Town Council discusses HS2 with Secretary of State
Patrick McLoughlin, the Secretary of State for Transport was in Crewe yesterday (Thursday 9th July 2015). He met representatives of Crewe Town Council and South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, together with local MP Edward Timpson. The Town Council confirmed its support for the early extension of HS2 to Crewe, and put forward ideas as to how Crewe could play a key role in the Northern Powerhouse plans for growth in northern England.
Edward Timpson MP commented: "It was hugely helpful to have the chance to set out for the Secretary of State for Transport our shared view of the massive benefits to Crewe and the surrounding area of a fully integrated hub station as a key part of HS2. “
"The fact that the Minister was willing to come to Crewe and hear our case face to face shouldn't be underestimated."
Simon Yates, the leader of Crewe Town Council said afterwards: “It was a really positive meeting and we were very grateful that the Secretary of State found time to meet us. We emphasised our support for a HS2 hub station in the town. Crewe has connections to the Midlands, Wales, Stoke, Liverpool, Manchester and points north as well as London. Trains can switch at Crewe between high speed lines and the existing rail system to offer many new high speed options – for example linking Birmingham with the trans-Pennine routes. This will help the regional economies to grow, but also makes Crewe a premier destination for business and should power up the regeneration of our town. We explained the need for decisions on the design and location of the hub station reflect this huge potential whilst bringing new life to the parts of the town that most need regenerating.”
“South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry is looking forward to the prospect of HS2 coming to Crewe, and the economic benefits it will bring to the area. It has been estimated by Cheshire East Council that it could generate up to 64,000 extra jobs, which will be a huge boost to the sub-region” said John Dunning, Chairman of the Chamber.
Patrick McLoughlin told the House of Commons on 11 June that a separate Bill is being considered to deal with the link between Phase 1 which ends near Lichfield, and Crewe. This will mean an early start to the link to Crewe, subject to a final route decision. This will mean an early start to the link to the north, well in advance of the rest of phase 2 which will connect to Manchester and Leeds.
09/07/2015 ENDS
For further information contact:
Rob Mackenzie, Deputy Town Clerk/Economic Development Officer
Crewe Town Council, St Paul’s Community Centre, Hightown, Crewe CW1 3BY
Tel: 01270 756977 Email: rob.mackenzie@crewetowncouncil.gov.uk
