HS2 failings blamed on high-speed focus and political pressure
Summary
A review of the HS2 high-speed rail project is expected to say the project's problems were caused by focusing too much on very high speeds and by political pressures. Costs have grown a lot, delays have happened, and parts of the original route have been cancelled, with the opening date now likely to be later than planned.Key Facts
- HS2 is a high-speed rail project in the UK aimed at increasing rail capacity.
- The project was originally designed for trains to run up to 360 km/h (224 mph).
- The HS2 route was initially planned from London to Birmingham, with branches to Leeds and Manchester.
- The eastern leg to Leeds was cancelled in 2021; the Manchester to Birmingham section was cancelled in 2023.
- Costs are expected to exceed £100 billion.
- The current target opening year of 2033 is expected to be delayed.
- The project review criticizes the focus on very high speeds and political changes as causes of problems.
- Parts of HS2 construction continue, including a 10-mile tunnel under the Chilterns and the Colne Valley viaduct.
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