HC Deb 30 March 1920 vol 127 cc1085-6
86. Mr. SWAN

asked the Minister of Transport if he will endeavour to get the pre-War train service restarted between Durham and Barnard Castle, and between Blackhill and Durham, as the present service is entirely inadequate, causing both loss and inconvenience to the public?

Mr. NEAL

The question of the train service between Durham and Barnard Castle has already received careful consideration, but having regard to the number of passengers who made use of the trains which have been withdrawn, it is not considered that the railway company would be justified at the present time in incurring the expense which would be involved by the reinstatement of these trains. The summer train ser vice between Darlington, Barnard Castle and Penrith is, however, now receiving consideration, and it is thought it may be found possible to arrange for an additional train in each direction between Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland; but this will depend on the engine power available.

I have no information in regard to the train service between Blackhill and Durham, but the matter is being inquired into.

87. Mr. SWAN

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that the Knitsley station on the Durham and Blackhill line, which was closed during the War, is still closed; if he is aware of the great inconvenience to the farmers and the public, also entailing a loss of both milk and food produce; and if he will take steps to get the station reopened?

Mr. NEAL

The question of re-opening this station for passenger traffic was carefully considered in December last, when it was decided that, owing to the very limited use that had been made of the station by residents in the Knitsley district, the re-opening was not justified. I cannot find that the circumstances have materially changed, and in view of the fact that the revenue which would be derived would not in any way be commensurate with the expense involved, it is regretted that the re-opening of the station for passengers cannot be entertained at the present time. The station is open for goods, timber or other traffic passing in full truckloads.