RAIL campaigners have welcomed the promise of a new study into improving Burnley and Pendle’s train links to Manchester.

But members of STELLA (Save The East Lancashire Line Association) say major cash commitments are still needed to make the reinstatement of the Todmorden Curve a reality.

Councillors in Burnley are being asked to approve a £170,000 package to pay for a demand and revenue investigation for restoring the 500 yards of track between Burnley and Todmorden, which would drastically reduce journey times.

Derek Jennings, a STELLA committee member, said: “This is moving in the right direction but it will take a lot more than £170,000.

“Network Rail have been talking about £5million to reinstate the Todmorden Curve and we would need both Network Rail and Lancashire County Council to make substantial contributions towards this.”

A feasability report is being sought into prospective improvements for Burnley Manchester Road station. Consultants will carry out both projects.

Work has been carried out by Network Rail into the Todmorden Curve project but, as the proposer of the scheme, Burnley Council must prove its economic worth.

In a report to the executive board, acting head of regeneration Kate Ingram said: “The reinstatement of the Todmorden Curve to create a direct rail link with a significant reduction in travel time is a key priority.”

The North West Development Agency has handed over £80,000 for the two studies, the county council £40,000, and borough £50,000.