AN upgrade to the Energy Coast Line between Carlisle, Workington and Barrow could create over 18,000 new jobs, claims government after new plans were announced last week.
Following the scrapping of the second leg of the HS2 project at the Conservative Party Conference last week, the government introduced plans for a new 'Network North' project.
As part of the project the government has introduced plans for upgrades to the Energy Coast Line between Carlisle and Barrow, with documents supporting the introduction of a half hourly service between Carlisle, Workington and Whitehaven, as well as the accomodation of freight for the proposed new West Cumbrian coal mine.
The government also suggested that the plans could support the creation of over 18,000 new jobs in the area.
A policy paper for the Network North Project said: "We will upgrade the Energy Coast Line between Carlisle, Workington and Barrow.
"This will enable a half-hourly service between Carlisle, Workington and Whitehaven and accommodate major new freight demands from the new coal mine.
"It will provide regular services for the flourishing innovation at the Westlakes Science Park, Nuclear Academy and Sellafield. This could support the creation of over 18,000 jobs."
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