Erewash MP Maggie used Transport Questions in the House of Commons to celebrate the forthcoming opening of Ilkeston’s new railway station this Sunday (2nd April).
In her final opportunity to trumpet the station opening before the big day, Maggie ask the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, Paul Maynard MP:
“This Sunday is an historic day, as Ilkeston finally reconnects with the rest of the rail network after an interval of more than 50 years. This would not have been possible without a £6.6 million new stations fund grant provided by this Government. Does the Minister agree that it is money well spent? Will he encourage people to use the train to visit Ilkeston and bring a much needed boost to the local economy?”
To which Mr Maynard replied:
“I can only vouch for the anticipation in the Maynard household about this coming Sunday, but I am also glad to hear that Ilkeston is looking forward to utilising its new train services. I am heartened by the number of Members on both sides of the House who have approached me regarding potential new stations on their local rail network. This is a very welcome change from the era when the network was contracting, with people now seeing rail stations as opportunities for growth, both economically and in terms of population. I really welcome that progress.”
Maggie has previously called for local residents to join a welcoming party on the platforms as the first passenger train pulls into Ilkeston Junction for the first time in over half a century.
This is due to take place on Sunday 2nd April 2017 at 9:44am.