High-speed rail 'could bring £33bn'
Mittwoch, 19 August 2009
A high-speed rail network serving both Sheffield and Leeds could generate benefits of more than £33 billion, according to research.
The report, carried out by consultants Arup and economic specialist Volterra, said that a the link could provide between £1.5bn and £3bn of productivity benefits to the economy, along with £29 billion in transport benefits.
South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive and transport group Metro commissioned the report in response to the Government's High Speed Two Company.
A high-speed rail linking Yorkshire with London, Heathrow and mainland Europe could cost as little as £15 billion, according to reports.
The latest research stated that the link would stimulate a "transformational change in the economic performance and standing of the northern cities".
Leeds city councillor Andrew Carter said: "We believe that a high-speed route to both Sheffield and Leeds would bring massive economic benefits, which would provide a boost to all the North's main centres."
Copyright © Press Association 2009