HS2 and the future of UK infrastructure

© HS2/Grimshaw

Lord Adonis, former chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, has spoken of how crucial HS2 is in defining the future of UK infrastructure.

Addressing public and private sector industry experts at the 2018 NEC Users’ Group Annual Seminar, Lord Adonis said that industry’s ability to deliver HS2 successfully, on time and on budget, will be the defining factor in whether future major infrastructure projects ever get off the ground post Brexit.

Brexit has resulted in the government tightening its purse strings, and the biggest threat to HS2 is not political backing, but the industry’s own ability to collaborate efficiently and effectively.

“HS2 is critical to the rebalancing of the country between London and the regions, especially the North. It must delivered efficiently, timely and cost effectively to be seen as a success.” He commented.

The event, held at County Hall, also marked the 25th anniversary of the NEC suite of contracts. With NEC’s suite of contracts promoting collaboration and shared understanding towards efficiency and risk management, Lord Adonis told the Users Group that: ‘industry must find a balance of quality and price to justify that future spending on major infrastructure.’

Lord Adonis also discussed the importance of continuing to prioritise the renewal of the UK’s ‘incredible’ existing Victorian infrastructure which continues to be the backbone of major cities such as London 200 years later. He added that in order to prosper with devolved powers, the northern cities must replicate London in terms of governance and its transport model.

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