An outline procurement strategy for High Speed 2 will be shared with the industry this Autumn according to a new government report published this week. A final strategy will be ready in Spring 2015 said the report entitled “Getting Set for HS2” which is a response to the HS2 Growth Taskforce “Get Ready” report published in March 2014.

The new report also sets out a timetable for other key milestones including

Development of a full business case for an HS2 regeneration and development company by Autumn 2014;

Interim HS2 Growth Strategies developed in phase one station locations by Autumn 2014, with fully-developed business cases by Spring 2015;

Phase one stations are to set up local delivery bodies by Summer 2015;

Announcement of the High Speed Rail College’s operating model and skills offer by Summer 2015.

Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin highlighted the importance of working with local stakeholders to deliver the recommendations. “Local authorities are key to many of the recommendations and local authorities in Birmingham, London, Solihull, East Midlands, Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield, with whom we have been working closely, have contributed to this response. As you will see, the document highlights some of the excellent work that is both already underway in local areas and planned for the future, so that they will be able to maximise the benefits of HS2 in their regions.”

In gathering its evidence, the Growth Taskforce looked at the potential for HS2 in connecting businesses and people, unlocking regeneration and development and delivering through our workforce and industry. The Taskforce’s report concluded that the government needs to focus on getting ready in four areas: cities, the transport network people and businesses.

Read the government’s report here

Read the Growth Taskforce “Get Ready,” report here