This scheme aims to provide a much-needed transport link into and out of the northern Lake District. Tourist Board figures suggest that upwards of 250,000 passengers could be carried every year. With fares comparable to local bus services, the railway would cover operating and maintenance costs at these traffic levels, and generate returns for further development.

Benefits would be brought to the area on many levels, with direct employment, supporting services, business opportunities and increased visitor spending all helping local communities. No regular freight traffic is expected, but occasional loads from quarries and forests could be accommodated without special facilities.

Keswick Town Council, Lake District National Park, various MPs, LibDems keen.

Track lifted, some encroachment onto trackbed. New structures needed.

Engineering feasibility, design and environmental impact studies completed by Corus. Business case produced by North West Regional Development Agency in 2007.