United Kingdom: major rail projects boost economy

High-speed rail projects are emerging as the only major projects capable of stimulating the economy and generating jobs in the United Kingdom.

Proof of this is, over the years, rail travel has increased dramatically to reach the figure of 1.7 billion, which has prompted the British government to develop its railway infrastructure. The HS2 project, for example, is an excellent engine for economic growth and development in the transport sector. This 57 billion pound project will have a major impact on reducing travel time while offering thousands more seats every day.

The project still faces some difficulties. The need to demolish subdivisions along the route has raised concerns among residents. As we know, any infrastructure project will have an impact on the region it serves: positive or negative. To overcome this reticence, the government must form a strategic committee in charge of communication with residents. Although the Department of Transport has offered 110% compensation for the value of each dwelling to anyone living within 60 m of the route, conflicts will be inevitable.

That is why, since the announcement of the Second High Speed Project (HS2), the British government has taken some initiatives. The HS2 has changed its route to increase the number of people to serve, more than 300,000 people per day, and will triple the seats available from Euston at peak times, freeing up space on the existing network to TER and freight services. Completion of the project is planned for 2033. It is expected to eventually create 25,000 jobs and create 100,000 jobs in the economy.