Business leaders call for Midland Main Line electrification rethink

East Midlands Chamber is demanding a meeting with transport secretary Chris Grayling to persuade him that he is wrong not to proceed with the £1bn project.

In a letter to the secretary of state, the chamber said: “We are not convinced that the switch to bi-mode trains will result in the same level of improvements that electrification would bring. We believe that a golden opportunity to enhance growth – for a modest investment against comparable projects – is being missed.”

Scott Knowles, chamber’ chief executive, said: “At a time of external uncertainties, the right investment gives confidence to businesses planning for the longer-term. Electrification of the Midland Main Line railway provides that opportunity.”