The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves has said today the southern leg of the HS2 line should run to central London, and that the government would commit funding to start the tunnelling required.
The whole project was scaled back last year by the Conservative Government which meant the line was set to end at Old Oak Common. Presenting the first budget of the new Labour government, the Chancellor confirmed the high-speed rail project should extend to Euston station.
"We are committing the funding required to begin tunnelling work to London Euston station, catalysing private investment into the local area," Reeves said as she addressed the House of Commons.
A spokesperson for the High Speed Rail Group said:
"Rail investment is far more than a short-term cost: it is a driver of national growth and regional connectivity.
“Today’s approval to complete HS2’s critical link from Old Oak Common to Euston marks a pivotal step forward.”
“We hope that an era of fragmented, short-term decision making has been ended, in favour of a move towards a cohesive vision for the future of UK rail.
"However, we cannot stop here. To fully realise the socio-economic benefits of this project, it is critical that Phase 1 is properly connected north of Birmingham to Crewe and beyond.
"Taking a long-term, integrated approach to rail delivery going forward will enable HS2 and the broader network to fuel the UK’s economy and enhance productivity for generations to come. For the first time in some years, this Budget sees that future get one step nearer rather than further away."
The Chancellor also confirmed funding to 'secure the delivery' of the TransPennine Upgrade between York and Manchester. She said this would ensure 'fully electric local and regional services' between Manchester and Stalybridge' by the end of this year', plus work to electrify the line near York by 2026.
Ms Reeves told the House of Commons this would 'help grow our economy across the North of England, with faster and more reliable services'. She also confirmed funding to improve capacity at Manchester Victoria, and to electrify the line Wigan to Bolton line.
The east-west line for Oxford, Milton Keynes and Cambridge was also confirmed, with some services due to begin next year.
Image credit: Dan Benn
