Reform UK in Derbyshire want to close the Monsal Trail and re-open it as a railway line. Local Conservatives oppose this reckless plan and support our environment and valuable assets for local residents and visitors.
At a recent meeting of Derbyshire County Council, Reform UK councillors ignored concerns and pressed ahead to explore a speculative and dangerous plan. This demonstrates a worrying lack of understanding of the importance of the trail to Derbyshire's tourism economy, local businesses and residents who enjoy it every day.
The Monsal Trail is one of the Peak District's most popular attractions, bringing visitors, supporting local businesses and providing a safe, accessible route for walkers, cyclists and families.
Re-opening the former railway line would put this valuable asset at risk, with no clear replacement route, significant costs to taxpayers and potential impacts on our National Park landscape. This trail runs through some of Derbyshire's most beautiful countryside, and re-opening the railway would threaten the natural environment and iconic landscapes that residents and visitors value so highly.
Reform UK's support for reopening the railway risks not only the future of the Monsal Trail but also the wider White Peak Loop project, potentially sacrificing miles of planned recreational routes for a costly scheme with no guarantee of success. The White Peak Loop is a 42-mile circular walking and cycling route, linking the towns of Matlock, Bakewell and Buxton. However, several key sections are not yet complete. Bringing back a railway line would jeaopordise the future of this important leisure route.
The Monsal Trail should remain a trail – protecting tourism, recreation and the countryside for future generations.
Watch Cllr Susan Hobson (Derwent Valley) explaining why she supports keeping the trail: click here
Please let us know below if you agree.
