Midlands Connect announce new improvements to Lincoln to Nottingham line

Midlands Connect has revealed a Strategic Outline Business Case to The Department for Transport, which calls for an £18m investment to help improve journey times. Just 10 per cent of journeys between Lincoln and Nottingham happen by rail which the plan aims to address.

A report which is titled ‘All change: The Castle Line’, outlines the proposals to make train travel more attractive, reduce car dependence and benefit the local economies. If the plans go ahead, trains will increase from predominantly 50mph to 75mph throughout the route.

The rail works are being proposed for a start in April 2026 and will hopefully be completed by Summer 2028. Network Rail and local train operator, East Midlands Railway (EMR) are also key stakeholders in this project. Midlands Connect is the transport partner of the Midlands Engine, and the Midlands’ Sub-national Transport Body.

CEO of Midlands Connect, Maria Machancoses, commented on the connection between the two areas and how this will benefit locals who rely on the network for transport.

“This is an important connection between two major urban areas, and our plans for investment represent the first step in encouraging more passengers to use the trains. We recognise the need to make train travel more attractive and help people transition to sustainable transport.

“Our purpose is to create a fairer, greener and stronger Midlands. Faster connections between our towns and cities will bring a boost to the area for all the residents, businesses and visitors.“

Karl McCartney, MP for Lincoln, said:

“I'm pleased to see these plans being submitted, improving train travel times will inevitably benefit both Lincoln and the entire Greater Lincoln area. I look forward to seeing this scheme progress.“