Midland Main Line Electrification Project Hits a Standstill

According to a recent proclamation from the UK government, the electrification project for the Midland Main line has hit a pause. This decision comes after the successful extension of 25 kV 50 hz electrification from London St Pancras over a distance of 37 kilometers, reaching Kettering adn Wigston near Leicester. This upgrade allows East Midlands Railway’s upcoming Hitachi Class 810 electro-diesel trains to operate using electric power.

However, on July 8, officials revealed that Phase 3—intended to extend electrification to Derby, Nottingham, and Sheffield—will not proceed as planned. The Department for Transport along with HM Treasury explained that due to the current fleet operating on this line and the significant costs associated with further electrifying it, they are redirecting their investments toward other projects during this Spending Review period.

This decision reflects a broader strategy focused on decarbonizing railways while keeping future funding options open for full electrification when feasible. It’s an interesting pivot; instead of pushing forward with costly upgrades now, they’re looking at more immediate improvements elsewhere in the network.