PLANS to reduce the size of Oxenholme train station's taxi rank from five spaces to two have been scrapped.

Taxi drivers were left up in arms following the news that the number of slots might be reduced.

However, Virgin Trains and Network Rail have now agreed to scrap the plans following a visit to the station yesterday by representatives from the rail companies. They agreed to drop the plans after hearing how seriously drivers and passengers would be affected.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron, who was working with the taxi drivers to oppose the plans, said he was 'delighted' at the news.

"We understand that there are problems with traffic and parking at the station, but these unfair proposals would have done nothing to tackle these issues – there is no way that two taxi spots would be enough when you have a train full of tourists turning up at once," said Mr Farron.

"Taxi drivers provide a valuable service to both local residents and tourists, so I want to thank the train companies for listening to their concerns today and agreeing to drop these plans."