South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce has hailed the Government’s backing for HS2 as a victory for key employers who have long supported the campaign.
Commenting on the announcement by PM Boris Johnson giving the green light to the high speed line between London, Birmingham and Crewe, Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman said: “This is a momentous day for South Cheshire. It’s the news we have been waiting for.
“The decision to proceed with HS2 was a long time coming – but it’s great news for businesses, investment and growth in many parts of the UK, particularly South Cheshire.
“Crewe was created by the railway and the fact that it is going to be rejuvenated by the railway once again is fantastic news. This result is a victory for all who have supported the long hard fought campaign.
“We firmly believe HS2 will herald a new beginning for a town built around its rail industry and the Chamber is delighted at this announcement.”
The Chamber has lobbied on behalf of Crewe since HS2 was first mooted and one of the key objectives of forming the South Cheshire Business Council, consisting of the area’s top name employers, was to see the town restored to its former glory as the epicentre of rail travel.
Working with the Business Council, Cheshire East Council and the British Chambers of Commerce, it has organised petitions and letters pressing the Government to get on with HS2 and plans to transform Crewe’s existing station into an ultra-modern integrated hub.
Mr Colman said: “The benefits of HS2 to Crewe, and the entire North West region, in terms of inward investment and job creation, are well documented.
“Today’s announcement is a victory for all who have supported the campaign. It’s great for the economy and all the people who live in the area. It means local businesses can now plan ahead, reassured over the town’s future as a modern rail town.”
Chamber officials have also welcomed plans to improve bus services across the country.
In a statement to Parliament, the PM announced £5billion of new funding to overhaul bus and cycle links for every region outside London.
Cycle routes will also see a major boost across the country with over 250 miles of new, high-quality separated cycle routes and safe junctions in towns and cities to be constructed across England.
Mr Colman added: “We will certainly pushing for this funding to head in the direction of South Cheshire and in particular Crewe as the movement of people in and around the area is a frustration for everyone particularly at peak times. Connectivity in every sense – road, rail, on foot or by pedal power – is key to the area’s future prosperity.”
For more information on becoming part of the South Cheshire Chamber visit www.sccci.co.uk