The leader of Derby City Council, along with other political leaders throughout the midlands, welcomed Government’s confirmation that HS2 will go ahead following recommendations from the independent Oakervee Review also published.
Whilst the green light has been given for Phase 1 between London and Birmingham, it is understood that further work is to be undertaken on the scope of phase 2, which includes the eastern leg that will run from Birmingham to Leeds, through the East Midlands hub station at Toton, Chesterfield and Sheffield.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Chris Poulter said:
Derby City Council fully supports the continuation of HS2, and I very much welcome this latest news. We will of course continue discussions with Government to confirm the scope of the Eastern Leg. Rapid transit connectivity is vital to support the existing economy and to stimulate exciting future innovation and growth opportunities to the east of our city. We have to ensure that Derby has enhanced direct links to HS2 and the growth zone around the HS2 hub at Toton as soon as possible. The work we are doing together locally, proves that around 80% of the economic benefits of HS2 in the East Midlands will be realised in surrounding localities and Derby, as a city of world class automotive, rail and aerospace technology, is one of the anchors in achieving these. Supporting our Derby businesses will massively boost employment growth and benefit not only the Midlands but the whole of the UK.