The proposed line would cost �100m

But the �500,000 study says the Matlock to Buxton line should be kept for possible future use.

The 18 month study, paid for by 15 local organisations, investigated the environmental and financial practicalities of reopening the line.

The report identified possible problems with noise, funding and conflict with nearby walking routes.

It said building the track posed no engineering problems but there are concerns about noise and vibration, the disturbance of the landscape and a new route on part of the Monsal Trail.

Funding for the �100m project would have to come from public sources, with money unlikely to be available until well after 2011.

The report does not rule out its reopening completely, and suggests it should be earmarked for possible future use.