Leeds MP seeks assurances over Headingley and Burley stations

Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland has written to Northern Rail to seek assurances over the future of Headingley and Burley Park train stations. Mulholland has asked for assurance that these train stations will not be affected by the long-term plans to improve the frequency of train services between Harrogate and Leeds. Mulholland said that he had heard rumours that the two stations could close - something Northern Rail has denied. But the Liberal Democrat MP said: "Both Headingley and Burley Park Stations serve a population that relies on their use, encouraging many to use public transport. "In addition, both stations support local tourism as they supply for Headingley Stadium for cricket and rugby fans. "These stations and the train services are vital to my constituents and I will also continue to press for devolved funding to invest in transport improvements." A spokeswoman for Northern Rail denied the rumours. She added: "The Harrogate-Leeds line is one of the busiest on Northern Rail's network, which is why we have been working closely with our industry partners to improve service levels to meet the growing numbers of passengers using the line in recent years. "The options being discussed will require improvements to the rail infrastructure, but potentially could allow trains to turn around at Horsforth. This would allow us to run a higher frequency timetable calling at stations between Horsforth and Leeds, and also review the timings and stopping patterns of through services from Harrogate. "So far from looking to reduce service levels, we want to enhance the timetable. The proposals and infrastructure work required to achieve this are subject to the government's spending review and we will be keeping our passengers updated of progress." What do you think? Have your say in the comments section below.