Skip to main content
  • The CBI chevron_right
  • CBI reiterates the business need for HS2 progression

The CBI reiterates the business need for progression on HS2

Thomas Barlow Senior Policy Adviser

Urging the next Prime Minister to make investment in infrastructure a priority.

03 Jul 2019, 2 min read

Last week, the CBI convened an open letter from business organisations across the north of England to the two Tory leadership candidates, setting out why the delivery of HS2 is fundamental to the success of the entire country and in helping ensure the UK fulfils its potential. The wide range of signatories to this letter was a testament to the strength of feeling among firms large and small, with the clear message to the two candidates - “back it, build it, benefit from it.”

In a time of political uncertainty, we cannot take these projects for granted and must secure their on-time delivery, regardless of changes of government or leadership. This is particularly true for HS2, which can deliver the connections and growth that the UK needs - acting as a catalyst for further important regional infrastructure upgrades.

The benefits are clear

HS2 will not only connect directly connect eight of Britain’s 10 largest cities, but also improve connections across the whole of the rail network, freeing up capacity on the existing rail network and improving connections between the towns and cities of the north and midlands. But, the benefits from HS2 are not purely transport related. Put simply, no other scheme or investment can deliver the jobs (estimated 500,000), growth (£2.30 in benefits for every £1 spent) and regeneration benefits (90,000 new homes to be built around stations) on the same scale as HS2.

There is only one choice for business

What’s more, the choice presented between investment in transport in the north, and the delivery of HS2, is a false one. HS2’s tracks form an essential part of the Northern Powerhouse Rail scheme – to imply there is a choice between the two is to wilfully mislead the public. Northern Powerhouse Rail cannot be delivered without HS2. That’s why, the next Prime Minister must re-state the government’s commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail, and its links to HS2, as a matter of urgent priority.

Whichever party or Prime Minister leads the country in the coming years, infrastructure investment will be high on their to-do list. With businesses across the country crying out for improvements, it’s vital that politicians keep up the momentum to deliver their plans.