£4.5bn HS2 extension to Crew gets go ahead

This post has already been read 477 times!

The HS2 extension plans have been brought forward so phase 2a of HS2 to Crewe have been granted the go ahead by MP’s.

The 36-mile phase 2a route will now be moved forward to be built earlier than originally planned at a cost of £4.5bn, the contracts have yet to be awarded for this part of the route but with many contractors  already onsite this should be firmed up very soon the extension is expected to create 5,000 construction jobs, with many more in the local chain.

The successful contractors will need deliver two tunnels, 26 cuttings, 17 viaducts and 65 bridges on phase 2a.

Previously HS2 intended to split section 2a into two major civils worth together over £1.6bn. But latest thinking suggests the section will now be split up into seven civils packages.

In addition, the railway will support 140 permanent jobs at its maintenance base near Stone in Staffordshire.

HS2 said this would streamline the procurement process allowing a contract to be awarded shortly.

The ‘Early Civils Work – Package 2’, will be worth £50m and will be awarded through the government’s existing Construction Works and Associated Services framework.

Prime Minister, Boris Johnson commented: “Today is a landmark moment in our infrastructure revolution.

“HS2 is the most significant expansion to our national railways in a generation – transforming connectivity between our towns and cities and vastly increasing the capacity of our rail network.

“By proceeding full steam ahead, we are delivering on our commitment to unite and level up the country.

“The construction of Phase 2a will support thousands of jobs and create opportunities for local businesses as we build back better.”

HS2 CEO, Mark Thurston commented saying: “Parliament’s approval for extending HS2 beyond the West Midlands to the North is a clear sign that MPs recognise the enormous potential of this scheme and continue to give their strong support.

“As the first major railway built in the North for over 100 years, HS2 will spur massive economic growth for our towns and cities, help to level up the country, and provide cleaner, greener public transport for millions.”