Business community unites in show of strength for East West Rail
December 13, 2023
- Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and route-wide counterparts underline ‘strong support’ for EWR they say is vital to boost jobs and local economy
- Business networks representing businesses of all size and sector across Cambridgeshire urge Government to accelerate delivery of EWR to unlock constraints on thriving life sciences sector
- Independent businesses in Cambridge say EWR will improve accessibility and drive growth
Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce has joined a rallying call by regional Chamber organisations for Government to accelerate full delivery of East West Rail (EWR) which they say is vital to boost local economies and create jobs along the entire route.
Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, which represents over 900 businesses and around 100,000 employees, says EWR is vital to unlock constraints on the Cambridge economy, attract investment, generate jobs and deliver local and national growth.
The organisation, along with Bedfordshire Chamber, Milton Keynes Chamber and Thames Valley Chamber, have united to bolster the existing strong support for EWR from businesses across the entire route.
Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce says that the National Audit Office’s (NAO) report, whilst acknowledging the inevitable issues around delivery, recognises the substantial benefits East West Rail will bring both regionally and nationally. The NAO report and the Chancellor’s recommitment to the project in the Autumn Statement, are high-level endorsements for the project which needs to be delivered at pace to ensure its renowned life sciences sector can grow, bringing wider economic growth to the region.
Charlotte Horobin, CEO, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “Cambridge has so much untapped potential but its growth is constrained by the existing transport network which is preventing people from accessing job opportunities and limiting private investment compared to other major tech clusters.
“As the home of the largest and most successful life science cluster in Europe, Cambridge is a UK beacon of innovation. It’s imperative that it is connected to East West Rail and that this transformational project get delivered as quickly as possible to drive local and national growth. This project is an essential catalyst to a wealth of benefits and has our strong support.”
Despite impressive growth in Cambridge, available lab and commercial space is nearly exhausted*, causing the UK to lag behind more mature US markets. This is leading to high rents and limited expansion opportunities for business and initial footholds for start-ups. Poor roads and limited public transport mean workforces struggle to commute, while high housing costs in Cambridge deter talent from relocating to the area.
East West Rail will improve connectivity and significantly reduce travel times, making jobs more accessible and widening the future workforce pool for drivers of economic growth such as Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The railway will bring businesses closer to their supply chains, research centres, and other sectors, creating a vibrant hub for innovation, while enabling businesses to expand to accessible and affordable locations along the route.
Faye Holland, founder and director of hybrid PR and communications company cofinitive, said: “As Chair of Cambridge and South Cambs Chamber, I am optimistic about the transformative impact of the East West Rail project on our region.
“This strategic development not only enhances connectivity but serves as a catalyst for local business growth. By fostering improved accessibility and strengthening economic ties, East West Rail is poised to create a dynamic and inclusive business ecosystem, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs and enterprises alike in our vibrant community.”
James Robertson, manager of Glassworks Gym and Spa, Cambridge, said: “Our business is located right in the centre of Cambridge and we increasingly find customers and members choosing not to drive due to rising traffic levels and reductions in available parking in the city.
“A more extensive rail network would provide more access to Cambridge and active travel plans to and from stations would provide the opportunity for people to cycle part of the way too – it could be a great warm up for your workout!”