Rail investment is far more than a short-term cost: it is a driver of national growth and regional connectivity. The approval in the budget to complete HS2’s critical link from Old Oak Common to Euston marks a pivotal step forward. We hope that an era of fragmented, short-term decision making has been ended, in favour of a move towards a cohesive vision for the future of UK rail.
However, we cannot stop here. To fully realise the socio-economic benefits of this project, it is critical that Phase 1 is properly connected north of Birmingham to Crewe and beyond.
Taking a long-term, integrated approach to rail delivery going forward will enable HS2 and the broader network to fuel the UK’s economy and enhance productivity for generations to come. For the first time in some years, this Budget sees that future get one step nearer rather than further away.