We welcome the Opportunity through Connectivity report commissioned by the Mayors of Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, which acknowledges that a line between Birmingham and Manchester is essential to deliver capacity and economic benefits across the North and Midlands. It is critical that HS2 Phase 1 is properly connected north of Birmingham to the North West so the many economic and social benefits are not squandered.
The report reiterates that uncertainty around the delivery of HS2 into Euston causes further challenges and diminishes the overall project benefits. Completing the HS2 line from Old Oak Common to Euston is critical for continuous connectivity, ensuring Birmingham and the North West are fully integrated into the national network.
We must consider the best way to overcome damage to our national transport networks from cutting short the project shy of reaching the North West. We support the movement of this debate to focus on how the industry can now work with the government to deliver these benefits and support regional connectivity.
We urge the government to come forward with a clear plan for the future of HS2, and for the future of rail. The longer the uncertainty around the project, the larger the losses.