THE government might have approved plans for the £33billion HS2 high-speed rail network, but its realisation looks set to be a long and bumpy ride.
Phase one will run between London and Birmingham and is scheduled for completion by 2026, followed by a second phase to Manchester and Leeds by 2033.
Trains will travel at speeds of up to 250mph, cutting the journey time between Birmingham and London to just 49 minutes.
It is expected that a subsequent extension north would slash the journey time from Manchester to London from over two hours to one hour and eight minutes.
"By following in the footsteps of the 19th century railway pioneers, the government is signalling its commitment to providing 21st century infrastructure and connections, laying the groundwork for long-term, sustainable economic growth," said Greening.
"I have been mindful that we must safeguard the natural environment as far as possible, both for the benefit of those enjoying our beautiful countryside today and for future generations."
Environmental groups have expressed widespread concerns which helped prompt the announcement of extra tunneling along the 140-mile route.
Over 22 miles of the first phase will now be enclosed in tunnels, up from 14.5 in the original plan, while more than 55miles will run through cuttings designed to lessen the visual impact of the new connection. Revisions to plans have also helped halve the number of homes at risk on the proposed route.
As expected, both the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) and Guild of Travel Management Companies (GTMC) responded positively to the news.
ATOC’s chief executive Michael Roberts said, “HS2 is a vote of confidence in the railways and recognition of the vital role the industry has to play in supporting jobs and driving sustainable economic growth. HS2 will help to alleviate the capacity crunch on many of our major rail corridors.”
Anne Godfrey, the GTMC’s chief executive, said, “The GTMC has always been very vocal in its support of HS2, it is regarded as the most important infrastructure development for the UK business traveller.
“We are delighted that the project has got the go ahead and for the complete Y network to have been approved, linking London, Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester and with the all important direct link to Heathrow Airport. ”
