Job opportunities for UK workforce

HS2 Ltd will work not only with the bidders, but also with potential UK suppliers regarding the opportunity to boost skills and to encourage growth of the HS2 workforce.

Construction of the route will create some 25,000 jobs, plus 2,000 apprenticeships. A further 3,000 will operate HS2, while it is estimated that growth around the new stations will create another 100,000 jobs.

Following the train shortlist announcement, a spokesman for High Speed Rail Industry Leaders said: “Thousands of skilled British jobs and apprenticeships will be created by HS2 for British workers.

“Today’s confirmation of the approach HS2 is taking to rolling stock is testament to the fact that the project is moving ahead at pace and the industry is ready to deliver.

“Following the recent opening of the new National College for High Speed Rail in Birmingham and Doncaster, we welcome the news that the dedicated rolling stock depot and Network Control Centre are planned for Washwood Heath, Birmingham. Together, this investment will boost skills and expertise in the high speed rail sector and create hundreds of regional job opportunities.”

Responding to Secretary of State Chris Grayling’s comment about HS2 creating opportunities for Britain, RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said: “RMT hears what the minister has said this morning about creating skilled, engineering jobs as a result of this major new fleet contract. The union intends to hold the Government to that pledge, and we will be seeking cast-iron assurances that these trains will be built here in Britain.

“RMT would also expect to see the jobs that the Government are talking about today as part of the HS2 fleet procurement programme as being sustainable, on permanent contracts and with decent terms and conditions.

“The potential for expanding apprenticeships and the rail engineering skills base in Britain is huge, but requires proper planning and investment to make it happen.”