THE Government has been told it must do more to link its £32bn high-speed rail line to the North East as ministers confirm they will build the controversial railway.
Transport Secretary Justine Greening announced that more of the £16.4bn London-Birmingham first phase of the project – which passes through picturesque Tory heartlands – would be in tunnels.
She also announced extra measures to assist those affected by the scheme that will, by 2026, see 400 metre-long trains capable of holding 1,100 passengers, whisking them on a 140-mile route from London to Birmingham in just 45 minutes.
Past Birmingham the line will be built up to both Leeds and Manchester by 2033, with trains travelling further North having to move on to existing lines and travelling at a slower speed.
As a result of this snub, the predicted high-speed rail Newcastle to London journey time – 2 hours and 37 minutes – will only match what is currently available on East Coast’s early morning non-stop service.
David Wood, chair of the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority, last night led calls for a firmer transport commitment to the region.
The Labour councillor said: “While welcoming the announcement, it is disappointing to note that Tyne and Wear is not scheduled to benefit directly for many years to come and potential high-speed rail passengers from the area will have to travel to access the new network.
“In the short term I would welcome more investment in the existing East Coast Main Line services and ensure that Tyne and Wear does not lose out on potential economic and social benefits.”
Businesses leaders at the North East chamber of Commerce have also voiced guarded support. Chamber chief executive James Ramsbotham, said: “The Government must ensure that the first round of legislation, which will make the high-speed rail project possible, gives an unambiguous sign that high-speed track will eventually be built in the North East.
“It is concerning that initial estimates suggest it could be two years before legislation is enacted given that the threat of nimbyism and localised political opposition will be ever present.
“If the Government remains committed to high-speed rail then I would urge the Prime Minister to make clear that the bill must become legislation as soon as possible.”
Ms Greening said the controversial scheme, which will include a second phase to Manchester and Leeds by 2033, would mean more seats, better connections, new jobs, and growth and prosperity for the entire country.
“HS2 will link some of our greatest cities – and high-speed trains will connect with our existing railway lines to provide seamless journeys to destinations far beyond it.
“This is a truly British network that will serve far more than the cities directly on the line,” she said.