HUDDERSFIELD MP Barry Sheerman says the proposed £30billion high speed rail link will do little for Huddersfield.
Now he wants views on what the town and Yorkshire should argue for nationally to breathe life into the regional economy.
He is attending a series of meetings in the town this weekend to gather views.
Mr Sheerman said: “What the government is offering the north of England by committing over £30 billion to HS2 is not something that my constituents have asked for or that will really make the difference to the region’s economy.
“Instead, it is another example of how our region loses out by not having a collective voice.
“What we need are well-paid, good-quality jobs.
“While Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have a voice and decision-making powers, the north of England continues to be ignored,” he said.
“What will be the benefit to communities across Huddersfield and Yorkshire of putting a massive sum – equivalent to the total Government Transport budget for two years – into the HS2 scheme?
“The case has not been made and I am concerned that what we are really creating is an over-priced, exclusive commuter line from Manchester to London enabling people to enjoy cheaper house prices in the north and higher wages in the south.
“A few enjoy the good life, while the needs of other areas seem to be utterly neglected,” the Huddersfield Labour MP added.
This weekend Mr Sheerman will be meeting students at Huddersfield University, Labour Party members and other groups, to discuss what the infrastructure needs are of his constituency – from health to transport to the economy.
He added: “I want to hear from people right across Huddersfield about what they want for the area.
“We need a powerful vision for our communities and our region for the 21st Century to kick-start our local economy and provide the right leadership for the future.”
