Manchester interim mayor Tony Lloyd says the approval of HS2’s first phase from London to Birmingham must be the catalyst for the speedy progression of phase two to Manchester.
After three years of parliament debate, the HS2 high speed rail link from London to Birmingham has been formally approved.
The first phase of the £56 billion rail line is projected to be open for public use in December 2026.
“It is now crucial that HS2’s second phase, up to the North of England, becomes a reality as soon as possible,” said Lloyd.
“HS2 is an integral part of our strategy to create real opportunities for people in the North and rebalance the UK economy.
“Transport infrastructure investment in London is four and a half times that of the North.
“Northern Powerhouse Rail (HS3) will play an equally important role in securing a successful future for Greater Manchester as HS2.”
The second phase of the railway will open in 2032-33 costing £42.6billion and Lloyd estimated the Birmingham-Manchester link will provide 180,000 new jobs to the city regions by 2040 and add £1.3billion to the Greater Manchester economy.
The HS3 will link Manchester with Leeds and is projected to further strengthen the transport ties of the North.
Image courtesy of HS2ltd via YouTube, with thanks.
