Chairman David Higgins suggests cost-saving alternative to Meadowhall station

HS2 has unveiled a revised route that could save £1bn by stopping trains at Sheffield city centre, rather than at out-of-town shopping centre Meadowhall.

The new proposals would see HS2 services stopping at Sheffield divert off the HS2 line to travel directly to Sheffield’s existing Midland station using the existing railway line.

This would allow the main HS2 line to be built east of the previously proposed route, in part following the M18 motorway, through less densely populated areas.

The route would cut journey times to Leeds, York and Newcastle, and bring big cost savings for the £21bn phase 2 project.

HS2 chairman David Higgins said: “I have listened to the very constructive comments and discussions that have taken place on how HS2 should best serve South Yorkshire and recommend the option of HS2 services using the existing city centre station.

“Decisions of this scale sometimes involve compromise, and through dialogue I believe we have reached the best solution for South Yorkshire.”

The Transport Secretary will now consider David Higgins’ report in detail and make an announcement on the full HS2 Phase 2 route later this year.

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