HS2 receiving independent review

The Transport Secretary announced yesterday that the terms of reference for an independent review into the continuation proceedings of HS2, with the review being chaired by Douglas Oakervee while Lord Berkeley will serve as the Deputy Chair.

Mr Oakervee has gained a wealth of knowledge over the course of his 60 year career into the review of major projects but will also be supported by a panel of experts so as to concentrate the varying perspectives of leading figures within the business sector, transport sector, and within academia.

The aforesaid panellists will be consulted in regard to the conclusion of the review so as to confirm that it’s finding are, in fact, independent and objective, and in the interest of both the government and the public.

Secretary Shapps stated: “The Prime Minister has been clear that transport infrastructure has the potential to drive economic growth, redistribute opportunity and support towns and cities across the UK, but that investments must be subject to continuous assessment of their costs and benefits.

“That’s why we are undertaking this independent and rigorous review of HS2.”

The terms of reference, which were published on Wednesday 21^st August 2019, will take into account a cost-benefit analysis of the scheme in going forward, the affordability compared with the efficiency of the end result, delivery and scope of the project, and also its relationship with any subsequent phases such as the Northern Powerhouse Rail project.

Mr Oakervee stated: “The Prime Minister has asked me to lead this important review into the HS2 programme. I am looking forward to working with my deputy, Lord Berkeley, to advise the government on how and whether to progress with HS2, based on all existing evidence.”

Preparation works will continue on HS2 until the independent review committee forwards their finding on to the Secretary of State, with oversight from the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer, which will ultimately decide on how to proceed once the review is received this autumn.

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