01.03.12
Scotland calls for early HS2 involvement
English and Scottish transport ministers are to take part in talks concerning high speed rail today, as Scotland pushes for involvement from the beginning of the HS2 project.
Keith Brown and Justine Greening are set to meet today, to discuss Scotland’s involvement in the project.
Ahead of the meeting, Brown said: “Business, transport and civic leaders have already made clear that the case for high-speed rail is strong, but is stronger whenScotlandis involved from the very outset.
“That is why I am arguing that the network must reach further, and be delivered faster, than the current DfT proposals.
“Every city that is included only adds to its business case. Why would you delay development, or insist that new construction must be phased fromLondon?
“The high-speed rail line will undoubtedly bring benefits to the areas it serves. But if it does not extend beyond the current plans of just a third of the way up the British mainland, those benefits will focus onLondon.
“If that is the case, it will not realise its full potential. The only way to ensure full value is to includeScotlandfrom the beginning.”
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