Even Brunel went over-budget, but HS2 needs new leadership

ANNOUNCED to fanfare in 2009, HS2 was heralded as “playing a vital role in delivering the Government’s ambitious goal of Britain becoming net zero carbon by 2050”.

- Allesch-Taylor

I wrote in my last column that the UK becoming net zero reduces global emissions by 0.9%. Positioning the country as a powerhouse in the fight against climate change isn’t just wrong; it’s also a terrible pitch for finishing HS2.

The benefits are obvious: connecting cities supports local, regional, and rural growth. Improving the UK’s transport network will attract inward investment. Amid all the Tory conference kvetching over whether the Birmingham to Manchester section will be ditched, consider this: every significant UK infrastructure project in the UK has been an initial disaster (Act 1), then come the “professionals”, and Act 2 ensues.