HS2 is approved, time to think of HS3

First posted May 2014; updated August 2015, and June 2019

In 2014 HS2 was approved by a massive majority in Parliament, work is underway but some still talk of cancelling the project. What should be the route for HS3 after HS2 is built?

RailUKforums have an excellent blog expressing their views on possible HS3 routes. The thread is closed, however it sets out the arguments.

I think we should start with a population map, such as that in the Guardian which was based on the last census, and focus on areas not served by HS1 or HS2.

Here's what the southern section of the route might look like.  It assumes tunnelling right under London, as per Crossrail [now renamed the Elizabeth Line], with stations beneath Stratford International and Waterloo.  It would connect Stansted and Gatwick.

An additional loop could serve huge populations along the Thames Estuary, and even a new airport. With some slick timetabling, different calling patterns would allow London to Bristol in around an hour stopping twice on the way.

My second Buffalo Future novel envisages life half a century from now, and includes HS3. 

More details here