Northern Powerhouse Partnership Explores Private Funding to Accelerate Birmingham–Manchester Rail Line

The Northern Powerhouse Partnership (NPP) is exploring the potential for private investment to speed up plans for a new rail line connecting Birmingham and Manchester.

While the government has confirmed its ambition for the link, officials stress it is not a revival of HS2 Phase 2, and construction would not begin until after the completion of all three phases of Northern Powerhouse Rail—potentially delaying work until the 2040s.

Speaking to RAIL, NPP Chief Executive Henri Murison said: “We are actively considering how to bring forward options to deliver sooner rather than later. The reality is all the government is doing is establishing the principle of a new line. If private finance can deliver the project sooner, then that’s a debate we should have with government.”

Murison added that the West Coast Main Line is already at capacity, forcing more passengers onto the M6 and local roads, citing recent issues with Avanti West Coast’s 07:00 Manchester Piccadilly–London Euston service.

The government plans to launch a feasibility study to determine the line’s specifications and timeline, with land originally purchased for HS2 retained. However, HS2 Phase 2 land purchase powers, which were set to expire on February 11, will not automatically be extended, prompting calls for clarity on future safeguarding.

Industry bodies have welcomed the proposals but highlighted concerns over timing.

The High Speed Rail Group described the commitment as “right” but warned the delivery could be decades away. Railway Industry Association Chief Executive Darren Caplan emphasised the importance of connecting Manchester and Leeds via Northern Powerhouse Rail and a potential HS2 extension, while calling for detailed plans, timetables, and confirmed budgets.

“With the West, Midland, and East Coast Main Lines reaching capacity, completing the north-south route is vital for economic growth and improved connectivity across the UK,” he said.