The High Speed Rail Industry Leaders group (HSRIL) has criticised a report by the Greater London Authority Conservatives which argues that Phase 1 of HS2 should be scrapped in favour of Northern Powerhouse Rail and Crossrail 2.

The report says the main arguments for HS2 - capacity, economic growth, reduced journey times and environmental benefits - are “flawed”.

London Assembly member Tony Arbour said HS2’s costs are “indefensible” and that the project is set to “wreak environmental damage across swathes of London”.

He added: “The Government is entirely right to review this project, and I sincerely hope that they conclude that the eye-watering amount of money earmarked for HS2 would be better spent on alternative transport infrastructure projects.

“By investing in both Crossrail 2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail, the Government could achieve so much more for less, both in terms of connectivity and growth.”

In a statement, HSRIL said: "We wholeheartedly support Lord Adonis’ assertion that you cannot pull up by the roots the delivery of a major infrastructure project agreed by both of the major parties."

  • For the FULL story, read RAIL 888, published on September 25, and available digitally on Android, iPad and Kindle from September 21.

  • For an EXCLUSIVE Analysis of HS2 by Jim Steer, read RAIL 888, published on September 25, and available digitally on Android, iPad and Kindle from September 21.

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Author: Andy Roden
Contributing Writer, RAIL

Andrew joined RAIL in 2000 as a news and features writer. He has written four books, covered the UK and international rail industries, and led 2005’s successful campaign to save the ‘Night Riviera’ sleeper train. He is also a regular commentator on rail matters on television and radio for RAIL.