The Planning Inspectorate is holding a series of hearings at the Collingtree Hilton this week as part of its examination into the Northampton Gateway strategic rail freight interchange proposal.

• Tuesday 12th March: Issue Specific Hearing 4 on cumulative and interaction issues between Northampton Gateway and Rail Central

• Wednesday 13th March: Issue Specific Hearing 5 on the draft Development Consent Order, and the second Compulsory Acquisition Hearing

• Thursday 14th March: the second Open Floor Hearing

As my parliamentary duties have prevented my attendance at these meetings, I asked my Parliamentary Assistant, Tommy Gilchrist, to attend ISH4 today on my behalf and read out a statement.

As ever, please do not hesitate to contact me directly if you have any specific concerns or questions about Northampton Gateway or any other issue.