The seminar session “Levelling Up and the Role of HS2” will explore and discuss: the role of railways in general and HSR specifically, in the ‘Levelling Up’ agenda; railways’ contribution to addressing social and regional inequalities and HS2’s relevant impacts; the future prospects of HS2; benefits that will be brought to Birmingham and other cities connected by the HS2 network; implications for Leeds and the North considering the latest governmental plans to cancel the HS2 Link to Leeds; potential alternatives for the North; and finally, a reflection on risks imposed by Covid-19 on railway travelling patterns, rail industry, and future projects.