London here we come! Rail company bids to launch new direct service from Cleethorpes to capital

All aboard for London? Hopes grow for direct link from Cleethorpes

RAILWAY company Grand Central has today launched an application process for direct services between  Cleethorpes, Grimsby, Habrough, Scunthorpe and London.

The proposal will require rubber-stamping by the Office of the Railway Regulator, but, assuming there are no hitches, the service could launch by December next year.

Says Grand Central: "The application will  be welcomed by all those who have been campaigning for the reintroduction of direct rail links to London for the first time since 1992.

"If approved, the extended route will provide additional capacity and improved connectivity with four new return services per day and over 775,000 additional seats annually made available between Cleethorpes, Grimsby and London’s Kings Cross."

The company's managing director is Paul Hutchings who enthuses: "We are really  excited about this opportunity .

"If approved, these services will play a pivotal role in driving regional growth by linking underserved communities to key commercial opportunities, benefiting both local businesses and passengers."

The news has been welcomed by Brigg and Immingham MP Martin Vickers and Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn who have both campaigned vigorously for the direct link to be restored.

Says the latter: " A direct rail service between Cleethorpes and London would significantly boost our local economy.

"It has been an ongoing project for many years to try and re-establish the direct service and one that is backed by business, local leaders and the community as a whole."                                            

Busier times ahead? Grimsby Town railway station