The UK government is contemplating a cost-effective ‘HS2-light’ rail line between Birmingham and Manchester.
- This proposal aims to reduce costs by up to 40% compared to the original HS2 project.
- The new line would address the capacity issues on the West Coast mainline by the 2030s.
- Plans align with suggestions from key Labour mayors and focus on enhancing connectivity.
- A final decision on the proposal is anticipated in the coming months.
The UK government is evaluating a new ‘HS2-light’ rail proposal as part of a comprehensive review of the nation’s infrastructure needs. This initiative is designed to manage costs effectively while addressing pressing capacity concerns on the railways. The proposed rail line, named ‘HS2-light,’ would span from Birmingham to Crewe, offering faster service than the traditional West Coast mainline but at reduced speeds compared to the original HS2 plan, thus potentially lowering costs by up to 40%.
This project aims to resolve the looming capacity issues projected for the West Coast mainline once HS2 becomes operational in the 2030s. Without this intervention, the National Audit Office warns of a potential 17% decline in rail capacity between Birmingham and Manchester. The significance of this project lies in its potential to maintain and boost passenger and freight transport efficiency within this critical corridor.
The development of a new rail line north of Birmingham is deemed crucial for enhancing both passenger and freight capacity from the Midlands through to the north of England. This sentiment echoes the views of Labour mayors Andy Burnham and Richard Parker, who advocate for a new line stretching from Lichfield in Staffordshire to High Legh in Cheshire, with potential connections to the Northern Powerhouse Rail.
Additionally, senior government officials indicate that the proposal might gain momentum following the upcoming three-year spending review. Fiscal adjustments outlined by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the forthcoming budget may support the funding of this project. A report spearheaded by former HS2 Ltd chairman Sir David Higgins further underlines the necessity of this infrastructure improvement.
Henri Murison, from the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, underscores this proposal as the sole viable solution to the region’s capacity issues, particularly in linking key areas such as Leeds and the northeast. Senior government sources acknowledge the urgent need for this enhancement, highlighting the current limitations of existing infrastructure and the need for decisive action.
The decision on the ‘HS2-light’ rail line proposal is imminent as government officials deliberate on enhancing the UK’s rail infrastructure strategy.
