A RAIL link from Rawtenstall to Manchester is the key to unlocking the borough’s business potential, according to a newly-elected MP.

Rossendale and Darwen MP Jake Berry has announced that a commuter rail service is one of his top priorities during the next four years.

The MP has already held discussions with Sir Howard Bernstein, chief executive of Manchester City Council, and Tony Swain, Rossendale Council leader, to drive the plan forward.

Though funding would be obtained from various sources across the North West, the Valley representative believes the railway line could be in place within the next three to five years.

New railway lines would have to be laid over the heritage railway tracks running for 12 miles from Heywood to Rawtenstall.

Mr Berry said: “When the infrastructure is in place, people will choose to invest in the Valley.

“It is essential that we unlock this potential by securing a commuter link whilst developing the East Lancashire Railway’s heritage lines.

“Regional agencies, Central Government and maybe private investors will be the most likely sources for funding, but I honestly believe it would be profitable for anyone who invests.

"The Manchester Metrolink is proof that when public transport is improved, people use it.”

Rossendale Council has landed some of the funds but there is still a gap.

Coun Alyson Barnes, leader of the Rossendale Labour Party, said: “There was a possibility for the county council to support us with £6million but that has fallen through due to the complexities of the rail link being placed over the heritage line.

“There is funding in place but we are still short and Rossendale Council needs to pull out all the stops to secure that final amount.

“It is crucial that we help those trying to get to work using the M66.”

Some funding has been confirmed from a Greater Manchester transport fund, but the county council’s Intergrated Transport Scheme favoured a Todmorden Curve rail initiative over the commuter link.