The GTMC has welcomed plans for a new high-speed rail line between Manchester and Leeds outlined yesterday by chairman of the company behind HS2, Sir David Higgins.
Train journey times between the north of England’s biggest cities could be cut to 26 minutes after the proposals put forward in a report yesterday from Higgins, which have been backed by prime minister David Cameron.
He said in his report that better rail links in northern England were "desirable" and "possible" after being asked to look at ways of maximising the benefits of HS2.
The GTMC praised the recommendations and said business travellers “want and need” greater connectivity in the north of England.
“The GTMC is clear that enhancements in infrastructure outside of Greater London are essential to avoid further exasperating the North/South economic divide,” said GTMC CEO Paul Wait.
Wait said he welcomed investments that demonstrate how seriously the UK takes business commitment in all areas of the country.
“Access to other major UK cities will encourage greater business hubs in other areas of the country which brings further knock on economic benefits. The combination of High Speed rail developments across the UK is a strong step forward for UK PLC,” he said.
Earlier this month, the GTMC urged airlines to cut fuel surcharges as an incentive for businesses to “travel further and grow faster”.