UK's New Railway Plans to Boost Northern Commerce

Manchester and the West Midlands propose a new rail link between Birmingham and Manchester, aiming to deliver 85% of the HS2 project's benefits at 60%-75% of the cost. This new line seeks to enhance regional economic growth and address congestion issues, requiring government approval and funding.

In response to last year's government decision to scale back the HS2 high-speed rail project, Manchester and the West Midlands unveiled plans on Friday for a new railway to bridge Birmingham and Manchester.

The proposed line aims to deliver 85% of the benefits promised by the cancelled HS2 connection at a reduced cost of 60%-75%. The new rail link could potentially boost the regional economy by £70 billion ($92 billion) annually, the proposal highlighted.

'If we fail to address rail capacity and connectivity soon, the congested West Coast Main Line and M6 will stifle economic growth,' stated Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester. The Midlands-North West Rail Link seeks to connect HS2 in the south to the Northern Powerhouse Rail, improving northern England's outdated rail system.

(With inputs from agencies.)