Positive Dialogue On Northern Line

A positive meeting between railways representative Rick Van Barnveld and mayor Maureen Reynolds has indicated some hope that the northern line between Masterton and Woodville may remain open.

Don Selby, Pahiatua Railcar Society also attended the meeting to present plans for his organisation’s use of the line.

The future of the line has been in contention due to a lack of use at the northern end but efforts are now being made to maintain it by increasing rail traffic - freight in particular – and to capitalise on tourism opportunities.

Reasons to keep the line open included its strategic importance as a transportation link as an alternative to the roading network and to ensure ongoing security of access to the district.

Likely tourism initiatives from Tui Brewery, the Pahiatua Railcar Society and steam trains were another reason to continue the line and increase the viability, the mayor said.
The line would also be an alternative access route to Wellington.