Staffordshire businesses are being urged to support a campaign calling for a direct rail service between Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester Airport.
The campaign has attracted support from local politicians and business leaders, who say improved rail connectivity would make North Staffordshire more attractive to investors while offering a faster, cheaper and more convenient journey for both business and leisure travellers.
A petition has been set up by Newcastle-under-Lyme MP Adam Jogee who has been pushing for a direct connection to the airport since October last year.
He described a direct rail service as ‘exactly the kind of change that would make a real difference to those who live, learn and work here.’
He said: “The status quo – changing at Manchester Piccadilly – adds unnecessary time, and cost, to every journey. And that is more than just an inconvenience.
“North Staffordshire has a genuinely compelling offer for investors and global businesses. Keele University hosts world-leading research, cutting-edge facilities, and major commercial partnerships. But that offer is only as strong as the ability to get here.
“A global company considering whether to engage with our universities and businesses, invest locally, or hold conferences and events here will see accessibility as the most basic requirement. Right now, that is harder than it needs to be.
“A direct rail link between Stoke Station and Manchester Airport would change that.”
Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Gareth Snell is also backing the calls.
He said: “A direct link between Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester Airport has long been something I have called for in Parliament.
“It would be a huge boost to the local economy and would make a big difference to many holidaymakers and business travellers flying from Manchester.
“I hope that the railway companies and the Government are able to support these calls and implement a direct connection as soon as they can.”
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has called for a direct rail service between Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester Airport for many years.
Declan Riddell, the chamber’s policy adviser, said: “A direct rail service between Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester Airport would be a real game changer for our region, making it easier for both business and leisure travellers to get to and from the UK’s third busiest airport.
“It will also open up our region to visitors from abroad, on business and visiting the area’s many leisure attractions.
“Congestion on roads and the high cost of airport parking can make rail travel a viable and stress-free alternative, with a journey time of around one hour.”
To sign the petition, or to find out more, follow this link.
What do you think about a direct rail link from Stoke-on-Trent to Manchester Airport? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
