Bradford station link to HS2 to aid region’s growth plans

HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) are critical to West Yorkshire’s prospects, according to the region’s combined authority.

In a letter to Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) highlights plans for a station in Bradford city centre (as part of NPR) that will connect with HS2, and that both projects will be integrated with the East Coast Main Line and an upgraded trans-Pennine route.

It calls the plans a “once-in-acentury opportunity to transform strategic rail infrastructure in this country”.

It says the Bradford station would deliver 15,000 jobs and add up to £15 billion to the economy. Currently the city has two stations (Bradford Forster Square and Bradford Interchange), of which only Forster Square is electrified.

In its HS2 Growth Strategy, WYCA says investment in infrastructure could create up to 40,000 jobs, and regenerate key parts of the region. It also wants to become a centre of excellence in rail skills.

It says that NPR will use part of HS2, including a junction at Stourton (near Leeds), and that this will improve inter-city services across the North, as well as transform the links between Sheffield and Leeds.

WYCA Chairman and Bradford Council Leader Susan Hinchcliffe said: “It is more important than ever that the region and the north of England as a whole speak with a united voice on HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail.”

Leeds City Council Leader Judith Blake added: “Unlocking the full potential of the Northern Powerhouse requires high-speed rail connections north to south and east to west, integrated with an upgraded trans-Pennine line and the East Coast Main Line.”