Revealed: £2.7 billion transport plan will link Mansfield to HS2 in 28 minutes

Under the proposals, more than 20 villages, towns and cities across the East Midlands including Mansfield will have direct access to the HS2 station at Toton via ‘new and improved’ rail, bus and tram networks as well as enhanced road infrastructure.

Journey time from Mansfield to the HS2 hub is estimated at 28 minutes via new rail links, with two services running from the town per hour.

The vision is split into three phases, with the first earmarked for completion by 2030, to stimulate development before HS2 trains first arrive in the region.

Councillor Kay Cutts MBE, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council and chair of the HS2 East Midlands Growth Board, deemed the plans ‘more than just a transport project’.

“It’s about securing a successful future for our people, promoting prosperity and social mobility for generations to come,” said Coun Cutts.

“The arrival of High Speed Two in Nottinghamshire will bring with it widespread regeneration, development and highly-skilled jobs.

“This comprehensive plan ensures that communities in our towns and villages can access these opportunities, and that the benefits of this investment are spread far and wide.

“ We need to work alongside Government to ensure that the East Midlands sees benefits as soon as possible.”

Improvements are ‘fully integrated’ with the work of the East Midlands Development Corporation, which says it has secured government backing to deliver 84,000 jobs and 4,500 homes at key growth sites close to the HS2 station.

Phase One of the scheme, which could be implemented and operational within the next ten years, will see the creation of new rail services between Mansfield, Derby and Leicester, with stops at Ilkeston, Langley Mill, Kirkby, Sutton Parkway and the HS2 East Midlands Hub, made possible by reopening the Maid Marian line.

Phase Two, which could be up and running within 20 years, includes the build of a new railway station at East Midlands Airport.

A site west of East Midlands Airport has been earmarked for a housing development as part of the final raft of improvements, operational within 25 years.

But an initial £4.5 million is required from government to develop proposals, which have been published by a group of councils, transport bodies and East Midlands Airport, further.

Sir John Peace, chairman of Midlands Connect and Midlands Engine said: “The arrival of High Speed Two is a watershed moment for our region, and an opportunity that we must grasp with both hands.

“As we work towards an economic renewal post-COVID-19, the East Midlands must step forward and work together to secure the transport network, economic future and social mobility it deserves.

“This truly integrated transport strategy isn’t just about connecting more people to the HS2 station; it will also support the building of new homes, accelerate transformational regeneration and link some of our most deprived communities to nationally-important assets.

“It means spreading the benefits of high speed rail to businesses and workers across the region, from our great cities to bustling towns like Mansfield and smaller communities that may otherwise feel HS2 won’t benefit them.

“Our message to Westminster is clear; support us in making this vision a reality.”

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