The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) welcomes the appointment of Sir David Higgins in his new post as Chairman of the HS2 high speed rail project.

Sir David will review the benefits which the HS2 project will bring including the creation of jobs, economic growth and improved connectivity between the north and south of the country.

He will also consider how better planning and early engagement with the industry could lead to the benefits of HS2 potentially being delivered earlier and at a lower cost.

CIHT also welcomes today’s announcement that the HS2 project will establish a dedicated further education college to train the next generation of engineers to work on the project.

Sue Percy, CIHT Chief Executive said:

“The creation of a new college focused on delivering the specialised training and qualifications needed for high speed rail including the HS2 project and future infrastructure projects, will enable more young people to build a high-skilled career in transport engineering. The development and retention of the next generation of professionals is central to maintaining and growing an internationally competitive highways and transportation sector and this type of investment in skills is a positive step.”

ENDS

Notes for editors

Department for Transport announcement: First new college in 20 years to support development of High Speed 2 (HS2)

Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation

CIHT is a membership organisation representing over 12,000 people who work in the highways and transportation sector.

CIHT members plan, design, build, operate and maintain best-in-class transport systems and infrastructure, whilst respecting the imperatives of improving safety, ensuring economic competitiveness and minimising environmental impact.

CIHT supports its member’s professional endeavours by:
• offering training, information, professional development and support
• promoting the value added to society by the profession
• being the focused voice to Governments and other decision makers on transportation expertise and knowledge.

For more information please contact:
Daniel Isichei
Director of Communications
daniel.isichei@ciht.org.uk  t: +44(0)20 7336 1567 m: 07912 122573 www.ciht.org.uk