The 'Save the Woodhead Tunnel' group say the reopened line would help reduce greenhouse gases by reducing road traffic, cut congestion, make the area more accessible for tourists and boost the local economy.

The demonstration takes place at the Longdendale end of the tunnel, of the A628, on Saturday August 2, from 2pm, and will include a samba band and picnic.

Campaigners will also speak about their efforts to preserve the tunnel and reopen the line, which once formed a second rail route between Sheffield and Manchester.

Jonathan Atkinson, of Save Woodhead Tunnel, said: "Here in Longdendale it's all too obvious what's wrong with the Government's transport policy.

"The A628, a road that passes through the Peak District National Park, is clogged with cars and heavy goods vehicles, while planes from Manchester Airport spew out greenhouse gases overhead.

"Meanwhile one of the most modern railway tunnels in Britain stands empty. We demand a sustainable transport policy with freight taken off the road and onto the railway and commuters taking the train."

The future of Woodhead Tunnel has been in doubt since National Grid began routing electricity cables through it earlier this year.

They are being moved from smaller tunnels which are deteriorating. However, National Grid has said it will maintain those tunnels and would be prepared to put the cables back from the main tunnel if it was needed for a railway.

Save Woodhead Tunnel claims support from, amongst others, Sheffield Hallam MP Nick Clegg, Hillsborough MP Angela Smith, the Friends of the Peak District and Sheffield Friends of the Earth.

Transport secretary Ruth Kelly has said that the route will be preserved for rail travel - but only if the case for it to be reopened is made.

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