FUNDING for the electrification of the 16km branch between Oxenholme and Windermere has been confirmed by the Government today.

Transport Minister Baroness Kramer, announcing the decision to provide funding worth £16 million, added: “Electrifying this key rail link will support the vital tourism industry in the area, and help us build a stronger economy in the Lake District and beyond.

“We are committed to building a world-class rail network. Over the next five years, more than £38 billion will be spent on improving and running the system, with schemes like this helping to provide better services for passengers.”

Network Rail will now develop a detailed plan for the work, which could be completed by 2017. Other routes being electrified include Manchester to Liverpool, Preston, Leeds and York, and Preston to Blackpool North.

David Golding, strategic planner at Network Rail, said: “Confirmation of this funding is great news and will support the retention of direct services between Manchester to Windermere, as the rest of the route is electrified. Once complete, electrification will enable a faster, more reliable rail service. This is part of a wider investment by Network Rail in the electrification of key routes between towns and cities across the north of England.”

Chris Nutton, First TransPennine Express programme director, added: "We are absolutely delighted that the Department for Transport has announced that the line between Oxenholme and Windermere will be electrified in the near future. First TransPennine Express has worked with local representatives and Network Rail to develop a solid business case in relation to the improvements.

"We recognise the importance of rail connectivity across the regions and this line electrification is part of an unprecedented level of investment of the railway in the north. It is great news for the region and the local economy and will ensure that the southern lakes remain an important and accessible tourist destination.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in lobbying for and achieving this significant investment."