Chambers' dismay at 'unhelpful' HS2 speculation

Concerned Midland business leaders have described speculation that the Manchester leg of HS2 may be scrapped as “hugely disappointing” and “deeply unhelpful.”

Chief executives of both Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and the Black Country Chamber voiced dismay at the growing doubts over the future of the Midland link to the North-West after Junior Transport Minister Richard Holden dodged multiple questions in the House of Commons.

Reports at the weekend suggested that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was set on cutting the high-speed rail project short after the initial phase from Birmingham to London.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The latest speculation around the Government's thinking on the future of Phase 2B of HS2 is deeply unhelpful. Here in Birmingham, we've seen first hand the catalytic impact this once in a generation project has had in terms of regeneration, investment and employment.

“Cost management is essential, but constantly throwing into doubt what will be delivered is farcical and sends an uninspiring message to businesses and overseas investors alike.”

Sarah Moorhouse, CEO of Black Country Chamber, said: “The news that the HS2 northern line, from the Midlands to the North-West may be scrapped is hugely disappointing. We already know that continued uncertainty is negatively affecting investment decisions in the area, and this will not help.

“HS2 not only brings contracts to our regional businesses but many jobs and of course hundreds of apprenticeships for the next generation of builders, engineers and project management personnel. We call on the Government to put an end to the uncertainty and start work on the HS2 connections from the Midlands to the North-West without further delay.”

Alex Veitch, director of policy and insights at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Increased speculation about further possible delays or changes to HS2 will start alarm bells ringing and raise fears that key links are in jeopardy.

“It is an essential project to boost the future prosperity of our regional economies and improve the speed and capacity of our national transport infrastructure.

“If the Government further reneges on its plans for HS2, it will shatter business confidence, both in the UK and among overseas investors, in its ability to see large-scale construction infrastructure projects through.”