Crewe 'cannot be ignored' in proposed HS2 alternative says town's MP
Crewe and Nantwich MP, Connor Naismith, has written to the chancellor of the exchequer and the transport secretary, calling for government to ensure Crewe remains a key stop in any replacement for the cancelled HS2 northern leg project.
Mr Naismith's campaign aligns with the ARUP proposal, with the backing of Manchester and West Midlands mayors, Andy Burnham and Richard Parker.
It is believed the Midlands-North West Rail Link would offer 80 per cent of the benefits of HS2, at 60 to 75 per cent of the cost.
This plan, based on a report commissioned by the mayors, relies on investment from the private sector, costing substantially less than the scrapped HS2 northern leg
The proposal still leaves open the possibility of bypassing Crewe, which Mr Naismith warned would have long-term negative effects on regional economic regeneration and undermine the government's infrastructure goals.
Mr Naismith said: "Crewe is more than just a stop on the rail network. It is a vital hub for economic growth, and excluding it would be a missed opportunity for both the region and the country.
"We have a viable alternative proposal that can deliver most of the benefits of HS2 at a lower cost, but it won't deliver the full economic potential without Crewe.
"The government's number one mission is to kickstart economic growth.
"With its strategic importance to the rail industry, and 360 degree connectivity to every region of the country, Crewe provides an opportunity to support levelling up, drive economic regeneration, and ensure the Midlands and the North are better connected for decades to come."
"I know there are challenges involved, but Crewe's strategic importance cannot be ignored.
"With 360 degree connectivity to every region of the country, the Government has a real opportunity here to invest in infrastructure that drives economic growth not just for Crewe, but extending out across the country.
"I am eager to continue working with the chancellor, transport secretary and local leaders to ensure Crewe's inclusion and deliver a project that benefits everyone."
The rail report found creating a new rail link between the Midlands and the North West is critical to enhance capacity for passengers and freight moving between the regions.
It recommended the government maintains ownership of land acquired for HS2 Phase 2a between the West Midlands and Crewe.
READ MORE: Major UK retailer plans to open on Crewe retail park.
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