Members of the public are being encouraged to have their say on plans to extend high speed rail

An artist's impression of an HS2 train

Submitted by Lindsey Preece

People are being urged to have their say on proposals to extend the HS2 network.

Plans have been submitted to extend the high speed railway to the City of Manchester, Greater Manchester.

Anyone can respond to the consultation. Feedback will inform Parliament’s consideration of the High Speed Rail (Crewe – Manchester) Bill.

This seeks approval to construct and operate the Phase 2b Western Leg.

The aim of the consultation is to ensure that Parliament is aware of the public’s views on the environmental impacts of the scheme before they vote on the Bill at Second Reading.

Public responses to the extension must be submitted before the public consultation closes on Thursday, March 31.

Proposals for the 85km (52 mile) route include new high-speed stations at Manchester Airport and Manchester Piccadilly.

It will provide the infrastructure required for Northern Powerhouse Rail and provision for new Metrolink routes.

HS2 will provide a cleaner alternative to long distance car journeys and domestic flights, with its trains set to be powered by zero carbon energy.

Leonie Dubois, HS2's head of consultation and engagement, said: "Extending HS2 to Manchester will benefit towns and cities all the way up to Scotland, bringing the UK’s economic regions closer together and increasing capacity on the rail network.

"This will be the first new transport corridor constructed into Manchester since the 1970s.

"Alongside the benefits that HS2 brings, the network provides the vital infrastructure needed to deliver Northern Powerhouse Rail, enhancing rail services, connectivity and economic growth for communities right across the North."

For more information about the Bill and details of how to respond to the public consultation, click here.

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