Study examines 180mph rail link

Local transport officials have signed up for a study to look at building a high-speed rail link between Manchester, Birmingham and London.

It will explore the potential of a 180mph service, which would cut the Manchester to London journey time from two-and-a-half hours to 90 minutes.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority has joined the Greengauge 21 group after being invited last year.

It will submit its findings to government in April 2009.

Councillor Allen Brett, Vice Chair of GMPTA, said: "High-speed rail has the potential to bring massive economic and environmental benefits on a national scale.

'Next stage'

Greengauge 21 - a not-for-profit organisation set up to promote the development of high-speed rail in Britain - invited GMPTA to join the group - earlier this year.

"I'm very pleased that Greengauge 21 has recognised the role Greater Manchester has to play in that.

"Although this high-speed rail connection is still a long way from becoming a reality - at least 15 years - now is the right time to take the concept to the next stage.

"We can see the potential on offer for Greater Manchester and that is why we are getting on board with this study at its very beginning."

Research will be undertaken into the technical requirements, key sites, funding and consultations - before producing a range of options.