HS2: Government Announces Programme Reset
The Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, announced a reset of the HS2 programme. This decision is based on:
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An initial assessment conducted by HS2 Ltd’s current CEO, Mark Wild; and
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An independent report by James Stewart evaluating the Department for Transport’s (DfT) governance and assurance processes for delivering major infrastructure projects, with a focus on HS2.
Drawing from the findings of both reports, the Secretary of State noted that Phase 1 of HS2 “could end up becoming one of the most expensive railway lines in the world” and that there is currently “no route by which trains can be running by 2033 as planned.”
On the issue of previously cancelled sections of HS2, the Secretary confirmed:
“We won’t reinstate cancelled sections we can’t afford.”
The DfT has published its formal response to the James Stewart report, accepting all recommendations aimed at improving governance and assurance for major infrastructure projects, including a reset of the HS2 programme.
Key recommendations from the James Stewart report include:
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A fundamental reset of the HS2 programme, including revised delivery milestones and funding;
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Implementation of a new governance structure;
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Reform of the wider government framework in which HS2 operates, including enabling funding flexibility across five-year control periods;
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Overhaul of cost estimation methods, with agreement on a new baseline and a revised estimate at completion;
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A trust-rebuilding plan for HS2 Ltd and the DfT, emphasizing enhanced transparency with both government and external stakeholders.
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A review of the capabilities of both HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport (DfT), with enhancements to recruitment processes to attract high-calibre talent;
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Governance of the Euston station project to align with the newly proposed structure for Phase 1.
In terms of broader infrastructure delivery, the James Stewart report also makes recommendations directed at the National Infrastructure and Skills Transformation Authority (NISTA).