Northern politicians attend HS2 meeting

Three politicians, representing three of the largest economic powerhouses outside of London, recently attended a meeting at the House of Commons with Transport Minister Chris Heaton-Harris over the future of HS2.

The West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, Manchester City Council Leader, Sir Richard Leese, and Leeds City Council Leader, Judith Blake, reportedly all favour the continuation of HS2 in spite of the Government’s hesitation to publish the findings of the Oakervee Review which reached its completion last year.

During the meeting Mr Street expressed that to cancel HS2 now would be a betrayal of investors interests after the London to Birmingham line was approved by Parliament in 2015, while the North Western, Yorkshire, and East Midlands lines are still awaiting approval.

The Policy, Campaigns and Communications Director at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Chris Fletcher stated: “Put simply HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail both have to be built (not either or) and both schemes supplemented by the continued investment into existing services and infrastructure.

“Costs obviously have to be monitored (no one should expect a blank cheque) but the figures we are seeing now reflect decades of different governments sitting on their hands, choosing the easy option of not making the necessary investments whilst passenger numbers and demand has leapt forward.

“Those calling for huge investment on existing lines and services as a solution should note that even after the final stage of the West Coast upgrade in 2005 increasing demand has outstripped those improvements and are at the root of why HS2 is needed.

“Increased capacity right across the rail network, from commuter lines through to intercity routes is needed, backed up by a long term commitment to proper funding and operational plans where the passenger is put first.

“The Oakervee review will be the official document that steers government decision making, it is not a ‘given’ and should it get the green light we urge government to look urgently at ways to bring forward build dates and look at getting key parts of the project delivered quicker, such as stations,  to give an immediate boost to local economies. The sooner the benefits start to roll out the better.”

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