HS2 leg to Manchester is facing the axe

A leaked government document has revealed potential cost savings of £35 billion by discontinuing the Birmingham-Manchester segment of the HS2 project, which has already incurred expenses of £2.3 billion. Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt are reportedly engaged in discussions regarding the termination of the Manchester HS2 extension, as disclosed in a document obtained by The Independent.

HS2 was initially conceived to establish a high-speed rail link between London and the Midlands, as well as the northern regions of England. Over the years, the project has undergone significant downsizing, with plans for connections to York and Leeds being discarded. Concerns about the viability of HS2 have persisted for quite some time.

According to a recent report from the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA), the successful completion of the project appears increasingly unattainable. The report highlights substantial challenges related to project definition, scheduling, budgeting, quality, and the delivery of anticipated benefits, which, at this juncture, seem insurmountable. It suggests the possibility of reevaluating the project’s scope and overall feasibility.

In response to the leaked document, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister emphasised the government’s commitment to the HS2 project. They refrained from commenting on the speculative nature of the information derived from a photograph, asserting that the government is actively exploring options for restructuring the project to better serve passengers and taxpayers.

Expressing their discontent, voices from the North vehemently opposed any potential alterations to HS2’s plans. A spokesperson for the High-Speed Rail Group demanded clarity from the government, urging an unambiguous commitment to delivering the project as originally conceived. They argued that the thousands of individuals involved in the HS2 project, as well as future generations and the North and Midlands regions, deserve to see it through.

Henri Murison, the CEO of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, warned that any decision to curtail HS2 would severely damage the government’s rapport with Northern-based businesses and potential investors. He stressed the importance of proceeding with the project, emphasising that it aligns with promises made in the Integrated Rail Plan, particularly regarding improved east-west connectivity across the North and the critical Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Airport link for passengers traveling from Liverpool across the Pennines.

Murison also highlighted the broader issue of the country’s inability to execute infrastructure projects effectively, affecting productivity and global reputation. He suggested following the shadow chancellor’s approach of distinguishing between day-to-day spending and capital spending to promote long-term economic growth.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham strongly criticised the news, accusing the government of treating Northern passengers as “second-class citizens.”

For more information on HS2 leg to Manchester is facing the axe talk to Nationwide Sureties