Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have received any representations about lowering the projected costs of electrifying the Midland Main Line.
We are committed to delivering the biggest upgrade of the Midland Main Line since its completion in 1870, enabling improved long distance services between Sheffield, Nottingham and London, and improved commuter services between Corby, Kettering and London. There will be up to 50% more seats into London, and a reduction of up to 20 minutes in journey times between Nottingham and Sheffield and London in the peak, with a brand new fleet of bi-mode trains from 2022.
The Government has had initial representations from industry regarding lowering the projected cost of electrifying the Midland Main Line. Any future proposals will be considered in line with the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline process published in March.