A NORTHERN coast-to-coast high-speed rail route must include a Bradford stop for the benefit of the whole district, claims an MP.

Philip Davies, whose Shipley constituency includes Burley and Menston, said for the suggested HS3 project to only include neighbouring Leeds would be like "throwing apples into an orchard that is already full".

The east-to-west rail link, connecting major cities, is a key part of the Government's Northern Powerhouse plan.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones has said Bradford may feature.

But Mr Davies says its inclusion is "absolutely essential".

"A city the size of Bradford must have a station stop on the HS3 route otherwise the economic benefits of this in West Yorkshire will only be for Leeds," he said.

"Can the minister therefore commit to ensuring Bradford is on the route, so this district can also benefit from the Northern Powerhouse?"

Mr Jones said Transport for the North, which brings together authorities and organisations across the region, expected to publish its priorities in the New Year and he would ensure Mr Davies' concerns were heard.

Earlier this year the Institute for Public Policy Research urged the Government to take advantage of low borrowing costs and push ahead with the scheme, added Mr Davies.