It’s time to maximise opportunities of HS2

Posted on July 17th, 2017

Now that the route of HS2 through North East Derbyshire and South Yorkshire has been announced, the region’s biggest business-representation organisation is calling for action to maximise the potential benefit of the service.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), said: “The Eastern Leg of HS2 will be transformational for the region. It has the potential to unlock economic benefits of more than £4bn for the East Midlands and parts of Yorkshire.

“It’s not about faster train times it's about capacity and connecting the East Midlands to a first-class UK- and Europe-wide rail network that will make the region a more attractive place for inward investment and bring new opportunities for local firms.

“There must be investment now across the region to ensure seamless interconnectivity along the route. Our cities and major towns must have quick, practical and direct connection with HS2 if they are to maximise its potential and avoid being marginalised by poor connectivity.”

Various reports state that in 20 years’ time there will be “major capacity issues” on Britain’s railways unless something is done to upgrade the network. There are predictions that passenger numbers could double by 2040.

“The East Midlands cannot be left with insufficient rail capacity or poor connectivity. As part of this major infrastructure project, the biggest in a generation, full electrification of the Midland Main Line should now be a priority to ensure seamless integration with HS2, particularly where the route goes through Chesterfield and Sheffield,” Scott said.

To see today’s announcement in detail go to http://bit.ly/2uvIbjn

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