HS2 speculation disappointing - Chamber

Business leaders in Greater Birmingham today said it was “disappointing ” to again hear speculation about the long-term future of the eastern leg of HS2.

The transport secretary, Grant Shapps, is expected to announce the outcome of the long-delayed integrated rail plan on Thursday.

Reports this weekend suggested that the Transport Secretary would commit to building HS2 from Birmingham to Manchester, but not to Leeds

Mr Shapps is expected to announce two shorter high speed routes - one which would run between Leeds and Sheffield and another from Birmingham to East Midlands Parkway

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Work is continuing on the integrated rail plan. We will publish it shortly and do not comment on speculation. ”

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “It 's disappointing to see speculation mounting again about the long term of future of the eastern leg of HS2.

“Here in Greater Birmingham, we 've seen first hand the positive impact has had on creating jobs, attracting wider private sector investment and raising the profile of the region on the global scale.

“If the Government is serious about delivering the levelling up agenda, then it is essential that HS2 is delivered in full - as the PM himself committed to at the start of his premiership.

“In the meantime, we will await to review the publication of the Integrated Rail Plan and hopefully we will see a commitment to proceeding with the Midlands Rail Hub - a project which has gathered significant local support from businesses and stakeholders alike. ”

Click here to review the letter the GBCC published in partnership with businesses across the Midlands calling for the delivery of the Midlands Rail Hub