Published: Friday, 13th September 2019
Cannock Chase Council is giving its full backing to the HS2 rail project following the Government`s announcement of the Oakervee Review, led by former HS2 Chairman Douglas Oakervee.
Councillor Tony Johnson, Economic Development and Planning Portfolio Leader, said:
“Although Cannock Chase District is not directly impacted by the route of HS2 which is due to come through our neighbouring districts of Lichfield and Stafford, the Council is acutely aware of the economic potential and benefits the high speed line will bring to the wider West Midlands region.
“The connectivity and increased capacity HS2 will bring could lead to enormous benefits for local economies like ours, through increased tourism, access to work for residents, and new business opportunities and markets for local companies and suppliers. Usefully, HS2`s planned Curzon Street station in the city centre will be just a short walk from Birmingham New Street and therefore well placed for our residents to benefit from HS2 services.
“We are keen to ensure that HS2 acts as a catalyst for further investment and enhancements to the region’s rail network and to continue to create supply chain opportunities for local businesses.
“Next autumn`s opening of the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in Cannock is expected to see a significant number of visitors arrive by rail and especially from Birmingham and beyond and the Council has plans to work with rail partners to develop a business case for improving Cannock Railway Station. We want to improve our local rail facilities, therefore helping the region to win the argument for investment in HS2 should have knock on benefits for our District”.
Photograph:
Councillor Tony Johnson, Economic Development and Planning Portfolio Leader.