HS2 launches information events for affected communities

The company behind the UK’s new high-speed railway is holding a series of events to answer the questions of people affected by the latest stage in the construction of the line.

The Government will soon publish its Integrated Rail Plan for the North and Midlands, with plans to submit a hybrid bill to bring HS2 to the north by early 2022.

The bill will seek permission from Parliament to proceed with the delivery of the next part of the project. It will be accompanied with an Environmental Statement, detailing the environmental and sustainability commitments that will be observed throughout construction works

Ahead of this, HS2 Ltd has been asked to prioritise work on the legislation for Phase 2b, connecting Crewe to Manchester via a section known as the Western Leg. While plans may be subject to amendment, it is unlikely that this phase will see any significant change.

As part of its commitment to engage with local communities, HS2 Ltd will hold a series of events (both online and at a number of public venues) to inform residents and businesses on what to expect and explain the legislation and timescales involved. Information on support and opportunities for involvement will also be available.

Once fully operational, HS2 trains will join with the West Coast Mainline, enhancing connectivity throughout the North of England as well as for towns and cities in Scotland.

In a statement, HS2 Minister Andrew Stephenson MP said: ‘The Queen’s Speech recently confirmed our commitment to moving ahead with the Crewe-Manchester leg of HS2, a crucial part of our drive to level up and boost opportunities across the Midlands and the North. 

‘These events are a chance for communities along the route from Crewe to Manchester to engage with and understand more about HS2 and the legislative process. They will also showcase the benefits communities will see, from better connectivity to huge opportunities for business and economic growth.’

Following the pandemic, HS2 Ltd is gradually returning to engaging via face-to-face events and the company is working to ensure all guidelines are followed, both at a national and local level.

A timetable of events is scheduled to take place throughout July. Webinars and one-to-one virtual briefings can be booked along with online drop-ins and a limited number of public engagements.

Head of Consultation and Engagement Phase 2 at HS2 Ltd, Leonie Dubois, added: ‘We are working towards submitting the hybrid Bill, which provides the legislative powers to bring HS2 to the North.

‘This is integral to the Government’s levelling up agenda and will help to spread the distribution of wealth and opportunity from the South to the Midlands and the North.

‘It’s important that local communities understand what this means and the opportunities this presents for them.

‘Our online and face-to-face events are designed to aid their understanding and we encourage people to drop in, ask questions and find out more.’

Photo by Marko Mudrinic