Oakervee heads HS2

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Douglas Oakervee has been appointed as the new chair of HS2 Ltd.

The move for Mr Oakervee caps a long and successful career working on major infrastructure projects both in Britain and in Hong Kong.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening said, ‘HS2 is a railway which will transform the economic shape of the UK, so finding the right person for this role is vital. I am delighted that Doug has agreed to take on this important position, bringing with him decades of experience of working on major infrastructure projects.

‘The next few years include a number of key challenges and milestones for this project and Doug’s input will be invaluable as we move forward. I would also like to thank the current Chair, Brian Briscoe, for his invaluable work in leading HS2 Ltd this far.’

Between 2005 and 2009 Oakervee was Executive Chairman of Crossrail Ltd during the project’s Hybrid Bill phase.

Other experience includes project director at Chek Lap Kok International Airport in Hong Kong.

Originally a civil engineer Doug Oakervee was appointed non-executive chairman of Laing O’Rourke Hong Kong in 2009. As Chair of HS2 Ltd, Mr Oakervee’s primary responsibilities will be to:

  • Formulate strategy
  • Ensure HS2 follows DfT guidance when designing the route
  • Encourage high standards of practice
  • Promote HS2 to the general public.

Says Doug Oakervee, ‘I am excited about my appointment and passionate about the development of UK’s high-speed rail network and HS2 is a great step forward. I believe that HS2 offers a unique chance to address the capacity issues facing the British transport network and to promote growth in our major cities.

‘I will use my experience of the Hybrid Bill process at Crossrail to ensure that HS2 Ltd is best able to efficiently navigate this stage of the project.’

Mr Oakervee lives in Suffolk and was appointed OBE in the New Year’s Honours list 2000.

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