Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport, is calling for the reinstatement of the Burscough Curves, a key project that would enhance rail connections in Southport, Ormskirk, and surrounding areas.
The proposal seeks to reconnect the Southport-Manchester and Liverpool-Ormskirk-Preston lines by reopening the north and south junctions at Burscough, which were closed in the 1960s.
The project has previously been unsuccessfully proposed in 2021, Patrick Hurley MP believes it remains a strong candidate for future development once funding becomes available through Network Rail’s “Rail Network Enhancement Pipeline” . The initiative has broad support from local MPs, Lancashire County Council, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, and the previous Conservative government.
Improving Travel Times and Access
Reopening the Burscough Curves would cut travel times and improve access to key destinations. Travel between Burscough and Liverpool could be reduced from 44 minutes to 35 minutes, while Southport to Preston would drop from 58 minutes to just 40 minutes. Additionally, the project would improve connectivity to major sites, including Ashworth Hospital (Merseycare), Aintree Races, Edge Hill University, and the expanding community at Midge Hall, where a new prison is under development.
Beyond reducing travel times, the initiative is expected to stimulate economic growth by enhancing access to jobs, education, and essential services. The project aligns with sustainability goals, as it would encourage a shift from car travel to rail, reducing congestion and lowering emissions. Furthermore, the electrification of the Southport-Ormskirk route, combined with battery-powered trains for non-electrified sections, makes this a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. Notably, Merseyrail has already committed to operating services on the Burscough Curves using battery-powered units.
A key obstacle to the project’s progress is the fragmented governance between Lancashire County Council and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. The current structure complicates the development of integrated transport solutions, particularly regarding the Merseytravel link. To resolve this, MP for Southport has proposed empowering a Lancashire Mayor or Combined County Authority with statutory powers to facilitate decision-making and project delivery in line with the government’s devolution agenda.
Mr Hurley has secured meetings with key figures, including Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, Lancashire County Council Leader Phillipa Williamson, and Lord McGloughlin, Chair of Transport for the North, to discuss solutions to governance challenges and advance the project.
“The Burscough Curves would be a low-cost, high-impact way to improve rail links and boost economic growth. With strong support from local leaders and Merseyrail’s commitment, this project fits perfectly with the government’s goals for regional growth, devolution, and better public transport infrastructure,” said Patrick Hurley MP for Southport.
Mr. Hurley is urging Network Rail and the government to reconsider the proposal and work collaboratively to overcome the remaining barriers. He is actively seeking further discussions with stakeholders to ensure the project receives the attention and funding it deserves.
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