Network Rail reveals plans for £34bn high-speed line

Network Rail has unveiled plans for a new £34bn high-speed rail link that would take passengers from London to Scotland in two hours.

The announcement follows a detailed investigation into the need for a new capacity on Britain's railway network.

The report concluded that the best option would be a new 200mph high-speed line to the Midlands, the North-west and Scotland, generating almost £55bn of value with a capital construction cost of £34bn.

Iain Coucher, Network Rail's chief executive, said: “High-speed rail can transform Britain. It can promote economic growth, regeneration and social inclusion.

"It is a low-carbon option – cutting domestic flights and taking cars and lorries off the road. It will release capacity on the existing rail network and revolutionise passenger journeys.”