Local businesses urged to have their say on reconnecting Coventry to Leicester
An online survey will allow businesses to give feedback on the proposals.
Midlands Connect has launched a business survey on creating a direct rail link between Coventry, Leicester, and Nottingham.
The new survey builds on the Building Back Greener report released last year, which outlined the strong case for reconnecting three major cities and economic hubs in the Midlands by rail.
The report highlighted passengers travelling from Coventry to either Leicester or Nottingham had to change trains at Nuneaton, leading to longer journey times with increased chances of delays.
Midlands Connect is advising businesses in these areas to complete a short survey, which will support the case for a further £1million of government investment on the route.
Currently, only 3% of journeys from Coventry to Leicester are made by rail, compared to 30% of journeys from Coventry to Birmingham.
It is hoped that by building this direct line, more trips will be made by rail rather than road - a huge stride towards the government’s net zero targets.
The rail line, if improved significant social, environmental, and economic benefits, is estimated to be worth £179 million.
CEO, Maria Machancoses, said: “We are calling on businesses and employers to make their voices heard in our consultation.
"Increased connectivity between these cities could bring more jobs and opportunities to the region. The information local companies will give us could really help build our case for this new rail line.”
The survey closes on Friday 11th November 2022.
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