UK Manufacturers Push for HS2 Revival to Boost Rail Capacity

UK manufacturers are calling for the HS2 northern extension to Manchester and Leeds to boost freight capacity and reduce emissions, arguing that this strategic move is critical for economic growth. the UK. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

UK Manufacturers Demand Strategic Rail Investment

Make UK and Barclays Corporate Bank revealed research showing nine in ten manufacturers still support HS2. Businesses also want faster rail connections linking Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield, Hull, and Newcastle for stronger regional connectivity.

HS2 has faced delays and cost overruns, pushing completion beyond 2033. Although regional mayors support expansion, Prime Minister Keir Starmer signaled limited funding, casting doubt even on scaled-down “HS2-lite” proposals due to financial constraints.

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Verity Davidge, policy director at Make UK, stressed that current rail capacity cannot meet predicted freight demand. She said freeing passenger lines through high-speed rail would allow new multimodal hubs, improving links between ports and core logistics corridors.

UK Industry Stresses Integration of Transport Networks

Survey findings show roads dominate freight transport. Nine out of ten manufacturers rely on road haulage, and six in ten view road upgrades as essential for just-in-time systems. Fewer than half prioritize ports, and only 38% see rail as critical.

Lee Collinson of Barclays UK Corporate Bank said integrating road, rail, and ports is vital for productivity, decarbonization, and competitiveness. Strategic infrastructure investment, he argued, remains essential for UK industry to thrive in a low-carbon economy.

Source: www.theguardian.com

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