Proposals for a high speed rail network linking London to Birmingham, Manchester, the East Midlands, Sheffield and Leeds, with trains running at up to 250mph have been announced

UK Transport Secretary Andrew Adonis has announced plans for a 335-mile ‘Y’-shaped network which would herald journeys of 75 minutes or less from Leeds, Sheffield and Manchester to the capital.

The first step in building such a network would be a high speed line from London to Birmingham.

Full public consultation on that route, and the longer-term strategy for high speed rail, will begin in the autumn.

“The time has come for Britain to plan seriously for high speed rail between our major cities,” said Lord Adonis.

“The high speed line from London to the Channel Tunnel has been a clear success, and many European and Asian countries now have extensive and successful high speed networks. I believe high speed rail has a big part to play in Britain’s future.

“Over the next twenty to thirty years the UK will require a step-change in transport capacity and connectivity both to promote and respond to long-term economic growth. However, this must be delivered sustainably, without unacceptable environmental impacts, and in line with the Government’s strategy to promote a low carbon economy.

“High speed rail would be by far the most effective way to achieve this step-change, offering a balance of capacity, connectivity and sustainability benefits unmatched by any other option.

“Building this network would not only revolutionise Britain’s transport, but would also present significant new opportunities for the UK’s design, engineering, construction and manufacturing sectors, creating new jobs and skills.”

Further information
www.dft.gov.uk