A new action group dedicated to getting a train station opened in Arthington has been formed.

Former Pool-in-Wharfedale parish councillor Steve Brady, who is spearheading the campaign, thinks he will be able to achieve more with a new non-council affiliated organisation.

Arthington Station Action Group will effectively continue the work of Arthington Station Area Parishes, but Mr Brady thinks it will be better equipped to work with people from all the surrounding areas, including Otley, Bramhope and Harewood, as well as Arthington and Pool.

So far only Pool residents have been officially asked if they would like a train stop at Arthington, and they gave an overwhelmingly positive response.

Mr Brady said: “I am hoping to get this group up and running for two reasons.

“Free from council protocols and procedures, I feel I will be better placed to represent Pool. I also think someone has to speak up for all the other people from around the area who would like to be able to catch a train from Arthington.

“From my own research I know it would not only be used by people from Pool but also Otley, Bramhope, Arthington and Harewood.

“I would like to know what other people from in and around the Wharfe Valley area really think about this.

“Arthington Station Action Group will give those people a voice and the chance to tell us. Our part of the Wharfe Valley is crying out for a better alternative to the car.

“For the new group to be successful it will need public support and I have set up a new e-mail address for this purpose, ArthingtonSAG@aol.com.”

The new station, which Mr Brady believes could cost a relatively modest £1.6 million, would have platforms south of Arthington Lane.

He also hopes it could be environmentally sustainable, as it would link with a proposed cycle track running between Otley and Arthington, using the old railway line via Pool, and could be supported by a new park-and-ride facility at Otley.

However, Arthington Parish Council has repeatedly voiced doubts about how safe and adequate parking for the scheme could be provided, and also believes attracting the required funding could prove impossible.