High Speed train gets green light

Wednesday 25th January 2012

A controversial new high-speed rail line between London and Birmingham has been given the green light by the Government.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening has backed the 100-mile (160km) link, which would be built by 2026.

The Government says it is the only way to cope with overcrowding but opponents along the route are considering legal action which could delay the scheme.

The first phase of High Speed Two (HS2) will cost £17billion.  The entire cost of the project - including phase two extending to Manchester and Leeds, by 2033 - expected to be £32billion.

Supporters say the fleet of 225mph trains will cut the journey time from London to Birmingham to 49 minutes and take pressure off the busiest lines.

The Government also argues the project will generate £44billion of benefits to the economy over 60 years.