HS2 Phase 2b Eastern Leg

Earlier this year the government made clear in its response to the Oakervee Review its commitment to Phase 2b of HS2, ensuring we boost capacity, improve connectivity between our regions and share prosperity.

As part of this, the government plans to present an Integrated Rail Plan for the North and Midlands by the end of the year, informed by an assessment from the National Infrastructure Commission, which will look at how to deliver HS2 Phase 2b, Northern Powerhouse Rail, Midlands Rail Hub and other rail programmes better and more effectively.

In the meantime, the government has asked HS2 Ltd to pause work on the Eastern Leg. We recognise that this causes uncertainty and our Eastern Leg community engagement teams remain in place to support you.

The government has asked HS2 Ltd to proceed with the development of the Western Leg of Phase 2b (from Crewe to Manchester). A Western Leg bill is being prepared for deposit to Parliament in early 2022, or sooner if possible. Whilst plans may be subject to change following the Integrated Rail Plan, the potential for significant change to the Western Leg is limited.

Design Refinement Consultation

Between 6 June and 6 September 2019 the Secretary of State for Transport consulted on 11 proposed refinements to the HS2 Phase 2b proposals.

In October 2020 the Minister of State for Transport, having considered the responses received, published his decision on whether to include the refinements proposed for the Western Leg.

A decision on the inclusion of the proposed Eastern Leg refinements will follow the conclusion of the Integrated Rail Plan for the North and Midlands, which the Government plans to publish before the end of the year.

Safeguarding

In order to ensure that land needed for HS2 is protected from conflicting development, safeguarding is in place for the Eastern Leg of Phase 2b. You can find more information about this on the HS2 safeguarding section on gov.uk.