Businesses need clarity over HS2, says Chamber
Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire are “still undecided” over the benefits of the new High Speed 2 rail proposals, according to the Chamber of Commerce. Director of policy, Alan Durham, said that the vast majority of companies still needed to be convinced that there will be a business benefit.
Durham said that some businesses were in favour, some were opposed but the majority need further convincing of the benefits to the line.
He said: “We’ve undertaken surveys, we’ve held events and we understand the arguments for and against – particularly as the line is proposed to run through this area but won’t stop here.
“There are strong opinions on either side – but the feedback we are getting is that those undecided businesses are not yet convinced that the proposed huge investment in HS2 represents good value for money."
Durham add that there was an also concern that the immediate economic impact might not be of benefit to Coventry and Warwickshire.
He said: “Our finger will remain firmly on the pulse on this issue with our members and we will continue to keep them informed of the latest updates.
“More information will emerge at the public consultations in 2011 but the business case really does need to be made in a clear, concise way before companies will throw their weight behind the initiative.
“Only when that case is made strongly will businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire be able to formulate a definite view.”
