MP calls for rail services to be protected following proposed cut backs at Padgate

WARRINGTON North MP is calling for local rail services to be protected with cutbacks set to be implemented at Padgate.

Ms Nichols has written to Transport Secretary Grant Shapps to express her opposition to a number of proposals on rail services as part of the Manchester Recovery Taskforce Public Consultation.
This relates to the timetable and service changes on rail services in Warrington. The Consultation includes a proposal to reduce the services serving Padgate to 1 train per hour, rather than the 2 per hour that serve Padgate at the moment.
It also discusses limitations on the Stalybridge/Manchester Victoria services that currently go through to North Wales. The proposal is for this journey to end at Chester, limiting the ability of Warrington residents to get the train to North Wales.
Ms Nichols said: “The services from Padgate station are vital for commuters into Manchester and Liverpool, and for residents more widely for recreation and seeing loved ones. That’s why I wholeheartedly oppose this proposal and will fight to maintain the current service provision of 2 trains serving Padgate per hour. Despite lower passenger numbers at present due to coronavirus, my concern is that once these services gone, they won’t be coming back, putting the station into managed decline.
“In addition, I firmly oppose the proposal to stop the Stalybridge/Manchester Victoria services at Chester. Many Warrington residents like to go on holiday in North Wales and to limit the access of public transport there is deeply irresponsible.
“I will continue to fight to protect these services and will keep residents updated when I receive a response from Mr Shapps.”