Fast-track plans could bring high speed rail by 2027

The Government unveiled their plans for a 250mph network earlier this month, with the first phase being built from London to Birmingham before splitting into a Y-shape and travelling north to Scotland on either side of the Pennines.

The initial time scale for the project raised fears it could be more than quarter of a century before the region had its own route. However Lord Adonis said yesterday work on the Yorkshire line could be carried out simultaneously with the Birmingham track.

Speaking at Leeds train station following a meeting with business leaders, the Transport Secretary said: "I wish to see the line to Leeds developed as a single project including the first phase to Birmingham.

"Therefore we will seek to get planning consent for the project as a whole at the same time so there need be no delay in the construction time. The London to Leeds route could be open within a few years of the London to Birmingham route.

"This is not about building the route to Birmingham and then starting the rest.

The news is a boost for the Yorkshire Post's Fast Track to Yorkshire campaign, which is lobbying for a direct line to the capital.

A high speed link to Leeds by 2027 has been pledged by the Tories – however their proposals are not direct and would force Yorkshire commuters to travel to London via Manchester.