UK Transport Secretary Resets HS2 After Billions Wasted, Mismanagement Revealed

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has condemned years of mismanagement, flawed reporting, and ineffective oversight on the HS2 high-speed rail project, which has resulted in billions of pounds of wasted taxpayer money due to constant scope changes, poorly negotiated contracts, and bad management. She announced the government's acceptance of two key reviews—the James Stewart review into governance and accountability and Mark Wild's assessment of project construction—that reveal spiraling costs, lack of ministerial oversight, and ongoing risks to the project’s budget and timeline. Phase 1 of HS2, originally scheduled to open by 2033, now faces delays beyond that date with costs ballooning to potentially £100 billion. Alexander also addressed recent allegations of fraud within the supply chain, stating that investigations will be rapid and rigorous with consequences for those involved. To restore control, the government has re-established the HS2 taskforce, appointed new leadership including Mark Wild as CEO and Mike Brown as chair, and implemented stricter cost controls and oversight mechanisms. The government aims to learn from HS2's failures to improve delivery of future infrastructure projects like Northern Powerhouse Rail and the Lower Thames Crossing.