Leicestershire's leader is concerned at delays to the Midland Main Line electrification and has welcomed a Parliamentary debate on the issue on Monday (7th November).
I support our MPs in pressing for the prompt electrification of the Midland Main Line, which is so important to Leicestershire’s economy.
"Electrification has been delayed once already, so I’m concerned the timetable could slip again. If we don’t have new trains when the 40-year-old High Speed Trains are withdrawn in 2020, we face slower, less frequent services, with a £3 million economic hit for every minute lost on journey times.
"That makes it even more important that the Government orders new, 125mph bi-mode diesel/electric trains, to ensure that the current frequency and speed of Leicestershire-London services is maintained, even if electrification is delayed again.”
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Person:Council leader, Councillor Nick Rushton
For further detail on the background to this issue, see Councils call for new trains now.