East Midlands HS2 route revealed

The HS2 line in the East Midlands will be taken through Long Eaton on a high-level viaduct through the town, the government has revealed.

In a wide-ranging statement, the Transport Secretary Chris Grayling also confirmed that the route near East Midlands Airport would be changed so that it follows the eastern side of the A42 more closely and does not cross it and avoids a tunnel under the airport.

East Midlands Chamber is calling for action to maximise the potential benefit of the service.

Scott Knowles, chief executive, said: “The Eastern Leg of HS2 will be transformational for the region. It has the potential to unlock economic benefits of more than £4bn for the East Midlands and parts of Yorkshire.

“It’s not about faster train times it’s about capacity and connecting the East Midlands to a first-class UK- and Europe-wide rail network that will make the region a more attractive place for inward investment and bring new opportunities for local firms.

“There must be investment now across the region to ensure seamless interconnectivity along the route. Our cities and major towns must have quick, practical and direct connection with HS2 if they are to maximise its potential and avoid being marginalised by poor connectivity.”

Knowles added: “The East Midlands cannot be left with insufficient rail capacity or poor connectivity. As part of this major infrastructure project, the biggest in a generation, full electrification of the Midland Main Line should now be a priority to ensure seamless integration with HS2, particularly where the route goes through Chesterfield and Sheffield.”