Seven services currently run daily between Sheffield and Nottingham, two of which extend to Leeds, but that number will rise to 28 – 14 each way – from December 2008.

All trains are expected to call hourly at Wakefield Kirkgate, Barnsley, Meadowhall, Sheffield, Chesterfield and Alfreton, with many stopping at Dronfield and Langley Mill.

The services will be run by operator Northern Rail and will be in addition to the existing semi-fast route between Leeds and Sheffield via Barnsley.

Rail Minister Tom Harris said: "This is good news for passengers in Leeds and Nottingham who will benefit from a fourfold increase in services. It will mean more capacity at busy times, more seats for passengers and will develop transport links between these important cities."

Northern Rail said it was an excellent opportunity to build on growth.