Public opinion sought on plans to reopen disused Maid Marian rail line from Kirkby to Nottingham

The project, which is welcomed by Ashfield’s MP Lee Anderson, says improvements to the area’s transport network and infrastructure would help give the region a valuable “economic and jobs boost.”

If it goes ahead, the line would run from Kirkby, through Selston, before moving towards Langley Mill, Ilkeston and then onto Nottingham, linking up with the Robin Hood line.

The new plans, would see the Kirkby and Sutton Parkway stations benefit from the proposals, and the line open to passenger trains once again.

The stations could receive significant upgrades and it is proposed that the railway line could also link with the HS2 station at Toton, meaning travellers in Kirkby and Sutton could access the high speed route.

Ashfield District Council has now put its train station plans, which it has been working on for the past two years, out for consultation.

The Maid Marion line was a victim of the infamous “Beeching Axe” more than 60 years ago. The Beeching cuts saw a ruthless reduction and restructuring of Britain’s railways after reports written by Dr Richard Beeching in 1963 and 1965.

The Station Masterplans show how potential improvements in and around stations could “creatie enhanced places” and “better connectivity” for local residents

MP Lee Anderson said: “The resurrection of the Maid Marian line is something I have been talking to the Transport Secretary about for months. Myself and all the Nottingham MPs are wholeheartedly behind it.

“I went with Grant Shapps last year to look at the track at Selston, and was involved with one of the first meetings with him and the Nottighamshire MPs to talk about it.

“The rails are still there, long after it was axed by Beeching. If would be brilliant if it went ahead. Regional transport is a key for my constituents we need good infrastructure, good bus and train services, and it would help boost the area and benefit jobs.”

The public consultation on the plans is open until 5pm on Thursday April 9.

A copy of the document is available to view on the Ashfield District Council website at www.ashfield.gov.uk/kirkbymasterplans.

Representations should preferably be submitted using the online representation form, to Ashfield District Council, Forward Planning Section.