The rail line between Bolton and Wigan, specifically from Lostock Junction to Wigan North Western is not electrified, nor is it set to be electrified in the future.

I believe that this ‘missing link’ should be electrified for a number of reasons:

The lack of electrification on this section of the line is holding back our area from fully embracing electric trains, with diesel trains still running along this line.  This is detrimental to passengers who have to put up with an inferior service, with trains that are less efficient and worse for the environment.

Also, as I understand it, in the event of disruption on the Bolton-Preston line (through Chorley), a diversionary route would use the Bolton to Wigan line.  If this were to happen, then electric trains could not travel from Bolton to Preston, which would cause additional, unnecessary disruption for rail users.

This is why I have written to the Minister responsible for the Railways, Andrew Jones, and asked him to support the electrification of the entire Bolton-Wigan line.