A NORTH-EAST MP who fears funding to build train stations may never materialise voiced his concerns in the House of Commons yesterday.

Sedgefield MP Phil Wilson believes Ferryhill, in County Durham, could benefit from the £20m scheme, which aims to improve access to the railway network by inviting communities to bid for funding to build train stations.

However, having heard nothing about the competition since it was announced by the former transport minister Justine Greening in July, he has asked the Leader of the House, Andrew Lansley, to provide more information.

“The competition could help communities like Ferryhill in my constituency, which has been crying out for a new station for decades,” he said. “Could we have another statement on when exactly this competition is to start and what are its rules so that if possible, Ferryhill can prepare a bid?”

Mr Lansley said he would ensure the Department of Transport writes to Mr Wilson with further details about the competition.

Mr Wilson said he was pleased with the response, adding: “If the passenger network extended to Ferryhill, it would help local people look for employment in Newcastle, Teesside and elsewhere, as well as potentially leading to a reduction in road usage.

“Ferryhill may not be successful, but local people should have at least the opportunity to consider entering the competition,” he added.