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Jubilation as Calderdale to London rail link is finally given go-ahead
More community leaders have expressed their joy at the news that Halifax and Brighouse will soon benefit from direct trains to London.
Grand Union's appeal – backed by a four-year Courier campaign – to introduce a direct link from Calderdale to the capital finally got the go-ahead from the Office of Rail Regulation on Thursday.
Three trains a day will run directly from Halifax and Brighouse to London's King's Cross.
The journey from Halifax should take around 2 hours 45 minutes.
It was Champagne all round at Halifax station as Calderdale councillors Keith Watson, Tim Swift, Diane Park and Geoffrey Wainwright popped a cork as they welcomed the news.
Businessman Roger Harvey, of Harveys department store, Halifax, a Courier Business Person of the Year winner for his commitment to the district, said it was very positive news. "It will help develop business relationships because people will find it easier to get here," he said.
Jonathan Brown, senior transport manager with regional development agency Yorkshire Forward agreed. He said: "This is good news for Calderdale and ultimately the area's economic growth."
Trains should be running from December along the east coast main line.
Courier editor John Furbisher said: "It has been a long fight but we got there at last. Hopefully the people of Calderdale will benefit from this for years to come."
Council leader Stephen Baines said: "I am delighted for Calderdale. It should reduce the travel time to London to under three hours from Halifax."
Lib Dems transport spokesman Nader Fakri said: "This is a testament to the power of campaigning by all concerned, not least the Courier.
"It will make it easier for investment, business and tourism to come to Calderdale."
Diane Park, Lib Dem's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Halifax, said: "This is absolutely fantastic news and not before time.
"This will bring more money into Halifax and hopefully now we can get the train station sorted out and put the town back on the map."
A triumph for the Courier campaign
Comment: A victory for the people of Calderdale
Halifax to London rail link given go-ahead
MPs and councillors delighted at decision
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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