BUSINESS chiefs in York and North Yorkshire have welcomed proposals for a new high-speed rail link up the eastern side of Britain.

The recommendations, to be put to the Government by the Northern Way and Greengauge 21, an organisation formed to assist the debate on high speed rail, would see two 200mph train lines servicing the North West and the North East built parallel to each other.

Shaun Watts, president of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said it was “extremely pleased” by the proposals.

“We broadly support the decision to introduce high-speed rail along both the East and West Coast, as it will bring significant economic benefits to our region,” he said.

“Improving connectivity to the capital and other English counties will accelerate business growth, maintain the region’s competitive edge and help bridge the economic gap between the North and South.”

He said the chamber was undertaking its own research to gauge the impact the high-speed rail decision would have amongst its members, and the results would be announced shortly.