HS2: Heidi Alexander to set out true cost of rail project – and when trains will begin to run
The UK government is set to reveal the latest cost estimates and timeline for the HS2 high-speed rail project. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander will provide details on budget adjustments and potential changes to train speeds to reduce costs. The project has faced significant delays and criticisms regarding its management and initial design choices.
- ▪Heidi Alexander will announce the updated budget for HS2, which is expected to remain below £100bn.
- ▪The project has been delayed beyond 2033, with new plans to run trains at slower speeds.
- ▪A critical report highlighted issues with HS2's management and the pressure from ministers to expedite the project.
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Artist’s impression of an HS2 train. Photograph: HS2/PAView image in fullscreenArtist’s impression of an HS2 train. Photograph: HS2/PAHS2HS2: Heidi Alexander to set out true cost of rail project – and when trains will begin to run Transport secretary to give budget details of troubled high-speed line, which backers hope will stay well below £100bnGwyn Topham Transport correspondentMon 18 May 2026 12.04 EDTLast modified on Mon 18 May 2026 12.05 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe latest estimate of the cost of HS2 and a timetable to complete construction of the high-speed railway will be set out by the government on Tuesday, including plans to run trains slower to trim costs.The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, is expected to give the first official reckoning of the troubled…
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