A high-speed rail link connecting Birmingham and Manchester has been touted as a 'game-changer' by a former Conservative rail minister. Huw Merriman, who chairs the Liverpool to Manchester Rail Board, says such a project would be 'really exciting', especially if Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham were to become Prime Minister.
Mr Burnham's advocacy for improved northern rail infrastructure is well-documented. He has previously suggested reinstating the northern leg of HS2 and exploring alternative funding models similar to London's Crossrail project, which combines business contributions with government investment.
The original HS2 plans featured a route from London to Birmingham, with extensions to Leeds and Manchester. However, these northern segments were axed in 2020, sparking debate about their impact on regional growth and 'levelling up' ambitions. Mr Burnham has consistently argued that the North's lack of high-quality rail infrastructure holds back its economic potential.
The proposed Birmingham-Manchester link would complete the final 12 miles of HS2 into Manchester, a crucial step for regional growth and north-south connectivity across the country, according to Mr Merriman. He notes that Mr Burnham's past criticisms of HS2 focused on implementation in the region rather than the principle of improved rail links.
Local authorities are eager for developments. Cheshire East Council has expressed strong support for any new plans for a Birmingham to Manchester rail link, whether through a reinstatement of HS2 north or an alternative. The council had planned significant investment around Crewe's status as a key hub station and sees the city as essential in integrating the network and unlocking economic growth opportunities.