Last updated 11:27, Wednesday, 19 November 2008

TRAIN passengers in Cumbria will feel the benefits of extra space and an improved timetable from next month.

The capacity of the 75-seater 7.20am Whitehaven to Carlisle service will be doubled by the addition of a second carriage and another two trains a day each way are being put on between Whitehaven and Millom from December 14.

The provision of two extra services takes the number of trains travelling between Whitehaven and Millom from six to eight and will ensure a more even spread of services throughout the day.

Cumbria County Council has welcomed the improvements from Northern Rail which have come about following close working between the council and rail operator.

Council leader Stewart Young said: “I’m delighted the carriage space on the Whitehaven to Carlisle train is being doubled and I’m sure the many commuters using the service will welcome the news.

“At my Neighbourhood Forum the issue of overcrowding – particularly on the Workington to Carlisle stretch of the line - was raised and I know a lot of people wanted extra space.

“Hopefully this improvement, which follows Cumbria County Council and Northern Rail’s successful negotiations with the Department for Transport, will not only make existing passengers’ journeys more comfortable, but will encourage others to use the train.

“The extra trains between Whitehaven and Millom are also very good news for rail passengers in Cumbria.”

The improved Whitehaven-Millom service means there will be better connections between west and south Cumbria and other areas of north west England.

Tony Potts, chairman of the Copeland Rail User Group, added: “Going back to at least 1969 this is the best daytime timetable between Whitehaven and Millom.”