NORTHERN leaders, including the leader of Bolton Council, have written to the prime minister urging him not to scrap part of the HS2 rail project.

A total of 31 political and business leaders from across the North of England including Bolton's Martyn Cox, Metro Mayor Andy Burnham and Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett say that they believe the government's decision no to extend the eastern leg of HS2 and to water down the proposed Northern Powerhouse Rail project flies in the face of Boris Johnson's stated ambition to "level up" the region.

The decision was announced on Thursday November 18, with speculation beforehand already prompting a wave of condemnation from North politicians, business leaders and local newspapers.

In their letter, the leaders said: "We are concerned that by omitting both the Eastern Leg of HS2 and the new Leeds to Liverpool route of Northern Powerhouse Rail, with stops in central Bradford, Manchester and Warrington, you have failed to fully consider the advice of independent rail reviews, the ambitions of Northern leaders, and the appeals of our businesses.

"Your decision, contrary to your ambition to level-up the North, runs the risk of holding back our regional economies and compromising our plans to cut carbon emissions, just days after we hosted COP-26.

"People across the North were excited by your promise of new rail infrastructure and the benefits of a better-connected North – not only quicker travel times but more jobs and homes, new investment and regeneration, and better opportunities for our young people.

"In our view, this pared-back plan will not unlock the full potential of the North of England.

"These decisions go beyond party politics and indeed our generation.

"They are critical to the future of the North for the next 100 years and more. Given this, we believe elected representatives in all parts of the country should have an opportunity to consider whether your proposals represent a fair deal for their constituents before they are finalised."

The leaders have called for a free vote on the decision in the House of Commons, before any plans are finalised.