The disused trackbed between Skipton and Colne is the missing link in what would otherwise be the lowest lying trans-Pennine railway. It would serve as an alternative to the heavily graded and trafficked Diggle & Calder Valley routes, avoiding the congested lines around Manchester. Although under increasing threat, the trackbed is largely intact and the railway could be restored at a relatively low cost.

The line would connect the socially deprived areas of north-east Lancashire to the more prosperous West Yorkshire area, providing an alternative to road transport for people visiting Skipton and the Aire Valley. Car ownership is low in East Lancashire leading to social exclusion.

Various transport and environmental campaign groups, local businesses/organisations, regional business groups, many local councils/councillors. Positive references made in Network Rail Lancashire & Cumbria Route Utilisation Strategy, though it notes an absence of funding.

Almost 2,000 people added their name to an e-petition on the Downing Street website, asking for the line to be reopened. In response, the government claimed that the "Department for Transport has agreed to work with Pennine Lancashire partners to develop a process to take forward the Colne to Skipton Rail Reinstatement through the Pennine Lancashire Multi Area Agreement".

Track lifted, trackbed largely intact.

Business case produced by JMP Consulting. Engagement from Network Rail.