The re-introduction of an amended High Speed Rail (Crewe – Manchester) Bill, now called the Northern Powerhouse Rail Bill, is welcome recognition that the North needs new, high-capacity rail infrastructure to support growth, improve regional connectivity and relieve pressure on the UK’s increasingly constrained rail network north of Birmingham.
Modifying this Bill to allow for the development of new stations at Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport is progress. However, it will not resolve the longer-term capacity constraints between Manchester and Birmingham, a challenge that remains and will need a future solution.
That is why protecting the option to extend the HS2 line to Crewe remains so important. Without connecting HS2 into the wider mainline rail network via Crewe, there is a real risk that long-term capacity pressures are simply deferred rather than addressed. Safeguarding this connection will also maximise the value of the investment already made in HS2 and help ensure the new infrastructure works as part of an integrated national network.
We must also remember that at a time of rising youth unemployment, major infrastructure programmes are not just about boosting capacity, connectivity and economic growth, they are also critical to supporting the UK supply chain, creating opportunities for SMEs and delivering high-quality careers and apprenticeships across the country.
We welcome the re-introduction of the Bill. Now Government must build on this momentum to deliver new rail infrastructure in the North, while keeping the door open to Crewe.