Gerald Manton, the chair of Westside Business Improvement District (BID), has expressed his “profound concern and disappointment” at the potential scrapping of the HS2 line north of Birmingham.
Mr Manton said: “Any such decision would not only be devastating for Birmingham and the north of the UK but would also serve as an embarrassment on the international stage.
“Westside BID has evolved into a hub for some of the UK’s largest businesses, with numerous companies relocating their national headquarters to Westside and Birmingham.
“These relocations have been significantly influenced by the promise of high-speed rail connectivity to London Euston and the northern regions of the UK. The abrupt cancellation of this crucial infrastructure project would raise serious questions.
“How do we explain to the multiple global businesses that have invested in our great city that the government is now retracting its commitment to high-speed rail?
“The continuation of current investment levels in Birmingham is crucial, and halting this project could have severe repercussions for our regional economy.
“It is inconceivable to commit to the most expensive section of HS2, London to Birmingham, only to abandon the route further north.
“Also, the termination of HS2 outside of central London, with additional links to Euston and beyond, would make the journey from Birmingham take as much time as on existing lines, if not more.
“The proposed HS2 line from Birmingham to Manchester would have provided an equivalent capacity of an 18-lane motorway between the two cities, a much-needed boost to the nation’s infrastructure.
“Those blaming the excessive cost of HS2 are already witnessing the results of past failures to invest adequately in our rail network.
“The continuation of HS2 is crucial. Its rumoured cancellation has already tarnished our nation’s reputation as a global leader, making international headlines.
“HS2 should be a great example of our country’s capabilities and achievements at the highest level, rather than reflecting a lack of commitment and vision for the UK’s future.
“An unfinished HS2 would irreparably damage the UK’s reputation, undermining the credibility of our government’s promises.
“On behalf of businesses within Westside, Birmingham and the West Midlands, I demand that the government upholds commitments it made to the British public and promises extended on the international stage.
“The integrity of our nation is at stake, unless the government reinstates and guarantees the continuation of HS2 from Birmingham to the north of the UK.”
ENDS
