A CAMPAIGN to reopen a second railway station in Stonehouse is gathering steam.

Stroud MP Neil Carmichael has taken the case to reactivate the station in Bristol Street to Westminister.

It is hoped that if the line reopens it will enable local commuters to travel direct to Bristol.

Currently the station site is identified in Gloucestershire County Council’s local transport plan.

On Thursday Mr Carmichael highlighted the need for a second station in Stonehouse during questions to the Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

“With the renaissance of railways under way, will the Secretary of State consider travel from Stonehouse to Bristol without going via Swindon, by reopening an existing station?” asked Mr Carmichael.

Mr McLoughlin responded: It is for local authorities to determine whether a new station at Stonehouse on the Gloucester to Bristol line is the best way to meet local transport needs.

“It is for them to demonstrate the business case for securing it, but I am more than happy to work with my honorable friend and to facilitate communications between him and Network Rail to see whether a solution can be reached.”

Mr Carmichael has pledged to work with local stakeholders to develop a strong business case and last Friday he met with the county council’s transport planning team manager at the old Bristol Road station site.

He said: “Local stakeholders and residents have highlighted the case for reopening this station and working together I believe we can make a robust case to Network Rail for providing services.”