Stoke-on-Trent South MP Jack Brereton has welcomed today’s announcement that high-speed rail will serve Stoke-on-Trent, following months of lobbying transport ministers to ensure the Potteries isn’t bypassed by HS2. The government is now amending its plans to bring a high-speed rail service to Stoke-on-Trent; platform extensions and a re-designed junction at Crewe to give more people access to HS2; and a change to the design of the southern connection from HS2, so that HS2 joins, and takes over, the central two lines on the existing network.
Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling MP, who earlier this year came to see Stoke-on-Trent’s rail services for himself at Jack Brereton’s invitation, also intends to ask the franchise operator, West Coast Partnership, to include a high-speed service to Stoke-on-Trent in its market development and service plans.
Jack said:
“I am delighted that the hard work has paid off and HS2 will serve Stoke-on-Trent. I am grateful to the Government for listening to the positive arguments from local supporters of HS2 - we can look forward to better connectivity and opportunities for jobs and economic growth as a result.
“As I said at the Second Reading of the High Speed Rail Bill, my continuing support for HS2 rests on the Government delivering the direct benefits I know high-speed rail can bring to our great city. Stoke-on-Trent is on the up and I am determined to engage positively with ministers to get the job done."