RAIL services along the line which serves the Fylde Coast could become quicker and more efficient, according to the Department of Transport.

In a letter from the DoT, Fylde MP Michael Jack has been assured an investment programme is being developed to bring the west coast main line up to date.

According to John Watts of the DoT, the modernisation plans include a state-of-the-art train signalling system, improved power supply and track renewal.

He said: "It will also bring improved reliability and potential for a reduction in journey times."

Much of the work to modernise the track will be contracted out to private companies during this year.

Bidders will also be invited to tender for the InterCity west coast franchise later this year, so a decision on which company will run the trains will be due.

Mr Watts said: "We believe Railtrack's planned modernisation will give the private sector the opportunity to provide the sort of frequent and efficient service which customers want."

Michael Jack said: "I very much welcome the positive tone of the Minister's letter confirming the upgrading of the track infrastructure.

"This, together with the privatising of the InterCity west coast franchise will bring the full positive force of the private sector to bear on providing us with a rail service fit for the 21st century."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.