HS2 must have European impact, says Street
Effective links with Europe's mainland train network will be key to the success of the green-lighted HS2 scheme, according to Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) chairman Andy Street.
The controversial £32bn plans were passed by government yesterday (10 January). Government chiefs aim to have the first phase, which will produce a London to Birmingham train line – completed by 2026.
Transport secretary Justine Greening's announcement that government would back the plans was met with cautious optimism from West midlands business leaders.
"The LEP has supported this transformational project in principle - HS2 will result in considerable benefits for our LEP area, and will compliment our strategy for jobs and growth, and strengthen our position nationally and internationally," said Street.
"However, we are seeking a number of assurances. Effective links with the HS1 network on mainland Europe are essential and vital to success, and will also reduce our carbon footprint through reduced air travel.
"We are also concerned that people affected by the scheme are adequately compensated, and that the design of HS2 seeks to minimise the environmental impact," he said.
Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said it was vital that the new line bolstered business in the city and the county.
"The view on HS2 among our members has been split and there was certainly a feeling that those behind the project failed to really ‘sell’ its benefits to businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire," she said.
"We need clear, concise information on how this will affect services from our stations to London and vice versa and we need to ensure that we get the best deal for the region because this is one of the most significant transport announcements for many years."
