Lib Dems Fight for Upgrading of local rail line

The Liberal Democrats have tabled a debate on electrification at the next meeting of the Leicestershire County Council to be held on Wednesday 27th September. A motion has been tabled by Hinckley County Councillor Michael Mullaney that expresses disappointment in the recent Government decision to cancel the Midland Mainline electrification project.

The project, initiated during the Coalition years, would have upgraded the line from London to Sheffield, providing clean and faster electrical trains serving the Leicester, Market Harborough, Loughborough and East Midland Parkway stations. However, Chris Grayling, the Secretary of State for Transport recently announced that electrification would now end at Milton Keynes.

Cllr Michael Mullaney said: "The Government claims it can't afford to complete the electrification project but still manages to find millions to implement expensive rail projects in London. We can't allow Leicestershire and the rest of the East Midlands to be left behind. "

The motion notes the various benefits of the electrification upgrade, including increased speed, capacity and improved air quality. The electrification upgrade would bring economic, as well as quality of life benefits to the people of Leicestershire.

If the motion passes, Leicestershire County Council will work with MPs and other councils in the East Midlands to lobby the Government to reinstate the project.

Cllr Michael Mullaney added "This is important for everyone in Leicestershire. I'm hoping to get cross party support in the Council chamber. Putting together a united front will strengthen our hand and put pressure on the Government."