7 June 2021

Government indicates that HS2 leg to Leeds will go ahead

7 June 2021

Government indicates that HS2 leg to Leeds will go ahead

Key Contact

Partner Richard Farr
T: 07901 710684

Despite much speculation, the transport secretary, Grant Shapps recently announced that not only would the HS2 high speed rail network’s eastern leg that links Birmingham with Leeds go ahead but it may even be delivered ahead of schedule.

Shapps suggested that the HS2 leg to Leeds, originally scheduled for completion between 2035 and 2040 could be brought forward dramatically by building it “in a smarter way” with more information to follow from the government soon.

SWs compulsory purchase team is already working with a number of owners and occupiers of affected sites along the HS2 route and urge anyone unsure about their position to get in touch with us to discuss options.

This is a welcome development in HS2’s progress. As far as we can see this is a well-rounded and reliable indication of the Governments’ intent to move forward.

Since the inception of HS2 many years ago there have been a number of other rail infrastructure projects put forward to improve the link throughout the Northern Powerhouse. There appears to be an integrated plan, but it remains to be seen how all these projects will be delivered in tandem.

Richard Farr

Head of Compulsory Purchase