00:00The HS2 project was meant to improve rail travel across the UK, but the high-speed line
00:10is now set to stop in Birmingham. Businesses and industry leaders say this could limit
00:14its benefits and weaken transport links. The high-speed rail group, which includes firms
00:19like Arup, Hitachi and Alstom, is urging the government to fund an extension to Crewe.
00:24They argue this connection is crucial for unlocking economic growth and ensuring HS2
00:30delivers on its original goals. In a submission to the Treasury, the group outlined key recommendations.
00:37They want HS2 restructured as a Euston Crewe core, linking London to Crewe via Birmingham.
00:44They also propose a simpler, lower-cost design for Euston station and want land protections
00:49reinstated to prevent developments blocking future expansion. These protections were removed
00:54in early 2024, raising concerns that land set aside for HS2 could be lost. The group
01:01also suggests linking HS2 to the west coast mainline south of Crewe, which they believe
01:06could save money while improving connectivity. Without these changes, they warn that HS2's
01:12economic impact will be reduced. Jim Steer, one of the group's directors, says the extension
01:17is vital to avoid bottlenecks in Staffordshire and increase rail capacity. A Department for
01:23Transport spokesperson said the government remains committed to improving rail in the
01:28Midlands and north. HS2 plans are under review with further details expected soon. Businesses
01:34in Birmingham say the decision could shape the region's transporting economy for years
01:39to come.
