HS3 more than 'eye catching journey time reductions'

Proposals for a "HS3" rail link to improve east-west rail journeys across northern England are more than just about "eye-catching" journey-time reductions, according to the boss of HS2.

The scheme, which could cost around £7 billion, was "not just a single project", said HS2 Ltd chairman Sir David Higgins.

He has put forward the HS3 plans in a report incorporating further plans for phase two of the £50 billion HS2 high-speed rail project.

Backed by Prime Minister David Cameron and Chancellor George Osborne, HS3 would mean journey times between Leeds and Manchester could almost be cut in half to around 26 minutes.

For phase two of HS2 Sir David's recommendations include:

• To continue with the planned route into Manchester city centre via the airport - keeping open the option to add a new airport station
• Need to review the best station solution for Leeds to include provision for increased east-west services through the city
• The HS2 line should be extended to Crewe by 2027 - six years earlier than originally proposed
• A new station at Sheffield Meadowhall remains the best way to serve the wider South Yorkshire region, though Sir David recognises Sheffield continues to argue for Sheffield Victoria
• That the East Midlands hub should be near the proposed site at Toton

More: Lord Prescott 'welcomes' HS3 proposals