Commenting on the review, published today by the UK Government, Head of People Policy at the BCC, Jane Gratton, said:

“Businesses continually operate between all four nations of the United Kingdom and an effective strategic transport network is critical to that.

“If we want to improve productivity, boost trade, and continue to make progress towards net zero, then the UK’s entire transport system must be fit for purpose and properly integrated.

“Following recent U-turns on high-speed rail investment, businesses will be keen to see how the recommendations in this review deal with the need for increased capacity across the network, for both passengers and freight, and keep high speed rail, including the missing sections of HS2, alive as future options.

“Businesses are waiting for meaningful proposals and solid investment that will drive growth and prosperity in every part of the UK.”

Read the full review here.