A plan to extend the HS2 rail link across northern England more cost-effectively is back on the table.
According to The Times, plans for an ‘HS2 lite’ railway between Birmingham and Manchester are under consideration by teh government.
This would see a link built from Birmingham to Crewe to provide a faster service than the existing West Coast mainline, but slower than the scrapped high-speed service.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh was said by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to be looking “very seriously” at plans to boost transport investment in the north.
Former prime minister Rishi Sunak ditched plans for the high-speed link beyond Birmingham due to mounting costs.
The reports come after assurances on Tuesday that the line would stretch all the way to Euston, rather than ending on the outskirts of London.
Times-cited sources suggested the new link could be up to 40% cheaper than the previously planned upgrade, but added a decision would not be made until after a three-year spending review due next spring.
“Transport is an essential part of the government’s mission to rebuild Britain and grow our economy,” a Department for Transport spokesperson said.
“We are committed to improving rail connectivity across the north, working with local leaders to do so.”