Economic analysts warn of negative impact of HS2

The next phase of the £32bn HS2 high-speed rail network has been unveiled by the government, but the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) says the plan is a "basic economic error".

The preferred route of phase two running northwards from Birmingham will have five stops: Manchester; Manchester Airport; Toton near Nottingham, Sheffield; and Leeds.

IEA Deputy Editorial Director, Richard Wellings, said the government should be tackling other transport priorities in the north.