Prime Minister's Assurance on Lincolnshire Infrastructural Development
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reassured Lincolnshire citizens that they will benefit from the billions of pounds made available from the termination of the High Speed 2 (HS2) northern leg. This scheme planned to join Leeds, Birmingham, and London through a high-speed rail line. Its cancellation has released £36 billion, which the government anticipates to distribute across several regions nationwide.
Reinvestment through Network North
With the introduction of the new scheme, Network North, areas across the nation are set to experience a revamp. The North will receive a total of £19.8 billion, while £9.6 billion will go to the Midlands. The remaining £6.5 billion will be spread across other regions, including Lincolnshire.
However, concerns arose following the announcement that the only rail enhancement in Lincolnshire would be a connection between Nottingham and Newark. This raised questions about the fate of the proposed Castle Line advancements designed to link Lincoln to Nottingham.
Sunak's Assurances to Lincolnshire
Prime Minister Sunak expressed that Lincolnshire should expect to benefit considerably from the new scheme. "What we're doing with Network North is taking every penny that would've been spent on HS2 and reinvesting it all around the country." He added, "Lincolnshire will benefit because the local area will get a transport settlement for the first ever time in the way that big cities do."
He continued to emphasise that the funds would be managed by local individuals rather than Westminster politicians. In addition, Lincolnshire should expect over £4 million earmarked for bus service enhancements under Network North. The North Hykeham Relief Road will also benefit from the released funds.
Long-Term Plan for Towns
The Prime Minister went on to highlight his 'Long-Term Plan for Towns,' which will see Boston, Skegness, and Spalding each receive £20 million entrusted to the local population for allocation. Sunak expressed that local MP Matt Warman's efforts had significantly contributed to Lincolnshire's successful funding petitions.
The Prime Minister concluded by emphasising that the government's central focus on Lincolnshire's investment derived from their commitment to enhancing citizens' lives.