An MP has welcomed news that trains could return to a border town.

Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and the Border, welcomed the news that trains could be coming back to Longtown as talks between UK and Scottish government bodies continue.

The PM confirmed to the House of Commons that discussions to extend the Borders Railways to Carlisle are currently taking place, which would boost connectivity issues within Dr Hudson’s constituency and beyond.

He has long fought for the connection of Cumbrian stations to the Borders line which reopened in 2015 as a member of Parliament and an Associate Member of the Campaign for Borders Rail - a local pressure group pushing for the railway extension.  

A feasibility study to reopen the full railway to Carlisle is underway as part of the £450 million Borderlands Growth Deal announced last year which aims to create jobs and boost the economy of the Scottish Borders and Northern England.  

The Cumbrian MP has raised the issue in Parliament repeatedly, in speeches and questions to ministers.  

Working in association with colleague and neighbour Guy Opperman, MP for Hexham, Hudson has also been pushing for the reopening of Gilsland Train Station near Brampton.

This will provide better connectivity, not just for residents, but also for tourists visiting Hadrian’s Wall, and the economic boost they bring.  

Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, said:  “It’s vital the plans move, full steam ahead!"

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