ONE should not get too excited this week that a "feasibility study" is to be carried out into reopening the Skipton to Grassington railway line.
The news comes, ironically, almost 100 years to the day since the line was officially opened. Alas, the line was never a commercial success even in the days when cars were a rarity. It is most unlikely that there will be a sufficient volume of passengers wishing to journey between Skipton and Wharfedale on a regular basis.
Undoubtedly there is a tourist market but a word of caution is required here. We report this week that the planned regular steam service between Manchester and Carlisle via Settle has been abandoned due to lack of support. Romance does not pay the bills.
It would be wonderful to see the Grassington branch line - and indeed the Skipton to Colne service - reopened. Whether it ever happens or not is a different matter.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article