§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will meet Shotton and Buckley town councils to discuss investment in the rail infrastructure; and if he will make a statement. [24164]
§ Mr. HainMy right hon. Friend and I have no plans to meet Shotton and Buckley Town Councils to discuss investment in the rail infrastructure, which is principally a matter for Railtrack. However, I understand that the company confirmed during 1997 target dates for investment at seven local railway stations—Shotton High Level, Hawarden, Buckley, Penyffordd, Hope, Caergwrle and Cefn-y-Bedd. In addition, North Western Trains are taking forward over the next few years a £5 million programme of enhancements, including the provision of real-time information and improved security and lighting, which I understand will include stations in the Shotton and Buckley areas.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with Railtrack and Northwest Railways concerning the establishment of a rail station in the vicinity of Deeside Industrial Park. [24161]
§ Mr. HainThe provision of railway infrastructure, including track, signalling and stations is principally a matter for Railtrack. However, I was pleased to announce on 10 December 1997 as part of the 1998–99 Transport Grant settlement the award to Flintshire County Council of £480,000 in support of the Deeside Integrated Transport Strategy.
Part of this award will be used by the County Council to begin to develop plans for a railway station to serve the Deeside Industrial Park. The first stage is expected to comprise mainly preliminary and design studies to identify, for example, the required size and location of a new station and the necessary associated infrastructure. In taking forward this work, I understand that the County Council plans to collaborate closely with local public transport operators, neighbouring local authorities and Railtrack.