Resurrect HS2 northern leg to boost rail freight capacity, say UK manufacturers

Reviving line to Manchester and Leeds would help get lorries off roads and cut emissions, according to lobby group

Manufacturers will press ministers today to resurrect plans for a high-speed rail line reaching Leeds and Manchester as part of a large strategic investment to get lorries off Britain's roads and cut emissions.

Business lobby group Make UK and Barclays Corporate Bank said research showed companies believe the move would significantly increase passenger numbers and free up capacity for rail freight on existing lines.