HS2 is not just about faster journey times – it will transform towns and communities across the country. A remodelled hub at Crewe will serve Cheshire, Staffordshire, North Wales and the Mersey-Dee area, bringing transport and economic development benefits through transformational connectivity for all of its users. Our latest report Fast-Tracking Prosperity in the North West and Midlands explores how to take advantage of these opportunities offered by the world-leading high-speed rail project. The report was launched at a notable event at Crewe Station attended by Cllr Rachael Bailey, Leader of Cheshire East, Cllr Paul Yates, Leader of Crewe Town Council and other local figures. 
The report harnesses the experience of our members and explores the opportunities for boosting local economies from HS2 Phase 2a, and the role that Crewe will come to play as a regional hub for the North of England. The benefits of Phase 2a are wide ranging, including not only the reduction in journey times between the North of England and London, but also a significant increase in network capacity, scope for better HS2 services, including the addition of a service for Stoke-on-Trent, an enhanced supply chain, the wider regeneration of Crewe, and additional environmental savings through quicker journey times and lower carbon emissions.
Jim Steer, Director of HSRIL, commented:
“We are delighted to launch Fast-Tracking Prosperity. The biggest and most ambitious infrastructure project in the country is moving ahead at pace. The accelerated section to Crewe means that HS2 infrastructure reaches the North six years earlier than originally planned and brings exciting wider development opportunities. This report captures out how HSRIL members are working with partners to deliver transformative benefits for Crewe, the North West region, and the entire country.”