Is there light at the end of the HS2 tunnel?

After many delays, much confusion and intense media speculation, the government has set out its plans for investment in the future of Britain’s rail network.

The Integrated Rail Plan for the Midlands and the North has been announced as a transformational programme, set to revolutionise train travel across the UK - slashing journey times and making the levelling up vision a reality.

The plan will also have a significant impact on decarbonising Britain by making journeys more accessible, with increased capacity, and by developing rail freight.

However, many were disappointed with the announcement: businesses in the North of England, excited by the prospect of HS2’s extending to Leeds; Bradford communities also expressed their concerns; whilst the political opposition labelled it as a ‘betrayal’ to the North.

The CBI also remains concerned about government funding reviews in future that could put the delivery of the plan at risk – despite the £96