Transport Secretary Mulls Slower HS2 Trains to Keep Costs Down
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has announced that the government is considering running HS2 trains at reduced speeds as part of a strategy to control the escalating costs of the major rail project. In a written statement to MPs, Alexander disclosed that lowering the intended speed from 360 kilometres per hour could yield savings in the "low billions" of pounds and potentially bring services into operation more quickly.
Potential Savings and Operational Benefits
Alexander explained that the proposed 360km/h speed exceeds that of any currently operational high-speed train globally, including those in China and Spain, which typically run at 350km/h. This ambitious target necessitates extensive safety testing, which would either have to wait until the new railway line between London and Birmingham is fully completed or require sending trains abroad for evaluation. She characterised this as "an approach which could increase costs and delay the completion of the project."
To explore alternatives, Alexander has commissioned Mark Wild, HS2's chief executive, to deliver a report before the summer on the feasibility of operating trains at slower speeds. Wild's preliminary assessment suggests that a reduced speed specification could save billions, mitigate delivery risks, and expedite the testing phase, thereby accelerating the overall timeline for service commencement.
Government's Commitment to Efficiency
In her statement, Alexander emphasised the government's determination to deliver HS2 "as effectively and efficiently as possible." She stated, "I will look at every opportunity to claw back construction time, save taxpayers' money and ensure the project delivers for the country." Alexander also expressed shared public frustration over past inefficiencies, asserting that the current administration is "pulling HS2 out of its sclerosis and setting it on a more sensible course" by controlling costs and advancing essential transport infrastructure.
HS2's Core Objectives Reassessed
Mark Wild reinforced that speed is not the primary goal of HS2. He noted, "Speed has never been the primary objective. This railway will deliver better journeys, more capacity on the network, and economic growth – all of which are vital to the country's future prosperity." Wild highlighted ongoing efforts to regain control over the project, citing improved performance driven by 30,000 workers and a focus on exploring further efficiencies.
Originally conceived to enhance rail capacity between London, Birmingham, and northern cities by relocating fast intercity services to a new dedicated line, HS2's scope has been scaled back. The Conservative government curtailed plans to extend services to Manchester and Leeds due to rising costs. The current phase will connect London's Euston station, a new station at Old Oak Common in west London, and Birmingham Curzon Street.
For context, high-speed trains are defined as those operating at a minimum of 250km/h on dedicated tracks. The UK's conventional rail lines currently have a maximum speed of 200km/h, while Channel Tunnel services, also known as HS1, run at 300km/h. This potential adjustment to HS2's speed aims to balance performance with fiscal responsibility, ensuring the project remains viable and beneficial for national transport needs.
