The Town Council has welcomed the decision to create a major HS2 rail interchange at Crewe. Councillor Kevin Hickson, Leader of the Town Council, said “It is great news that Crewe will benefit from the investment and jobs that this national project will bring. It is only fitting that a premier railway town like Crewe should be at the heart of the nation’s advanced rail infrastructure. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Crewe and we will do everything we can to maximise the benefit to the local and regional economy’”.
It is expected that Sir David Higgins, Chairman of HS2 Ltd, will report to the government today on Phase 2 of the HS2 programme. It is widely reported that he will recommend an early start on extending Phase 1 to Crewe for completion by 2027. This will make Crewe a key interchange between HS2 and the regional rail network, with connections to Liverpool, Chester, Stoke, Shrewsbury and North Wales.
Councillor Tony Davison chairs the Council’s Economic Development Committee. He agreed – “this is great news, businesses in the town I have talked to all believe that it is a tremendous opportunity for the local economy. Not only will there be jobs in the construction and operation of the HS2 line, but it will be the catalyst for investment and regeneration in Crewe and the surrounding areas. We want to work with all parties including our friends in North Staffordshire to make this a success.”
“We are convinced that to get the greatest benefit for Crewe we need to make sure that the existing station is retained and that the HS2 Hub is located there. This will keep the benefits of good connections that we already have, and will be a catalyst for the regeneration of the area around the station, and towards the Town Centre. I call upon Cheshire East to work with us on this approach. Building a new and isolated station south of the town is not the solution and would be detrimental to Crewe and surrounding areas. This project should not be about simple commuting options, but about bringing high speed rail into the heart of the community where the benefits are accessible to all. “
