HS2 Bill on track with big Commons majority

HIGH-speed rail scheme HS2 has taken another step forward with 451 MPs voting to approve the general principles of the Bill – which authorises the £50bn project – in its second reading and only 41 voting against.

MPs dismissed ex-minister Cheryl Gillan’s plan for the project to be halted, although the rebels have pledged to carry on opposing HS2 which will link Birmingham and London via 225mph trains from 2026 and open up similarly fast routes to Leeds and Manchester six or seven years later.

Some 32 Conservatives backed Gillan’s amendment.

Transport minister Robert Goodwill said the result of the vote was an “important step” in taking the project forward.

The High Speed Rail (London – West Midlands) Bill 2013-14, would authorise the first phase of the project. The proposed legislation would grant the powers required to construct and operate phase one of HS2 between London and the West Midlands

It is not expected to become law until after the 2015 General Election. However, it has cross-party support with Labour MPs backing the Government in last night’s vote.

Construction work is expected to start in 2017 and the project – including rolling stock – is expected to cost £50bn. A separate bill will be brought in later by the Government to allow the second phase – north of Birmingham – to go ahead.