MPs have given the green light to phase 2a of HS2 to Crewe, with the proposals gaining Royal Assent
Parliament’s approval for phase 2a of HS2 to Crewe means the 58km (36miles) route will be built earlier than originally planned.
Prime minister, Boris Johnson, said: “Today is a landmark moment in our infrastructure revolution. HS2 is the most significant expansion to our national railways in a generation – transforming connectivity between our towns and cities and vastly increasing the capacity of our rail network.
“By proceeding full steam ahead, we are delivering on our commitment to unite and level up the country.
“The construction of Phase 2a will support thousands of jobs and create opportunities for local businesses as we build back better.”
Today’s decision means HS2 is set to deliver another major economic boost to UK PLC, by supporting around 5,000 jobs to build Phase 2a, with many more in the supply chain. In addition, the railway will support 140 permanent jobs at its maintenance base near Stone in Staffordshire.
‘5,000 jobs in the North’
HS2 Ltd CEO, Mark Thurston, commented: “Parliament’s approval for extending HS2 beyond the West Midlands to the North is a clear sign that MPs recognise the enormous potential of this scheme and continue to give their strong support.
“As the first major railway built in the North for over 100 years, HS2 will spur massive economic growth for our towns and cities, help to level up the country, and provide cleaner, greener public transport for millions.
“As construction starts, this new phase of work will very quickly support 5,000 jobs in the North, with many more in the supply chain, further cementing HS2’s critical role in Britain’s economic recovery from the pandemic.”
‘Crewe’s status at the heart of the rail network’
Dr Kieran Mullan, MP for Crewe & Nantwich, said: “Extending the HS2 line to Crewe is a major step towards levelling-up the north.
“It is crucial to bringing new jobs and opportunities to our town and for creating better local rail connections as we free up the currently overly congested line West Coast Main Line.
“This reaffirms Crewe’s status at the heart of the rail network and just as we were a crucial part of the previous rail revolution, HS2 will cement our place as a vital part of the next.”
