Lord Berkeleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What options are being considered for passenger and freight traffic in the study about the possible reopening of the Buxton-Matlock rail line; who are the study partners; how much each partner is contributing to the study; which customers, stakeholders and other groups have been consulted; and when the study results will be published. [HL2575]
140WA
§ The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Lord Macdonald of Tradeston)A two-stage feasibility study is proposed. The first stage will develop and assess options to reinstate the link that formerly existed between Buxton and Matlock. This is expected to conclude in September 2003. If the partners agree to continue, stage two would develop the preferred option in detail. Stage two will be completed in April 2004. The breakdown of funding is illustrated in the table below. The scheme is sponsored by Derbyshire County Council who would be responsible for deciding the basis of publication.
£ Derbyshire County Council 100,000 Buxton & High Peak District Council 100,000 East Midlands Development Agency (Rural Development Agency) 50,000 Objective 2RS/5B (EU funding) 100,000 Peak Park Transport Forum 10,000 Countryside Agency 250,000 Rail Passenger Partnership scheme 190,000 Total Funding 800,000