The case for high speed rail

The case for high speed rail in Britain is set out in this document, Fast Forward. It has been produced by Greengauge21, an industry consortium which describes itself as "a not-for-profit organisation which aims to research and develop the concept of a high speed rail network, and to promote its implementation as a national economic priority.

"Founded by Jim Steer, one of the country's leading transport sector specialists, Greengauge 21 has been established to progress the debate on High Speed Rail and to promote it in the public interest. The organisation has been conceived as an umbrella under which all those with an interest in supporting and promoting a High Speed Rail network can come together and openly and publicly debate the merits of alternative routes, priorities and technologies, alternative implementation strategies and the economic and environmental benefits for Britain."

Jim Steer was a founder and until 2002, when he became Strategic Director of the Strategic Rail Authority, managing director of  the transport consultants Steer Davies Gleave. The present shape of Britain's railways owes much to the philosophy of transportation to which he adheres.