A smart HS3 timetable?

First published May 2014, and updated September 2019

Most High Speed routes seem to include only a few stations miles apart from each other; areas in between are deprived of access, and often resent construction because they lose out. What if HS3 were to include loops into existing stations on local networks? We can improve the concept for HS3 by learning from the reactions to HS2 design.

A carefully constructed timetable would allow fast trains to stop infrequently but at different stations.  Everybody would have good access, great connections, and high speed. Win, win!

That's the thinking in Build me a BEAVER which is the second of the Buffalo Future novels; details at Hiss Farm Concepts

Let's integrate HS3 and Crossrail 2

Updated September 2019

Elsewhere I have argued that HS3 should serve maximum population density. Crossrail 2 gained momentum with the announcement in January 2015, covered by Railway Gazette and others, that consultants have been appointed to work up the scheme. How about integrating these projects?

Clearly High Speed and Crossrail would need separate tunnels, but linking the two at some stations would improve access. It would involve smart timetabling.

Crossrail 2 image

I'm not sure we should put London First, as in the campaign above, but ought to consider what would be best for the whole country. In other words, let's add HS3 thinking to the existing Crossrail 2 concept. That would give us great access to and across the city.

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