Member Article

High Speed Rail has ICE support

The Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) has expressed its support for the High Speed Rail network, which he believes will support a more structured transport strategy for the UK.

His comments were made in response to the latest consultation project on the subject entitled, “High Speed Rail: Investing in Britain’s future”, which drew upon the expertise of civil engineers from across the UK. ICE considered the alternatives to the scheme, but believed HS2 was the best option, as it would bring about real steep change in rail capacity.

Chair of ICE’s HSR working group, Steven Hayter, said: “The opportunity should be taken to invest in growth by providing a new railway that is fit for the 21stcentury – significantly increasing capacity, strengthening connectivity between Britain’s city regions and linking up with the Trans-European rail network.

“Faster, more reliable connections to London could propel a city-region’s economic competitiveness and act as a catalyst for regeneration as city developers, planners and businesses alike take advantage of these opportunities.”

It is also hoped that these improvements would also link communities who are currently not well served by local train lines, and even those who could easily access HS2 lines would benefit from reduced journey times.

While the HS2 proposal does provide a significant economic opportunity, the business case must continue to be reviewed as the proposals develop. Hayter also urged the government to consider a full “Y” shaped route with future extensions to other key UK cities.

ICE are also encouraging the government to consider the potential effects the new high speed rail could have on existing connections as well as the environmental repercussions of the project.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .