National Audit Office Criticizes HS2 Project Delays and Cost Overruns

Reports highlight significant financial and logistical challenges following the scaling back of the high-speed rail project

Delays in establishing a development corporation and securing private finance for the Euston station could take years.
Scrapping the northern leg of HS2 may cost up to £100 million and take three years to shut down work sites.
Capacity on the West Coast Main Line may be reduced by 17% due to fewer seats on HS2 trains compared to conventional services.
The Department for Transport is exploring options to run longer HS2 trains, requiring additional infrastructure work.
Economic growth and environmental costs may be impacted by constrained rail capacity in the region.