CALLS FOR HS3 TO AID CREATION OF A ‘NORTHERN POWERHOUSE’

The Government has giving its backing to plan for an east / west high speed rail link that will create a faster connection between the northern cities of Manchester and Leeds.

Journey speeds between the two could be reduced to just 26 minutes, opening up greater opportunities for skilled workers to commute rather than relocate.

Speaking on the BBC this morning, Sir David Higgins who is the head of the HS2 project, said that the new proposal for HS3 is as important to the north of England as Crossrail is for London but should be seen as one step in a longer term scheme to improve transport links between Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield and Hull.

This comes as the government is urging the cities in the north of England to come together to create a Northern Powerhouse to put a bigger spotlight on the opportunities for business in the north, outside of London and the south east.  

In his report Sir David emphasised the importance of ensuring that both parts of the current HS2 Y-network are completed, urging cities in the north to “speak with one voice” and announced that the development of a new rail station at Sheffield’s Meadowhall will be the preferred location rather to serve the South Yorkshire.

In the North West, the report reiterated that the planned route between Manchester Airport and the city should be included and extended to Crewe – his chosen location for an HS2 hub ahead of Stoke on Trent.