The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has launched a study to consider options for operating HS2 high-speed rail (HSR) services to Leeds. The study is also committed to reassess proposed improvements to rail connections to Bradford. According to DfT, the study delivers on a commitment made in the Integrated Rail Plan (IRP) announced in November 2021, in which the planned eastern leg of HS2 to Leeds was scrapped. The study will assess capacities at Leeds station and consider local views as well as factors such as disruption linked with the various options under consideration both to passengers and economic development. It will also look at the wider economic benefits, value for money, affordability, deliverability, and project time scales. The study is expected to be completed in 2025. Technical work on the study will be led by infrastructure operator Network Rail with support where needed from project promoter HS2 Ltd.
