UK High speed rail network
Published:Thursday | March 11, 2010 | 1:08 PM
The UK government has announced plans for a new high-speed rail network.
Transport Secretary Lord Adonis says the rail network will feature 250 miles per hour trains.
Lord Adonis told the House of Lords that extensive and detailed consultation will be needed on the project, particularly with any communities which might be affected.
A White Paper is recommending a route for a new line between London and Birmingham with a future extension to northern England and Scotland.
Work on the railway is expected to start in 2017.
According to Lord Adonis, the project will create 10,000 jobs and yield two pounds in benefits for every one pound spent.