ELECTRIFICATION of the Lakes Line between Oxenholme and Windermere looks to be a step closer after the Government agreed to look at how feasible the upgrade would be.

Some of the £50 billion the Treasury has set aside for infrastructure projects in the Comprehensive Spending Review will be used to carry out a detailed study of the idea, which campaigners say will boost tourism, the economy and transport links.

Diesel-only trains transport half a million people along the ten-mile route each year, but some fear there will be fewer direct trains - those favoured by tourists - to major locations unless the line is electrified like routes around Manchester and Blackpool.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron said the investment, estimated to cost around £18m, could safeguard the future of direct services between Manchester Airport and the Lake District.

Lakes Line operator First TransPennine Express has already undertaken its own analysis of the business case for the work.

Managing director Nick Donovan described the fresh feasibility study as ‘great news for rail users in Cumbria’ and said electrification would help improve the region's connectivity and accessibility.

He went on: “First TransPennine Express has been in regular dialogue with stakeholders, including Tim Farron MP, user groups and customers and we have always encouraged proposals for infrastructure development for the Windermere route.

“As the current route operator, we have worked in partnership with Network Rail and community representatives to provide the best possible arguments in favour of electrifying the line.

“This announcement, coupled with our £60 million investment in new trains which will start to be delivered from the end of this year, will mean an exciting and positive rail future for South Cumbria.”

Mr Farron said: “This study will help us show once and for all that this project should happen – with this evidence we can then go to Government and make sure the electrification is given the go ahead.

“The plan will bring much-needed construction jobs in the shorter term and in the longer term attract new businesses, boost tourism and create a better environment for job creation.

“Electrification of the line would make economic, financial and environmental sense as well as help to ensure the direct link between Windermere and Manchester Airport.”

The plan is also backed by the Lakes Line Rail User Group and South Lakeland District Council.

It is thought the Lakes Line helps secure more than £2 billion to Cumbria’s tourist economy every year.