THE project to re-open the train station in Middlewich has moved one step closer by being written into the Cheshire East Transport Plan for 2018 to 2023.

A meeting of the Environment Scrutiny Committee on Monday night saw members discuss the Draft Report on the newly emerging Local Transport Plan.

The Plan, once finalised, would form an integral constituent section of the new Local Plan itself and would determine the future major transport considerations for Cheshire East.

Although the project to re-open the station had previously been successfully accepted and included in the Local Plan, without it also being 'written into' the Local Transport Plan section of the former, it would struggle to be recognised as a priority.

In addressing relevant Officers and Members at the meeting, Middlewich ward councillor Mike Parsons stated that he was pleased to see that the project was listed 'in essence' in the Draft Report.

But Cllr Parsons added that he would like to see certain wording added that would remove any possibility for oversight or rejection and thereby show it as a firm recommendation.

In being granted the actions requested, he was then assured that the project would be listed for inclusion.

The Local Transport Plan now goes forward to public consultation at the beginning of April and will inform the final plan upon completion in late summer of this year.

Cllr Parsons said: "The case for bringing the railway back to Middlewich is now exactly where it needs to be. With its inclusion now in all three major plan documents it is no longer a pipe dream, it is now a reality.

“At this point I cannot overstate the wealth of gratitude that is due to all the members of the Mid Cheshire Rail Link Campaign for their dedication and hard work and to add that it has been our pleasure, as their Borough Councillors to be able to provide a catalyst for their success."