The New Fair Metric
Overview of the HS2 project
HS2 is the second phase of a high-speed railway project in the UK that links London to the North of the UK. Preceded by the phase 1 going from London to the Channel Tunnel, the second phase will connect Leeds and Manchester to the West Midlands.
The Project of HS2 has since its announcement been subjected to arguments in favour of it and against it through massive oppositions by mainly local dwellers.
The following comparison lays out some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of HS2.
Potential Benefits
Economic
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Shortening journey times helps businesses and workers in the North compete more effectively for the market share in the South.
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It will provide extra capacity for passengers and freight within the UK.
Socio-Environmental
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The increasing capacity and reduction of time travel is likely to take off hundreds of HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) per hour off the road, thus reducing carbon emission per capita.
Potential Drawbacks
Economic
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The reduction in travel time can also increase disparities as both the north and south benefit; the north will face more competition and wages will be lower.
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HS2 will potentially generate indirect environmental costs as it proposes additional routes for airports (e.g. Manchester airport) and will likely increase the number of the passengers.
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Can be a source of price discrimination.¹
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It is a costly project at an estimated £55.7 billion that will make less money available for local upgrades.
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HS2 is accused of being 'a Rich man’s toy' as 20% of the most affluent of the population make half of the long distance rail journeys.
Socio-Environmental
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It has a direct impact on biodiversity and threatens to destroy non recoverable ecosystems including 9 ancient woodlands.
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Both the construction and operational phases will cause noise and visual pollution during construction and operation. In many cases residents have had to be relocated or are facing moving to temporary housing during construction.
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Will impact national parks: e.g. the cross country route section from Manchester to Leeds is within close proximity to the Peak District National Park impacting the area’s functional diversity.
Resources:
¹ Preston, J. (2012). High speed rail in Britain : About time or Waste of time?
Proposed Routes for HS2 Phase 2
Source: A little bit of Stone