PLANS to build a new station at Ilkeston in Derbyshire have moved a step closer to reality, following a decision by the County Council to contribute £754,000 towards the £6.5 million project.

The balance would come from the Department for Transport, which is preparing to name the new stations qualifying for a share of a special £20 million budget intended to assist 'shovel-ready' schemes.

The other potential stations which appear to be front runners along with Ilkeston are Kenilworth and a proposed Parkway station on the outskirts of Worcester.