March 2019
Price: £95 PLUS VAT
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This conference focuses on HS2, assessing progress on delivering Phase One and how to address remaining challenges - as well as the way forward for development of Phase Two.
Delegates will examine key issues in constructing the route, including the on-going preparatory works and challenges for key infrastructure.
With the route designed and construction beginning, delegates will discuss issues around the impact on communities and the environment, and the implications for local authorities and for the concerns of environmental campaigners.
They will consider options for managing the issues, with discussion expected on noise, traffic and air pollution during construction, as well as longer term implications, such as loss of housing, green spaces and heritage woodlands - all in the context of HS2’s proposed creation of a green corridor, which will run the length of the railway.
The agenda also looks ahead to next steps for planning Phase Two.
We expect discussion on the recent consultation on the draft Environmental Statement, the possibility of beginning construction from the North, and on the redevelopment and design of station hubs taking into account connections to existing and future rail infrastructure - as well as the implications of the Government’s announcement of a one-year delay on the Phase 2b Hybrid-Bill, amid reported doubts about whether this phase of HS2 will go ahead.
With bidding on-going for both the franchise partner and the contractor for rolling stock, further sessions are expected to discuss the next steps for meeting the needs of users, as well as the priorities for developing transport hubs to improve intermodal connections - and what it means for local regeneration and economic growth.
In the context of a growing focus on considering value for money in relation to the HS2 project, we anticipate discussion on possible options to reduce costs - including measures such as reducing train speeds - as well as potential implications for the development of Phase Two. It comes with reported concern about increasing costs for construction and prices for land purchasing - as noted in the recent NAO report on land and property acquisition for the Phase One.
Further session will explore the options for projects that are not dependent of HS2, we expect discussion on wider opportunities that may be available upon the completion of the route. Delegates will assess the potential impact of new investment in retail developments, manufacturing and wider industrial projects, and redevelopment around major stations, and what it means for suppliers and infrastructure providers.
