Better Transport

Community improvements hardly ever happen when people work alone. When we work in groups we collect the necessary energy, enthusiasm, good ideas, contacts and skills that are needed to bring about real change in our neighbourhoods.

Good idea: To boost support for their campaign to reopen the Ashington Blyth & Tyne line, Dennis Fancett and his group chartered a special, one-off train on the line. They invited local politicians and journalists to travel on the train and also sold tickets to the public.
Dennis's story in more detail

Find some allies
Any re-opening campaign will require persistence and the involvement of many other people and organisations.

• Create a local lobby group. You will not be able to run this campaign on your own. (And review our 'good group checklist' before you do)
• Build support. With a difficult campaign like this, allies are very important. In particular, contact councillors, MPs, local business leaders, the local chamber of commerce, rail user groups, your local train operator and community groups
• If you are campaigning for a line to be reopened with several potential stations it is important to consider the other towns and villages along the route. Get the support of communities in other neighbouring towns along the proposed route
• Get the support of your train company. You face an even tougher battle if your train operator is not on side. But even if it is not, it is worth pursuing your campaign – you may change the company’s mind later
• Talk to the business community. Identify potential corporate supporters in the area, such as large employers or tourism agencies
• Get advice from people who have been involved in similar campaigns to yours