27/10/2014

PM Approves HS3 Rail Link

The Prime Minister has approved the development of the HS3 rail link.

The link is part of a plan to improve transport in the north.

As part of the government's long-term economic plan for the north, David Cameron gave his backing to develop HS3 which will connect the north's great cities which could significantly reduce journey times across the region.

Mr Cameron was responding to a report published by HS2 Chairman Sir David Higgins, which sets out proposals for how to maximise the benefits of HS2 in the north and how transport links can be improved in the north of England more widely.

In the report, Sir David identifies the vital importance of improving east west connectivity across the north and considers the central role a high speed rail link could play. He concludes that with a high speed link the journey time between Leeds and Manchester could be cut from around 55 minutes to between 26 and 34 minutes.

Mr Cameron said: "Improving connectivity and reducing journey times between our great northern cities is a crucial part of our long term economic plan for the north to boost businesses and create more jobs and security for hardworking people. That's why we are backing HS3.

"I welcome Sir David Higgins' report which will help our work to create a northern powerhouse and ensure that HS2 delivers the maximum economic benefits."

(CD/JP)

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