All articles tagged with #hs2
Originally Published 5 months ago — by BBC
Insiders argue that HS2 was doomed from the start due to inherent issues in the UK's geography and political system, leading to massive cost overruns, delays, and mismanagement, with some suggesting fundamental reforms are needed for future projects.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Reuters UK
The cancellation of the northern leg of the HS2 rail project has left the town of Crewe in northwest England feeling neglected and has raised concerns for the Conservative Party's support in the upcoming election. The loss of the HS2 link has impacted local businesses and residents, leading to a shift in support away from the Conservatives in the "Red Wall" constituencies. The failure to deliver on the promise of "levelling up" and the economic disparity between London and the rest of the UK are contributing factors to the party's declining popularity in the north.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by CNN
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced plans to curtail the High Speed Rail 2 (HS2) project, the country's flagship transport project, in a move that has drawn criticism from business leaders who warn of damage to investor confidence. The government will cancel the Birmingham-to-Manchester high-speed line and redirect the saved funds to other transport projects in the English midlands and the north of the UK. Sunak cited a weakened economic case for HS2 due to a fall in business travel following the pandemic. Critics argue that the decision undermines the UK's international reputation and could have a negative impact on the construction industry and job market.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Reuters UK
Business leaders and organizations in northern England are frustrated over Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's delay in announcing a decision on whether to scrap or delay the northern leg of the HS2 high-speed rail project. While it is believed that the stretch from Birmingham to Manchester will likely be delayed, the lack of an official announcement has caused confusion and disappointment. The project's escalating costs and potential cancellation of the northern section have raised concerns among business leaders about the need for investment and the missed opportunity to level up the region. Scrapping the link to Manchester would reduce HS2 to a line between London and Birmingham, with work on this phase already well underway.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Guardian
UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak has dismissed concerns that recent policy U-turns have made the country a "laughing stock" ahead of the Conservative Party conference. Sunak defended his decision to drop parts of the Tories' 2019 manifesto, stating that he understands the public's priorities. He also refused to confirm whether the HS2 rail project would extend to Manchester, but insisted that the UK is attracting investment and creating jobs. Sunak's comments come as cabinet ministers, including Michael Gove, call for tax cuts and position themselves for potential leadership bids.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by BBC
The UK government is facing pressure and criticism over the future of the HS2 rail project, with uncertainty surrounding whether the line will run its full intended length between Manchester and London. The costs of HS2 were discussed in a government meeting, and further decisions are expected to be made soon. Options include pressing on with the project as planned, scrapping the leg from the West Midlands to Manchester, or prioritizing the overlap between HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail. The decision will have significant implications for infrastructure, transport, and political dynamics in the UK.