In The News: 16th April

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The vast majority of the national newspapers include articles on the news we featured yesterday on the ‘Notice to Proceed’ for HS2.

The Daily Express reports that ministers have said the coronavirus outbreak will not hold up progress on the fast train link between London and the North.

The Times reports that full construction will start in weeks, with the government saying it provides a ‘vote of confidence’ for the construction industry.

However, the article says an updated business case for Europe’s biggest infrastructure project acknowledged the first phase between London and Birmingham, could deliver ‘poor’ value for money.

Transport for London boss has said the number of staff dying with suspected coronavirus is an absolute tragedy.

Mike Brown is quoted in the Evening Standard saying he was ‘utterly devastated’ by the deaths of 21 transport workers.

He has praised their ‘humanity, compassion and determination, to help other key workers do their jobs.

The fatalities include 16 bus workers, three Tube staff, one tram worker, and one staff member from the headquarters.

The BBC features an article saying more than a quarter of Greater Anglia’s 60,000 season ticket holders have already submitted requests for refunds.

The article quotes a spokeswoman from the company who says they expect to give out several million pounds in refunds.

Coronavirus restrictions mean fewer staff are in offices able to process refunds, causing some delays.

Finally and LNER has launched LNER Reserves to help support the NHS, emergency services, charities and other organisation during the coronavirus outbreak.

More than 100 staff have already signed up to help out in communities.

Photo credit: HS2 Ltd

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