Star comment: Good news but rail link needs spark

From the cradling of industry in Ironbridge Gorge to the invention of the television, we have stamped our mark on the world.

And from the moment that the railways were conceived and developed – again, in the UK – a strong basis in infrastructure has provided the arteries through which the creative blood of our nation has flowed.

Now, we stand on the edge of the next great transport project which will finally help urge the country on once more.

Yes, there will be people who are upset and uprooted by today's HS2 announcement, and it is essential that the government ensures they are not fobbed off. In the national interest the route may be, but those people still need properly compensating.

But like it or not, London remains at the heart of British business, it is the central point towards which everything gravitates.

So for businesses in the outer regions, it is imperative that the links to the capital are strong.

The new high speed rail network will provide unparalleled access to one of the biggest, most vibrant cities in Europe.

There can be no doubt that Shropshire will benefit from the spin-off effect of that.

But with so much money floating around in the coffers for infrastructure projects, surely there could be a bit of money to spare to finally electrify Shropshire's rail routes.

If it is frustrating trying to link to the main transport networks now, just imagine how it will feel to be rattling along in an old diesel carriage at 35 mph on your way out of Shrewsbury, taking in every single stop along the way, when the most hi-tech, up to date railway in Europe is snaking around the edge of the county in the future.

Shropshire more than anywhere is in desperate need of an update to its rail links.

We welcome the opportunity to refresh and renew our connections to the capital – but we need to be able to connect from our own doorstep to maximise the opportunities it affords.