§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what new proposals have been submitted to his Department by the company seeking to develop the Central Railways project; and if he will make a statement.[99630]
§ Mr. HillWe are aware that Central Railway plc has been consulting about its proposal for a freight and passenger railway between Liverpool and Lille, via London. Ministers have received copies of the company's consultation documents but have not taken a view on the scheme.
If Central Railway plc is to proceed with the scheme it will have to apply for an Order under the Transport and Works Acts 1992. We understand that the company hopes to submit an application next year. The company's previous application in 1996 was rejected by Parliament. As was the case last time, the company will be obliged to consult on any applications and affected parties will have the right to put forward their views.