Ministers are exploring plans to construct a less expensive “HS2-light” railway line between Birmingham and Manchester, after the unique high-speed rail undertaking past Birmingham was scrapped.
This new proposal, which goals to enhance capability whereas lowering prices, is being thought of as a part of a broader overview of the nation’s infrastructure wants.
The “HS2-light” line would contain setting up a piece between Birmingham and Crewe that permits trains to journey quicker than on the West Coast mainline however slower than HS2, doubtlessly slicing prices by as much as 40%. The federal government believes this answer is important to resolve the approaching “capacity crunch” on the West Coast mainline when HS2 begins working within the 2030s. With out new infrastructure, rail capability between Birmingham and Manchester may lower by 17%, in response to the Nationwide Audit Workplace.
The proposal comes after Transport Secretary Louise Haigh confirmed that HS2 would terminate at London’s Euston fairly than Previous Oak Frequent. Senior authorities sources recommend the plan may transfer ahead after the spring’s three-year spending overview, with funding doubtlessly supported by fiscal rule modifications to be introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her upcoming finances.
The plan aligns with proposals put ahead by Labour mayors Andy Burnham and Richard Parker. They argue that constructing a brand new line north of Birmingham is essential for bettering each passenger and freight capability between the Midlands and the north of England. Their report, led by former HS2 Ltd chairman Sir David Higgins, requires a line connecting Lichfield in Staffordshire to Excessive Legh in Cheshire, with hyperlinks to the deliberate east-west Northern Powerhouse Rail.
Henri Murison, chief government of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, highlighted the pressing want for the brand new line, calling it the one viable answer to the area’s capability points. He mentioned, “A solution which connects the north and Birmingham with a new line will also link Leeds and the northeast.”
Senior figures throughout the authorities have acknowledged the necessity for motion, with one supply noting, “There is a realisation in government that what they’ve got at the moment is a complete dog’s breakfast and that something needs to be done.”
The ultimate choice on the “HS2-light” line is predicted within the coming months, as ministers assess the easiest way to maneuver ahead with the UK’s rail infrastructure plans.
