STATEMENT RE: New rail link between the Midlands and the North West 

13 September 2024 

Councillor Nick Mannion, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “The council welcomes today’s publication of proposals for a new rail link between the Midlands and the North West, which would replace the scrapped Northern leg of HS2. 

“We are also pleased to see Crewe included in the preferred solution for improving connections between Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and London, and that the report recognises Crewe’s importance as a rail interchange, its role in the regional economy and the regeneration potential. 

“It is critical for Cheshire East that trains connect and stop at Crewe.  “Crewe needs to be at the heart of whatever follows in place of HS2 and we will be seeking conversations with the consortium so that we can further understand these proposals and the full implications.” 

Cllr Mannion added: “Crewe’s 360-degree connectivity and strategic position makes it fundamental to delivering on the region’s transport ambitions and we are supportive of proposals that ensure any new services connect and stop in Crewe. 

“Any proposal that doesn’t deliver this cannot truly provide an integrated network or realise the full transport and economic benefits in Crewe, Cheshire East or the North West as a whole.”