RFG Press Comment on Delays to HS2 Programme
Commenting on the announcement of delays to the HS2 Programme, Maggie Simpson OBE, RFG Director General, said: “This is hugely disappointing news for rail freight. The West Coast Main Line is the most important route for rail freight in the country and we need capacity to deliver growth. The delay to phases 2A and 2B will seriously impact on the available capacity, particularly if new HS2 trains are now forced onto the existing tracks.
“Rail freight businesses are also working support the construction of HS2, with materials supply and engineering services. The delay in the later phases will now undermine this, risking jobs and investment. Government must seriously reconsider this decision and find a way forward which supports the rail freight sector.”
