TWO rail routes in Lancashire are to be electrified, it has been announced today.

Work will be carried out on the 25-mile route between Manchester and Euxton Junction of Chorley and the 17 miles between Blackpool North and Preston.

Transport Secretary Andrew Adonis said it meant rail passengers would benefit from greener, more comfortable and reliable rail journeys.

Bosses also said the electrification, combined with other improvements to track and signalling on the lines, would improve journeys between several of the key towns and cities in the North-West.

The 15-mile line between Huyton and Wigan will also be electrified.

Mr Adonis said: “"It is essential that we invest in our railways now and over the longer term.

"This is a further step in the biggest electrification programme in a generation and it’s a vital part of our rail investment and carbon reduction strategies.

"By 2017 over two-thirds of passenger rail will be on electrified routes.”

Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle said: “I've been lobbying for the electrification of the Manchester to Preston line for some time.

"We've now seen the Government act and submit plans for an electrification scheme which will mean passengers in Chorley and other areas such as Bolton and Preston, will now benefit from a much improved service with modern trains fit for purpose.

“With the construction of the railway station at Buckshaw Village, people in Chorley can now look forward to significant improvements in our railway infrastructure which will hopefully encourage more people to use the train.”