THE money to regenerate the dilapidated station at Carnforth could be found after all.

The Trust trying to save the station were dealt a severe blow recently when Lottery bosses said they almost definitely couldn't support the station which was the setting for the classic British movie Brief Encounter.

But this week the Independent Group - the largest on Lancaster City Council - said they were proposing to contribute £100,000 over two years towards the estimated £1.5 million needed to refurbish the station. It looks likely the proposal will gain the support of the council.

Recently elected Carnforth Independent councillor Greg Beaman said: "It is brilliant news, Carnforth deserves some attention - it has been neglected for far too long."

And a progress report from organisers trying to regenerate the station enthused: "It appears likely that with the confirmation of the support expressed to date the Trust will raise the bulk of the necessary funds and with the support of the general public the project will be achieved."

The statement explained that planning permission for refurbishment which would include a major visitor centre had already been obtained; that various government bodies and local charity the Friends of Carnforth Station as well as individuals have already contributed £150,000 to the scheme, work has already occurred on the station car park, that various bodies have already committed £136,000 to the capital project and further proposals for £1 million are currently being considered.

Independent leader Cllr Tricia Heath commented: "This will enable the Carnforth Station and Railway Trust Co Ltd to access funding from other sources. It is essential this project goes ahead for the benefit of all local people, and Carnforth in particular."

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