The Midland Main Line (MML) provides Nottingham with a direct rail service to London and the international gateway of St. Pancras with its associated onward connections to the Continent. The Government recognises that the route has significant growth potential in addition to offering a sustainable alternative to the M1, one of the busiest road corridors in the country.

Whilst the required works need large scale investment they should be viewed as short term priorities that need to be delivered now.

High Speed Rail is fast becoming a national talking point and we are ensuring Nottingham is involved in the discussions.

Whilst seeming revolutionary in terms of journey time and environmental benefits it is fast becoming the norm within many European countries. We cannot fall behind and we must ensure that Nottingham is firmly placed on the emerging high speed rail map.

It is on this basis that Nottingham has joined a group of ten major cities to lobby the main political parties. The group wants to ensure that their party manifestos include a commitment to deliver a network of High Speed Rail routes. This network is vital to the nations continued economic prosperity. Not only will it provide links to London the network will also ensure major cities are connected by a fast and efficient rail service.

It is therefore essential that the route gets a higher level of investment and deserves a greater status than it is currently given.

If as an ambassador you would like to join the City Council in lobbying for better rail services for Nottingham please contact Chris Carter, Transport Strategy Manager, Nottingham City Council via email at: transport.strategy@nottinghamcity.gov.uk.