MP calls for station investment zone pilot

Connor Naismith spoke about Crewe station during Prime Minister's Questions

Crewe should be a pilot for an investment area around its railway station, the town's MP has said.

The Rail Industry Association (RIA) recently recommended the introduction of station investment zones to encourage the development of housing, commercial space and improved transport connections around rail stations.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Connor Naismith made the call for Crewe to be included during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday.

Sir Keir Starmer replied that Mr Naismith would be able to meet with the relevant minister.

Mr Naismith said he was working with Cheshire East Council on investment in Crewe Station and the surrounding area.

"We want to adopt the Rail Industry Association's station investment zone proposals, which could deliver much needed improvements in transport, housing, regeneration and economic growth," he said.

"Would the Prime Minister agree with me that Crewe would make a perfect pilot for these proposals?"

Crewe was due to become a hub station for HS2 before the northern leg was cancelled

The RIA's proposals call for the existing investment zone model to be adapted in a radius of 800m (0.5 mile) around railway stations.

Investment zones are in place in a number of areas, including Greater Manchester and the West Midlands.

The new zones would need a partnership between the railway, local authorities and the private sector, the RIA said.

It also said investment and tax relief for development within the zone would be needed, as well as incentives for sustainable house building.

The organisation said at least 100 stations across the country would benefit from this approach - but did not specify which ones.

In response to Mr Naismith's question, Sir Keir Starmer highlighted a government plan for more house building near stations and said he would make sure the MP meets with relevant ministers.