East Midlands rail network at 'critical crossroads'

A new report has highlighted the need for new trains and extra carriages to improve the rail network in the East Midlands.

“East Midlands: A Railway for Growth” sets out a number of recommendations including:

  • The procurement of a new fleet of Intercity style (bi-mode) trains to replace the 40-year old High Speed Trains,

  • Faster journey times and more seats to London,

  • A firm plan agreed to secure additional carriages on regional train routes across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire and between Norwich and Liverpool,

  • Later evening trains and improved weekend services,

  • Improved northbound connectivity from Luton, Bedford and Northamptonshire,

  • Better airport connections.

The Government is currently developing plans for the next East Midlands franchise which is due to start in 2018.

East Midlands rail network at 'critical crossroads' Credit: PA

Jake Kelly, Managing Director for East Midlands Trains, which currently operates rail services across the region, said: