Action stations!

A SADDLEWORTH councillor has warned that a ‘sustained campaign’ from locals would be needed if Diggle is to see a new train station built in the village.

But it may still be another 10 years before passengers could potentially be boarding trains.

The possibility of replacing the former station, closed in the late 1960s, was given a boost in February when it was announced Network Rail planned to reopen the two single-track tunnels from Diggle to Marsden.

Under the £530 million Northern Hub initiative, the tunnels would act as a lay-by for slower passenger trains to allow freight and express trains to overtake them using the double-track tunnel still in use.

This could increase the number of trains able to use the Huddersfield to Manchester line and provide a chance for commuters to board carriages in Diggle.

Councillor Richard Knowles said: “The scheme is likely to happen, but work on the whole initiative is not due to start until 2014.

“It’s likely to stretch out over the next 10 years.

“I’ve always been in favour of building a station in Diggle — it would give alternatives to people in Uppermill, Diggle and Dobcross, as well as being useful for tourists.

“The difficulty is putting a viable business plan together to make it commercially worthwhile.

“It’s not going to be quick or easy, but I’m confident that a sustained campaign at the right time could be effective.”

The Northern Hub initiative is dependent on government funding, and with budget cuts expected to be announced next month, future development could be in jeopardy.

Councillor Knowles added: “Originally it was said that if we wanted a new station we would have to pay for the tunnels to be opened as well, which would have cost millions.

“Still, building a new station would still cost at least £1 million, so it is all dependent what funding is available.

“It will be a battle, but I think it is one that can be won.”