Midlands Connect signs agreement to improve Birmingham Airport access

Credit: Midlands Connect

Midlands Connect has signed a collaboration agreement with Birmingham Airport that includes a pledge to collaborate on projects across both rail and road, subsequently maximising mobility and connectivity for passengers arriving and departing from the airport.

Midlands Connect will work with Birmingham Airport to secure government support for Midlands Engine Rail – a £3.5 billion plan that will transform inter-regional rail connectivity by introducing direct links from Birmingham International Station to the cities of Derby, Sheffield, Doncaster and York, while also doubling rail services from Birmingham International to Leamington, Banbury, Oxford and Reading.

Sir John Peace, Chairman of Midlands Connect, said: “This collaboration agreement demonstrates our commitment to opening up local, regional and national access to Birmingham Airport. Improving connectivity for passengers and businesses via our roads and railways is essential if we are to support the airport’s ambitious growth plans. It is absolutely imperative that government commits to funding Midlands Engine Rail, improve the surrounding road network and, crucially, to deliver HS2 in its entirety. I look forward to working alongside Birmingham Airport as we move towards this common goal.”

Due to being the first to benefit from direct connections to High Speed Two (HS2) via the nearby Interchange station, both Birmingham Airport and Midlands Connect are committed to ensuring the full and timely delivery of HS2.

Chief Executive Officer of Birmingham Airport, Nick Barton, said: “It’s fantastic to sign this agreement with Midlands Connect, underpinning our strong, strategic relationship, as well as a joint commitment to improving the passenger experience for those travelling from and to Birmingham Airport. It’s vital that we continue to work together and that Midlands Connect’s priorities, as well as HS2, get a vote of confidence from the new government. We need investment in our roads and railways to keep pace with passenger growth, fulfill our masterplan ambitions and build a transport network fit for the future.”