It takes a long time to get agreement to build new or to reopen lines and stations; campaigners have to be prepared for a long haul. Some campaigns, eg for East-West Rail, have been running for almost half a century. However these campaigns have borne fruit, with 370 stations opened during that time, and Borders Rail reopening in 2015.

Developing new rail infrastructure is complex and requires clear objectives, good planning and a strong business case. Through that campaigning Railfuture has gained considerable experience of how to bring stakeholders together build the support needed to gain agreement. Success requires that the project meets more than just a transport need – it must also deliver economic and social benefit. Working together with the Campaign for Better Transport and the Department for Transport, Railfuture has used that experience to create this new guide, which aims to help local communities, sponsors and stakeholders to navigate the process.

The Rail Minister, Paul Maynard, commented:

‘It is vital that local communities are able to help shape the future of the country’s rail investment. I am therefore delighted to support this new guide by Campaign for Better Transport and Railfuture which helps communities understand how to make the case for rail projects that put passengers first.

The Government and the whole rail industry are working hard to deliver the biggest rail modernisation programme for over a century. We are investing in better trains, more seats, faster and more reliable journeys, improved stations, and easier ways to purchase tickets and access information. Through this new guide, Campaign for Better Transport and Railfuture are helping to put local communities at the heart of this historic upgrade.’


Expanding the Railways – download report (1Mb PDF)

Expanding the Railways – display report on screen

Missing links – Railfuture campaigns for new and reopened lines

New stations