Transport Infrastructure Upgrades 2025-11-20
2025-11-20
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Questions & Answers
Q1
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The Secretary of State for Transport has recognized the value of the midlands rail hub and the investment needed there, which will create much-needed capacity through central Birmingham.
Given that recognition, does she agree now is exactly the moment to look at options such as the Sutton Park line to enable maximization of rail traffic through more passenger services?
I am keen that we look comprehensively at options for unlocking capacity that the midlands rail hub will provide. The right hon. Lady raises an important point about the Sutton Park line, and I am happy to talk to officials about whether that capacity could be unlocked as part of the scheme.
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Q2
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The structures fund announced in June will help deliver transport infrastructure upgrades effectively. The repair and enhancement of Kennington bridge could support the Oxford flood alleviation scheme.
When will the Secretary of State announce the arrangements for the structures fund, so that my area can apply for funding for the Kennington bridge project?
My right hon. Friend is completely right to highlight the importance of the structures fund. There are bridges, flyovers and tunnels across the country where the local authority with responsibility for the structure is simply unable to meet the whole cost of repairing it. I intend in the new year to set out more details about the £1 billion fund, which will enable both the repair of structures and enhancements to our local road network.
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Q3
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The lower Thames crossing is the second largest piece of infrastructure in the country after High Speed 2. There has been no clear timeline or funding source for its completion.
When will the work commence, when will the crossing be open to traffic, and which banks and companies will fund it?
I have said to the right hon. Gentleman before that we are exploring private finance options to deliver the lower Thames crossing, having granted planning consent through a development consent order earlier this year. Enabling works, including utility works, could begin next year, before 2027, and the crossing should be open for use by vehicles in the mid-2030s.
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Q4
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The midlands rail hub project will bring huge benefits to Lichfield, Burntwood, and the villages by doubling services per hour to Birmingham. Constituents are wary about big infrastructure projects due to HS2-related disruptions.
What reassurance can the Secretary of State give that this Government have learned lessons from the previous Government and will make sure that HS2 Ltd acts swiftly and decisively to limit further disruption?
My hon. Friend is completely right. The previous Government lost control of HS2—there is no doubt about it. This Government commissioned the James Stewart review, which made a number of important recommendations to improve project delivery. Those lessons are informing a fundamental review of HS2 that will provide certainty to communities about how long disruption will last. The Stewart review will also support improved practice on future infrastructure projects, including the midlands rail hub.
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