Chris Grayling MP and Secretary of State for Transport, has visited Derby during his first week in office. Here to witness the launch the Midlands Connect ‘Picking up the Pace’ Report the newly appointed Secretary of State commented on the importance of Derby and the East Midlands to the rail and broader transport sectors saying;
“If any city can claim to be Britain’s transport engine room, Derby can. Derby’s been building trains for 180 years. The East Midlands Rail Forum, based in Derby, represents over 150 rail businesses across the region – the greatest concentration of rail organisations in the world, who together employ 25,000 people and contribute billions to the economy.”
Whilst time was short RFM Manager, Elaine Clark, took the opportunity to welcome him to Derby, inviting him back to meet some of our members to see first hand how they are supporting the industry.
The ‘Picking up the Pace’ report outlines the early stages of the transport strategy currently under development for the Midlands region. It has 3 themes, to get growth planned, started and delivered. The report was launched at Derby City Council by Sir John Peace, chair of the Midlands Engine and Midlands Connect, and outlined how new road and rail schemes will be the driving force behind the Midlands Engine. It also called for planning and design and key transport projects to be accelerated.
Click here for the full report.
