HS2 Phase 2a

Hybrid Bill to secure powers to build HS2 Phase 2a from West Midlands to Crewe passes its second reading.

THE Hybrid Bill to secure powers to build the £3.48 billion HS2 Phase 2a from the West Midlands to Crewe passed its second reading by a majority of 283 in Parliament on January 30. 295 MPs voted in favour of the new railway, with just 12 opposing.

In his introductory speech, Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling said: “This vital new rail capacity project, under construction from London to Birmingham, is only the first part of the project.

“We need to deliver capacity to our northern cities and bring our country closer together. I am pleased to stand here today, therefore, to start the next phase of this vital project.

“Phase 2a extends HS2 from the West Midlands to Crewe. The first stage of the new line, which will take the Midlands Engine through to the Northern Powerhouse, connecting the two together, will accelerate construction of the first section of Phase 2 by six years, and bring us a step closer to delivering a complete, brand new high-speed line all the way to Manchester.”

While the Bill received widespread support, some MPs voiced opposition, frequently on environmental grounds. Michael Fabricant (Conservative, Lichfield) proposed an amendment arguing that building Phase 2a would cause environmental damage, not connect with High Speed 1, provide inadequate compensation, and does not implement a “more environmentally sympathetic, better integrated and more costeffective route”.

Stone MP Sir William Cash (Conservative) objected on the grounds of the route’s impact on his constituents, particularly with the construction railhead to be built there.

Shadow Transport Secretary Andy McDonald expressed his support for the Bill, but sought answers on ensuring that freight trains can continue to operate on the conventional network.

He added: “HS2 will be the jewel in the crown of Britain’s rail network when it begins operations in the next decade. It will be a shining example of Britain’s capability and talent, and it will encapsulate our technological and engineering prowess.”

Louise Ellman (Labour/Co-op, Liverpool Riverside) called for continued investment in the