High-speed rail building blocks

The study, by the Transport Select Committee, is a comprehensive report which endorses this newspaper’s ongoing campaign for Yorkshire to be at the heart of the HS2 high-speed network. It also highlights the substantial economic benefits to the whole country.

That this influential study backs the Y-shaped route, with spurs from Birmingham to both Yorkshire and the North West, is testament to all those who have lobbied for this region to be central to the HS2 plan from the outset. The key is holding Ministers to this.

It is also significant that MPs raise the possibility of the northern spurs being built first, and before the final phase of the line into London. Though this runs contrary to the original thinking of past and present governments, it is certainly true – as today’s report concludes – that there are many planning obstacles to be overcome in the capital, not least the location of the main terminus.

Given that the Government recognises the creation of HS2 is crucial to helping the North fulfil its economic potential, it would be counter-productive if the whole country suffered unnecessarily because of planning delays and obstacles in the capital.

There is also some uncertainty about the wishes of Justine Greening, the new transport Secretary. It was her predecessor, Philip Hammond, who spoke to the select committee before he was promoted to the Ministry of Defence following Liam Fox’s resignation. Continuity is going to be crucial if HS2 is not to be beset by unnecessary delays.

Ms Greening’s challenge now is to use today’s report to develop HS2 and also drive forward plans to improve commuter services in the interim.

She has the power to preside over a new railway revolution in this country. She must use that power to the greatest effect possible.