CPA voices HS2 dismay

4 October 2023

The CPA (Construction Plant-hire Association) has expressed its disappointment at Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s announcement today at the Conservative party conference that the Birmingham to Manchester leg of the HS2 high-speed rail project is to be scrapped.

Chief Executive Stu McInroy said: “The news that the Manchester leg of HS2 is to be cancelled is extremely disappointing and a significant blow to the UK construction sector. This decision shall undoubtedly further undermine confidence and impact future investment at a time when the economy remains fragile. 

“Whilst in no way likely to offset the negative effect of cancelling the Manchester leg of HS2, it is imperative that Mr Sunak’s commitment to completing the HS2 line to Euston, and diverting Manchester leg funding to a plethora of other projects aimed at boosting transport infrastructure in the north, are actioned without delay. Construction is a key driver of economic growth and CPA members will now be watching very closely what the Government does next.”

Previously, there were even fears that the southern section would terminate at Old Oak Common (pictured above) to the west of London, some miles short of the city centre. 

“Failure to follow through with current infrastructure plans has already damaged confidence in UK construction and impacted on the UK as a destination for international investment,” Stu McInroy continued. “We can ill-afford the government to repeat this failure again.” 

Photo: HS2