Ministers rethink HS2 tunnel in the East Midlands

The UK government has reviewed the proposed route of its HS2 high-speed rail network to allow a development, which is estimated to create 7,000 jobs in the East Midlands, to go ahead.

Roxhill Developments Limited had planned to construct a Strategic Rail Freight Interchange depot (SRFI) next to East Midlands Airport, but progress stalled on the project after Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin published the proposed route for phase two of the network.

Following concerns from the developer and local authorities, ministers have now said that the planned tunnel that would run underneath the airport could be extended so as not to cut across the proposed SRFI site.

Making the announcement, Patrick McLoughlin said: “These changes have the potential to deliver huge economic benefits for the East Midlands on top of the already considerable opportunities HS2 will bring the region.

“We will continue to work with stakeholders, to identify critical issues such as Roxhill and propose revisions to the scheme where possible.”

Kate Bedson, senior development director at Roxhill, said in a statement: “Our proposals for a new SRFI with six million square feet of associated warehousing have the potential to create 7,000 jobs, providing a boost to the economy in the region.

“Since the announcement, through our MP and local authority, we have enjoyed an early and positive dialogue with DfT and HS2 Ltd and are very pleased with the decision to amend the proposed route.

“This now allows us to consult with the public and other bodies on our plans before submitting our application at the end of the year.”




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