The government has unveiled the second phase of the HS2 route and confirmed how the changes to the high-speed rail line will affect the East Midlands, especially East Midlands Airport and Long Eaton.
In November 2016, the majority of the proposed HS2 phase two route was unveiled and a new consultation was then launched to address seven specific areas of which two affect the local Midlands region.
Firstly, the route near East Midlands Airport has been changed so that it now follows the eastern side of the A42 more closely. It also avoids a tunnel under the airport, does not cross the A42, and reduces the impact on some communities.
Then, at Long Eaton the route will be on a high level viaduct through the town immediately adjacent to the existing rail corridor.
However, it has been decided not to proceed with proposed changes of the route at Measham, Leicestershire as this would have involved the relocation of the alignment to the east of the town away from the A42.
The Government believes the new railway line will bring huge economic benefits across the country and will help ensure the Government delivers on its promise to spread wealth beyond London and the south east and those in the East Midlands will certainly be hoping this is the case.
Phase 2 will proceed in two stages: phase 2a – from the West Midlands to Crewe that was announced last year; and phase 2b – from Crewe to Manchester and from the West Midlands to Leeds, South Yorkshire and the East Midlands.
Phase 2a will open in 2027 and phase 2b in 2033 but it is worth noting there is still scope to influence changes, especially in relation to mitigation matters and property owners should be prepared to petition for changes they wish to see.