£9 million plan to reopen Cross Hills Railway Station 50 years after it was closed

Last week it was revealed early talks are under way with a developer to build 220 homes and a new £7.5 million bridge at Ashfield Farm.

Now, a feasibility study looking at potential new railway stations in North and West Yorkshire has put the reopening of the station at Cross Hills as “potentially promising” and recommended further investigation.

West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (Metro) lists the site as one of five recommended for further feasibility work.

It considered two sites in Cross Hills, but concluded the original site, rather than an alternative site off Hardings Lane, should be pursued.

The report puts the cost at between £6.5 million to £9 million, but points out there is a potential issue with the Kildwick level crossing.

“This site has been recommended for further study, as it would appear if the issues surrounding the level crossing can be resolved, the station would appear to have a promising case,” says the report.

Craven Council’s strategic manager, David Smurthwaite, said: “It is clearly a positive development that the study has started to prove the feasibility of reopening Cross Hills Station, although this is only the first step as further research is required to understand the details and how it can be funded.

“Craven District Council will be working with North Yorkshire County Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority during coming months to push the project forward.”

Cllr Philip Barrett said the move will be welcomed, but added there is a long way to go.

“The reopening of the station would be widely welcomed in South Craven and bring huge benefits to the area, but I do not wish to unduly raise expectations at this time,” he added.

“Unsurprisingly, the study findings have highlighted the level crossing as an issue.”

The report also calls attention to the Metro ticketing boundary, which it says should be investigated further before more detailed business casework.