HS2 Phase 2b Western Leg Design Refinement Consultation

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.

This consultation, which closes at 11:45pm on 11 December 2020, is seeking views on 4 proposed refinements to the design of the Western Leg of HS2 Phase 2b. The proposed refinements are:

• the addition of Crewe Northern Connection and changes to the design of Crewe North Rolling Stock Depot;
• changes to the design of Manchester Airport High Speed station;
• changes to the design around Manchester Piccadilly High Speed station; and
• the introduction of a new train stabling facility at Annandale, in Dumfries and Galloway.

These proposals are based on design development, ongoing engagement, and future integration with Northern Powerhouse Rail and other transport projects.

The consultation asks for views, based on the information included in the consultation documents below. Responses to the consultation will be independently analysed and reported, and then considered by the Secretary of State when making his decision on whether to adopt the proposed changes.

This consultation has now closed.