Confusion and uncertainty over whether Maid Marian Line near Hucknall will actually reopen

There is confusion over whether or not the Maid Marian railway line will actually reopen.

Following the Government's raft of announcements as they published the Integrated Rail Plan (IRP) document this morning, Ashfield District Council welcomed the news that the line near Hucknall would reopen.

However, closer inspection of the IRP has revealed that whilst the reopening of the line is mentioned, it hasn't been confirmed.

Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council said: "Based on briefings we received, we welcomed news that the Ashfield District Council-led bid to reopen the Maid Marian Line to rail passengers was successful.

"This appeared to be the culmination of 7 years of hard work by the Council. It now appears that our celebrations may be somewhat premature.

"After analysis of the published Integrated Rail Plan document – it now appears that the guarantee we received about the Maid Marian Line from partners is not contained within the document. We are seeking clarification on claims that were briefed to media in advance of the publication of the Government plans.

"We were led to believe the reopening of the Maid Marian Line had been confirmed but as discussed in Parliament, the Robin Hood Line and Maid Marian reopening has been mentioned in the report but not yet confirmed.

"I would like to make it clear that this doesn't mean reopening the Maid Marian Line to rail passengers won't happen, but there is still significant work to be done. Ashfield District Council will continue to work with our partners and neighbouring Councils and other stakeholders to deliver on our ambitious vision to improve public transport across Ashfield."