HS2 jobs boost

The London-Crewe section of HS2 could support over 34,000 jobs at the peak of its construction, but there are renewed warnings of a potential skills shortage on the horizon.

HS2 Minister Andrew Stephenson was in Crewe on August 24 to unveil a simple plaque at the station announcing the project’s arrival between 2029-33, as well as to celebrate the positive impact it is having on the region’s economy.

“HS2 will be a spark for new jobs and economic growth as we build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“It is creating valuable new opportunities and an enduring skills legacy,” he said.

A new HS2 report reveals that 6,500 jobs will now be supported by the West Midlands-Crewe section (Phase 2a), almost 1,500 more than previously forecast.

And there is an additional employment benefit because Network Rail is charged with completing a range of upgrades within the next decade to provide better connectivity and resilience for existing passenger and freight services. This includes extending the station platforms.

Across the railway industry, it is reckoned that HS2 will be responsible for almost half of the jobs (48%) in electrification and plant, 27% for track, 24% in signalling and telecommunications, and 16% in traction and rolling stock.

To read the full story, see RAIL 939.