A BOROUGH'S future could be put in 'real danger' if key funding isn't granted to create a new transport corridor connecting it to the national rail network.

Rossendale is currently the only borough in Lancashire without a link to national rail services, something MPs, business owners and council bosses are looking to change by creating the 'Valley City Link', a line that would run from Rawtenstall through to Manchester with stops at large towns such as Bury and Ramsbottom.

Progress has been made to put the idea into motion by the Valley City Link group, who met for the first time last Friday to discuss moving plans forward. And council leader Alyson Barnes has now spoken out about how securing funding is a priority for all those involved.

She said: "We will continue to press for the much needed funding to advance this project, which will continue with the production of a strategic outline business case.

"With a reported £70 billion being spent by Transport for the North across the north of England it is only fair that the Valley City Link corridor, which could connect 200,000 residents in Rossendale, Bury and Rochdale, is given the due support that it needs."

A study conducted before Christmas found that there is passenger demand for a direct link between Rawtenstall and Manchester, with over 9,000 people travelling between the areas for work every day. It also found that the creation of the new railway would be 'feasible and cost effective'.

Iain Taylor, Chair of the Valley City Link group, said: "It is essential that we work with East Lancashire Railway, local people, Councils and business to make the best possible case for future investment in what I think is a hugely exciting opportunity for Rossendale."

Miranda Barker, Chief Executive of the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce added: "The lack of effective connectivity is in real danger of stifling Rossendale’s potential and mustering the support and funding for the rail link is key to unlocking the economic potential for the area."