#HS2 - a solution looking for a problem ?
After decades of underfunding, the Midlands transport infrastructure would appear to be operating at or above full capacity, seriously constraining both output and productivity potential. HS2 offers a high-speed solution, but is that the problem?
With costs apparently rapidly escalating (WMEF HS2-a few sums) serious concerns ( Halligan, Sunday Telrgrapha, Averty, Express & Star, McElvoy, The Observer) are being raised as to the real cost-benefits and whether more locally focussed solutions ( Sheffield University Open Data Institute, City Metric, Channel 4 Dispatches) offer greater impact returns.
Director at B.E. WEDGE HOLDINGS LIMITED
5 年The proper application for High Speed Rail would be as part of an integrated airport strategy. LHR3 need not be built, BHX2 should be. That would far better fit the National economic strategy the government claims to seek. Instead we are going to see benefit go increasingly South and North, the West Midlands will play second fiddle to Manchester. Midlands Engine is a joke, Northern Powerhouse leaves it in the dust.