Learn more of HS2 at event
THE HS2 roadshow is coming to Runcorn ahead of plans to turn Runcorn station into a “multimodal gateway”.
Residents will be able to find out more about the high speed rail project when the information event stops at Runcorn Shopping City from 10am-7pm on Thursday, August 19.
A roadshow spokeswoman said visitors will have the chance to find out how HS2 is creating “thousands” of jobs and “plans are already under way to bring Britain’s new low carbon railway to the port town”.
She said becoming a high-speed rail destination will bring “huge opportunities” for Runcorn, provider faster travel and opening up “Halton’s heritage delights, green spaces and specialist trades” in science, technology and healthcare to “new business and leisure markets, supporting the region’s tourism sector and wider economic growth”.
The spokeswoman referred to plans to incorporate a multi-modal transport hub into Runcorn Station Quarter.
Previously published proposals include a bus interchange outside Runcorn station, which itself could be rebuilt – as alluded to by CGI of how it might look and calls from Halton MP Derek Twigg for it to be redeveloped.
Although Runcorn won’t be connected to a high-speed line, trains that use the high-speed network will stop in Runcorn, with the HS2 and standard network dividing into two northwards lines at Crewe.
HS2 said the upgrade will reduce travel times to London from 113 minutes to 74 minutes, equivalent to about an hour and a quarter.
Describing the event, the spokeswoman said: “Experts from all areas of the HS2 project will be on hand at the roadshow event, armed with a wealth of resources to experience during the event or to take away.
“So, if you’re looking for a new career, or want to find out how your business might benefit from one of 400,000 contract opportunities generated from the first phase of construction works, then head down to the roadshow to find out more.”
Tony Weston, HS2’s head of projects and events, said: “We want Britain’s new railway to be designed and built by communities as diverse as those it will serve.
“We have an important role to play in the country’s economic recovery, so it’s more important than ever that people know how to get on board and benefit from the careers, training and new business opportunities that HS2 is creating.
“Our roadshows will allow us to get to the heart of communities and we’re looking forward to sharing information about our plans and letting people know how to keep in touch.”