Its sudden elevation in status over Chester-le-Street and Trent Bridge, in particular, remains the subject of much rancour on the circuit and we all hope that the venue proves its worth as host of the opening Test of this much anticipated series.

BBC: Jonathan Agnew column

It would also provide a new area for freight trains at Stafford and, subject to the outcome of a public inquiry, a new flyover at Norton Bridge, it said.

BBC: Work on Staffordshire rail 'bottleneck' begins