HS2 Top Speed May Be Cut to Save Costs

The UK government is considering reducing HS2's top speed from its planned 360kph to either 320kph or 300kph as part of a cost-cutting drive, according to multiple reports. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander ordered HS2 bosses to review the potential savings and timeline impacts of this change, with a final decision expected later this year.

The current plan for HS2's London-Birmingham route has faced significant delays and budget overruns since its inception in 2019. The project was initially estimated at £37.5 billion but is now projected to cost more than £80 billion, with the northern extensions to Leeds and Manchester canceled due to spiraling costs.

HS2's chief executive Mark Wild has been working on a 'reset' of the entire project since his appointment in May 2024. The government aims to explore all options to claw back as much time and money for taxpayers as possible, according to BBC News. However, union leaders have criticized the potential slowdown, arguing it would leave Britain 'in the slow lane,' per Daily Mail.

The decision comes amid growing public frustration with HS2's management and costs. Transport Secretary Alexander acknowledged this anger but claimed the government is setting HS2 'on a more sensible course.' The project has been beset by cost overruns and delays, with the London-Birmingham stretch now targeting completion in 2030 - though Wild has indicated even that date may not be achievable.