Lewes councillor welcomes progress on Lewes-Uckfield line

10.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 16th Jul 2008

Lewes county councillor Rosalyn St. Pierre is campaigning with local MP Norman Baker to get the line reopened.

County Councillor Rosalyn St. Pierre says the new report which shows that the Lewes to Uckfield line is be technically possible but fails the economic case is unsatisfactory.

Rosalyn says: "It is a relief to everyone who has campaigned for the reopening of this line, that the issues of technical feasibility have been addressed. This line will reduce congestion and offer fast and convenient transport to young people, students and the elderly in rural areas, who are currently cut off.

However, the report states that there is currently no economic case for rebuilding the line. This is based on the present investment criteria for investment by the government. This leaves those living near the proposed line in a quandary about whether building will take place or not. I am therefore backing Norman Baker MP's call for the government to resolve the financial issues necessary to get the line open."

Rosalyn says: "I am disappointed that a formal consultation process is not going to take place. The report will be available on line through the ESCC website from Friday 25th July and hard copies will be in the libraries. Comments and observations on the report can be sent to the address on the website."

Rosalyn adds: "While a railway will raise issues for those living close to the line, the economic benefit of opening Lewes to Uckfield, Crowborough and West Kent should also be considered."