Response to government announcement to cancel HS2

"We are understandably keen to work with government to understand the detail behind these announcements, how and when these will be achieved, the wider impact of these proposals, and how they will amount to a real-terms increase in investment in our city and region.

"The news that the Sheffield-Leeds line is to be electrified and upgraded is welcomed because of the benefits this will bring for our two cities and our neighbouring communities, but we also need upgrades to the East Coast Main Line to deliver an improved service to London on what will be our only rail link.

"Alongside this we are concerned about the lack of any mention of a new railway station in Leeds, which has always been a key part of our discussions with government around how we transform local and regional rail connectivity.

"Leeds plays a critical role in UK rail connectivity, where usage has trebled in the last 25 years and post-pandemic demand is above the national average. At this rate our station will reach capacity in the next decade. Failing to invest in a new station on the site originally proposed for HS2 adjacent to the existing station will hamper regional and national economic growth, and we will continue to champion this cause to government.

"At the same time we will be urging government to swiftly resolve issues around previously safeguarded land which is no longer needed for future rail growth, providing certainty for businesses and residents.

"Leeds has enjoyed record-breaking levels of investment as we have built and grown around the government’s proposals for HS2, and confidence in our city is extremely high. By lifting safeguarding restrictions we can further realise our economic growth and recovery ambitions.”