Summary
The HS2 high-speed railway project, linking London to Birmingham, may have its train speeds reduced to cut costs. The project has faced delays and increased expenses, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is considering options to save time and money, including operating trains at lower speeds than originally planned.
Key Facts
- The HS2 train project is experiencing cost overruns and delays.
- The government might ask to reduce train speeds to cut costs.
- The original plan for HS2 trains was to run at speeds up to 360km/h (224mph).
- Reducing speeds could help avoid further delays and additional costs.
- HS2 trains may need to be tested in China if speeds are not reduced.
- Mark Wild is working to reset the project's timeline and budget.
- The project was initially meant to connect London with Leeds and Manchester, but sections north of Birmingham were cancelled.
