Full steam ahead for Leeds high speed rail hub

The University of Leeds has acquired a 10-acre plot as the home for a brand new Institute of High Speed Rail and System Integration.

Based on the ‘North plot’ of the Gateway 45 Leeds development, the institute will be an engineering hub allowing the university to collaborate with industry on research initiatives for high speed rail service HS2.

Professor Lisa Roberts, University of Leeds deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, explained: “The new advanced testing facilities as part of the University’s Institute, alongside HS2’s new rolling stock depot, are a significant step forward for UK high speed rail capability.

“They position Leeds City Region as a global centre for high speed rail research and development, so we’re working closely with HS2 to ensure our facilities align with its needs and those of industry, so all sides can deliver for the country.”

Building on HS2’s commitment to create 30,000 new jobs and 2,000 apprentices during the life of the project, the institute is expected to attract inward investment and jobs to the region, including 125 jobs at the planned HS2 rolling stock depot.

Mark Thurston, CEO of HS2 Ltd, added: “HS2 is driving investment and growth up and down the country, and I’m delighted to see that Leeds is harnessing every opportunity that the project brings.

“We have always said that HS2 is much more than just a railway and this is another great example of the role it will play in rebalancing Britain’s economy and creating a highly skilled workforce for the future.”

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