Ashby MP Amanda Hack has presented plans for the Ivanhoe Line to the Rail Minister, Lord Hendy - and has also launched a local transport survey.

After a number of conversations with transport and treasury colleagues since July, the MP for North West Leicestershire met with the Minister last week as part of the comprehensive review of capital rail projects, which includes schemes that were previously part of Restoring Your Railways. 

Since being elected, she has worked closely with local stakeholders, such as the Campaign to Reopen the Ivanhoe Line (CRIL), to make a compelling case for the route which would restore passenger rail services in Ashby and Coalville.

Freight rail on the Ivanhoe Line. Photo: CRIL

The MP says the aim remains to secure the necessary funding, demonstrating how it could enhance connectivity, boost the local economy, and provide a sustainable transportation option as the area continues to grow.

Following the meeting, Ms Hack said: "Meeting with Lord Hendy to showcase the Ivanhoe Line and share some of the business case has been very insightful for us both.

"The comprehensive review of capital transport projects is ongoing, with decisions still to be made on which projects will be given the green light.

"I will continue working with CRIL and other stakeholders to build the most robust business case, building on the work already undertaken to put North West Leicestershire at the front of the queue for future investment in rail projects.

"Local people need to be at the heart of this project, so I am now launching a transport survey to gather vital information and views, to assist with building the case.

"Having a beautiful railway running through the heart of The National Forest will bring substantial economic benefits, alongside providing thousands of local people with better connectivity.

"We are well above the national average in terms of motor vehicle usage because of our poor public transport links. We must provide better transport infrastructure in the future as our area continues to grow."

Douglas McLay of CRIL, said: "We were pleased to be updated by Amanda and her team following the productive meeting with Lord Hendy.

"Having Amanda lead the fight for the Ivanhoe Line strongly will only enhance our efforts to see the railway re-opened to passenger services once again. 

The site of the former station in Ashby. Photo: Ashby Nub News

"We would encourage everyone to participate in the transport survey to help gather valuable data that supports the case for the line's reopening."

The Transport survey can be completed online by clicking HERE.

The survey will run until Thursday, December 19, to gather data and views to help aid the business case for the Ivanhoe Line.

All local people and businesses are encouraged to take part and share their views.