Earlier this year, on the 30th of June, the Prime Minister announced the launch of a review that would look into the union of connectivity by exploring ways to develop connectively between our 4 nations and bring forward funding to accelerate infrastructure projects.
Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has now published the terms of reference for this independent review into how connectivity across the UK can support economic growth and quality of life post-Covid 19.
The review is to be chaired by Sir Peter Hendy CBE, Chairman of Network Rail and former Commissioner of Transport for London, who will work collaboratively with the devolved administrations, and will look at rail and other transport links, and how they could be upgraded to enhance the UK’s recovery from the Covid-19 outbreak.
This will subsequently lead to recommendations on whether and how best to improve connections, and whether that includes the need to invest in additional infrastructure by the UK government.
In particular, Sir Peter will look at the possibility and conduct a detailed initial assessment of options for improved rail connections between England and Scotland, and England and Wales.
The review will also look to the future, considering the role of future technologies and assess environmental impacts of current and future infrastructure. Sir Peter will be expected to publish his final recommendations in Summer 2021.
This announcement follows a recent initiate by the UK government to bring forward funding to accelerate infrastructure projects in the devolved nations, working with the Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the UK government will identify opportunities for ‘spades in the ground’ ready projects to help build up communities and create jobs quicker for people across the United Kingdom.
