (Manchester and Liverpool via Wigan), the airports.

3.       Reduction of traffic.

4.       A rail access point for other villages such as Charnock Richard and Eccleston.

 

Surely the benefits outweigh the costs, I can’t see any disadvantages, maybe someone will see some.