THE Clitheroe to Blackburn rail service is on line to success just two years down the track, a new survey shows

The number of passengers could even exceed original forecasts by the end of the three-year introductory period, says the study commissioned by Lancashire County Council and North West Regional Railways.

Consultants sought the views of train travellers and also interviewed local businesspeople and 1,000 Ribble Valley residents.

They found 189,000 trips are made annually, against the 207,000 predicted at the end of three years.

Highest demand is from Clitheroe with 119,800 journeys per year. A total of 35,000 trips were made by people who previously used cars, and 33,100 by people who previously used buses. The transfer from cars is higher than expected, and could increase with the opening of park and ride facilities.

Travellers praised staff along the line, and also facilities at Clitheroe station.

But they were critical of Blackburn station, branded as frightening, gloomy and freezing.

Passengers criticised the lack of a waiting room and the fact that toilets were locked at night.

Disabled travellers were more critical, with 51 per cent describing facilities on the line as poor or not very good.

They reported difficulties in boarding trains, and physical barriers at some stations, particularly Langho.

Security was a major area of concern. Although 82 per cent of those surveyed felt security on trains was good or reasonable, there were worries about personal safety on stations.

Travelling to and from stations was identified as a 'significant deterrent' to evening travel.

Talks will take place between the county council and North West Regional Railways to agree action to address key concerns.

The report will also be presented to tomorrow's county council public transport sub-committee.

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