Dorset Chamber regularly brings regional, national and international business opportunities directly to our members. The latest event on 22 January saw companies from different sectors in Dorset connected to the £multi-billion HS2 project via a dedicated, online Supply Chain event.
As the project moves into the construction phase, £12bn will be going into the supply chain with an estimated 400,000 contract opportunities. Andrew Stephenson, Minister of State at the Department for Transport and Robin Lapish, Supply Chain Manager, HS2 Ltd. spoke at the event, which provided an overview of HS2, an update on its procurement programme, explaining what HS2 is looking for from its supply chain and how suppliers of all sizes can get ready to be part of Europe’s largest infrastructure project.
Andrew Stephenson MP, said: “HS2 may be an investment for the long-term to bring our biggest cities closer together and boost productivity, but it is creating jobs and opportunities right now, at a time we need it the most. With construction now underway, the project and its supply chain is already supporting more than 13,000 jobs, including over 400 apprenticeships.
“At peak construction, we’re expecting HS2 to support around 30,000 jobs, including up to 2,000 new apprenticeships. I am clear that the Government expects at least 95% of these to be won by UK based businesses, with around two thirds of those being SMEs. Dorset businesses could have a huge role to play here – and it’s not just construction and engineering expertise we need. And as the project grows, so will the breadth of skills and services it requires. HS2 is more than just a railway – it really is an opportunity for businesses across the board.”
Robin Lapish added: “We expect HS2 Phase One will create 400,000 supply chain contract opportunities. I’m glad to say that we are already seeing first-hand the impact that opportunities to work on this railway is having on communities. Dorset already has businesses who have worked on HS2 but the truth is Dorset is currently under-represented in the HS2 supply chain and I want us to start putting this right.”
Dorset Chamber is committed to bringing high-calibre opportunities such as this to the business community, through a mix of member-only and ‘open to all’ events.
Not yet a member? Contact steve.bulley@dcci.co.uk to find out more, and #getbusinessdone.