The Department for Transport has announced that a new HS2 Ltd Chair has been appointed, taking the responsibility of driving forward the largest infrastructure project in Europe.
Sir Jonathan Thompson, who spent almost a year in the role of Deputy Chair, will take on the role at a time of pivotal change for the programme. The Crewe-Manchester Bill is to move through Parliament, whilst work at Euston is continuing to make progress and support regeneration in the surrounding area.
With this new role, Sir Jonathan will be bringing decades of experience in the delivery of major projects, as well as world-class leadership skills thanks to his service as the Parliament Secretary with the Ministry of Defence and HM Revenue and Customers. He has also overseen the delivery of some huge HS2 landmarks such as providing 1,000 apprenticeships and the completion of the project’s first one-mile off tunnels at Long Itchington Wood.
Mark Harper, Transport Secretary, said:
“HS2 goes far beyond simply making journeys quicker. It is a world-leading project that is already having a huge impact by regenerating communities and creating tens of thousands of jobs across the country.
“I am delighted to appoint Sir Jonathan as Chair, and with his breadth of experience I have no doubt we will successful in delivering our shared goals of increasing capacity on our rail network, levelling up our country and driving economic growth for generations to come.”
Sir Jonathan Thompson said:
“I am delighted to have been appointed as HS2 Ltd Chair. During my time on the Board, this monumental project has already achieved some incredible milestones and I’ve seen first-hand how it will transform not only journeys but the lives of people across the country.
“I look forward to working with our first-class stakeholders and partners in my new role, to ensure this once in a lifetime opportunity fulfils its pioneering potential.”
This appointment follows the commitment from the Chancellor and Prime Minister to HS2 in the Autumn Statement, following up on their dedication to ensuring fast, more reliable services are provided alongside connecting people to new job opportunities.
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