Decision details

Purpose of report: The report advises on the government initiative to create a company to consider high speed rail (HS2), sets out the conclusions of HS2 and advises on the outcome of a recent review undertaken to establish a policy position for CYC.

Members are asked to: Note the contents of the report and agree the recommendations.

RESOLVED: (i)         That the policy position for York, as set out in the Arup review, be agreed and that further work be focused on:

a)                 reducing journey times between Leeds and York, particularly through the electrification of the line between Leeds and York;

b)                 promoting the benefits of any HS2 parkway stops being located to the east of Leeds, and

c)                  securing shorter term improvements to the East Coast Main Line (ECML).

                        (ii)        That Members and Officers continue to lobby though the appropriate forums for ongoing investment in the ECML.

REASON:      To ensure that the advantages of high speed rail connections are realised for York and that continued investment in existing rail infrastructure and facilities is not delayed or cancelled, given the indicative 2026 start date for HS2.