UK manufacturers and industry leaders are calling for the revival of high-speed rail (HS2) to Leeds, Manchester, and other northern cities, emphasizing its potential to boost rail freight capacity, stimulate economic growth, and improve regional connectivity.

Despite the original northern leg of HS2 being canceled in October 2023, advocates argue that strategic investment in rail infrastructure remains crucial for achieving the government's goals of increasing rail freight by 75% by 2050 and reducing road emissions.

Cost and access barriers, such as rising rail freight costs and limited local terminal access, hinder companies from fully utilizing rail freight, which has seen a 10% cost increase over the past decade, compared to 3% for road transport.

HS2 has faced significant delays and cost overruns, with completion now expected beyond 2033, and the current Labour government has decided to complete only the London-Birmingham section, rejecting the revival of the abandoned northern segments.

Proponents highlight that developing logistics hubs along the rail route could improve access to skills and innovation, leading to economies of scale for manufacturers and better integration of transport modes.

Despite existing challenges, a survey shows that 31% of companies believe rail should be prioritized for transport investment, and 61% support better integration of ports, road, and rail systems to facilitate freight and passenger movement.

Make UK emphasizes that current rail capacity is insufficient for future freight demands, and high-speed passenger rail could free up capacity, while also improving connectivity between major ports and regions like the Oxford-Cambridge Arc.

Investing in HS2 and related rail infrastructure is seen as a way to generate significant economic benefits, including enhanced connectivity between key regions and ports, which could support long-term growth.

Transport experts stress that modernizing and integrating transport systems is essential for boosting productivity, decarbonizing transport, and maintaining the UK's competitiveness, with a focus on reducing reliance on road freight.

While the government has refused to revive the full HS2 project, it remains committed to completing the London-Birmingham section, with ongoing debates about funding and regional economic impacts.

Previous plans for high-speed services to Sheffield and Leeds were canceled in 2021, and additional proposals for Birmingham to Manchester were scrapped in 2023, reflecting ongoing political and financial challenges.

Regional mayors and industry leaders support extending HS2 to Manchester and other northern cities to stimulate economic growth, despite concerns about available funding and project costs.

A survey of manufacturers shows that 90% support HS2 and believe it would increase passenger numbers and relieve congestion on existing freight lines, although most currently rely on road transport.