HS2 – passengers welcome more trains, longer trains and more reliable trains

11 February 2020

Welcoming the government’s decision to give the go-ahead to HS2, Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“Our research shows passengers want more reliable, longer trains for the future. Reliability is the key driver of current satisfaction. And if the new trains go faster, that helps.

“HS2 provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create more capacity and more reliable services. These new services will make train travel a more attractive choice and help contribute to battling climate change.

“Just as important is the space freed up on existing lines and avoiding the pain and extra expense of trying to upgrade existing lines. Passengers will be paying for some of the new lines through fares so cost control is crucial. Let’s get on and build all the component parts of HS2 into a modern and reliable railway.”

 

Notes to editor

Transport Focus’s letter to the chair of the HS2 Review setting out its benefits for passengers.

Transport Focus comment on the Prime Minister’s announcement of £5 billion for buses.

Transport Focus spokespeople are available for live to air and pre-record interviews.

Members of the media can contact the press office during office hours on 0300 123 2170.

For urgent out of hours media enquiries please call 0300 123 2181.