Commenting on the decision to go ahead with HS2, chief executive of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE), which represents the companies large and small who design, deliver and operate our national infrastructure, Hannah Vickers said: 

“While HS2 provides plenty of lessons in how we plan, execute and communicate major infrastructure projects in the UK, today all in the industry will be delighted to have seen common sense finally prevail. 

“This is great news for people across the Midlands and the North who will benefit from an economic boost by being better connected. Thanks to capacity being opened up across the network projects like Midlands Rail and Northern Powerhouse Rail can become a reality. Finally, quicker links will encourage people off cars and planes, vital if society is to meet its Net Zero targets.”

“There has been enough discussion and delay. HS2 was first announced nearly a decade ago. We need to stop talking and get on with building the future.”

ENDS