A STATION which closed 40 years ago could be re-opened if a survey proves enough rural residents want it.

Cheshire County Council has commissioned a feasibility survey to see if there is enough demand for trains to stop at Beeston Station.

Representatives from independent surveyors Scott Wilson Railways will conduct face-to-face interviews with residents in Beeston, Tarporley, Tiverton, Bunbury, Burwardesley, Peckforton, Alpraham and Bulkeley next week.

The survey will seek residents' views on current transport provision and the possibility of re-opening the station, which closed in 1966.

The cost of establishing a new, modern station at the site has been estimated at £2 million.

Cheshire County Council executive member for transportation Cllr John Burke said: 'If the survey does establish a need it will go to Railtrack and central government to see if they will fund the station.'

Chester City Councillor for Tattenhall Doug Haynes said: 'It makes sense to reopen this station. There are already two trains passing through Beeston on the Chester-Crewe line every hour of the working day so the rolling stock is there - all we need is a stopping point.

'We would hope for increased bus provision so that people in villages across the area would benefit. If there was decent car parking it would be a park and ride service to Chester, Crewe and even to London.

'Young people from the villages would finally have a way to get to town and it would serve people visiting Beeston and Peckforton Castles and walkers on the Sandstone Trail.'

Beeston Castle and Tarporley Station, as it was then known, closed in April 1966 - one of many Cheshire rural stations closed by the 'Beeching Axe', which closed underused and unprofitable stations.

* Scott Wilson Railway's team will be conducting the surveys from Monday to Friday.

All staff will wear identification cards issued by Cheshire County Council, supported by a formal letter of authorisation.

* Should the station be reopened? Telephone: 01244 606424/5 Fax: 01244 606498 E-mail: newsroom @cheshirenews.co.uk