Transport Minister Norman Baker MP visited Stobart’s multimodal gateway in Widnes following the government’s announcement of the 211-mile northern phase two route of HS2.
“This is a transformational announcement that will change the geography of the country and bring a huge economic boost to the North West,” said Baker.
“Stobart is doing a very important job in the region with the extensive rail freight operation here at 3MG. With the West Coast Mainline freed up for more freight capacity as a result of HS2, there is a great opportunity for businesses such as Stobart in the North.”
The minister was shown around the company’s rail operation at the Mersey Multimodal Gateway by Stobart Group chief operating officer, William Stobart and Stobart Rail managing director, Liam Martin.
“Today’s announcement makes 3MG even more appealing as a base for distribution centres. It inspires long-term confidence in the region’s rail capability and as a national logistics hub. HS2 is set to create thousands of jobs locally and also bring exciting opportunities for businesses such as Stobart Rail that operate in the rail infrastructure and engineering sector,” said William Stobart.
Stobart Rail Freight, in partnership with Tesco, runs a major FMCG rail operation in the UK, with transport links spanning a network from Inverness to Valencia.
