YORK Outer MP Julian Sturdy is calling on the Government to reopen the York to Beverley railway line, which he says would ease congestion in York.

The line closed in 1965, but the Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling, recently revealed plans to expand the rail network nationally.

The Government committed to working with local authorities and partners to identify the best new rail projects in order to restore capacity and unlock economic growth, Mr Sturdy said.

Mr Sturdy said East Riding of Yorkshire Council recognised the benefits that reopening the line could bring to the wider area. However, the provision of funding for reinstating the route would be a matter for the Department for Transport and Network Rail.

Mr Sturdy has written directly to Chris Grayling to make the case for reopening the York to Beverley line, a move that follows a number of written questions submitted in December.

In response, the Government said proposals would be considered based on the economic benefits and business cases put forward by local partners.

Mr Sturdy said: “I think there is a very strong case to be made for reopening the York to Beverley line, it will ease congestion in York city centre and open up economic development and housing opportunities. It is quite clear that traffic pressures on our city are already unmanageable and rail infrastructure will be in keeping with our rural landscape."