A lobby group representing manufacturers and a major bank are urging the government to think again about the abandoned sections of HS2 to Manchester and Leeds.

Make UK and Barclays UK Corporate Bank have published a survey of companies’ views and say building the rest of HS2 would release paths for rail freight on existing lines.

The survey claims that 89 per cent of the companies questioned were in favour of building the rest of HS2, while a similar proportion supports faster connections between Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield, Hull and Newcastle.

Make UK said reviving HS2 and therefore providing more capacity elsewhere is essential if the government is to meet its target of a 75 per cent increase in rail freight by 2050 while reducing carbon emissions from the estimated 12 million journeys which will be made by lorry in 25 years from now.

Make UK also said investment in the rail network would yield major economic benefits, such as linking Felixstowe with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. It pointed to freight hubs on the French model as the way forward at sites such as Ely Junction and Trafford Park.

Make UK director of policy Verity Davidge said: ‘It’s clear that the current levels of rail capacity aren’t suitable for the levels of freight traffic the Government is predicting in the future. As a result, if industry is to make greater use of rail then we need the extra capacity which a high speed link for passenger traffic would free up. This would provide a valuable opportunity to invest in multi mode hubs which would improve connectivity between our major ports and better integrate road and rail routes through the spine of the country.’

Lee Collinson is head of manufacturing, transport and logistics at Barclays UK Corporate Bank. He added: ‘It's important that UK transport infrastructure is at the forefront of discussions among policymakers. Upgrading and integrating our road, rail, and port systems is crucial for boosting productivity, decarbonising transport, and supporting long-term competitiveness. By addressing key barriers and enhancing rail freight, we can achieve significant environmental benefits, reduce lorry journeys, and improve road safety.’

It’s reported that 89 per cent of manufacturers regard road as their main mode of transport, while 38 per cent see rail investment as critical for ‘just in time’ deliveries.

Cost is a major deterrent for 45 per cent of companies considering rail freight, while 39 per cent mentioned lack of access to local terminals.

Make UK and Barclays said the cost per tonne in kilometres for rail freight has increased by 10 per cent in the last decade compared to 3 per cent for road.

The present Labour government has consistently refused to revive the sections of HS2 which were abandoned by the previous Conservative government, although despite major financial concerns it has said that the London-Birmingham section will be completed.

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