Mark Whitehead 14 September 2016

Public still ‘in the dark’ over HS2, MPs say

More information on the costs and impact of the HS2 rail project must be made available, MPs have demanded.

They say the public are still 'in the dark' about when it will open, how much it will cost and what its exact route will be.

In a new report the public accounts committee warns that estimated costs for phase 2—extending the network between the West Midlands and Crewe, and to Manchester and Leeds—are 'still volatile and must be firmed up urgently'.

It highlights HS2 Ltd’s recommendation that the planned station in South Yorkshire be moved from Meadowhall to Sheffield Midland station as 'one example of the significant uncertainty' that remains.

The impact of these proposed route changes on passengers, local communities, growth and regeneration is not clear, the PAC says.

Committee chair Meg Hillier said: 'The Government has promised significant benefits to taxpayers in return for their investment in HS2, expected to run to more than £55bn.

'Despite this, parliament and the public are still in the dark about crucial details – not least when the railway will open, how much it is expected to cost and precisely where it will go.'

Making payment processes smarter  image

Making payment processes smarter

It can be challenging to find the right software to streamline payment processes. Lewis McKenna-Crisp argues SmarterPay has the ideal solution for councils.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Public Health

Royal Borough of Greenwich
Up to £131,210
The Public Health department is at the heart of the council’s business. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Head of Regeneration and Growth

Plymouth City Council
£68,387 - £74,411 (MFS and relocation available, pay award pending)
This is a unique opportunity to lead our award-winning development team and directly deliver hundreds of millions of pounds of projects. Plymouth, Devon
Recuriter: Plymouth City Council

Director of Adult Social Care

Wiltshire Council
£119,390 - £127,137
Join us as the Director of Adult Social Care and make a real difference to people’s lives. Wiltshire
Recuriter: Wiltshire Council

Assistant Director Planning, Performance & Engagement

East Sussex County Council
up to £97,700
With strong local communities, unspoilt countryside and vibrant coastal towns, East Sussex offers an exceptional quality of life to many. East Sussex
Recuriter: East Sussex County Council

Director of Finance & Commerce

Lancashire County Council
Up to £114,339
You will play a critical role in driving the organisation through complex change and innovation. Lancashire
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council
Linkedin Banner